Culture

Birmingham and the surrounding region is home to many notable attractions, a major draw for visitors and a key factor as to why the city has become a popular international tourist destination…

But before you step indoors we recommend taking a stroll around the city, it’s a great way to see some of Birmingham’s most charming features.  A good place to begin is Brindleyplace, the heart of Birmingham’s famous canal network and the perfect spot for relaxation in one of the bars and restaurants that line the canal side. Wandering through Birmingham’s streets and public squares you will notice some striking architecture including the Victorian Council House and the Georgian Town Hall - which has recently been restored to its former splendour. Sitting neatly amongst these icons are stylish contemporary structures, including Bullring and The Mailbox.

One of Birmingham’s biggest surprises is its collection of art; the city has a number of celebrated galleries including Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, the Barber Institute of Fine Arts and The Ikon Gallery.  Between them they house both classic and contemporary works; including the largest collection of Pre-Raphaelite art in the country.

For the younger sightseer a trip to Cadbury World in Bourneville or The National Sea Life Centre are definitely ones to tick off the list, and for an exhilarating day out a visit to Alton Towers or Drayton Manor is essential - Dare you ride Drayton Manor’s Apocalypse? A stand up vertical drop that was voted Britain’s scariest ride by The Sunday Times.

The Birmingham Botanical Gardens and Glasshouses is one of the city’s most popular attractions, the classic Victorian architecture and tropical flora create the perfect backdrop for a gentle afternoon stroll or picturesque picnic.  One of Birmingham’s latest attractions, The National Trust back-to-back houses provide a fascinating insight into Birmingham’s past, genuine remnants of the city’s Industrial heritage.

Just outside the city limits lie some of the UK’s most treasured locations, including the picturesque Stratford-Upon-Avon - Shakespeare’s old stomping ground and home to The Royal Shakespeare Company.  Also just a short distance away you’ll find the magnificent Warwick Castle; rightly touted as ‘Britain’s Greatest Mediaeval Experience’.

This is just a small introduction of what is on offer in the region; in Birmingham there is always another welcome surprise around the corner - So why not come in and experience it for yourself?