Birmingham is a lively destination with a buzzing arts and music scene, and some of England's best retail therapy. It’s also a great place to take in some sport, whether that’s world-class cricket, soccer and more.
You certainly won’t be short of things to do. Whether you’re here for a business conference or taking a city break, Birmingham is sure to keep you entertained.
Brave new world
A metallic statement of modern architecture which stands proudly in the middle of the city, the iconic department Selfridges was inspired by the chainmail fashion of designer Paco Rabanne. It’s fitting that this curvaceous building offers the best shopping in the Midlands, right in the city’s Bullring area.
Another innovative addition to the skyline is the Library of Birmingham. Designed in 2013, the futuristic exterior features inter-locking metal hoops in bands of gold and blue. This is one of the largest - and most striking - public libraries in the world, with an entire floor dedicated to the works of Shakespeare.
Workshop of the world
Birmingham has always been famous for its entrepreneurs and engineers. During the 18th and 19th centuries, the Midlands region was the manufacturing engine of the British Empire. Indeed, this is the birthplace of James Watt’s steam engine, the first-ever transatlantic cable and the Orient Express.
If you’re interested in British history, enjoy a guided tour of the magnificent Aston Hall and its Jacobean gardens. Continue your historical journey with a drive to the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery - home to one of the world’s largest collections of Pre-Raphaelite paintings and Anglo-Saxon gold.
Taste of fame
Perhaps Birmingham’s most indulgent claim to fame, the founder of Cadbury’s Chocolate was born and raised in the city. George Cadbury made his first chocolate bars here in the 19th century, creating a recipe so delicious it’s widely claimed to be the nation’s favorite.
Find out more about George and indulge your sweet-tooth at Cadbury World, a chocaholic family attraction located on the site of the historic Bournville Village.
In more recent years, the city has become the heartland of Balti cuisine, an Anglo-Punjabi speciality cooked up in Birmingham’s households in the 1970s. Nicknamed the curry capital of the UK, Birmingham’s Balti Triangle is a guaranteed hit with spice lovers.
Play ball
Football (the British rarely say ‘soccer’) fans can catch local teams, Aston Villa and Birmingham F.C., playing at the nearby Villa Park and St Andrew's Stadiums.
Birmingham is also well-known on the cricket circuit. Fans of the game can book seats at the world-famous Edgbaston Cricket Ground to watch international test matches and county cricket events. They’ve been playing here since 1886.
England’s green and pleasant land
Birmingham Airport is a great base for scenic driving through the English countryside. Head north to the Peak District and soak up the wild beauty of this nature reserve, or south to the historic city of Oxford, best known for its prestigious university. Whichever point of the compass you follow; you’ll find a wealth of sights less than two hours away.
For a quintessentially English experience, hit the M5 and explore the Cotswolds. This charming area of the UK is characterized by thatched cottages and rolling green hills. Visit Berkeley Castle, a majestic 12th century fortress, or hike up Bredon Hill and enjoy panoramic views of the great British countryside.
Whether you’re feasting in the Balti Triangle or pursuing some fresh country air, car rental from Birmingham Airport brings the best of the Midlands within easy reach.
