As the UK’s second-largest city, Birmingham has undergone a stunning reinvention since the turn of the century. It has emerged from its industrial past – perhaps best seen in fictional form in the popular BBC show Peaky Blinders - as a city reborn, with a diverse range of attractions to discover.
Explore the childlike magic of a gigantic chocolate factory, learn the tricks of the trade at Georgian-era jewelry workshops or sample some of the finest Indian restaurants in western Europe when you visit Birmingham.
Back to the future
Once the workshop of the industrial revolution, Birmingham’s infrastructure has radically changed since the 20th century. While the smoky factories and flat caps of the past are long gone, many of the Georgian and Victorian buildings that characterized this period remain and are a delight to behold.
Birmingham’s navigation basin has 100 miles of canals, and you can explore the city’s watery arteries by narrow boat. The hour-long City Heritage tours start at the International Convention Centre moorings and takes you on a meandering tour of what made Birmingham one of the true powerhouses of the early 1900s.
Along the way, you’ll come across the Gas Street Basin, a former hub of the city’s canal freight system, which has become a waterside district full of stylish restaurants and boutique shops.
The city’s jewels
At Birmingham’s Jewelry Museum, you'll see why 40 percent of British jewelry originates in Birmingham. Discover a part of the city that has gold and precious stones in its blood and step back in time to learn how Birmingham’s master craftsmen honed their skills.
The historic district is also the perfect place to pick up gifts direct from makers’ workshops. After a spot of shopping, relax in St Paul’s Square, which has a fantastic range of quirky bars and restaurants to sample.
The Balti Triangle
Venture to the Balti Triangle, the city’s famous curry zone and try some of the fantastic Indian cuisine Birmingham has become famous for. The area brings together the Sparkbrook, Balsall Heath and Moseley districts, where you’ll find Michelin-starred restaurants side by side with family run eateries, traditional dressmakers, and inviting sweet shops.
Adventures in the chocolate factory
If you’re travelling to Birmingham with kids, make sure to plan in a stop off at Cadbury World, one of the UK's most popular family attractions. The candy haven is a Midlands institution and a fascinating place to learn about the history of one of the world’s most famous chocolate manufacturers.
Afterwards, drive over to the National Sea Life Center, and immerse yourself in the wonders of the sea. The one-million-liter ocean tank is a joy to behold, housing green sea turtles, black tip reef sharks and a 360-degree underwater tunnel.
Beyond Birmingham
With your car, there’s so much you can get out to see in England’s very heart. From Birmingham city center, you can travel to the Cotswolds in just over an hour via the M5, a beautiful area full of atmospheric villages.
It’s also worthwhile to book in a visit to the Bard and head to Stratford-Upon-Avon, where you can learn about the roots of William Shakespeare. The Warwickshire town is only a 45-minute drive south of Birmingham via the M42 and M40.
If you want to relax on a punt, you’ll find Cambridge University less than two hours away via the M6 and A14. Other picturesque destinations include the second-hand bookshop capital Hay-on-Wye, while the rugged beauty of the Peak District National Park lies further north on the M1. Hop behind your wheel and the UK is your oyster.