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20 Awesome Day Trips from Birmingham You Need to Do

Let us show you some of the best day trips from Birmingham to keep you busy in 2023, all located within an hour or two of the city.

Birmingham – aka England’s second big city – is brimming with restoration and urbanisation projects. Gleaming shopping malls have popped up alongside beautifully touched up Victorian architecture; the Metro is getting an extension and glitzy buildings are becoming the norm. There’s no arguing the variety of sights, from canals to museums to cool cocktail bars and factories-turned-creative hubs. 

Yet in spite of this cultural rebirth, sometimes you just need to get out of the city. Let’s take a look at the other Midlands offerings, beyond Birmingham’s borders. 

Staying in the city, and then using it as a base for more day trips from Birmingham is a great way to see the Midlands .

Heritage sites pepper the region, ranging from irresistible landscapes to literary-themed towns like Shakespeare’s birthplace of Stratford-upon-Avon in Warwickshire . We get to enjoy spa days at Leamington and learn about industrialisation in The Black Country.

With so much to see, you just need to choose your favourite day out from Birmingham to get started!

19 Best Best Day Trips from Birmingham

If you’re looking for day trips near Birmingham, these are some of the best to make the most of the city surrounds. All of these places are easy to reach on a one day trip from Birmingham.

1. Stratford-upon-Avon

Take a day trip from Birmingham to the medieval town that birthed Shakespeare, cradled in the Midlands like a treasured book – Stratford-upon-Avon.

Just one hour from central Birmingham, Stratford-upon-Avon is a classic day out in the Midlands. 

Over 800 years of history can be seen in the Tudor houses, cobbled streets and dated pubs like Old Thatch Tavern. The quintessential meandering river and green livery is the perfect complement to the bustling, compact town centre.

Surprisingly, Shakespeare’s birthplace is quaint and comfortable unlike his dramatic works. We highly recommend catching a show by the Royal Shakespeare Company between your Butterfly Farm visit and catching glimpses of Anne Hathaway’s cottage. If you’re a fan of the outdoors, enjoy a boat hire for some gentle water time.

Book a tour while you’re in Stratford Upon Avon to really get to know the area.

Makes for a delightful day out from Birmingham!

2. Black Country Living Museum

The Black Country Living Museum is an open-air collective of over 50 relocated historic buildings (both residences and shops), where the industrial vestiges of the 18 th -century coal and iron mines remain strong.

Exhibitions detail stories from the past, showcasing how crafts used to be made. You’ll see cast iron wares, locks, glassworks and more.

At the Black Country Living Museum, actors reenact life back in the Victorian times, throwing out random facts as they do so. You can explore the underground mine here, which is pretty cool. One of the most popular things however, isn’t so much geographical than navigational; step on the tram which will take you around the site and onto the canal arm. 

Just 25 minutes away by car from the city, the Black Country Living Museum is one of the most popular day trips from Birmingham.

3. Peak District

One of our top picks for a Birmingham day trip is definitely a day out in the Peak District . It’s a further drive out, about 90 minutes, but totally worth it. If you can stay for the weekend, then do it – the many towns and villages offer both cultural delights and hiking opportunities.

Ashford-in-the-Water and Edensor are absolutely stunning villages that capture the British country vibe. If you are planning on hiking or cycling, Castleton is the perfect base. You’ll also want to drop by Chatsworth Estate, home to the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire; not only is it royal property and one of England’s most popular stately homes , but also features a working farm, adventure play park and all-year events.

You should check it out at Christmas time !

Foodies will want to drive by Bakewell, where pudding reigns supreme.

The Peak District is honestly one of those places you can visit over and over again without running out of things to see.

4. Worcester

Visiting Worcester is like wandering into a fairytale. Even en route, you’ll come across spreads of hilly landscapes and half-hidden relics. There’s so much to see here, with Worcester Cathedral being the most well-known. The stunning structure rises in floor-to-ceiling stretches of glass, a grandiose tower with spires and intricate window alcoves. The Royal burial place of King John of England, this forest-wrapped church is lovely and restful.

Worcester is also the birthplace of Sir Edward Elgar; you’ll find a museum named after this famous composer. Still, craft beat out arts in reputation. Make sure to visit the ceramic museum which houses top-tier Royal Worcester porcelain wares and fine china.

If you like walking, you’ll love a stroll on the Malvern Hills too!

The panoramic views are worth the walk; you can even take sips from the spring of Malvern which supplies the Queen with her royalty-approved water.

Worcester is about a 45-minute drive away – the perfect distance for a relaxing day trip from Birmingham.

5. Lichfield

Lichfield offers more of that gorgeous English countryside but what it’s most known for is the three-spired Lichfield Cathedral. Not exactly what you’d expect to find in such a green-woven city – but that’s what makes it such a great day trip from Birmingham. The detailing on the façade is as dramatic as the spires, so make sure to get close up.

Other notable residents include Erasmus Darwin (the forefather of the Darwin we hear most often), who resided here in the 18 th century; his house is open to the public. Literary figure Samuel Johnson is another celebrated person of interest (he wrote one of the first English dictionaries in the world); drop by the museum which showcases his life and works. 

There’s also Drayton Manor Theme Park some 20 minutes away if you’d like to add some thrill to your day trip from Birmingham.

6. Cheddar Gorge

For breathtaking nature, hit up Cheddar Gorge for a fascinating day out. The cave system is amazing – it isn’t just an adventurer’s dream but industries have developed alongside it. For instance, the famous cave matured cheddar cheese!

The temperatures within are just right for aging cheese; sample some at the shops right outside the caves or bring some home as souvenir. 

Cliff sports are available if you want to explore them in a more hands-on manner. Otherwise, visit the Cheddar Man Museum of Prehistory for artefacts and human remains that have been discovered. In any case, dress comfortably in trainers and a backpack because Cheddar Gorge is one of the most ‘outdoorsy’ days out from Birmingham. You can read about some of the best Cheddar Gorge walks here.

It is a 2-hour drive from Birmingham, making it one of the furthest trips on this day trips from Birmingham list, but if you want a fun road trip with an adventure at the end of it – it’s perfect!

Book your tickets for Cheddar Gorge in advance , here.

7. Leamington Spa

No need to travel all the way to Bath for a spa – just 30 minutes out of Birmingham is the striking royal town of Leamington Spa, which is home to an elegant collection of Regency architecture and the flowing River Leam to match. For a quick glimpse of the neighbourhoods, hire a rowing boat for some prime viewing. 

Indie shops run abundant, punctuated by lovely parks and gardens. The Royal Pump Rooms Art Gallery and Museum doubles (or is it triples?) as a famous 18 th -century healing spa, while the Loft Theatre offers post-meal productions to wind down your day. We recommend joining the geological walk for a thorough exploration of the town centre, where your guide will explain the different types of stone involved in the town’s construction. 

Such a quaint town – we love it!

8. Warwick Castle

Say yes to yet another British gem – the fun and exciting Warwick Castle , near Leamington Spa. If you’re a fan of everything medieval, this is a must-do experience. 

Sitting on the banks of River Avon , the castle is made for families. Tours will take you up to the towers for marvellous views and down below to the drafty dungeons and secret hideouts.

A host of actors make this a trip back in time; there are frequent themed events and live action shows across the grounds. Spend some time in the aromatic Rose Garden too. With 60 acres of estate, there’s plenty of space for you to discover.  It’s one of the most impressive castles in England.

A lovely, historical day out from Birmingham for you!

BOOK YOUR TICKETS TO WARWICK CASTLE BEFORE YOU GO TO SAVE TIME & MONEY

9. Cadbury World

In at number nine on this list of best day trips from Birmingham is Cadbury World – anyone who loves chocolate will find it a place to die for. Even if you aren’t a chocolate fan, you’d have heard of this brand.

Interestingly, the Cadbury family actually started their business in 1831! They ended up building a village for their workers because production expanded on a massive scale. Now, Cadbury World is nestled within the original 1990 factory.

Take yourself around the premises to learn about the history of chocolate. There are 14 multi-sensory zones (and plenty of sampling stations), starting with the Aztecs discovery of chocolate and its subsequent spread. You can visit the first Cadbury shop on Bull Street too.

Stock up on your (premium priced) sweets before heading home; maybe even order a customised choccy plaque.

Book your tickets to Cadbury World in advance to save the faff on the day!

10. Coventry

Coventry is one of our favourite Birmingham day trips because its cultural hodgepodge is finally being recognised. Did you know Coventry is the 11th biggest city in England by population?

With so many famous attractions, Coventry is tailored to every preference and interest. Coventry Cathedral definitely belongs on the list, having preserved ruins from WWII. Plenty of award-winning galleries have set up shop around town alongside museums with outstanding displays. To juxtapose the heavy history, there are gardens where you can while away the hours amid manicured hedges and blooms.

Seeking sports events? Check.

A cosy pub for a friendly hang out? Check. 

Plenty to do in Coventry on one of your day trips from Birmingham!

11. Alton Towers 

Alton Towers is somewhat of a British icon and the largest theme park in the UK, home to over 40 rides that include thrilling rollercoasters. Besides its theme park, Alton Towers boasts an indoor and outdoor water park, a hotel complex and a luxury spa. 

Almost all Brits are familiar with rollercoasters like Oblivion and Nemesis, where you’ll travel through loops, spins and corkscrews at 50 mph. Less iconic but no less fun is The Smiler, which was the first 14-loop rollercoaster on the planet. 

From Birmingham, you can drive to Alton Towers via the A38 or M6 in under 90 minutes. Parking charges start at £6 for the day. If you don’t want to drive, you can still visit Alton Towers on a day out from Birmingham with the kids by taking the train to Sheffield and then riding a bus to Farley Gates. 

Alton Towers remains open from March through November, and the water park stays open year-round. It’s without a doubt one of the most impressive places to visit on a day out in Staffordshire . 

It was also recommended the BEST day out in England according to our readers in our  recent travel trends survey . This makes it the number ONE  tourist attraction in England !

BUY YOUR ALTON TOWERS TICKETS HERE

It’s £65 at the door, but £42 on that link!

Buy in advance to save time in line, and help you budget for the day.

12. Malvern Hills 

From the top of the Malvern Hills at an elevation of 425 metres, you can take in panoramic views of the Severn Valley, the spa town of Great Malvern and countryside vistas in Worcestershire, Gloucestershire and Herefordshire. 

Plenty of trails take you through this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, including the 30-mile Worcestershire Way that follows the Malvern Ridge from Great Malvern to Bewdley. If you’d prefer a shorter hike, there are plenty of trails in the Malvern Hills covering a distance of a mile or so. 

When you need a break from hiking on your day out from Birmingham to the Malvern Hills, venture into Great Malvern to check out the impressive spa architecture. Notable landmarks include the 11 th -century Great Malvern Priory and the 19 th -century Saint Anne’s Well, which is now a café that gives a nod to the town’s spa heritage. 

It only takes around an hour to drive from Birmingham to the Malvern Hills via the M5. Alternatively, you can take a train to Great Malvern from Birmingham New Street, which takes about an hour. There’s also a train from Birmingham Snow Hill that takes about an hour and 20 minutes. 

By the way – the Malvern Hills are just one of the best places to visit on a day out in Worcestershire . 

13. Ironbridge Gorge 

Want to visit a UNESCO-listed landmark on your day out from Birmingham? Ironbridge Gorge became the world’s first cast-iron bridge in 1779, which – according to many – marked the start of the Industrial Revolution. 

In the nearby village of Ironbridge on the banks of the River Severn, you can browse museums that tell the story of the bridge, the Industrial Revolution, and its impact on cities that include Birmingham. 

Museums in Ironbridge that give you an insight into 18 th -century England include the Museum of The Gorge, the Coalbrookdale Museum of Iron and the open-air Blists Hill Victorian Town. You can get an annual family pass to visit all those museums and more for as little £82. 

The Ironbridge Gorge is located around 30 miles away from Birmingham. If you don’t want to drive, take the train from Birmingham to Telford Central, which is about six miles from the bridge. 

While you’re in the area, you might want to check out more of the best days out in Shropshire . 

14. The Cotswolds 

With its charming villages scattered amid rolling hills and stunning countryside vistas, the Cotswolds is one of England’s most popular holiday destinations, particularly with families that love the outdoors. 

As the Cotswolds covers an area of around 800 square miles, it’s best to pick just a few destinations to visit on your day out from Birmingham. Some of our favourite towns and villages include Winchcombe, Broadway, Chipping Campden and Bibury. Read our guide to the Cotswolds to find out what to see and do while you’re here. 

Many Cotswolds towns and villages have train stations, but you might want to drive to squeeze as much as possible into your day trip from Birmingham. The drive from Birmingham to Broadway on the northern edge of the Cotswolds takes about an hour. 

15. Shropshire Hills

Despite being an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Shropshire Hills are usually less touristy than other countryside destinations in England. For us, that’s even more reason to visit. 

Located in western England not far from Wales, the Shropshire Hills are picture perfect, ideal for hiking, cycling and horse riding. The walking trails of the Shropshire Hills vary in difficulty, and many include stops at traditional pubs. Given the area’s relative remoteness and vast size, you might need a car to really explore the place on your day out from Birmingham, which is about 60 miles away. 

During your day out in Shropshire , you can also visit attractions that include Stokesay Castle, Benthall Hall and the RAF Museum at Cosford. 

16. Ludlow 

Another place in Shropshire worth visiting on your day out from Birmingham is Ludlow, a medieval walled town that played a prominent role in repelling the Welsh Marches and the English Civil War. 

Overlooking Ludlow from a cliff above the River Teme is the 11 th -century Ludlow Castle, which is best seen from Dinham Bridge during a walk along the riverbanks. There’s also a charming market that takes over the town’s main square every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. 

You can drive to Ludlow from Birmingham in about an hour and 30 minutes. Alternatively, take the train to Ludlow Station from Birmingham Central Station, which takes around an hour and 45 minutes and includes one change. 

17. Twycross Zoo 

Situated in Leicestershire just 40 minutes away from Birmingham by car, Twycross Zoo is home to many of the world’s adorable and critically endangered species. In our opinion, it’s one of the best zoos in England . 

Some of the rarer animals include snow leopards, tiny antelopes and Sumatran tigers. You’ll also find just about every type of great ape, including chimpanzees, gorillas and orangutans. 

Besides wonderful animals, Twycross Zoo hosts the Gruffalo Discovery Land, where the kids can meet their favourite mouse and monster. For more awesome encounters, read about England’s best Gruffalo trails . 

18. Trentham Monkey Forest 

If you still haven’t had your fill of admiring adorable monkeys after visiting Twycross Zoo, we don’t blame you – which is why we’ve included the Trentham Monkey Forest on our list of best day trips from Birmingham. 

Here, you can traverse a mile-long trail through the woodland of the Trentham Estate near the River Trent, which is easily one of the most scenic rivers in England . Better still, you can walk alongside free-roaming Barbary macaques. 

It only takes about an hour to drive to the Trentham Monkey Forest from Birmingham. Public transportation is possible, but it includes two buses and a train journey.  

Ticket prices for Trentham Monkey Forest start at £11.50 for adults and £9 for children, with concessions available for students and senior citizens (children aged 2 years and under can visit for free). Buy Trentham Monkey Forest tickets online for discounted prices. 

19. Go paddleboarding

Check out these great places to go paddleboarding in the West Midlands for another fun day out from Birmingham.

20. Ackers Adventure, West Midlands

Located near Birmingham  in the West Midlands, Ackers Adventure is one of the best places in the area for ski lessons. Whether you’re starting to learn the basics for the very first time or picking up where you left off from a previous lesson, the team at Ackers Adventure can help you. It’s one of the best places for skiing lessons in England.

Their range of courses and lessons means there is something to suit all levels and needs, plus you can switch to snowboarding if you prefer. With floodlit synthetic bristle matting slopes, the lesson area can be used at any time during the year (not just when it’s snowing!). If you’re worried about getting in the way of the pros on their 100 metre main slope, don’t panic. Ackers Adventure also has a 30-metre nursery slope which is where any beginners will have their lessons.

Unmissable Days Out from Birmingham

So, there you have it! A day out from Birmingham can include rollercoaster rides, countryside walks, monkey encounters, history lessons, and much more. With so much variety in attractions located just an hour or so from Birmingham, there’s no reason to waste a second of your holiday time in the Midlands.

Have we missed any attractions you think deserve a mention? Let us know in the comments below.

FAQ about days out from Birmingham

With so many day trips from Birmingham available, you won’t struggle to fill your trip to the West Midlands with a bunch of fun-filled activities. To help you make the most of your time, here are the answers to the most frequently asked questions about trips from Birmingham.

What are the best Birmingham day trips by coach?  

If you don’t want to worry about parking, countless Birmingham coach trips make getting out of the city straightforward. You can take Birmingham day trips to theme parks including Alton Towers, Drayton Manor and the West Midlands Safari Park. You can also embark on a coach trip from Birmingham to heritage attractions like Warwick Castle, Stowe Gardens and Charlecote Park. 

Fancy exploring a new city on a day trip from Birmingham? York, Chester, Gloucester and Oxford can all be seen on a guided coach tour. Birmingham day trips by coach even visit seaside resorts like Blackpool , Skegness and Weston-Super-Mare. 

Can you recommend Birmingham days out for couples?  

Romantic Birmingham days out for couples include trips along the canal and strolls through greenspaces like Sutton Park. If you want to treat your better half to something special, explore the Jewellery Quarter. In the evening, catch a performance by the Birmingham Royal Ballet after indulging yourself in the city’s incredible dining scene.

What are the best Birmingham days out for toddlers?  

If you’re travelling with toddlers on a day out from Birmingham, we suggest heading to the West Midlands Safari Park to encounter animals ranging from giraffes to big cats. Cannon Hill Park has parks and playgrounds to keep the kids entertained. To sip hot drinks while the kids create works of art, head to Café Craft in Bearwood. 

The best things to do in Birmingham city with toddlers include visits to the LEGOLAND Discovery Centre , the National SEA LIFE Centre and the Teenie Weenies indoor soft play area. 

Where are the most scenic viewpoints near Birmingham?  

Nothing beats a day out in Birmingham like a good view – of Birmingham. Beyond its vast urban centre, Birmingham is home to country parks, bogs, countryside vistas and much more.  

For the best views of Birmingham’s skyline, visit the Beacon Hill Toposcope or the Birmingham Panorama. You’ll find amazing natural viewpoints at Frankley Beeches, Moseley Bog and Licky Hills Country Park. Head to the Airport Viewing Area to watch planes taking off and landing. 

Are there any major cities near Birmingham?  

The list of Birmingham nearby places is long – lot’s opportunities for a day away from England’s second-biggest city. Close places to visit include Wolverhampton (12 miles), Coventry (16 miles) and Leicester (35 miles). Cities such as Derby, Stone-on-Trent, Nottingham and Milton Keynes are less than 60 miles away from Birmingham. 

How to get from London to Birmingham?  

Birmingham is about 120 miles away from London, but getting between the cities for a day trip is straightforward. Driving from London to Birmingham will take just over two hours, while the bus (which can cost as little as £7) takes just under three hours. 

The fastest way to get from London to Birmingham is to take the train, which takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Tickets tend to cost between £40 and £150, though you can pick them up from The Train Line for under £20 if you book far enough in advance. 

What is the closest beach to Birmingham?  

Be prepared to travel a fair distance if you want to visit the beach on a day out from Birmingham. The nearest significant beach to Birmingham is located in Weston-Super-Mare, which is about a two-hour drive away. It might not be on the doorstep, but Weston-Super-Mare provides a welcome retreat for landlocked Brummies.

Quick list of the best days out from Birmingham

• Stratford-upon-Avon
• Black Country Living Museum
• Peak District
• Cheddar Gorge
• Leamington Spa
• Warwick Castle
• Cadbury World
• Alton Towers
• Malvern Hills
• Ironbridge Gorge
• The Cotswolds
• Shropshire Hills
• Twycross Zoo
• Trentham Monkey Forest
• Go Paddleboarding
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Do you want to see your favourite England attraction, event or activity listed here? Email us at [email protected] !

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One comment.

The Black Country is an area of the country, the Black Country Living Museum is a tourist attraction. They are totally different things!

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20 TOP Day Trips From Birmingham By Train, Car & Coach!

Categories England , U.K

With Birmingham’s wonderful central location, there are so many day trips from Birmingham that can be done.

Whether you are looking for day trips near Birmingham that you can drive to with the family and have some fun at, or you are looking for day trips from Birmingham by train to a different part of the country for cities and culture, I’ve got you covered in this post full of days out in Birmingham!

Day Trips From Birmingham

Find What You're Looking For Easily Here!

Map of Day Trips from Birmingham

Sometimes, it helps to see places on a map so here is a map with all of the below Birmingham day trip ideas on it so you can see how far you want to travel.

Birmingham Day Trips

From historical cities like York and Bath , iconic sights like Stonehenge and family fun attractions like Alton Towers , the Harry Potter Museum and Leicester National Space Centre .

1. Malvern Hills

If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city with a visit to a beautiful nature spot just a 1 hour drive out of Birmingham, there is no better place to visit than the Malvern Hills.

Stretching across the three counties of Herefordshire, Worcestershire and Gloucestershire , there are plenty of different walks to choose from in the Malverns. You can walk the five hours end to end following the top of the Malvern Ridge from Chace End to North Hill taking in the main summits!

How to do a Malvern Hills day trip from Birmingham ?

The Malvern Hills are pretty easily accessible by train so they make one of the great day trips from Birmingham by train !

A train from Birmingham New Street takes you directly to Colwall, Great Malvern or Malvern Link from which you can walk onto the hills pretty easily. However, a car is best if you want to park at the base of the hills for a really easy walk.

The best car parks are at British Camp, Gardiner’s Quarry, or Upper Beacon Road car park.

Suggested by: Faraway Lucy

2. Bibury Village, Cotswolds

One of the best day trips from Birmingham has to be the  beautiful Cotswolds village  of Bibury. This riverside village is often dubbed the prettiest village in England and is famous for being home to Arlington Row.

Owned by the National Trust, Arlington Row, is a small but picturesque row of houses , so quintessentially English that they even feature on the inside cover of the British passport.

Other than this beautiful row of houses, Bibury is also home to Bibury Trout Farm. Spanning 15 acres of land, the trout farm is one of the oldest in England and visitors even have the opportunity to catch their own dinner! If you don’t fancy getting your hands dirty, you can always purchase one of the deli products to take back to Birmingham.

How to do a Cotswolds day trip from Birmingham?

Bibury is south of Birmingham and takes 1 hour 20 minutes to reach by car via the M5. If you prefer to visit the Cotswolds by train from Birmingham you can travel to Cheltenham Spa Station and get a 30-minute taxi for the rest of the way.

Suggested by: Roshni from The Wanderlust Within

TRAINS FROM BIRMINGHAM

When it comes to day trips from Birmingham by train , I really recommend booking your tickets in advance on The Train Line so you can get the best price! Tickets are always cheaper further out from your trip date rather than on the day itself. Check out train times and tickets on The Train Line here now!

COACHES FROM BIRMINGHAM

For your coach trips from Birmingham, you can also use The Train Line to make bookings with all the top UK bus and coach providers and the best thing is, coach tickets are often much cheaper than train tickets so this will help you book a cheap Birmingham day out!

Check out coach times and tickets on The Train Line here now!

3. Warwick & Warwick Castle

Warwick is a small town located along River Avon which forms part of the West Midlands Region in England. The very first thing that comes to one’s mind when we hear Warwick is its magnificent castle founded by William the conquerer.

To be very honest, Warwick is more than that, and there are many interesting things to do, considering how small the town is.

Seep through thousand years of jaw-dropping history as you walk through the rooms of Warwick Castle.  The castle is huge, sits right next to River Avon and is an unmissable attraction in Warwick. You come to Warwick to marvel at the Warwick Castle and hear about the stories of heroes and warriors.

Right next to the castle is the adorable The Mill Garden – a privately owned garden that allows public access. A great place to take a stroll or catch a glimpse of the castle.

Walk around the town centre admiring the half-timbered houses and myriad cafes and restaurants.  If you are looking for an indoor activity, St. Johns House and Market Hall Museum are lovely little museums that you can spend time in with your family.

How to get to Warwick Castle from Birmingham ?

 Warwick can be explored by car or public transport. It is only 45 minutes drive from Birmingham.

Alternatively, there is a direct train service by Chiltern Railways that connects Birmingham and Warwick and takes around 1 hour to reach. By coach from Birmingham , Warwick is just 30 minutes away.

Suggested by: Country Hopping Couple

4. Shrewsbury

Are you looking for a lovely relaxing place to visit on your day out from Birmingham? Shrewsbury is the perfect place to relax and wander.  The entire town centre is now within easy walking distance, bounded on all sides by the river loop.

The buildings in Shrewsbury are of all ages, many mediaeval and Georgian – and new ones too, all huddled together in a tiny half-square kilometre of space .  Much of the town centre is occupied by local shops, cafes, wine bars and restaurants. 

Some specific Shrewsbury highlights include The High Street , with bookshops, and cafes, Wyle Cop – steeply sloping and lined with jewellery shops, and others specialising in cookware, and fine foods, the vast Quarry Park with tree-lined lawns, and the river, and Mardol : an ancient street where you will discover the town’s most quirky old timber-framed structures, some dating back to the 13th Century.

Find time to enjoy a cup of tea on this Birmingham day trip before catching one of the many trains back to Bham.

How to get to Shrewsbury from Birmingham ?

There is a direct train from Birmingham New Street to Shrewsbury making this one of the easy and cheap day trips from London as the ticket cost is low, and Birmingham to Shrewsbury is around a 1-hour drive too.

It’s also one of the great coach trips from Birmingham because it takes just 1 hour by coach from Birmingham to Shrewsbury .

Suggested by: The Travelling Twins

CAR HIRE FROM BIRMINGHAM

If you need to hire a car for the day so you can go on the perfect day trip from Birmingham, have a look on Rental Cars here as they check for car rental with all off the big companies like Budget, Hertz & Aviv so you only need to check once to get the best price!

The list is long of things to do in Ludlow in this walled medieval town including a river walk, a castle, markets, and great food to try. You will notice the people who live there take very good care of their home with beautiful baskets of flowers everywhere and they keep it neat and tidy.

The castle square market is open daily, except Tuesday . They do vary the stalls with speciality markets on Thursdays and Sundays. The stalls are full of local produce and handmade items. You will find many tempting treasures that may be difficult to resist.

The walk along the river is beautiful, with great views of the castle from Dinham Bridge . There is a circular walk called the two bridges (or for the old times the bread walk) if you like to walk it is highly recommended. 

Ludlow is one of the great Birmingham day trips to enjoy a small-town, great food, beautiful surroundings, and so much more.

How to get to Ludlow from Birmingham ?

It is easier to reach Ludlow from Birmingham by car with a drive of about 1 hour 30 minutes.

There is a train from Birmingham New Street to Ludlow Station with 1 change which takes about 1 hour 45 minutes and Ludlow train station is a 10-minute walk from the city centre.

Suggested by: Blue Bag Nomads

6. The Black Country Living Museum

You don’t have to travel far out of Birmingham to have a fun Birmingham day out. For a unique day trip from Birmingham, head to The Black Country Living Museum . The Black Country Living Museum does what it says on the tin; it’s an open-air living museum dedicated to historical life in the Black Country. 

You can walk around Victorian-style houses and speak to its inhabitants (museum staff who are in character and experts on their subject), experience a class from 1912 or visit an old-fashioned pub and have a pint (!). You can even visit the sweet shop and get some vintage sweets!

This museum works almost like a functioning town. The cherry on top is a visit down into real coal mines. After a full day of time travel, you’ll need some fish and chips from the fish shop… they’re genuinely delicious.

The first time I visited the Black Country Museum , it blew my expectations out of the water, I could have wandered around there for days making it a great family day trip from Birmingham.

How to get there from Birmingham ?

You need to head to Dudley which is just a 30 minute drive from Birmingham , or this works as a great day trip from Birmingham by train because you can catch a train from Birmingham New Street to Tipton which takes around 20 minutes. Once you’re in Tipton, you need to walk about 15 – 20 minutes to the museum .

Suggested by: Ambers Destinology

7. Bourneville

Bourneville is the perfect day trip for families , or in fact, anyone with a love of chocolate! The area was created in the late 18th century when the Cadbury family relocated their chocolate factory there.

The family named the area Bourneville after the local river Bourn and added the French word for town ‘ville’. The area soon grew with the creation of a model village similar to that of Saltaire built by Titus Salt in Yorkshire.

In this village, the Cadbury family built housing, schools, parks, and even a village green for their workers to enjoy. This was revolutionary at the time as it meant the workers at the Cadbury factory were well paid and looked after by their employers. 

Today you can enjoy a stroll through the leafy streets and parks in this popular area of Birmingham .  

You can of course also visit the main attraction in the area – Cadbury World. Enjoy an interactive tour and learn all about chocolate production! And of course, enjoy lots of samples on your way around. Booking is essential especially during school holidays as this is a popular destination for families and chocolate lovers everywhere! 

How to get to Bourneville from Birmingham:

Only 12 minutes after leaving Birmingham New Street station by train you arrive at the pretty suburb of Bourneville.

Suggested by: UK Travel Planning

8. Harry Potter Studio

The   Harry Potter Studio Tour  in Watford is an absolute must for Harry Potter fans. This is where the actual Harry Potter films were made and is now a popular attraction full of old sets, costumes, props and more.

It’s a self-guided tour but it is perfectly designed so you follow the route through some of the most iconic Harry Potter sets including the Gryffindor Common Room , Snape’s Potions Classroom , The Great Hall, The Ministry of Magic and more.

The studios lift the veil on the magic so you can see exactly how they brought Harry Potter to life and it’s a thoroughly insightful and unforgettable experience. There’s a huge amount to look at and read as they’ve covered every little detail down to the sketches that brought these sets to life. What’s more, you get to experience some magic for yourself such as flying a broom in front of a green screen and sipping on Butterbeer. 

It’s estimated that the tour takes anywhere from 3 – 5 hours depending on how long you spend on the optional activities, lunch, gift shop etc, so it makes for the perfect Birmingham day trip!

How to get to the Harry Potter Studios from Birmingham ?

You can go from Birmingham to Watford where the Studios are in just 1 hour 40 minutes by train!

Suggested by: Laura of What’s Hot?

The gorgeous city of Oxford is easily visited on a day trip from Birmingham . The beauty of Oxford is its small, compact nature which means you can easily explore the whole city in just a day.

Oxford is a city with plenty of fascinating history and several buildings dating back over 1,000 years like the Saxon Tower of St Michael at the North Gate. This would have been the viewpoint from the city walls that protected Oxford from its enemies.

Other things to see during a day trip from Oxford include the Radcliffe Camera , Christ Church College where scenes from Harry Potter were filmed, the Bodleian Library which holds a copy of every book in the UK, The Sheldonian Theatre designed by Sir Christopher Wren and the Ashmolean Library, home to the lantern used by Guy Fawkes in the Gunpowder Plot.

While there are lots of things to keep you busy, one of the best things to do is relax in one of the many excellent Oxford cafes , sip a speciality flat white and watch this picturesque city go about its day.

How to do an Oxford day trip from Birmingham?

There is a direct train from Birmingham New Street to Oxford which takes just over 1 hour. Alternatively, you can drive from Birmingham to Oxford down the M40 in around 1 hour 20 minutes making it an easy day trip from Birmingham.

And for coach trips to Oxford from Birmingham you can get a coach there in 1 hour 10 minutes!

Suggested by: Where Goes Rose

10. Castle Combe Village, Cotswolds

One of the top day trips from Birmingham is Castle Come Village in the Cotswolds! Without a doubt, Castle Combe is one of the most beautiful villages in England so it has to be visited at least once.

In fact, in 2001 Castle Combe has even named the most picturesque village in Great Britain so if you are planning a day trip from Birmingham with friends or family – this beautiful village will be really a great choice!

Well-preserved medieval stone houses and a beautiful market square perfectly define the character of the village. No wonder this Cotswold gem is very known amongst photographers from the whole country. Go for a walk around the village, have a pub lunch or one of the local tea rooms for the afternoon tea.

Castle Combe village, with its surrounding beautiful countryside, is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Cotswold – a perfect place to visit from Birmingham during summer.

How to get to Castle Combe from Birmingham?

Car is the best way to get from Birmingham to the Cotswolds. The 100 miles journey from Birmingham will take around 1 hour and 45 minutes to drive by car.

Suggested by: Darek and Gosia

11. Stratford Upon Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a medieval town located in the West Midlands . The town is also famous for being the 16th-century birthplace of William Shakespeare.

Shakespeare is the most famous English writer who is left with an impressive legacy including the plays ‘Romeo and Juliet ‘ and ‘ Hamlet ‘. Therefore, Shakespeare’s Birthplace is the most famous landmark in Stratford-upon-Avon and is also the main reason why many tourists visit the town.

Stratford-upon-Avon makes a wonderful day trip from Birmingham , especially for Shakespeare lovers. Not only can visitors visit his birthplace but they can also watch a play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. The theatre has contemporary plays of Shakespeare and as well as plays written by modern writers.

However, not everything in Stratford-upon-Avon is Shakespeare’s related; The charming town also has local shops, a beautiful church called Holy Trinity Church, a cool museum and even a butterfly farm. Indeed, the town has something to offer for everyone whether you are travelling with friends, kids or as a couple.

How to a Stratford day trip from Birmingham ?

Getting to Stratford-upon-Avon from Birmingham is relatively simple, it is a 45 minutes journey by direct train or you can drive and it will take roughly 45 minutes too . Be sure to use the Stratford Park and Ride option to get into the centre easily.

Suggested by: Luxury Voyager

Only one and half hours away on the fastest train, London is one of the best day trip destinations from Birmingham .

There is so much to do and see in London that you will leave wishing you had more than just one day. But sometimes time is short, and luckily, a lot of the main attractions in London are quite close to each other, so it is possible to cover quite a bit of ground in one day. 

If this is your first time in London, you’ll have to start at the Palace of Westminster or Houses of Parliament , of course. Aside from having Big Ben, you will be able to visit Westminster Abbey in the vicinity. Head to Trafalgar Square straight after that, where you will find the National Gallery, and walk through the Admiralty Arch down Pall Mall towards Buckingham Palace.  From the Palace, walk through Green Park to Piccadilly, Soho, Chinatown, Leicester Square and Covent Garden. All these famous areas are within a short distance from each other. 

If, however, this is not your first time in the capital and want to do something a bit different, there are some fun and unique ways to see London . You could have afternoon tea or a gourmet meal on board a bus while you tour London’s famous landmarks.

Or if you are a thrill-seeker , why not take a Thames Rocket and enjoy London from the river with an adrenaline-inducing boat ride? It’ll take you all the way from the London Eye to Tower Bridge. Whichever way you decide to spend a day in London, there are plenty of options on how to do it.

How to do a London day trip from Birmingham?

Getting the train to London is the best and quickest way to get from Birmingham to London and the fast train takes just 1 hour 30 minutes from Birmingham New Street Station to London Euston Station.

Suggested by: Brogan Abroad

13. Stonehenge

Stonehenge is one of the most popular day trip destination s in the United Kingdom. The mystery behind the prehistoric monument’s origins and purpose is a major draw for tourists.

When you arrive at Stonehenge, take a trip to the visitor’s centre where you can find an exhibition dedicated to the history of Stonehenge and life during the times when Stonehenge was constructed.

After learning a little bit more about the monument’s history, grab a picnic lunch from the café and hop on the shuttle to the Stone Circle. Enjoy your lunch in view of the stones (also a great spot for people watching!) before getting a bit closer to admire the mysterious stones. 

How to get to Stonehenge from Birmingham ?

Stonehenge is just a little bit over 2 hours from Birmingham by car, making it easily visited on a day trip from Birmingham by car. It is possible to visit with public transportation; however, the journey can take around 1 hour longer.

When driving from Birmingham to Stonehenge, the majority of the trip is done by taking the M5 down to Salisbury.

If you’d prefer to use public transportation, you can take a train from Birmingham New Street to Bristol Temple Meads and from there to Salisbury before taking a taxi to the monument.

Suggested by: A World in Reach

14. Bristol

If you’re looking for one of the most exciting cities in the south of England, then Bristol will tick all the boxes and Bristol is an easy day trip from Birmingham! The maritime city is steeped with history, particularly around the dockside. If you’re after something a bit more urban, then you’ll love the street art scene.

Bristol is famous for loads of things beginning with B; Blackbeard, Brunel, Balloons and Banksy. The notorious pirate Blackbeard is said to have resided in Bristol (under the name of William Teach), there are quite a few trails around the city about Bristol and pirateology.

Moving forwards a couple of hundred years, you can’t miss how much street art there is in the city. Bristol is home to Banksy, you can find his work dotted all over the city. However, the biggest hub of street art is in the   autonomous underbelly of Stokes Croft . Each year Bristol hosts UPFest: The Urban Paint Festival.

How to do a Bristol day trip from Birmingham ?

Bristol city is situated just under 90 miles south of Birmingham , journey times should be around 1 hour 30 minutes. You could also travel to Bristol by train, this takes around 1 hour 20 minutes .

Suggested by: Meet Me In Departures

15. Peak District

Get away from it all and escape to the open landscapes of the Peak District National Park on a day trip from Birmingham. The Peak District is split into the green rolling hills of the White Peak and the dramatic escarpments and moorland plateaus of the Dark Peak.

The best way to spend your day in the Peak District from Birmingham is with a long walk in the hills. Dovedale is a popular choice for those visiting from the South, but it can get awfully busy at weekends. Instead, drive a little further into the National Park to Hartington or Monyash. Or if you want dramatic escarpments, head to Curbar or Stanage Edge.

If you prefer a more relaxed day out, head over to the Chatsworth Estate, one of the grandest houses in the country. Or ride the cable car up to The Heights of Abraham and explore the old mining caverns, amongst other  things to do in Matlock .

However you choose to spend your day, the best way to finish up is at a local pub with a pint of Peak Ale. 

How to do a Peak District day trip from Birmingham ?

From Birmingham, the heart of the White Peak is only an hour and a half drive away and if you don’t have your own car you can visit on one of the organised coach day trips from Birmingham.

Suggested by: Jenny from Peak District Kids

York is our favourite city and it would make for a great day trip from Birmingham. The beauty of York is not only its history but its diversity. There is so much to do in York, there really is something to suit everyone.

As a family, we love the free National Railway Museum near to the train station. Other favourites include a visit to the Castle museum that has a historically recreated Victorian street. You can relive the lives and smells of Viking York on a ride through time at Jorvik Viking Centre.

Young and old will love finding out about something with a strong connection to York, chocolate. At the Chocolate story, you will learn all about the history of chocolate in the City and you not only get to taste different kinds of chocolate but you can make your own chocolate lollipop. If that doesn’t satisfy your sweet tooth how about booking an afternoon tea at the popular Betty’s tea-room.

For lovers of water, you can catch a boat ride down the main river running through the City. For lovers of history, you can visit the stunning York Minster. If you are visiting with teenagers they can be scared silly in York Dungeons. Once you’ve worn yourselves out exploring there is a huge and varied choice of places to eat out. From Italian to Indian and from tea rooms to pubs. You will never go hungry on a visit to York.

How to do a York day trip from Birmingham ?

Birmingham New Street to York is just 2 hours 30 by direct train or you can drive from Birmingham to York in around 2 hours 15 minutes.

Suggested by: Yorkshire To Do With Kids

Bath works well as one of the day trips from Birmingham because once you are there it is easy to walk around Bath and explore this historical city.

Things to do in Bath on a day trip include visiting the Roman Bath Museum, and visiting the iconic circular houses in the Royal Crescent . Take a boat trip or a walk along the River and shop in Bath’s many independent shops.

If you are ready for a full day out you can combine a trip to Bath with a stopover in the Cotswolds or Stonehenge because they are all so close by.

How to do a Bath day trip from Birmingham ?

Birmingham to Bath by car is around 2 hours, it is also 2 hours by train from Birmingham New Street Station to Bath Spa Station with a change in Bristol making it an easy Bham day trip.

Suggested by: The Wandering Quinn

18. Alton Towers Theme Park

Theme Parks in the UK are loved for their world-class rollercoaster rides , and they don’t come much bigger than Alton Towers , the largest theme park in the country and being just over an hour’s drive from Birmingham, Alton Towers is an absolute must-visit for adventure junkies on a day trip from Birmingham !

Situated near the village of Alton near Stoke-On-Trent , the site consists of a sprawling theme park, an indoor and outdoor tropical lagoon-themed water park , a luxury oasis spa, an extraordinary golf course, and a hotel complex.

Alton Towers is arguably the best adventure park in the UK , and boasts The Smiler – the world’s first 14-loop rollercoaster , and the Nemesis, perhaps the most memorable rollercoaster ride of my childhood, that carries dangling thrill seekers around 250 tonnes of tangled steel through corkscrews, spins and loops at 50 miles per hour. 

Get your tickets to Alton Towers here and start planning your day trips to Alton Towers from Birmingham!

How to get to Alton Towers from Birmingham ?

By car via the M6 the journey from Birmingham to Alton Towers is around 1 hour and 15 minutes. To get to Alton Towers by train from Birmingham , board the Newcastle-bound Cross Country train from Birmingham New Street Station to Derby which takes 33 minutes.

From Derby Railway Station, catch the X52 bus and step off at the 8th stop at Alton Towers Entrance. The journey is 2 hours and 10 minutes in total.

Suggested by: BRB | Gone Somewhere Epic

19. Bear Grylls Adventure

One of the fun day trips from Birmingham is to the Bear Grylls Adventure , located at the NEC (National Exhibition Centre).

There is a wide range of adventure activities to choose from. If you’re after a whole day experience, you can book ‘ The Big 5 ’ which takes around 9 hours to complete! In this package, you’ll be able to learn archery , go indoor skydiving , scuba diving in a tank with sharks , test your nerves on a high ropes course and climb on an indoor rock climbing wall. All the activities can also be purchased separately, so you can build your own perfect package or just choose one!

All bookings also include free entrance to the ‘ Royal Marines ’ style timed assault course! It’s really tough going with some really tricky obstacles! Most of the activities to require a certain level of fitness, especially if you pick The Big 5 package, it’s like a full-body work out which you’ll definitely feel when you wake up the next day!

The Bear Grylls Adventure is a great day out if you want to challenge yourself and try something new!

How to get to Bear Grylls Adventure from Birmingham ?

Ideally located in the NEC it is really easy to reach from Birmingham city centre.

You can either drive for approximately 20 minutes or take the train to Birmingham International statio n, for approximately 20 minutes from Birmingham New Street and walk the last little bit.

Suggested by: Between England & Iowa

20. Leicester National Space Centre

The National Space museum is an outstanding attraction easily accessible from Birmingham.

The first thing that strikes you about the Leicester National Space Centre is the rocket tower. The tower is 42 m (138 ft) tall and claims to be the only place to house upright space rockets indoors. It is an impressive introduction to the museum! The real star of the show is Sir Patrick Morre Planetarium.

The Leicester Museum has 6 interactive galleries that explore and educate about Space. Our Solar System gallery has an amazing model of the Mars Rover that you can drive. There are enough fun stuff and learning experiences here to keep kids and adults entertained for a good few hours which is why it makes one of the best day trips from Birmingham!

How to get to Leicester National Space Centre from Birmingham ?

When driving via the A6 from Birmingham you can reach the National Space Museum in around 1 hour .

Suggested by: Wyld Family Travel

FAQs About Day Trips from Birmingham:

Here’s some more help for planning your day trip!

Where can I go on a day trip from Birmingham?

Because of Birmingham’s brilliant central location in the UK there are lots of places to go on a day trip from Birmingham like Bristol, Bath, Warwick, Cotswolds and the Peak District.

What places are 1 hour away from Birmingham?

For places that are 1 hour away from Birmingham or less you can go to Bourneville, Cadburys World, the Black Country Museum, The Cotswolds, Stratford Upon Avon, and Warwick.

What city is 2 hours from Birmingham?

Cities that are 2 hours away from Birmingham that are good to visit are Bristol, Bath, London by train, York, Sheffield, and Manchester.

I hope you now have lots of ideas of coach trips from Birmingham, day trips near Birmingham and some top Birmingham days out ideas!

If you need to hire a car for the day so you can go on the perfect day trip from Birmingham, have a look on Rental Cars here as they check for car rental with all off the big companies like Budget, Hertz & Aviv so you only need to check once!

• More posts of mine that you will help you see the best of the UK:
• Things To Do On A Day Trip To Oxford!
• Things To Do on a Day Trip to Bath!
• 25+ Day Trips from London By Train Ideas To Cities, Beaches & Europe!

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14 Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Birmingham, UK

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 28, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Bryan Dearsley visited England in the spring of 2022 exploring The Midlands, including the city of Birmingham.

Birmingham is Britain's second largest city , and its location in the West Midlands makes it a great place to begin exploring popular tourist spots such as the Cotswolds and Malvern Hills areas. It's especially fun to embark on tours by canal boat : Birmingham's canals were a byproduct of the Industrial Revolution, and today this extensive canal network is used mostly for pleasure boating.

The city has a larger canal system than Venice. Little wonder then that one of the top free things to do in Birmingham is exploring the preserved canals and historic buildings of the iconic Gas Street Basin .

These days, the city is best known for its jewelry and food stuffs, as well as its numerous cultural activities and festivals, and, most recently, for having hosted the 2022 Commonwealth Games. A popular annual event here is the world's largest St. Patrick's Day Parade .

To ensure you can cram as much as possible into your itinerary, be sure to refer to our list of the top attractions and things to in Birmingham, England.

See also: Where to Stay in Birmingham

1. Explore Victoria Square & the City Center

2. see the birmingham back to backs, 3. visit the roundhouse & gas street basin, 4. take a tour of birmingham museum & art gallery, 5. see the blooms at birmingham botanical gardens, 6. get smart at thinktank, birmingham science museum, 7. take the family to the national sea life centre birmingham, 8. wander the jewellery quarter, 9. enjoy a concert at st. philip's cathedral, 10. barber institute of fine arts, 11. take a fun trip to the nec & resorts world birmingham, 12. see the cute creatures at birmingham wildlife conservation park, 13. satisfy your sweet tooth at cadbury world, bournville, 14. step back in time at black country living museum, dudley, where to stay in birmingham for sightseeing, birmingham, united kingdom - climate chart.

The heart of Birmingham revolves around the pedestrian-friendly Victoria Square, an area that can be explored via the Birmingham City Centre Path. Along the way, you'll discover the attractive old Town Hall , built in 1832 and a masterpiece of Victorian architecture. Resembling a Roman temple, this impressive structure features 40 ornate Corinthian columns made of Anglesey marble.

It's been the center of the city's music scene since hosting the first performance of Mendelssohn's Elijah in 1847. Nowadays, its impressive Symphony Hall, with its world-class acoustics and stunning auditorium, regularly features A-list singers and performers and is also home to the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra.

Adorning the forecourt are two memorials, one to Queen Victoria and another to inventor James Watt. The Renaissance-style Council House , built in 1874, with its famous "Big Brum" clock (a slang phrase for Birmingham) is close by.

Other old-city sites to visit include pedestrian-only Chamberlain Square and the Central Library. The library is home to the largest Shakespeare collection outside the United States, boasting 50,000 volumes in 90 languages.

Well worth visiting and within easy walking distance of the city center, the Birmingham Back to Backs attraction is a unique collection of the small back-to-back homes once so prolific throughout the city. Built around a central courtyard — in this case, Court 15 — in the mid-19th century, these homes offer a unique insight into the often difficult conditions in which the working classes lived.

Interesting displays also provide an insight into these workers' important contribution to city life. Other highlights include a traditional 1930s sweet shop, along with a souvenir shop, or participating in one of the fun workshops held here regularly.

For a first-rate tourist experience, consider booking one of the attraction's two cottages for an overnight stay. Admission is by guided tour only.

Address: 50-54 Inge Street, Birmingham

Official site: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/birmingham-back-to-backs/

Birmingham is justifiably proud of its industrial heritage. Nowhere is this more evident than along its extensive canal network. Highlights of this remarkably well-preserved canal system include the Roundhouse.

Built in 1874 and originally used as a storehouse and stables, this horseshoe-shaped building today makes for a perfect base from which to explore the canals, whether on foot or from one of the fun guided kayak and bike sightseeing tours available. A small museum on-site shows the development and later preservation of the building.

After a pleasant waterside stroll along Canalside Walk , you'll find yourself in Gas Street Basin. Constructed as an inland port for horse-drawn barges hauling cargo, this wide basin's surrounding old warehouses have been carefully restored and now house everything from restaurants to cafés and boutique shops.

Address: 1 Sheepcote Street, Birmingham

Official site: https://roundhousebirmingham.org.uk

The Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, opened in 1885, is considered one of the finest such museums outside of London. Its art treasures include a collection of works by Pre-Raphaelite painters, as well as artwork from the 17th to 19th centuries and sculptures by Rodin and James Tower.

There are also interesting displays related to the city's history, including archaeological finds dating back to the Stone Age, along with the impressive Pinto Collection with its 6,000-plus toys and other items made of wood. A gift shop is located on-site, and if you're interested in a great high tea experience, the exquisite Edwardian Tearooms is worth a visit.

If there's time in your schedule, pay a visit to The Ikon Gallery , a contemporary art museum located in a heritage building that's worth exploring.

Address: Chamberlain Square, Birmingham

Official site: www.birminghammuseums.org.uk/bmag

Another great tourist attraction that should be included on your West Midlands travel itinerary is The Birmingham Botanical Gardens.

Spread across 15 acres in the affluent suburbs of Edgbaston, these 19th-century gardens are easy to get to from the city center and home to countless species. A visit is very much like stepping back in time, thanks to the perfectly preserved Victorian-era glasshouses and other period park features.

It's particularly well known for its collection of bonsai trees, including one that's over 250 years old. In addition to the more than 7,000 plants from across the globe, you'll also enjoy seeing a variety of wildlife, including rare tropical birds and a butterfly house. Other on-site amenities include a gift shop, a tearoom, plus playgrounds for the kids.

Address: Westbourne Road, Birmingham

Official site: www.birminghambotanicalgardens.org.uk

Families traveling with budding young scientists won't want to miss Thinktank, Birmingham Science Museum. This award-winning museum includes a large number of fascinating science-related exhibits, many of them hands-on and interactive.

Highlights include an impressive collection of steam-powered machines, from locomotives to tractors, as well as industrial machinery, many related to Birmingham's important role as an industrial center through the centuries. Other fun displays include a chocolate packaging machine and the Spitfire Gallery, with its authentic WWII-era aircraft (including one of 10,000 Spitfires made locally).

Be sure to also visit the Science Garden, with its human-sized hamster wheel and kids' adventure playground. The Thinktank Planetarium, with its fascinating tours of the stars and planets, is another great way to keep the whole family entertained.

Address: Millennium Point, Curzon Street, Birmingham

Official site: www.birminghammuseums.org.uk/thinktank

One of Birmingham's most-visited tourist attractions, the National SEA LIFE Centre is home to an impressive 60-plus exhibits related to marine life. Pride of place goes to the aquarium's massive million-liter ocean tank, with its unique underwater tunnel, which allows visitors an uninterrupted view of the diverse sea life on display, including everything from reef sharks to giant turtles.

All told, some 2,000 critters call the aquarium home, including numerous rare seahorses, giant octopi, lobsters, crabs, and stingrays. The attraction's big stars, though, are its playful otters (look out for Mango and Starsky), along with its penguins.

Housed in the impressive Penguin Ice Adventure habitat, these fascinating creatures are fun to watch as they frolic. A 4-D cinema is also on site and offers regular educational programming. If time and budget permit, book one of the fun behind-the-scenes or penguin-feeding experiences.

To make a full family day out of it, pop across the canal to the LEGOLAND Discovery Centre . In addition to plenty of hands-on building brick experiences to enjoy, there's a fun 3-D cinema, an indoor playground, along with a café and a LEGO shop.

Address: The Water's Edge, Brindley Place, Birmingham

Official site: www.visitsealife.com/birmingham/

The Jewellery Quarter is an area of Birmingham that is steeped in tradition. Here, more than 200 jewelers' workshops and silversmiths produce 40 percent of Britain's jewelry, chiefly in the vicinity of the Clock Tower on the corner of Vyse and Frederick Streets and around the Georgian church of St. Paul's.

Be sure to visit the area's top sightseeing spot, the Museum of the Jewellery Quarter , which offers an insider's look at the trade in the fascinating Smith & Pepper Factory. Also worth checking out is the nearby Hall of Memory opposite Baskerville House, erected in 1925 to commemorate the 14,000 city men who lost their lives in WWI, and St. Paul's Square with its attractive church.

If time permits, be sure to pop over to the Pen Museum . Situated in the Jewellery Quarter's old pen factory, this first-rate museum showcases the city's former role as a hotbed of pen making along with the history of writing instruments. A special treat is having the opportunity to make your own steel nib using the same machinery and techniques used in the 19th century. Also fun is the reproduction Victorian schoolroom, where guests can practice their penmanship using traditional quills.

Address: Vyse Street, Hockley, Birmingham

Official site: www.jewelleryquarter.net

Built in 1715, St. Philip's Cathedral, the third smallest in England, began life as a parish church and was elevated to its present status in 1905. The cathedral was gutted during a bombing raid in 1940, but foresight saw its famous stained-glass windows by Burne-Jones (1884) removed a few weeks prior.

Returned to their rightful place when the cathedral was rebuilt in 1948, these significant treasures are now a highlight of any trip to Birmingham. Be sure to check the cathedral's website prior to your visit for details of talks, seminars, exhibits, and concerts.

Another religious structure worth visiting is St. Martin's Church . Dating from the 13th century, it also features windows by Burne-Jones.

Address: Colmore Row, Birmingham

Official site: www.birminghamcathedral.com

Located close to Birmingham University, the Barber Institute of Fine Arts houses an excellent collection of art from the Renaissance to the 20th century. Highlights include masterpieces by the likes of Botticelli, Bellini, Tintoretto, Rubens, Rembrandt, Watteau, Manet, Monet, Gainsborough, Constable, and Degas.

The building itself should also be explored, especially for its excellent statue of George I. If time permits be sure to check out the institute's schedule of classical lunchtime and evening concerts. Guided tours are available, and a shop and café are located on-site.

Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham

Official site: http://barber.org.uk/

A visit to the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) and Resorts World Birmingham makes for a fun day out. They are located a 25-minute train ride east of Birmingham, near the city's airport. Opened in 1976 and one of the country's largest and most important exhibition centers, the NEC regularly hosts musical concerts and a wide variety of consumer shows.

The real fun, though, takes place next door at Resorts World Birmingham . Opened in 2015, this large entertainment complex offers plenty of fun things to do for all ages. Designed to resemble a cruise ship, the attraction's seven-story-tall centerpiece is home to numerous restaurants, shops, a spa, and a hotel. If you've time, book a sumptuous afternoon tea in the ritzy Sky By The Water restaurant, so named for its great views over the complex grounds and its large lake.

A must-visit for families, the new Bear Grylls Adventure offers plenty of exciting experiences. Located between the NEC and Resorts World Birmingham, this thrilling indoor/outdoor attraction features everything from an assault-style climbing course to high ropes, axe throwing, archery, and even a shark dive, to name but a few.

Address: Pendigo Way, Marston Green, Birmingham

Official site: www.resortsworldbirmingham.co.uk

A fun creature-focused attraction that's well worth seeing for those traveling with kids is the Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park . This city-run attraction on the edge of Cannon Hill Park is a small zoo that's home to a variety of animals including red pandas, lemurs, and meerkats.

Established in 1964, the zoo has also become important for its research and breeding programs. A variety of fun experiences are available for kids, including some that allow unique hands-on experiences based around the care and upkeep of a variety of the gentler species.

At the very least, be sure to check the zoo's website for details of feeding times, when you can often see these cute creatures at their liveliest.

Address: Pershore Road, Birmingham

Official site: www.birmingham.gov.uk/conservationpark

Located in Cadbury's Bournville manufacturing site, just a short drive from Birmingham, Cadbury World is one of the area's largest and most popular attractions. It welcomes more than 500,000 visitors each year. With a focus on fun, visitors get to discover the history of chocolate, as well as the manufacturing process through a number of excellent themed interactive exhibits.

Along the way, guests learn the story of the Cadbury business, one of the world's largest confectioneries, as well as having a chance to enjoy theme-park-like attractions suitable for families. A highlight is exploring the Bull Street attraction with its replica shops reminiscent of the 1820s.

Be sure to also try your hand at making your own confectionary, as well as getting in some shopping in the world's largest Cadbury's sweet shop. Afterwards, be sure to spend a little time exploring the picture-perfect village of Bournville itself, built by the Cadbury family after 1860 specifically to house their large workforce.

Address: Linden Road, Bournville

Official site: www.cadburyworld.co.uk/

In the town of Dudley, just nine miles west of Birmingham, The Black Country Living Museum occupies a 26-acre site and offers visitors a vivid insight into the history of mining (hence the "black"). An old mine shaft and reconstructed turn-of-the-century industrial community consisting of 50 authentic buildings, many of them dismantled and rebuilt on the property, can be explored.

It's also fun to wander around the neighboring network of canals, a part of the adventure that takes place in an authentic narrow boat once used to transport coal.

Other highlights of this fascinating open-air museum include the chance to interact with costumed guides well-versed in the histories of the local people. There are also plenty of unique shopping opportunities, vintage trams, buses, and commercial vehicles, as well as a traditional English fun fair from the 19th century.

Located between Birmingham and Coventry, Sarehole Mill Museum is an old water mill that dates back to the mid 1500s. Located on the River Cole in Hall Green, it's fun diversion if you're able to get here, and contains fascinating exhibits on its history, as well as one that deals with J.R.R. Tolkien, who as a child lived only a few hundred yards away.

Address: Tipton Road, Dudley

Official site: www.bclm.co.uk

If you're looking to spend a few days sightseeing in Birmingham, we recommend these centrally located hotels in Birmingham located close to popular museums and tourist attractions such as the National Sea Life Centre:

Luxury Hotels :

• The luxurious Hyatt Regency Birmingham is a high-rise hotel in the city center that's well worth staying at, featuring excellent city views, contemporary décor, spa facilities, an indoor swimming pool, and whirlpool.
• Another good luxury option is the Genting Hotel , a four-star property that offers a mix of rooms and suites, a restaurant with great views over the city, and a spa.
• The Edgbaston should also be on your list and is a delightful boutique hotel featuring elegant en-suite bedrooms, a great restaurant, and a posh afternoon tea.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• The wonderfully named Staying Cool at Rotunda is a great centrally located mid-range-priced hotel offering a sleek design, serviced apartments, floor-to-ceiling windows, comfortable beds, and incredible city views. Fresh fruit for juicing is a nice added touch.
• Hipsters and those who enjoy attractive old buildings should look into the Frederick Street Townhouse located in the heart of the Jewellery Quarter, with cozy rooms, great beds, and old-style bathtubs.
• For a truly unique experience, book into the new Boatel Birmingham , featuring accommodations for up to eight guests in three rooms aboard a classic canal barge.

Budget Hotels :

• The Staybridge Suites Birmingham is a great choice for those seeking a cheap Birmingham hotel and features affordable suites with kitchenettes, a free breakfast, and fitness center.
• So, too, is the Premier Inn Birmingham City Centre , with its budget-friendly rates, central location, wonderful staff, and great breakfast.
• Be sure to also look for hotel deals at the Hilux Birmingham , an apartment-style hotel within walking distance of top attractions that offers quality bedding and clean accommodations.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Easy Day Trips : The city of Manchester makes for a fun day trip from Birmingham, with its museums and revitalized city center being easy to get to by car or train. Lovely Liverpool is about the same distance (and as easy to get to), and is popular for its many Beatles-related things to do. Although a little further afield, Bristol can also be enjoyed in a day, with a stop at the beautiful Cheddar Gorge being a must-do along the way.

Great Weekend Getaways : The charming city of Chester makes for a great weekend getaway when in England, and is famous for its historic city walls and medieval architecture. Another historic cathedral city worth staying at is Durham , which also features a well-preserved castle and numerous cobbled streets. The northern city of Hull is not without its charms, too, including its museum quarter and excellent maritime museum.

England Travel Ideas : Be sure to set vacation time aside for a visit to England's capital, the city of London , a popular place to visit for its ancient castle (the Tower of London) and Buckingham Palace. The English Lake District makes for another great place to stay, famous for lovely Lake Windermere and its endless water sports and hiking opportunities. The lovely city of Winchester is another great option, especially as it's located close to the country's top tourist attraction, Stonehenge.

More on England

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The 27 best things to do in Birmingham

From winding canal walks to some of the country’s finest restaurants, these are the best things to do in Birmingham

Photograph: Shutterstock

Birmingham is a vast place, and you’ve got to know where to look. But among its miles of gorgeous canals and awesome greenery, you’ll find characterful pubs, fascinating museums and some of the best restaurants in the country.

Here you’ll find heavy metal music, a nationally adored chocolate company, the world’s biggest collection of pre-Raphaelite paintings, several high-flying football teams (need we go on?) and more. It doesn’t have a bit of everything – it has a lot of it. Ready to explore? Here are the best things to do in Birmingham right now.

RECOMMENDED: 😋 The best restaurants in Birmingham 🍻 The most charming pubs in Birmingham 🛏 The best hotels in Birmingham

This guide was recently updated by Birmingham-based writer  Lauren Potts .  At Time Out, all of our  travel guides  are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines .  This guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our  affiliate guidelines . 

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Top things to do in Birmingham

1.  explore brindleyplace and the canal quarter.

• Things to do
• Event spaces

What is it?  Birmingham’s vibrant canal quarter is home to some of the city’s best bars and restaurants, the  National Sea Life Centre  and the  Ikon Gallery .

Why go?  The oft-quoted ‘more canals than Venice’ claim is a bit misleading – Birmingham is  much, much bigger – but that doesn’t mean you should miss out on a walk around the canal quarter. It’s a real Cinderella part of town, having been hugely redeveloped and crammed full of restaurants and bars.

Don’t miss:  Use the historic  Roundhouse  building as a base from which to explore by boat, bike or foot.

2.  Satisfy your sweet tooth at Cadbury World

What is it?  England’s number-one chocolate-focused attraction. 

Why go?  For the best views of Brum’s chocolate factory, arrive by train (13 minutes from New Street) and take a deep breath – a sweet haze envelopes the red-brick, olde-worlde Bournville village, which was designed and built for the workers of England’s flagship chocolate brand. Cadbury World is the public bit of the factory: tours include a deep dive into the history of cocoa, a 4D cinema and a ride in the self-styled ‘Beanmobile’.

Don’t miss:  Have your Wonka experience in the demonstration area (yes, molten chocolate is involved; yes, you get to drink it). The world’s biggest Cadbury store also awaits, boasting concoctions unavailable anywhere else.

3.  Mooch around the Jewellery Quarter

What is it?  Pack a full day – and night – of fun in this increasingly popular part of town, where you’ll find everything from exhibitions to nightclubs.

Why go?  With more than 200 listed buildings and more than 250 years of history, Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter should be on any Brum itinerary. According to English Heritage, Europe’s largest cluster of jewellery businesses is a ‘national treasure’. Museum nerds will love the  Museum of the Jewellery Quarter , the  Pen Museum  and  Newman Brothers Coffin Works . And with all the pubs, restaurants, galleries and independent boutiques here, there’s something for everybody else too.

Don’t miss:  If you’re making a night of it, check in to  BLOC , close to the ever-popular JQ nightclub. Try  Jam House , or if you have something even later and livelier in mind, Brum’s up-for-it generation descend upon the  Actress & Bishop  from about 1am, with no intention of making it a quiet one.

4.  Find tropical plants, birds and butterflies at the Botanical Gardens

What is it?  Fifteen acres of ornamental gardens, glasshouses and exotic birds in indoor and outdoor aviaries.

Why go?  The Botanical Gardens ’ exotic world of tropical plantlife makes for an excellent family day out. The glasshouses are filled with all manner of strange flora, while the lawns and shrubbery outside are perfect for a stroll during the sunnier months.

Don’t miss:  The butterfly house full of tropical insects from as far as the Philippines, Central America and tropical parts of Africa.

5.  Soak up the views from Orelle

What is it? A French fusion restaurant with some extraordinary views across the UK’s Second City.

Why go? Perched on the 24th floor of the imposing 103 Colmore Row, Birmingham simply doesn’t have anywhere else like Orelle . Huge floor-to-ceiling windows mean the city fans out below in all directions, while at night its twinkling lights look even more evocative. The food isn’t cheap but it’s well made and beautifully presented, but really, you’ve come here for the views, so drink them in. 

Don’t miss:  If you don’t want to eat, there are a few seats at the well-stocked bar available but bear in mind they’re first come first serve, and obviously busier at weekends. 

6.  See contemporary art at Midlands Arts Centre

What is it?  Known to locals as the MAC, the Midlands Arts Centre has spent six decades celebrating contemporary art at its light and airy venue on the edge of Cannon Hill Park - one of Birmingham’s most popular green spaces.

Why go?  The MAC is a one-stop-shop for art, film, and hands-on courses that showcase creativity, culture and the community, with an ever-changing programme of events. Those wanting to explore the surrounding 80 acres of Victorian parkland can take in the listed bandstand, a 16th Century timber house, a lake full of swan-shaped pedalos and a 36-hole mini golf course.

Don’t miss:   MAC’s on-site food and drink choices are plentiful. Its restaurant, Kiln , was transformed during the pandemic and now offers a bright and modern space, with a bar down below. 

7.  Discover city secrets on a walking tour

What is it?  If the weather holds out, there is no better way to see Birmingham than on foot.

Why go?  There are some excellent guided walking tours, from  Positively Birmingham ’s Edward Burne-Jones pre-Raphaelite art tour to  Get Your Guide ’s  Discovering Birmingham Walking tour through the historic Jewellery Quarter.

8.  … or, for the energetic, a running tour

What is it?  Founded by an air steward with a passion for running in cities all over the world, Run of a Kind offers those with a bit of energy a great alternative way to get to know the city.

Why go?  With runs between 5km and 11km for beginners and those a bit more confident, the team sprint across Birmingham on a whistlestop tour of landmarks and hidden gems, including legendary LGBTQ+ venues, notable architecture and eye-popping street art.

9.  Fill up at one of Birmingham’s Michelin-starred restaurants

What is it?  Seriously good Michelin-starred dinners with a real range of price points. 

Why go?   Purnell’s ,  Simpsons ,  Adam’s ,  Carters ,  Opheem  and – if you’re prepared to head just outside the city –  Peel’s , will all bamboozle you with their culinary delights. And with more high-end independents opening all the time, you could get in before the Michelin inspectors do. A quiet food revolution has been rumbling through Brum – now’s your time to sample it.

10.  Sample sours and stouts on the Stirchley Beer Mile

What is it? A journey through the creative craft beer joints dotting the Stirchley neighbourhood.

Why go? Stirchley might look like ordinary suburbia at first glance, but it hides a plethora of taprooms serving an eyewatering amount of styles. Enjoy waterside pints at Glasshouse and Birmingham Brewing , while Attic Brew Co’s spacious site is good for large groups and Cork and Cage do a fine line in lambics and gueuzes. Newcomers Deadbeat bring a low-key dive bar vibe.

Don’t miss:  If you’re hungry, then Eat Vietnam’s wonderfully rich noodles, curries and small plates are the perfect way to soak up all that beer.

11.  Lend an ear to the city’s homegrown musical talent

What is it?  While London and Manchester will always get more attention when it comes to music, Birmingham has given the world its fair share of talent, including UB40, Duran Duran and Black Sabbath – and it’s still bubbling up at the present with a thriving local music scene.

Why go?  Whether it’s house at The Mill , indie at The Sunflower Lounge , the Night Owl ’s northern soul or jazz at The Jam House , you’ll find something interesting within walking distance of the high street. 

12.  See the inspiration for ‘Lord of the Rings’ at Moseley Bog

What is it?  A green idyll on the fringes of the city on the site of an old millpond. 

Why go?  Wander around this nature reserve full of plants, animals and insects, gnarled old trees and gorgeous carpets of bluebells each spring. The site is also of great archaeological interest, having two burnt mounds, the remains of an old mill dam and the foundations of Victorian greenhouses.

Don’t miss:  Book a JRR Tolkien-themed tour at Sarehole Mill , on the fringes of the bog: the ‘Lord of the Rings’ author grew up around Moseley Bog in the 1890s, and it’s said to be the inspiration for hobbit hangout The Shire. 

13.  Tour the hallowed grounds of Villa Park

What is it?  Take a tour of Aston Villa’s hallowed ground, or even catch a game. 

Why go?  There aren’t many football grounds in the world like Villa Park. The 42,000-capacity stadium has been home to the Villa since 1897, and it has an aura that few sporting institutions can match, especially when the Holte End is packed out and chanting along. Sign up for a behind-the-scenes tour or catch the boys in claret and blue play a Premier League game. 

Don’t miss:  Fancy a real treat? You can watch the match in comfort at  Eighty Two , the plush centre of football hospitality at Villa Park. 

14.  Meet the city’s creatives at the Custard Factory

What is it?  A restored Victorian factory, now a hub for creatives and independent businesses. 

Why go?  Alfred Bird invented custard powder in Birmingham in 1837, but these days, the old Custard Factory is a studio complex at the heart of Birmingham’s creative community. It’s home to many artists and is full of galleries, independent shops, cafés, restaurants, bars and the  Mockingbird Cinema . With its graffiti-strewn walls and regular arts events, the whole area is well worth a few hours of mooching.

Don’t miss:  Look out for regular open studio events to meet the designer-makers who make this place so special. 

15.  Go behind-the-scenes at Edgbaston cricket ground

What is it?  The home of Warwickshire County Cricket Club, plus numerous England fixtures. 

Why go?  There’s nothing as quintessentially English as a game of cricket, and Birmingham boasts one of the very best places to watch one. Edgbaston is renowned as one of the country’s most atmospheric international test grounds. 

Don’t miss:  Take a  tour of the stadium  to get a behind-the-scenes look at the Warwickshire and England changing room, the field, the media centre and more. 

16.  Sink a pint in grand Victorian pub The Bartons Arms

What is it?  A grand Victorian pub with original stained glass, engraved mirrors and snob screens.

Why go?   The Bartons Arms is a rare treasure among the mean streets of Newtown. Established in 1901 as a Victorian gin palace, it’s still beautifully ornate with original features such as Minton tiles, a grand horseshoe bar and a stunning wrought iron staircase climbed by the likes of Laurel & Hardy and Charlie Chaplin.

Don’t miss:  Book a tour or choose a pint from its fine range of Oakham ales and something spicy from the Thai menu.

17.  Time travel at the Birmingham Back to Backs

What is it? A quirky window into the living conditions of ordinary Brummies over the last 200 years.

Why go? Flanked by the colourful Hippodrome Theatre on one side and the lively LGBTQ+ bars of Hurst Street on the other, the Birmingham Back to Backs are in an unlikely location for a heritage site. But this communal courtyard with back-to-back houses is where ordinary folk once lived and guided tours take visitors on a journey from 1840 to 1970, to see how homelife evolved long before Nextflix and smartphones.

Don’t miss Not only does Court 15 Books have some fine second hand books for sales, there’s also regular free exhibitions upstairs.

18.  Fill your bags at one of the city’s iconic shopping destinations

What is it?  A marketplace since the twelfth century, Birmingham is still a city for shoppers. 

Why go?  The  Bullring  is now a giant mall incorporating the iconic Selfridges building (looking like a part-amorphous blob, part-crash-landed UFO). Across town, the  Mailbox  is a classier joint with the likes of Harvey Nichols and Emporio Armani.

Don’t miss:  Most interesting are the independents, which you’ll find scattered all over town and in places like the splendid  Great Western Arcade .

19.  Wine and dine at the Grand Hotel

What is it?  A Grade II-listed Victorian hotel in the city centre

Why go?  The legendary Grand Hotel reopened in the summer of 2020 following an 18-year closure and a painstaking multi-million-pound restoration. The building has hosted a plethora of historical figures, from Winston Churchill to Malcolm X, and now you can explore its striking Victorian and art deco interiors, including the jaw-dropping Grosvenor Ballroom and a new rooftop garden terrace.

Don’t miss:  The brand new outdoor terrace in the central courtyard. 

20.  Discover the treasures of Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery

While the current exhibition in the Gas Hall is open for visitors, t he main museum and art gallery building is currently closed for refurbishment.

What is it? BMAG is full of treasures – from Anglo-Saxon gold to more contemporary pieces. 

Why go?  Housing the largest collection of pre-Raphaelite paintings in the world and occupying one of the city’s finest buildings, the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery is not to be missed. Head up to the third level for a detailed, hands-on history of Birmingham and its people. 

Don’t miss:  The domed Round Room is often the location for free musical performances. Make time for a slice of cake at the refurbished Edwardian Tea Room.

21.  See world-class theatre at the Rep

What is it?  The Rep is the jewel in the crown of Brum’s theatre scene; it’s a lively venue with an emphasis on diverse programming.

Why go?  A production house for well over a century, it’s got more decades under its belt than the National Theatre in London or its West Midlands neighbours the RSC. And with major-league director Sean Foley in charge, it shows no sign of slowing down.

Don’t miss:  While there’s edgier programming the rest of the year, its annual production of ‘The Snowman’ is a delightful seasonal cuddle.

22.  Fill up on thalis at Raja Monkey

What is it?  A South Indian restaurant with a canteen vibe. 

Why go?  If you  really  want to dine like a Brummie, then a trip to a curry house is mandatory. The Balti Triangle – located south of the city centre – is famed for its long-established restaurants, but we suggest you head to Raja Monkey. This Hall Green spot serves thalis and street-food snacks like dosa and uttapam with cheerful informality. 

Don’t miss:  Try the thalis for a taste of what's on offer.

23.  Marvel at the Birmingham Royal Ballet

What is it?  One of the five major ballet companies in the UK producing jaw-dropping shows. 

Why go?  The tenure of Carlos Acosta as artistic director is a major coup for Birmingham Royal Ballet . The company has an illustrious history, but the celebrated Cuban dancer has implemented bold plans to re-energise it. Expect plenty of risks and surprises, plus a mix of classic revivals and ambitious partnerships.

Don’t miss:  A single second of the action. No, seriously.  

24.  Treat your ears to a concert at Symphony Hall

What is it?  Opulent concert hall that is home to the  City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra . 

Why go?  This grandiose venue was opened in 1991 and has delivered a rich programme of gigs and concerts ever since. Fun fact: it was recently voted as having the seventh-best concert-hall acoustics in the entire world. 

Don’t miss:  If you don’t know your Schubert from your Haydn, ease yourself in by visiting during the festive December programme. The Hall looks even better for candlelit carols.

25.  See the largest collection of British motorcycles at the National Motorcycle Museum

What is it?  The world’s largest collection of British motorcycles.

Why go?  A must-see for all petrolheads, this Bickenhill museum has more than 1,000 different motorcycles, dating back to an 1898 Beeston Humber Tricycle. There are also plenty of pretty serious modern superbikes.

Don’t miss:  Book a guided highlights tour with an experienced guide to get a behind-the-scenes look. 

More great things to do in Birmingham

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Sarehole Mill, Birmingham

Attractions in and around birmingham.

Come and be amazed by the number of attractions in Birmingham. We've got world-class museums and galleries to explore and rewarding culture and heritage to discover.

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Birmingham offers green space, Michelin-starred restaurants, engaging street art and much more © Mike Kemp / In Pictures via Getty Images

Once a smoky industrial powerhouse known as the “City of 1000 Trades,” Birmingham in the 21st century is vibrant, diverse city that’s home to a plethora of distinctly local attractions. 

Whether you’re exploring Digbeth’s jaunty street art, sampling some of the country’s most unique gastronomy or strolling the city’s colorful canals, it’s the creativity and warmth of its people that brings out the best of Birmingham. 

Conveniently located smack-dab in the center of the UK , Birmingham is easy to reach – but much harder to leave. Here’s how to make the most of your time in Britain’s second city.

Stroll Birmingham’s finest stretch of canal

Birmingham was built around its vast network of canals, but if you want to see them at their finest then take a stroll along the meandering 45-minute stretch between Gas Street Basin and the University of Birmingham. 

The lively waterside bars, bistros and restaurants of Brindley Place and The Mailbox are ideal for refreshments but once you walk down the Old Line canal past Five Ways, the towpath turns into a bucolic cornucopia of overhanging foliage and sudden tranquility. The elegant university grounds are a treat to explore too, as is the underrated Barber Institute of Fine Arts . 

Stay at a Grand institution

Once host to the likes of Winston Churchill and Charlie Chaplin, the Grand Hotel was the most opulent of Victorian Birmingham’s hotels, later falling into disrepair before closing for good in 2000. After a 20-year slumber, this local institution on Colmore Row re-opened in May 2021 following a £45m facelift. 

Originally opened in 1879, this Grade II-listed building still retains some of its wonderful period features, including the famous grand staircase furnished by gilded marble columns and the extraordinary Louis IV-style grand ballroom. The hotel’s stylish rooms also offer impressive views of the St Phillips Cathedral grounds (known locally as Pigeon Park).  

Uncover Digbeth’s street art

Digbeth sprawls out from the city center’s southwestern fringes and is crammed with some of Birmingham’s liveliest bars – and it’s impossible not to be struck by the quality and volume of the neighborhood’s extensive street art and graffiti. The rough-and-ready industrial streets around the Custard Factory form a perfect canvas for the city’s talented creatives to display their work. 

The scene is driven by superb local artists such as Annatomix and gent48 . Make sure to head to Floodgate Street, Gibb Street and Lower Trinity Street for some of Birmingham’s boldest street art.

Experience Victorian Birmingham at the Back to Backs

Talking in dramatic terms about Birmingham’s industrial past is easy; conjuring the feel of daily life from this era is hard. Except, that is, at one corner of the city center where you can get a vivid sense of working-class Birmingham’s living conditions over 100 years ago. 

Located on lively Hurst Street, the Birmingham Back to Backs are the last remaining example of the city’s 19th-century back-to-back terraced houses. Today, you can take guided tours led by passionate locals who will evoke the challenges – and joys – of life in these dense buildings. Make sure to book ahead of time – and don’t miss the 1930s-era sweets shop on the corner.

Enjoy the view from the secret garden

With curvaceous oddities like the Bullring and the Rotunda giving Birmingham one of the UK’s more distinct skylines, it’s worth finding a spot to take it all in from above. The best viewing platform in the city isn’t in a skyscraper, but rather humbly located on the 7th floor of the Library of Birmingham in Centenary Square. 

What the library’s Secret Garden lacks in towering height, it more than makes up for with genuinely panoramic outdoor views, plenty of room to wander and a beautiful elevated green space for summertime relaxing above the hum of the city.

Try a Balti in its hometown

Birmingham has more Michelin-star restaurants than any other city in the UK outside of London, yet the dish at the heart of the city’s character is a humble one-pot stew: the Balti. Devised by Birmingham’s Pakistani community in the early 1970s, the Balti is a fiery curry cooked quickly with the freshest ingredients over a searing hot flame. 

While you can now find Baltis on menus across the city, the Balti Triangle neighborhood a couple of miles south of the city center is the dish’s spiritual home. Head to original pioneer restaurant Adil’s or modern favorite Shababs on the Ladypool Road for a taste of the Balti at its best. 

Get outdoors in the Lickey Hills

With more than 8000 acres of award-winning green spaces and parks, Birmingham is one of the greenest cities in Europe. But if you want to combine that green space with gorgeous panoramic views and charming woodland trails then head out to the Lickey Hills Country Park.

Just 10 miles southwest of Birmingham city center, the hills are easily reached by train, bus or car and are ideal to walk at any time of year. Make sure to head up to the almost 300m-high summit of Beacon Hill, where you’ll be treated to stunning views of Birmingham’s skyline to the north and the distant Malvern Hills to the south.  

Drink the Stirchley beer mile

Stirchley’s rise as craft-beer haven has been as pleasant as it is unexpected. With several splendid pubs and taprooms conveniently spaced apart, intrepid craft-beer aficionados can take on Stirchley Beer Mile and sample the finest this south Birmingham neighborhood has to offer. 

From Cork and Cage at the north end to GlassHouse in the south, with stops at vibrant taprooms Attic Brew Co and Birmingham Brewing Company  (to name but a few) along the way, there are a plethora of spots to enjoy IPAs to your heart’s content. 

Trace Birmingham’s diverse musical heritage

From the reggae beats of UB40 to Black Sabbath’s pioneering heavy-metal sound and Duran Duran’s bouncy new-wave pop, few cities in the UK have produced music as diverse as Birmingham. 

Whether locals know it or not, every neighborhood has contributed to the richness of the city’s music heritage.  Musical Routes aims to bring that to life with their gorgeous 3D wooden relief maps located at 30 train stations across Birmingham. Whether it’s artists, record shops, venues or recording studios, these unique artworks enumerate each depicted area’s special cultural contribution. 

Enter Paradise

If you want to spark an always-feisty debate in Birmingham, ask a local their opinion of the now-demolished Central Library. But whether you thought the city’s famous brutalist building was iconic or not, what took its place at Chamberlain Square makes an impression, too:  Paradise Birmingham . 

Amid gleaming new office towers, the cleaned-up square boasts a pleasant white sheen and has attracted quality restaurants such as Dishoom and Rosa’s Thai Cafe. The volume and color have now been turned up further with the fresh addition of Albert’s Schloss , a boisterous Bavarian-style bar and restaurant set across two floors.

Learn about how Birmingham became a jewelry capital

As a manufacturing powerhouse during the Industrial Revolution, Birmingham had many strings to its bow – with one of the most enduring bring the jewelry trade. Much of that was centered around the Jewellery Quarter, a handsome neighborhood that to this day produces 40% of the UK’s jewelry. 

With its immaculately preserved workshops and live demonstrations, the Museum of the Jewellery Quarter is a fascinating time capsule into Birmingham’s heritage. Make sure to explore the quirky bars and restaurants of the area too, including the aptly titled 1000 Trades and the enigmatic The Wilderness .

Hit the arcades

Birmingham isn’t a city short on shops, with the Bullring , Grand Central and The Mailbox offering a veritable smorgasbord of brands and boutiques. For a more evocative shopping experience, take a stroll through the city’s historic arcades.

Located across from Snow Hill Station, the Great Western Arcade is an ornate Victorian delight filled with independent sellers, while the Piccadilly Arcade across from New St Station has an even more interesting story. Dating back to 1925 and containing a lavishly painted ceiling fresco, this arcade was once an Edwardian cinema – which explains the sloping floor.

See an epic cathedral

Just a short 14-mile train ride north of the city in the nearby town of Lichfield lies one of the most unique cathedrals in the entire country. 

Dating back to the 14th century and soaring over 250ft above the town’s skyline, Lichfield Cathedral is one of only three three-spired cathedrals in the UK and is the only one that dates back to the Middle Ages. Spend time touring the charming cathedral grounds before finishing at award-winning chef Tom Shepherd’s sublime new restaurant Upstairs . 

Escape the city by kayak

Sitting quietly on Sheepcote Street and backing onto the Birmingham Canal Old Line, The Roundhouse has been a fixture on the canal towpath since 1874 and once housed stables and stores. Derelict for many years and now freshly renovated, the Grade II-listed building runs sustainable guided city and canal tours. 

Take the Green Escape Kayak Tour to get a new and eco-friendly perspective on Birmingham’s waterways and green spaces. 

See a real “Peaky Blinders” set

Led by the indomitable Tommy Shelby, the popular BBC crime drama Peaky Blinders has brought Birmingham (and its memorable local accent) to a global audience. Even though the show isn’t shot on location in the city, you can see an authentic historic Peaky Blinders set at the Black Country Living Museum . 

As well as seeing the famous canal-side and yard filming locations, visitors can explore a painstakingly recreated 19th-century industrial landscape. Fans of the show should try to time their visits with the regular Peaky Blinders Nights .

You might also like: The 6 best day trips from Birmingham A Peaky Blinders guide to Birmingham 10 reasons to visit Birmingham, Britain's second city

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Home » Travel Guides » 25 Best Things to Do in Birmingham (UK)

25 Best Things to Do in Birmingham (UK)

Birmingham can be found within the West Midlands, a county full of character. With a population of 1,101,360 residents as of 2014 it is the biggest city outside of London, and also the largest. Due to this it draws the attention of a wide number of travellers from around the world. The soul of this city really started with the Industrial Revolution, where it earned its place at the forefront of scientific developments. Now, it attracts the creative and the innovative, fuelling their minds with a wide variety of museums, parks and beautiful music halls. Read on to find out more about the adventures that you could have in Birmingham with our list of the 25 best things to do!

1. Symphony Hall

This concert hall really does reflect the sheer innovation and creativity that has gone into making Birmingham the city that it is today. Not only is it the UK’s finest concert hall, but it’s also well regarded to be one of the best in the world. With its picturesque auditorium and stunning, world class acoustics, it isn’t to be missed. Not only does it present some of the most prestigious international orchestras, it also houses a beautiful programme showcasing many different styles of music; everything from jazz to rock, and stand- up comedy! So there really is something for everyone with this beautiful building, and seen as it shows a show of some form or another almost every day of the year, it’s well worth having a look at what might be happening when you plan your trip.

Recommended tour:   Birmingham: Victorian Canals to Today’s City Walking Tour

2. National Motorcycle Museum

Featuring more than 1000 motorcycles, all restored to the manufacturer’s original specifications, this Birmingham based museum attracts more than 250,000 visitors a year from around the world. The earliest machine within the 30 year old museum dates back from 1898, and stands out among the machines of a museum that also houses modern day superbikes. With more than 1000 motorcycles within the walls of the museum it is well worth a visit, showcasing the hard work of the family that put their efforts into creating the museum that they imagined more than 30 decades ago. This museum is well worth a visit for people who have a liking of beautiful machines.

3. National Sea Life Centre

As the most loved family day out in Birmingham, the National Sea Life Centre has really earned its place on this list. We all know just how hard it can be to keep children amused while travelling, with them getting bored at the drop of a pen, this place will surely capture their imaginations. With many events running throughout the year there is always something to do within the centre for children, involving everything from Dinosaur Detective events to events featuring their state of the art interactive rockpools. Within the giant tanks there are a wide variety of animals, from Jellyfish to Nurse Sharks, Octopi to Black Tip Reef Sharks, you can walk through a corridor with a glass top, running underneath an aquarium full of these creatures. But over the past several months, they’ve introduced an attraction that really will get many children excited, featuring the beauty of an Antarctic landscape…and Gentoo Penguins. You can stand and marvel and the cheekiness of these feathered friends. It should also be added that there are options to pay for VIP feeding experiences within the centre, but standard packages start at £12.50 per person, going up in price to add things such as collectables and photo packs.

4. Damascena Coffee House

Situated within the heart of Birmingham, this beautiful, little delicatessen is quickly building a pleasant reputation for it. While out shopping within the city centre it is well worth a visit, even if only for a quick drink. Step inside and you will immediately get a feel for the authentic Middle Eastern atmosphere that this coffee house presents. With pleasant waitresses who will more than happily make recommendations for you should you require them, they also cater for many specific dietary requirements. It’s well known that they’re also one of the most inexpensive places to eat at within the city, and if you’re just popping in for a warm drink you shouldn’t be spending more than £3 or £4.

5. Shakespeare Express

Steam trains form one of the great British institutions, with just a handful of working steam railways still running throughout England. This is one of the most well known ones, capturing tourists simply with its beauty. Running from the heart of Birmingham to Stratford Upon Avon it really gives you the chance to see the best of both worlds. From the fascinating industrial past of Birmingham to the beautiful countryside of Warwickshire, where large amounts of land still go untouched. You can sit back and relax while going past working farms, stylish villages, stations and waterways that make up Shakespeare’s county. Dependent upon the time of day, you also get served a delicious meal with your journey. From a full English breakfast to a freshly cooked Roast Dinner with all the trimmings. Or if you’re travelling in the afternoon, you can experience another great British institution, High Tea. A wide selection of wine, soft drinks and alcoholic beverages is also available. So if you’re looking for a beautiful day that allows you to sit back and relax, look no further!

6. Escape Games

Strictly for adults, the Escape Games are quickly spreading throughout the UK. Taking the locked in a room style games just one step further. Up to a group of 6 people are locked into a room, where a specific event plays out, one of the most notorious involves playing the part of an undercover detective who is captured by triads, locked in a room, and given an hour to escape. Another, not for the faint of heart, involves a murder taking place within a haunted house. This will give even the best of travelling puzzle takers a challenge! Prices do fluctuate throughout the year, so it’s worth checking before you make your trip.

7. Winterbourne House and Garden

The  beautiful thing about Birmingham has to be the amount of picturesque houses and gardens that it has to offer, and Winterbourne House is at the top of its league. Restored to its original Edwardian era arts and crafts splendour it really does prove itself to be a rather unique heritage attraction. You can look through the house and the intense number of beautiful antiques, or take a relaxing stroll through the beautiful botanic gardens, featuring more than 6000 plant species from around the world. Within the grounds you will find everything from a woodland walk, with numerous routes, to a 1930’s style Japanese bridge.

Book online : Winterbourne House and Garden Admission Ticket

8. Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery

For families travelling with children, do you often find that due to different tastes keeping your children entertained within museums can be quite a hard task? This museum might just be the one that wins them all over. Featuring beautiful collections of art, social history, archaeology and ethnography there really does seem to be something for everyone. It covers centuries of European history and culture, as well as being home to collections of international importance. Step through the doors and you can see everything from the most highly valued hoard of Anglo-Saxon gold, to the largest known collection of complete  Indian bronze sculptures. For the little archaeologists among you, there is a whole collection of Egyptian mummies and coffins, we would suggest that you look at current exhibits before making your trip, throughout the year dinosaur exhibits will pop up!

9. Birmingham Hippodrome

Perfectly complementing the creative nature that Birmingham has to offer is the Hippodrome, as said by The Independent, ‘Birmingham Hippodrome pantomime, thank goodness, always one of the best in the land’. This famous pantomime venue features everything from ballet and opera, to family pantomimes and comedy. It is well worth looking at what might be coming up while you’re travelling, as they’ll even provide booster seats for small children who are sat behind tall guests. For the adults, pre-order interval drinks can be ordered at any of the bars, ready for you to collect from the foyer, so you won’t have to keep standing in a queue. If you arrive well before your show is to start, they also have their own independent restaurant with fantastic ratings that open two hours before each performance, but their menus are finalised a month before each show, so it’s worth looking on their website first!

10. Sheldon Country Park

If what you’re looking for is a beautiful walk, then look no further. Set in 300 acres of open grassland, wetlands, old hedgerows and some mature woodland, Sheldon Country Park is the perfect place for both short and long walks. Some walks are specifically designed, featuring 2km to 5km trails, although there are also some shorter ones. By the main entrance of the park, you can find the Old Rectory Farm, a 17th century dairy farm. The farm itself has been fully restored and operates as a demonstration farm, showing city dwellers traditional methods of farming. Animals kept there include Jersey cattle, pigs, goats, ponies, ducks and chickens. There are also plenty of lovely activities for young children there, especially in spring when the ducklings and chicks are around!

11. Grand Prix Karting

For both children and the big kids among us. The Grand Prix Karting venue within Birmingham is arguably one of the best within the UK, and one of the most famous outdoor go kart raceways. Situated just one mile outside Birmingham City Centre, it’s easily accessible by both the motorway, and public transport. Boasting state of the art race karts designed by professionals in the industry, it really isn’t an attraction to be missed!

12. Aston Hall

Situated within a public park on the north side of Birmingham, Aston Hall is one of the most important buildings within the city. As one of the last great Jacobean houses to be built, this seventeenth century red-brick mansion has stood the test of time, earning its place as a Grade I listed building. Perfect for adult travellers and families, this venue features a full programme of events, activities and trails that vary and change throughout each season. One of the most notable permanent features involves the display rooms that Aston Hall played during the Civil War, and throughout other notable moments of history. But one of the features that attracts the most tourists is Lady Holte’s garden, designed in breathtaking symmetrical patterns, and split into quarters with a water feature running in between each section before finally meeting in the middle, it was designed with the key intention of being both beautiful and peaceful.

• 13.  Cadbury World

Cadbury really are the heart of British chocolate production, with many of us still mourning the loss of their older, discontinued chocolate products. Perfect for anyone who likes chocolate, this chocolate themed day out isn’t to be missed. Starting with a 4D cinema experience you’ll be diving into a bowl of liquid chocolate milk, riding a Crunchie rollercoaster and taking to the skies in a Cadbury creme egg airship piloted by the caramel bunny. All without even leaving your seat! Both informative and fun, you’ll be finding out the secrets to why Cadbury chocolate is so delicious, and exploring the Aztec jungles to discover the origins of the cocoa bean, amidst trees and waterfalls. You can also take part of the tour with a live actor, playing John Cadbury, the man who opened the original Cadbury shop back in 1824. But the most important part of the day trip involves the world’s biggest Cadbury shop, and the Cadbury World cafe! Good luck not buying too much on that heavenly day out!

14. Great Western Arcade

The Great Western Arcade is situated within the heart of the retail district of the city. As a Victorian shopping arcade it really has seen the test of time, suffering bomb damage in WWII that led to the rebuild of the original arched, glass roof to an apex construction. We would suggest visiting this arcade during the Winter months, when the Christmas decorations are simply stunning, giving a classic feel to this beautiful place. Featuring many independent retailers, spas and shops specialising in many different food areas it really is worth a visit on your trip, we’re sure you’ll find something that captures your fancy there!

15. Jewellery Quarter

The name of this beautiful quarter really does leave no room for mystery. Known as the gem of Birmingham it is steeped in history, and forms one of the most vibrant and lively locations. It dates back more than 250 years and still to this day is home to over 500 different jewellery businesses. Described by English Heritage as, ‘a unique historic environment in England – a national treasure’, which has a few, if any, parallels in Europe. Attracting thousands of tourists from all over the world, it is also frequented by journalists, keen to visit this historic, yet developing area. Art galleries can be seen on almost every corner.

Related tour : Discovering Birmingham Walking Tour

16. Two Cat’s Kitchen

Do you enjoy fine dining, or have an occasion coming up that requires a beautiful surrounding and nice food? If so, this really is the place for you, with fine dining and surprisingly generous portions it certainly stands up among other restaurants within Birmingham. You get a small menu at the start of each meal, and servers who provide just enough service, but not too much, as well as a full wine list. What most people tend to love about this place is the atmosphere, it’s pleasantly warm but the dining room echos ever so slightly, making it seem incredibly sociable.

17. Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park

Do you love animals? Well this small, family run conservation park might be just the thing to add the beauty to your holiday. Featuring a wide range of animals, as well as plenty that are on the endangered list you really can see the effort that they’re putting into conservation. They have everything from ocelots to meerkats, from utila island iguanas to yellow breasted capuchin monkeys. Although not the biggest of zoos, they do charge a humble admission price of £5.50 per person, meaning that they should certainly be on your list of places worth stopping at!

18. Birmingham Botanical Gardens and Glasshouses

Are you looking for a place that is both stunning and has places for children to play safely? This is that place. Four stunning glasshouses are surrounded by a large lawn with a range of beds and shrubberies, inside the glasshouses you can find an exotic tropical house, a subtropical house, a mediterranean house and arid houses. Within the Victorian public park there are 15 acres of landscaped greenery, a beautiful bandstand and plenty of play areas, although near the main entrance there is also a playroom for children connected to the tearoom. Events run in the gardens throughout the year, with the most notable ones celebrating the Chinese New Year and Christmas. But due to stereotypical British weather, this is one of those places you’ll need to make weather plans for, we would advise carrying an umbrella! Just incase!

19. Museum of the Jewellery Quarter

Do you like jewellery? Are you perhaps fascinated by the thought of how jewellery was once made? The building features a guided tour around a real jewellery factory where very little has changed since the early part of the last century. You can see demonstrations of jewellery making techniques at the jeweller’s bench, where you might be taught a handy trick or two.  Perhaps the most fascinating part of the factory is the ‘Earth’s Riches’ showcase gallery, where you can see jewellery made from materials found in the natural world. From whale tooth and coral, to diamond and platinum. Original jewellery from local designers can also be bought within the museum shop. Entrance is just £7 for visitors aged 16 and above, including the guided tour, but anyone under 16 can get in for free!

20. Barber Institute of Fine Arts

Both a home for lovers of art, and lovers of architecture. This is one of Birmingham’s finest Art Deco buildings, purpose built and opened by Queen Mary in 1939. Designed by Robert Atkinson, one of Britain’s leading architects, you’ll walk through the doors and meet a central music auditorium, surrounded by corridors leading to separate parts of the gallery. Housing many world class painters it’s a gallery not to be missed. Including exhibits from artists such as Claude Monet and Frans Hals, you can find some of the most well known artists within each room. They also cater exhibits on other forms of art, including Ancient Roman coins, and Treasures of Ancient Egypt.

21. Gas Street Basin

If you find yourself in Birmingham, looking to rest and break up your day, you should consider a stunning walk in the heart of Britain’s canal network. Days gone by it was alive with the sound of cargoes as diverse as chocolate crumb, glass and coal getting loaded and unloaded. Today surrounding the basin are modern bars and restaurants, providing a unique experience where industrial heritage meets modern, cosmopolitan living. It’s a great stop on your way to the heart of Birmingham’s shopping centres, as it’s just a five minute walk away from the shops that surround New Street Station.

22. Baddesley Clinton

Baddesley Clinton is an intimate estate set in the heart of the Forest of Arden, with over 500 years of fascinating history and unexpected sources. As a National Trust venue, it provides both a calm experience, and a learning experience. Over centuries it has protected those seeking to escape the outside world, and over the course of 2016 it focuses on the story of the Tudors and the Catholic priests, who lived there during a time when their faith, could have meant there life. Go from learning to strolling through the tranquility of the beautiful countryside, away from the centre of the city, life really is different, everything seems slower. It would be worth experiencing both sides of that coin on your trip.

23. St. Philip’s Cathedral

An architectural splendour, this is one of the few churches built in the English baroque style which on its own sets it alone. But add to this that it’s one of the smallest cathedrals in England, cathedrals in general are ginormous buildings, almost touching the sky, this one is incredibly different. Situated just a short way off of the Jewellery Quarter, it is worth having a stroll to see if you’re within the area. If you do venture inside the cathedral, you’ll see the beautiful art installation of 2000 soul boats that now hang from the ceiling. Certainly a part of your trip that you’ll want to have your camera to hand for.

24. Cannon Hill Park

Cannon Hill Park has something that a lot of recreational parks don’t, which makes it an incredibly tourist decorations for thousands of tourists over the summer months. Unlike most large parks, it was built specifically for the recreation of the people of Birmingham, leaving it a beautifully structured feel over the 80 acres of formal parkland, but alongside that lay 120 acres of conservation and woodland plantation. If you have children, we would suggest taking them to look for the animals that live within the woods there, you could see anything from frogs to hedgehogs. We would also suggest going with young children on a sunny weekend, as there’s a mini fair that is weather permitting, and pedalo boats operate on the lake during the Summer. If you do find yourselves caught in a summer shower, then there are plenty of tea rooms where you can take refuge until it decides to stop.

25. Hen and Chickens PH

While you’re travelling, it can be really easy to judge a book by its cover, we all do it. But this is one of those situations where you should completely ignore what it looks like outside, it was derelict for quite some time and the outside still looks tired. But upon stepping inside you will completely forget what the outside looks like. Providing a perfect atmosphere, and friendly service, you’ll quickly feel comfortable within the bar/grill. They serve a pleasant mixture of both English and Asian food, with something to satisfy your tastebuds. Generally it costs around £10 to £15 per person, not including your drinks, but if you ask the chefs there really nicely, they can also make you food that isn’t on the menu. It’s also situated just off of  the Jewellery Quarter, where you can find a wide range of nice pubs, so if a night out is what you’re looking for, it’s a great starting point.

25 Best Things to Do in Birmingham (UK):

• Symphony Hall
• National Motorcycle Museum
• National Sea Life Centre
• Damascena Coffee House
• Shakespeare Express
• Escape Games
• Winterbourne House and Garden
• Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery
• Birmingham Hippodrome
• Sheldon Country Park
• Grand Prix Karting
• Great Western Arcade
• Jewellery Quarter
• Two Cat’s Kitchen
• Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park
• Birmingham Botanical Gardens and Glasshouses
• Museum of the Jewellery Quarter
• Barber Institute of Fine Arts
• Gas Street Basin
• Baddesley Clinton
• St. Philip’s Cathedral
• Cannon Hill Park
• Hen and Chickens PH

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The best things to do in Birmingham

By James March

The host city of the 2022 Commonwealth Games has waited patiently for its turn in the spotlight, but locals know something special has been happening in Birmingham for several years already. Pierced by gleaming new tramlines and picturesque canal sides, Birmingham has undergone intense change and offers a variety of fun things to do.

From exploring one of the UK’s best small art galleries to taking a boat along its myriad waterways to visiting a nearby beach , the day is wide open with possibilities while Birmingham’s exceptional gastro scene comes alive when night falls. Whether it’s sampling Michelin star restaurants in the city centre or bar hopping out in lively neighbourhoods like Moseley or Stirchley, activities in Birmingham are always first-class.

Is Birmingham a good city break?

Yes. We've named the second city one of the UK's best  city breaks  and for good reason. There are plenty of things to do in Birmingham, having evolved into a cultural and commercial hotspot, boasting a bustling street life made up of quirky shops and delicious  restaurants . From promenading up and down Birmingham's revitalised canals to sampling craft beer at one of the city's booming breweries, this city is the perfect weekend getaway.

The 17 best things to do in Birmingham

1. Relax in Winterbourne House’s tranquil gardens

Built in 1903, Winterbourne House is a rare surviving example of an early 20th-century suburban villa and garden. And while the house itself is a quaint window into the life of the wealthy Nettlefold family, it’s the majestic gardens that are the standout feature here. From the shaded Nut Walk to the curious glasshouses, the gardens are a wonderfully serene spot to spend a balmy afternoon.

Address: 58 Edgbaston Park Road, Birmingham B15 2RT Website: winterbourne.org.uk Price: £8.20

2. Taste Harborne’s neighbourhood cuisine

Birmingham’s neighbourhoods are increasingly where it’s at for quality independent cuisine and few do it better than Harborne. Sample delectable pasta dishes at Tropea, modern British tasting menus at Harborne Kitchen, expertly-cooked fish and chips at The Cods Scallops and fine-dining takeaway treats from Qbox. Harborne’s quality local options are a delight. Still hungry? See more of Birmingham's best restaurants .

3. Cruise the famous canals

The city’s snaking canals are perfect for a leisurely wander, but for a closer look, GoBoat offers a self-drive experience from their spot in Brindley Place. With their eco-friendly electric boats, the experience is relaxing and Route 2 – which heads down the Old Line towards the University of Birmingham – is particularly picturesque. Moor up for a picnic in Edgbaston and relax under the shade of weeping willows.

Address: The Water's Edge, Birmingham B1 2HL Website: goboat.co.uk Price: One hour is £95 - under £12 per person when seating eight

By Anya Meyerowitz

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By Abigail Malbon

4. Sample a growing craft beer scene

Craft beer fans are well-served (no pun intended) by Birmingham’s thriving taprooms and neighbourhood breweries. Attic Brew Co, Glasshouse and the Birmingham Brewing Company are all established in the city’s beer epicentre of Stirchley but don’t miss the outstanding breweries elsewhere. Burning Soul’s signature Ice Cream Pale is perfect for a summer day on their terrace in Hockley, while Digbrew pours Digbeth’s freshest beers.

5. Take in a show at the Symphony Hall

Considered to have some of the finest acoustics in the UK , the Symphony Hall in Centenary Square attracts some of the world’s biggest artists across several genres. Given a fresh new Scandi-style facelift that glimmers in the multi-coloured water fountains below, the hall also boasts a B:Eats, a laid-back cafe offering live music and sublime food (including the historic Brummie Bacon Cake).

Address: Symphony Hall, Broad Street, Birmingham B1 2EA Website: bmusic.co.uk

6. Explore Digbeth

With its industrial landscape providing a perfect canvas for the city’s finest street artists, Digbeth is Birmingham’s most distinct neighbourhood and The Custard Factory offers a plethora of bars and activities. But don’t sleep in the pubs across the other side of the High Street either. The Anchor is a beautiful old Victorian watering hole, while The Spotted Dog serves arguably Birmingham’s finest drop of Guinness .

7. See some unknown masterpieces at the Barber Institute

The pleasant grounds of the University of Birmingham are an enjoyable afternoon stroll, but tucked away behind the School of Mathematics is the city’s best art gallery. Within the Barber Institute of Fine Art’s quiet Art Deco corridors is a splendid collection of lesser-heralded works from the likes of Van Gogh, Manet and Renoir. It’s free to enter and also offers revolving exhibitions.

Address: University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TS Website: barber.org.uk Price: Free

8. Watch a movie at the UK’s oldest working cinema

If you’re in the mood for a film on a rainy night, then skip the cookie-cutter multiplexes and head over to Station Street for a unique step back in time. The Art Deco exterior of the Electric Cinema dates back to 1909 and the red chairs lining its two auditoriums are evocative of the Golden Age of Hollywood. Order a beer or a wine from the hole-in-the-wall bar and sit back for a show in the UK’s oldest working cinema .

Address: 47-49 Station Street, Birmingham B5 4DY Website: electricbirmingham.com Price: £10 (for a standard ticket)

9. Visit a pop-up exhibition at BMAG

Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery have always been a focal point for visitors, especially for its extensive Pre-Raphaelite art collections and the elegant Victorian Tea Rooms. But following recent renovations, it’s the museum’s unique exhibitions that display the creativity and local passion of its curators. This is perhaps best displayed by In The Que , a retrospective celebration of the legendary Que Club nights featuring photographs, flyers, posters and a thirty-five-minute film.

Address: Chamberlain Square, Birmingham B3 3DH Website: birminghammuseums.org.uk Price: Free

10. Step back in time at the Black Country Living Museum

This region built its name and wealth on industrial might, and a stroll around the Black Country Living Museum brings a mesmerising 19th-century landscape back to life. Just 20 minutes from Birmingham, this immersive open-air museum of rebuilt historic buildings features gaslit streets flanked by over 50 shops and houses across a 26-acre village with costumed characters explaining the hardships of Victorian life. Keep an eye out for the actual canal yard used in the popular BBC crime drama Peaky Blinders .

Address: Tipton Road, Dudley DY1 4SQ Website: bclm.com Price: £19.95

11. Soak in some luxurious views

103 Colmore Row’s sleek exterior climbs into the Birmingham sky, dwarfing all around it and showcases the city’s finest vistas. But the piece de resistance is that these views are experienced from the splendour of Orelle, a sublime French-inspired restaurant on the 24th floor with glorious floor-to-ceiling windows and a handsome navy colour scheme. While there’s more to see during the day, it’s best to visit at night when the city below is blanketed in shimmering lights.

Address:   Orelle, 103 Colmore Row, Birmingham, B3 3AG Website:   orelle.co.uk Price:  Mains from £21

12. Browse Birmingham’s historic arcades

While the bulbous Bullring dominates Birmingham’s shopping scene, a Victorian treasure is hidden away across from Snow Hill Station. Packed with everything from whisky stores to sushi joints, the ornate Great Western Arcade is an under-the-radar institution. Don’t miss the equally unique Piccadilly Arcade and its lavish ceiling fresco (also, the sloping floor dates from a former life as an Edwardian cinema).

Address:   Great Western Arcade, Colmore Row, Birmingham, B2 5HU Website:   greatwesternarcade.co.uk

13. Hear stories from the city’s untold past

Walking tours are great for going beyond the surface of a city and Kevin Thomas’s Heritage Walking Tours delve into some quirky and, at times, macabre Birmingham stories unlikely to feature in any guidebook. From unusual graves in the Birmingham catacombs to a tour of the Jewellery Quarter’s stylish art deco architecture, Thomas uncovers new sides to Birmingham with humour, passion and curiosity.

Address:  various locations Website:   birminghamwalkingtours.co.uk Price:  £15

14. Dance to Moseley’s summertime vibes

There are few festivals in Britain – let alone Birmingham – as cool as the Mostly Jazz Funk & Soul Festival. Often bathed in  July ’s warm summer rays, Mostly Jazz is an eclectic three-day music festival held in the lush hillside setting of Moseley Park that’s been headlined in the past by the likes of Chic featuring Nile Rogers, Gregory Porter and The Specials. Soak up the sun and dance long into the night in Birmingham’s most bohemian neighbourhood.

Address:   Moseley Park, 93B Alcester Rd, Birmingham B13 8DD Website:   mostlyjazz.co.uk Price:  Day tickets £61, three-day weekend ticket £156

15. Feel the passion at Edgbaston

Often described as having the best atmosphere of any English cricket stadium, Edgbaston is the gregarious home of Warwickshire County Cricket Club and T20 team the Birmingham Bears. Though it truly comes alive during England test matches and you’ll have ticked off a Birmingham sporting bucket list activity if you manage to snag tickets. Even better, try and get a seat in the boisterous Eric Hollies stand, where you may be sat alongside all manner of costumed characters.

Address:   Edgbaston Stadium, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B5 7QU Website:   edgbaston.com Price:  Bears tickets start from £17

16. Hit the Tolkien trail

With his curiosity piqued by the city’s quirky architecture and mysterious woodlands, author JRR Tolkien lived in Birmingham during his formative years and took deep inspiration from local neighbourhoods like Hall Green and Moseley. Dating back to 1771, Sarehole Mill is an old watermill that fascinated Tolkien as a child and now acts as a unique suburban museum. It's from here that visitors can take a guided tour through the scenery that inspired him to write classics like  The Lord of the Rings .

Address:   Sarehole Mill Museum, Cole Bank Rd, Birmingham B13 0BD Website:   birminghammuseums.org.uk/tolkien-and-sarehole-guided-walk Price:  £10 per person

17. Order in some inventive cocktails

From luxurious creations at Digbeth’s  Passing Fancies to the almost-intimidating 140-strong selection of gins at  40 St Paul’s , Birmingham’s independent cocktail scene has never been stronger, or more distinct. The Scandi-inspired cream interior at  Atelier Birmingham looks like nowhere else in the city, while  Couch’s laid-back neighbourhood environment is an urbane antidote to every ostentatious cocktail bar stereotype.

How can I spend a day in Birmingham?

Start with a canalside breakfast at easy-going Juju’s Cafe. The relaxed family-run atmosphere means a warm welcome, while their moreish Porky Hash will set you up for the rest of the day. Cross over the bridge and head to Roundhouse Birmingham, where you can get a window into the city’s industrial past followed by a kayak tour of Birmingham’s canal network.

Head back into the city and grab some generously-filled Japanese -style sandwiches for lunch at Gupshup, before perusing the quirky boutiques of the Victorian Great Western Arcade. Browse the unique and locally focused exhibitions at Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery followed by a pint of cask ale at beer institution The Wellington.

Meander down vibrant Bennett’s Hill and sample Birmingham’s superb south Asian cuisine at The Indian Streatery. Share as much as possible, before wandering south to Digbeth’s smorgasbord of entertainment options. Pick your poison between neon putting at Golf Fang, shooting space invaders at NQ64 or sitting down to one of 500+ board games at Chance and Counters. But if all of that is too active, then either relax with organic wine at Wine Freedom or sit outside with a couple of obscure Belgian beers from Roberto's Bar and Tasting Club.

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• 9 Quaint Towns And Villages...

Quaint Towns and Villages Near Birmingham, UK

Freelance Travel and Music Writer

Birmingham may feel like a concrete jungle at its centre – but it is flanked by picturesque towns and chocolate-box villages. We round up some of the villages within easy access of the UK ‘s second largest city that are well worth a visit.

Sitting pretty just a few miles south of Wolverhampton is Wombourne, a village with medieval roots. Mentioned in the Domesday Book, it used to be an agricultural village, but traces of its more recent industrial past are evident. On a summer’s day, a walk down the Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal is a must, taking in the Bratch, a cluster of canal buildings.

Tanworth-in-Arden

Famous for its connection with renowned folk musician Nick Drake, Tanworth-in-Arden is a village with a rich history. It may only have a population of about 3,000, but intrepid explorers flock here in search of country pubs, walking trails and festivals, while Packwood House, a 16th-century manor house with gardens, is also worth a visit.

With a population of just 125, Wishaw is a far cry from the bustle of Birmingham. Many visitors come here to visit the quintessential country pub the Cock Inn, while the Belfry Hotel and Resort is also popular with locals and celebrities who come for the world-class golf facilities. Kingsbury Water Park, with its 15 lakes, is less than a 10-minute drive away.

Henley-in-Arden

In the centre of the country, just a few miles north of Stratford-upon-Avon , is Henley-in-Arden, a medieval town steeped in tradition. You may have accidentally stumbled upon this town en route to Stratford or Birmingham and been pleasantly surprised by the selection of quaint pubs and boutiques, and its celebrated Henley ice cream. Henley-in-Arden’s long high street is a conservation area, with more than 150 buildings listed as being of special architectural or historical interest.

Lying in northeast Worcestershire, Alvechurch, just to the east of the bustling town of Bromsgrove, is easily accessible from Birmingham. One of the more overlooked areas of the West Midlands, it has pubs, canals perfect for summer walks and the Alvechurch Marina, which pulls in narrowboat owners. There are plenty of cosy cottages dating back 200 years and more in the heart of the village.

With a modest population of about 2,600, Clent is another of the region’s smallest towns. No visit here would be complete without a trip to the National Trust’s Clent Hills , perfect for family walks and panoramic views of Birmingham, while its bright carpets of bluebells and its pinnacle, the Four Stones, are sights to behold. Don’t miss out on a trip to the Fountain either; it’s a wonderful country pub with a welcoming atmosphere.

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Stratford-upon-Avon

This place needs little introduction, but it’s one of the most historic of the lot. Proudly the birthplace of the world’s finest bard, William Shakespeare , Stratford-upon-Avon has rows of well-kept Tudor-framed houses, a pub dating back to the 14th century, the Royal Shakespeare Company for a spot of theatre and the River Avon for romantic boat rides. We dare you to get bored here.

Water, wildlife and walking fans in the West Midlands should definitely put Earlswood on their lists. Situated just south of Solihull, it is known for Earlswood Lakes, a trio of reservoirs. Visitors can take in the stunning scenery, try a spot of fishing and maybe spot a rare woodpecker. When you’re done with the outdoors, there are country pubs for the adults and a craft centre to keep the kids busy.

Last but not least, Kinver is a large Staffordshire village that boasts a wealth of history. Situated just a few minutes’ drive from Stourbridge, it is one of those chocolate-box villages that are almost too pretty to be true. Its most popular visitor attraction is Kinver Edge , a National Trust-owned site. In addition to the fantastic views from its summit, Kinver Edge’s tall woodland ridge boasts some amazing homes that were carved into the sandstone rock, which were inhabited until the 1950s.

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12 Of The Best Things To Do In Birmingham, England

Perched in the heart of England, Birmingham is the country’s second largest city after London and one that’s great to explore… especially on a first time trip! With a handful of museums, country houses, parks and some incredible shopping spots, there really are so many amazing things to do in Birmingham.

Whilst growing up in rural Wales, Birmingham was often the biggest city to visit (about 3 hours away) and times I have such fond memories of! It’s a great city for exploring

That being said, a trip to a new city can be tough to plan, especially one that’s pretty large. That’s why I wanted to share some of my favourite things to do in Birmingham on your first ever visit.

Take a look at some of the best things to do in Birmingham. I hope you love the city! 🇬🇧

1.) Visit St Philip’s Cathedral

St Philip’s Cathedral is an architectural wonder for it is one of the few English baroque style churches in addition to being one of the countries smallest cathedrals. It’s just a short distance from the Jewelry Quarter so when you finish buying what attracts you there you can stroll over to this attraction.

Inside you should look up to the ceiling and you will discover 2000 soul boats hanging from above. Remember to take your camera.

2.)The Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery

The Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery is one of the best things to do in Birmingham, especially if the weather takes a turn for the worse. ☔️

Once here, make sure to explore the rooms for Anglo-Saxon gold, Indian bronze statues and European culture while the big kids amongst us will enjoy the dinosaur exhibits and the Egyptian mummies in their coffins.

If you’re looking for a typical English brekkie in the city, pop over to the Grand Central Kitchen . It’s a no-frills kinda spot that really serves a hearty breakfast that’ll keep you full past lunch! It’s amazing.

3.) Explore Aston Hall

Exploring Aston Hall is possibly one of the best things to do in Birmingham and probably one of the most significant to see. As one of the final Jacobean houses to be built, it has a history that’s just so great to explore.

Once here, make sure to visit the display rooms (including one featuring the role the house played during the Civil War) and the symmetrical gardens that are perfect for a little stroll.

After all that exploring, pop into The Wilderness (on Warstone Lane). The whole experience of getting into the dining area to the food served is just incredible.  Just make sure to book ahead, they’re nearly always full.

4.) Visit the Birmingham Symphony Hall 

The Birmingham Symphony Hall is one of England’s finest concert halls with world-class acoustics in the stunning architecturally beautiful auditorium. In addition to listening to internationally renowned orchestras, you can also visit here to watch rock concerts, jazz musicians and even comedy shows. It really has something for everyone and productions are on a show almost every day throughout the year.

You should look at their website to see what is available when planning your trip. It’s a great way to end (or start) and evening in Birmingham. 🍸

If you’re looking for a bite to eat before heading over to Symphony Hall, pop into  The Meat Shack (on Thorp Street) that serves up some tasty baskets of burgers, ribs and loads of loaded fries. It’s the kinda place where you tuck in with your hands without any judgement. I love it!

5.) See the National Motorcycle Museum

Now, heads up…if you’re not a motorcycle fan, you’ll probably hate this spot. But, if you are you’ll probably be itching to visit one of the UK’s larges motorcycle museums.

Featuring more than 1000 motorcycles from around the world that have all been restored to their original specifications. The oldest machine on display dates from 1898 and sits alongside some of the most powerful superbikes on the road today.

Just make sure you’ve got a passion for bikes before you visit!

6.) Spend the evening at the Gas Street Basin

The Gas Street Basin is the area of Birmingham that was at the centre of England’s canal system. You can take a walk alongside these canals that are just five minutes away from the city centre. Today, all of the industry has been replaced by some pretty cool bars and restaurants, making a perfect place for you to take a stroll.

For a taste of fine dining, pop into  Carters of Moseley who serve up the best Orkney scallops and red mullet in all of Birmingham.

7.) Ride the Shakespeare Express

The Shakespeare Express is a steam train operating from Birmingham to Stratford upon Avon helping to keep alive one of Britain’s institutions. Now, currently, the trains have stopped for this year and the team are renewing their passenger license (which will hopefully be ready for next year).

Make sure to check their website to see once this has been approved – it really is one of the best things to do in Birmingham.

There are only a few steam trains still in operation in the country and they help to captivate tourists with this return to the past. You can join them when you visit Birmingham and take a relaxing trip through the Warwickshire countryside while being served a delicious meal.

8.) Wander around Winterbourne House

Winterbourne House and Gardens is located just a few miles from Birmingham and a great spot to experience a little history of this area.

Once here, make sure to stop off to see the art and crafts on display or wander through the house and observe the collection of antiques. When you have finished in the house take a stroll around the gardens with over 6000 plant species on display collected from all over the world. It really is one of the best things to do in Birmingham if you love beautiful gardens.

If all that exploring gets you hungry, pop into Adam’s on Waterloo Street. They serve up some of the best Michelin Star food in the city. Just make sure to book before heading over.

9.) Ramble through Sheldon Country Park

Sheldon Country Park is an ideal setting for some proper rambling in the countryside, there are several trails differing in length from 2 to 5km or you can combine some interconnecting trails to make a long walk. Close to the park entrance you will find the Old Rectory Farm, this dairy farm dates from the 17 th century and has been fully restored.

Now, for any pane spotters our there, Sheldon Park is located right next to the Airport, which means there are ample opportunities to spot some planes landing and taking off.

10.) Shop at the Bullring

Now, the Bullring is the centre of Birmingham and always a hive of activity. Once here, make sure to visit the iconic Selfridges store (with all the bubble-esque architecture), wander through the shopping areas and explore St. Martin’s Square.

That being said, if you want a less shiny experience, pop over to the Bullring Rag Market that hosts hundreds of temporary stalls selling everything from fruit and veg to clothing.

If all that shopping gets you hungry, stop off at  Viceroy Tandoori that conjures up some of the tastiest curries in the city.

11.) Gorge at the Great Western Arcade

Built within Victorian-era, the Great Western Arcade has a long history in Birmingham. Nowadays, the arcade is still a thrive of activity where you’ll get a few high-street brands mixed in with independent boutiques.

Once here, make sure to stop off at Sushi Passion for, you guessed it, sushi. Also, chocolate lovers unite at Chouchoute Chocolaterie where you can totally gorge! It’s one of the best spots and things to do in Birmingham… every chocolate lover will surely agree?

12.) Chillout at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens

The Birmingham Botanical Gardens is one of the totally stunning things to do in Birmingham… especially if you love nature!

There are four glasshouses that are surrounded by large lawns and beds of flowers and shrubberies, whilst Inside the beautiful glasshouses are tropical plants from all over the world.

Depending on the season, the gardens also host a number of gigs and shows that you can book tickets for. Take a look at their website for the latest events.

Read more: the secret spots to visit in Birmingham

9 Amazing Secret Spots In Birmingham, England

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10 Best Historic Towns & Places to Visit in West Midlands

Sian Victoria © - Jephson Memorial, Leamington Spa

Beautiful Towns, Villages & Cities Near Birmingham

With summer just around the corner, we’re all bound to be searching for things to get up to and sights to go and see to have a fun-filled weekend. If wandering around picturesque villages takes your fancy, then there’s so much to discover and enjoy right on your doorstep.

There are plenty of historic towns full of character to visit in the West Midlands . So why not explore all the hidden gems in your area and appreciate your local heritage. Planning a short trip with friends and family to several destinations across the region is easy since they are all a convenient drive or train ride away.

Even better West Midlands Railway runs off-peak routes to all these destinations so you can travel cheaply and at less busy times to avoid crowds. So, have a read to see how you can support your local towns and villages and admire all its unique wonders.

You really don’t have to travel far or break the bank to have a fun day out with the family this summer.

1. Royal Leamington Spa

Sian Victoria © - Jephson Gardens, Leamington Spa

Sian Victoria © - Statue of Queen Victoria, Leamington Spa

Sian Victoria © - All Saints Church, Leamington Spa

Sian Victoria © - Royal Priors, Warwick St, Leamington Spa

Sitting in the heart of Warwickshire and atop the River Leam is the lovely town of Leamington Spa . Perhaps most renowned for its mesmerising displays of Regency architecture, this beautiful town makes for a wonderful day trip that’s perfect for all ages. Conveniently located near major transport links and accessible from the M6, it couldn’t be easier to get to this charming place.

On a warm summer’s day, why not explore the well-loved Jephson Gardens? Stroll around this scenic Victorian park, in which you’ll discover over 100 plant species and colourful flower beds that complement the gardens’ collection of monuments. Including the Jephson Memorial and fountains, before popping into the on-site café for a bite to eat.

Admire the beautiful heritage within the town through a visit to the Royal Pump Rooms. Built-in 1814 the building boasts stunning architecture housing popular spa baths in the 18th and 19 th centuries it helped give the area its recognition as a spa-town. The grand building is now home to an art gallery and museum that’s worth checking out.

There’s something for everyone in this enchanting town. Have some fun with the family at Quarry Park Disc Golf or discover the rich history and explore the haunting dungeons of Warwick Castle, built in the early 11th century. Royal Leamington Spa should certainly be a place to consider for a day out, with so many hidden gems and underrated sights to see.

2. Stratford-Upon-Avon

Sian Victoria © - Stratford Big Wheel, Stratford-upon-Avon

Sian Victoria © - Guild Chapel and King Edward VI Grammar School, Stratford-upon-Avon

Sian Victoria © - River Avon, Stratford-upon-Avon

Sian Victoria © - River Avon boat cruise, Stratford-upon-Avon

Teeming with rich culture and history, Stratford-Upon-Avon is a market town located on the banks of the River Avon in Warwickshire. Though tourists come from far and wide to discover the beginnings of the legendary playwright William Shakespeare, with the town being his birthplace, there are so many more attractions within this beautiful town to explore.

The town’s major tourist attraction is, of course, the writer’s childhood home. Explore the Tudor buildings and discover where Shakespeare spent the first years of his life, before paying a visit to his grave and his Funerary Monument on the grounds of the beautiful Holy Trinity Church.

Odes to the famous writer can be spotted throughout the entirety of the town, including the 18th-century Gower Memorial, in which a statue of Shakespeare is surrounded by some of his most famous characters.

The town itself boasts some of the most beautiful Tudor architecture, with half-timbered buildings commanding your attention as you walk through the town; feel as if you’re being transported back in time as you stroll through.

Perhaps one of the best ways to take in the scenic views around you is to stroll along the canal path or go boating on the River Avon. Relax as you sail through the river, surrounded by flourishing greenery and wildlife.

Whether you’re a history-lover or visiting with young children, there’s no shortage of sights and things to do, whether it's catching a play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre or seeing the town from a birds-eye view on the Stratford Big Wheel. You’ll find plenty to do and located just 35 minutes via a West Midlands Railway train from Birmingham Moor Street, you’ll travel to this historic town in no time.

3. Great Malvern

Sian Victoria © - Great Malvern Priory and The Abbey Hotel

Sian Victoria © - Great Malvern Priory

The county of Worcestershire is home to the spa town of Great Malvern. Sitting at the bottom of the renowned Malvern Hills, the town is recognised for its outstanding natural beauty and production of natural springs that filter through some of the oldest rocks in the country.

If you’re a keen walker, this town should be on your list, with the town considered one of the loveliest places to hike in the West Midlands . Choose from an array of trails suited to you and embark on a journey across the Malverns, with the five-hour Malvern Hills Circular Walk taking you through the hills and peaks, and the North Hill Summit trail allowing you to take in spectacular panoramic views of Great Malvern.

Climb to the peak of Worcestershire Beacon, towering at 425 metres high where you’ll be greeted by an incredible view across the Midlands – making for a fantastic photo opportunity. You can even try the ‘Alternative Walk’, as you stroll through Great Malvern’s town centre and take in the historical architecture.

If walking isn’t for you, there’s still so much to get up to in this beautiful town. Appreciate the history of the town through a visit to the Great Malvern Priory. This 11th-century Benedictine monastery boasts incredible eclectic architecture, with examples of 15th-century Gothic architecture amongst medieval tiling and a Norman-style interior. It’s no surprise this is one of the greatest parish churches in England.

4. Coventry

Sian Victoria © - Coventry Cathedral ruins

Sian Victoria © - Whittle Arch, Coventry

Sian Victoria © - Golden Cross Pub, Coventry

Sian Victoria © - Council House, Coventry

Sian Victoria © - St Michael's Victory over the Devil statue, Coventry Cathedral

Boasting the title of the UK’s City of Culture 2021, Coventry is among some of the West Midlands’ most culturally rich cities, with an array of museums, galleries, and beautiful displays of architecture to be discovered.

The beauty of the city is often overlooked as a centre for tourism, despite there being plenty of hidden gems scattered throughout the city. Why not discover what the city has to offer by exploring its historic streets.

As a major target during the Blitz of WW2, much of Coventry was destroyed. However, this devastation has made for one of the city's most iconic attractions – the ruins of Coventry Cathedral.

Experience this symbol of peace by appreciating the remains of its medieval architecture, before exploring the New Cathedral and the collection of sculptures that remind visitors of the structure's past.

Buzzing with a vibrant art and culture scene, there’s no shortage of museums and galleries in this city that will entertain all the family. The Herbert Art Gallery and Museum showcase some of the best local talents through immersive and interactive exhibitions, while the award-winning Coventry Music Museum celebrates the city’s influential part in developing the music scene.

Or, if you’re a history buff, The Midland Air Museum is a great way to explore the history of Coventry’s aircraft through must-see exhibitions. No matter your age, a visit to Coventry is sure to be enjoyable.

At the side of the cathedral I recommend stopping for coffee and cake at the independent 1940's style Rising Cafe a great food place which supports local charities.

5. Stafford

Sian Victoria © - Essex Bridge, Staffordshire

Sian Victoria © - River Sow, Stafford

Sian Victoria © - Ancient High House, Stafford

Sian Victoria © - Stafford Castle

Sian Victoria © - Stafford Castle view

Sitting in the heart of Staffordshire County is the town of Stafford, surrounded by lush countryside and consisting of charming villages with fascinating history and heritage. With a history stretching back over 2000 years, this town’s significance throughout the centuries is evident through its iconic attractions, perhaps the most prominent of which being Stafford Castle and The Ancient High House.

With a 900-year history, Stafford Castle still boasts some of its original Norman foundations together with elements of 19th century Gothic Revival architecture as reconstruction was attempted. Explore the captivating ruins of the motte and double bailey castle, before strolling through the 26-acre grounds to take in the panoramic views of Stafford.

The Ancient High House is another example of fine historical architecture, considered the biggest timber-framed Tudor house in England that remains today. Originally built in 1595, this impressive structure dominates Stafford’s streets and gives visitors an insight into the town’s part in the Civil War and the Elizabethan era.

With so much to discover in this quaint market town, Stafford should be considered when planning a day trip with the family this summer. Take a walk along the picturesque River Sow before seeing the sights and delving into the eclectic history of this remarkable place.

6. Lichfield

Sian Victoria © - Lichfield Cathedral

Sian Victoria © - Classical Portico, Franciscan Friary, Lichfield

Sian Victoria © - Minster Pool, Lichfield Cathedral

Sian Victoria © - Erasmus Darwin House, Lichfield

In the heart of Staffordshire, you’ll find the vibrant cathedral city of Lichfield. Home to some of the best historical attractions in the West Midlands, this quaint city has so much to offer. Perfect for a weekend break, you’ll be able to entertain yourself by strolling through the cobbled streets admiring the history of the city, popping into a museum, or strolling through one of the numerous picturesque parks on a warm day.

Lichfield Cathedral is without a doubt the symbol of the town. This impressive 12th-century structure is the only medieval three-spired cathedral in the UK, drawing in visitors from far and wide. Take in the gorgeous medieval stained-glass windows, the Anglo-Saxon architecture and ornate arches and furnishings that will leave you in awe.

After you’ve paid a visit to this incredible landmark, explore the Georgian architecture that lines the streets of Lichfield. From the grand home of Erasmus Darwin to the birthplace and museum of Samuel Johnson, discover the lives of those centuries before us.

Aside from the abundance of historical attractions that Lichfield has on offer, a simple stroll through the city will give you an insight into its beauty. Enjoy the tranquillity of the historic Beacon Park on a sunny afternoon or catch a glimpse of the local culture by attending the annual Lichfield Music and Arts Festival. Despite the small size of this city, there’s no shortage of things to do and sights to see here.

If you are hungry after exploring Lichfield than you may want to grab a bite to eat at the independent microbrewery, Brewhouse & Kitchen in the city centre.

7. Bridgnorth

Sian Victoria © - Bridgnorth Bridge

Sian Victoria © - Bridgnorth Town Hall

Sian Victoria © - Near Bridgnorth Bridge, River Severn

Sian Victoria © - Lavington's Hole, Bridgnorth

Sian Victoria © - St Mary Church, Bridgnorth

The Shropshire market town of Bridgnorth is one of the most charming places within the West Midlands. Divided between an upper and lower town and split by the River Severn, Bridgnorth boasts historical Tudor architecture, quaint cobbled streets, rich history, and village charm. There’s something to do here that’s sure to entertain all ages.

The 19th-century Bridgnorth Cliff Railway reveals much of the town’s part in the development of the Industrial Revolution, being the oldest funicular railway in England. Cut into a sandstone cliff, hop onto the vintage railway and journey up to the High Town with this unique experience.

If you’re a history lover, why not explore Bridgnorth Castle? Admire the historical architecture through the ruins of this 11th-century structure, overlooking the River Severn, before taking a walk around the landscaped gardens.

If you’re looking for something a little different, visit Lavington’s Hole. An attraction that lies at the bottom of the Cliff Railway and serves as a tunnel carved into the cliffs. Discover how Royalist forces in the Civil War were forced to retreat into the caves, with the tunnel still standing today.

From remnants of history to an unspoilt natural landscape, it’s certainly worth paying a visit to Bridgnorth this summer. Explore the local villages and experience some of the charms this town for yourself.

8. Ironbridge

Sian Victoria © - Ironbridge

Sian Victoria © - Ironbridge Village

Sian Victoria © - River Severn, Ironbridge

Sitting on the banks of the River Severn, the fascinating town of Ironbridge is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is considered the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution. Nestled in the Shropshire countryside, there’s something to entertain all ages in this historic town, whether it's discovering its rich history or taking in the landscape of its scenic views.

Most notably, the Iron Bridge that gives the town its namesake is the town’s biggest landmark. Built in 1779 as the world’s first iron bridge, this attraction showcases the advancements of the British Industrial Revolution.

There’s plenty of museums that delve further into the town’s part in history, including the Museum of the Gorge and the Iron Bridge Tollhouse. If you’re visiting with family, consider exploring Blists Hill Victorian Town. This open-air museum transports you back into the Victorian era through real-life re-enactments on the site of a former industrial complex.

You can even take in the beauty of the River Severn by booking onto a Shropshire Raft Tour, in which you’ll sail along the water on a canoe or kayak with all the family. With so much to see and get up to, why not plan a visit to this incredible town?

9. Worcester

Sian Victoria © - The Forgate, St Nicholas street, Worcester

Sian Victoria © - Queen Elizabeth House, Worcester

Sian Victoria © - Former Church Of St Nicholas, Worcester

Sian Victoria © - St Swithun’s Church, Worcester

Located in Worcestershire is the charming cathedral city of Worcester. Situated on the River Severn and surrounded by flourishing countryside, Worcester is filled with historical sights, scenic views, and rich culture. Being one of the oldest cities in England, the city has settlements stretching back to 700BC and boasts fragments of its history through its architecture.

Without a doubt, the most iconic attraction in the city is Worcester Cathedral. Considered one of the most beautiful cathedrals in England, the structure dates to the 11th century, boasting mesmerising Gothic and Norman architecture.

After exploring the medieval cloisters and King John’s Tomb within the Cathedral, discover more rich history with a visit to The Commandery. Situated within an unspoiled 11th-century Tudor House is a museum that delves into Worcester’s part in the 17th-century English Civil War through weapon displays and re-enactments that are sure to entertain visitors of all ages.

With the Museum of Royal Worcester, the Tudor House Museum, and the Worcester City Art Gallery all accessible for history lovers to visit, there’s so much to discover about this city’s heritage. Why not consider paying a visit and seeing the wonders of Worcester for yourself?

10. Moseley

Sian Victoria © - St Mary Church, Moseley

Sian Victoria © - St Anne’s Church, Moseley

Sian Victoria © - The Fighting Cocks, Moseley

Moseley Birmingham is a hidden gem in the heart of the West Midlands and stands as a timeless reminder of the area's unique historical legacy. This suburb of south Birmingham combines awe-inspiring architecture, vibrant cultural institutions, and landmark events to make it one of the many renowned historical destinations in the region.

Located just three miles from the city centre Moseley is home to an impressive range of architectural marvels that display the city's evolution throughout the ages. Among its most renowned monuments is the majestic Moseley Hall, a palatial estate from the 18th century that originally belonged to the affluent Moseley family. The hall is now a museum that allows visitors to immerse themselves in the aristocratic lifestyle of that era.

The West Midlands was at the centre of the Industrial Revolution, and Moseley Birmingham played a crucial role in this transformative period. The city's picturesque canals, such as the Birmingham Canal Navigations and the Worcester and Birmingham Canal, once served as main arteries of transportation for raw materials and manufactured goods. Nowadays, these waterways remain a constant reminder of Birmingham's industrial heritage.

Mosley's historical pubs are a cherished part of the city's cultural heritage. With centuries-old establishments like The Fighting Cocks, The Dark Horse and The Prince of Wales, patrons can experience the charm of the past while enjoying real ales and traditional fare. These pubs offer a delightful blend of history, tradition, and community spirit for locals and visitors alike.

To sum up, Moseley Birmingham is an unforgettable and irreplaceable historical treasure in the West Midlands. From its historical architecture to its links to the Industrial Revolution, and cultural diversity, the city provides a captivating exploration of the area's past. For those looking to delve into the history of the West Midlands, Moseley Birmingham is worth exploring.

To conclude

So, there we have it – just a few of the many historical places to visit in the West Midlands. There’s sure to be something on this list that will be suited to you, regardless of if you’re visiting solo, as a couple or with young children, that will prove you don’t have to travel far to have a perfect break exploring somewhere new right on your doorstep.

Of course, our main city Birmingham is a must-visit too, so you may want to read my reasons to visit and things to do in Birmingham post to discover plenty to do there too.

These photos of mine are quick ‘off duty’ snaps I’ve taken over the years, so they really do not do these picturesque places any justice. If you enjoy walking and fancy discovering more places nearby than you may also want to read my nature reserves in West Midlands post.

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7 beautiful towns near Birmingham that are perfect for a day trip this summer

Easy day trips to Stourport-on-Severn, Whitchurch, Ludlow, Stratford-upon-Avon, Ross-on-Wye, Bakewell and Shrewsbury

• 05:30, 5 JUL 2023
• Updated 07:47, 11 JUL 2023

School holidays can be expensive. If you're planning to take the kids out, you generally need to spend a lot of money if you go to theme parks, museums or attractions.

So, why not plan to visit some places that are free? We have some beautiful towns dotted around the Midlands which are really fun to explore as a family. You can mooch around the independent shops, visit a historic landmark, stop for lunch at a local café or treat the kids to an ice cream. It may even be best to pack a picnic if you want to save money.

Many of these places are worth visiting simply for the drive alone as they pass through glorious countryside and over majestic hills offering breathtaking views. Alternatively, you can hop on a train to visit some of these places, making them perfect day trips this summer.

Read more: Britain's 'longest stretch of independent shops' is right here in the Midlands

Stourport-on-Severn

When the sun is shining, Stourport-on-Severn is a great place to be. It feels like a seaside town even though it's nowhere near the coast! There's a river and a canal that runs through it, a large paddling pool in the summer and a traditional fairground too.

Pack a picnic and head to the Riverside Meadows to sit and watch the world go by. There's a large playground , crazy golf, a skate park and a large field for games. There's also an ice cream van and refreshment stalls here too. You can take a boat trip or watch the barges making their way through the six canal locks that are based here.

And in the Worcestershire town, there are plenty of independent shops to visit plus some nice cafes, pubs and restaurants too. It takes just under an hour to reach Stourport-on-Severn from Birmingham, traffic depending, via the A450 through Halesowen. The main entrance to the park is from Martins Way and the Sat Nav postcode is DY13 3SA. Find out more on the Stourport Town website.

Whitchurch (pictured at the top) is said to be one of the oldest continually inhabited towns in the country. It's the only town in based on an original Roman site and it has stunning

Whitchurch is steeped in history, with buildings dating back to Medieval, Tudor and Georgian times plus gardens and parks set right within the town itself. Why not head there and treat the family to a pie for lunch? We say this because the Shropshire town boasts three traditional, family owned pie shops!

Declared a 'Fair Trade Town' in 2010, there are some really cool indie shops that align with the eco-friendly vibe of the place. Visit on a Friday to go to the Farmer's Market or on the first Saturday of the month to visit the Artisan Market, which offers some of the best local art, craft and food in Shropshire.

The drive to Whitchurch takes around one hour and 15 minutes from Birmingham, traffic permitting, via the A41. You can also catch a train from Birmingham New Street , switching at Crewe, which takes you right into Whitchurch, and takes around 90 minutes.

Getting out in nature is brilliant for your mental health. Listen to Suzanne Alderson, founder of Parenting Mental Health, on the Brummie Mummies Podcast for lots of advice on how to boost your family's health and wellbeing:

Stratford-upon-Avon

The market town of Stratford-upon-Avon is always worth a visit. Even if you've been before, you'll find plenty more things to do here. Being the birthplace of playwright William Shakespeare, it's popular with tourists from around the world.

You can visit Shakespeare's Birthplace, Anne Hathaway's Cottage, the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, stop off in a quintessentially English tea room and visit a Harry Potter-style magic shop. Set on the banks of the beautiful River Avon, you can enjoy a picnic by the water or go on a riverboat cruise. There are some lovely parks to enjoy here too plus a large paddling pool in the summer months.

It takes just over an hour to reach Stratford-upon-Avon from Birmingham, traffic permitting, via the A3400 through Redditch, or slightly longer via the M6. Or you could hop on a direct train from Birmingham Moor Street in just 55 minutes.

We love a road trip! With some good music playing and the wind in your hair, you can't beat that feeling of driving through beautiful landscapes. And there are few as magnificent as the 90 minute journey to Ludlow from Birmingham.

Follow the A456 Hagley Road out of Birmingham all the way to Kidderminster and then onto the Cleobury Road which takes you high onto the Clee Hills. Pull over here and get out of the car. The view will take your breath away. It's like a patchwork quilt of farmers' fields and woodland, dotted with trees and with grazing cattle under low-lying clouds.

You can picnic here or stop off at the Ludlow Food Centre for some lovely treats to enjoy within Ludlow itself. Here you'll be rewarded with thriving independent shops and pubs set in black and white half-timbered buildings around bustling squares. You can even climb the battlements of Ludlow Castle to enjoy a 360 degree view over the town and countryside.

It is possible to catch a train right into Ludlow from Birmingham New Street, you just have to switch at Shrewsbury. The journey takes just under two hours.

Ross-on-Wye

If mooching around vintage, retro and curio shops makes for a perfect afternoon out for you, then Ross-on-Wye is the place for you. The Herefordshire town is packed with cute and quirky independents selling gifts, jewellery and homeware made by local designer-makers.

There's toy and sweet shops, a music store, clothes and outward bound stores, garden shops plus charity shops if you're after a bargain. We recommend visiting on a Saturday or during the week. It's best to avoid Sundays as many of the vintage shops are closed.

You can make a day of it by heading into the Forest of Dean and seeing if you can spot a peregrine falcon at Symonds Yat, follow a sculpture trail through Beechenhurst woods or explore the magical Puzzlewood , which has featured in Star Wars films.

It takes around an hour and 20 minutes to reach Ross-on-Wye from Birmingham via the M5 and the M50, traffic permitting.

Wyle Cop in Shrewsbury is said to have the longest stretch of uninterrupted independent shops in the UK. Tucked away in 16th and 17th century timber-framed buildings, you'll find an eclectic mix of quirky shops selling everything from art and homewares to jewellery, clothes and food. You'll find curious boutiques that are completely unique.

There's an art gallery with a sculpture garden, a drinks shop specialising in non-alcoholic beverages and a children's shoe shop that rewards kids who take part in the local Parkrun. And the Shropshire town is just an hour's train ride from Birmingham . Alternatively, you can drive there in around an hour, traffic permitting, via the M6 and the M54 through Essington and Telford.

You'll recognise the name of this town from its famous Bakewell tarts! Bakewell is the biggest town in the Peak District National Park but it's full of nooks and crannies, tucked away places and quaint courtyards to discover.

It's thought that Jane Austen's fictitious town of Lambton in Pride and Prejudice is based on this 17th century town. The Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop, set in The Square, is a must-visit. There's a wide range of boutique shops to mooch for handmade chocolates, outdoor clothing and rare whiskies and plenty of traditional cafes to stop off at for a cup of tea.

The River Wye runs through the centre of the town and into the park, which has a great playground for children. It takes around an hour and a half to drive to Bakewell from Birmingham, traffic permitting, via the M1 through Derby.

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