The best of tourism in Birmingham: discover all the highlights in Birmingham
Birmingham, a dynamic city in the heart of England, offers a rich tapestry of experiences for visitors to explore. Known for its diverse culture, historical significance, and modern attractions, this bustling metropolis is a treasure trove for those seeking adventure and discovery. From engaging museums to picturesque parks, the variety of places to visit ensures that every traveler finds something that piques their interest.
The city's allure extends beyond its iconic landmarks, presenting an array of unique events and activities that capture the essence of local life. Whether you are a history buff, an art enthusiast, or simply looking to immerse yourself in the local flavor, Birmingham boasts an impressive list of must-see attractions that cater to all tastes. With its blend of tradition and innovation, there is no shortage of wonders waiting to be uncovered in this remarkable city.
- Discover the highest-rated services in the Tourism category, in Birmingham
- 1. Premier Inn Birmingham City Centre (New St Station) hotel
- 2. Brindley Cruises
- 3. The Fort Shopping Park
- 4. Cadbury World
- 5. easyHotel Birmingham City Centre
- 6. Leonardo Royal Hotel Birmingham
- 7. J D Wetherspoon - The Briar Rose
- 8. Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery
- 9. The Birmingham Botanical Gardens
- 10. Roundhouse Birmingham
- How to find the best tourism at the best price in Birmingham?
- Catalog of services offered by tourism in Birmingham
- Frequently asked questions about tourism in Birmingham
- What are the must-see attractions in Birmingham?
- How is the public transportation system in Birmingham?
- What is the best time to visit Birmingham?
- Are there any local cuisines to try in Birmingham?
- What cultural events take place in Birmingham?
- How safe is Birmingham for tourists?
- What shopping options are available in Birmingham?
- What are the best neighborhoods to explore in Birmingham?
- How can I experience Birmingham’s nightlife?
- Are there any free activities for tourists in Birmingham?
Discover the highest-rated services in the Tourism category, in Birmingham
Below we present the top 10 highest-rated services in the Tourism category in terms of quality-price ratio:
1. Premier Inn Birmingham City Centre (New St Station) hotel
The Premier Inn Birmingham City Centre offers a fantastic stay with an unbeatable location just steps from New Street Station. Guests rave about the spacious, clean rooms that provide a comfortable retreat after a day exploring the city. With amenities designed for convenience, it caters well to both leisure and business travelers alike.
Many visitors highlight the friendly and accommodating staff, ensuring a welcoming atmosphere throughout their stay. The hotel’s restaurant serves a satisfying breakfast, contributing to an overall delightful experience. Despite minor challenges, such as navigating to the reception area, the quality of service and comfort makes this hotel a top choice for anyone visiting Birmingham.
It was a triple room I got, was spacious enough, neat and had great views of the city centre – I posted some shots from the room view.
Breakfast was great, the usual Premier Inn standard. The only thing for me was locating the reception. When you walk in, what you see in front of you are the lifts. You need to take them to the first floor upstairs , which is where the reception is. I struggled to figure out where the reception is, thankfully, someone walked in and directed me. Not sure I saw a sign to give guests this direction. Even if there is, it should be made distinct and clearly visible.
Unfortunately outside and leading into the building smells unsanitary due to constant urination
Amenities within the hotel are reasonable with a restaurant available for serving food with a bar.
2. Brindley Cruises
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: 09:00–17:00
Friday: 09:00–17:00
Saturday: 09:00–17:00
Sunday: 09:00–17:00
Brindley Cruises offers an exceptional experience for those looking to explore Birmingham’s stunning waterways. With knowledgeable guides at the helm, guests can expect an informative and entertaining journey as they learn about the rich history of the canals. The warm and welcoming atmosphere created by the crew ensures a pleasant outing, making it suitable for all.
The cruise is not only visually captivating but also very affordable, providing great value for the hour spent on the water. With lovely views and engaging commentary, it’s a fantastic way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city while enjoying a unique perspective. Highly recommended for anyone seeking a memorable day out!
Great cruise. Terry had so much passion talking about the history of those canals.
We had a great sunset too which makes things even better 🙂
3. The Fort Shopping Park
Tuesday: 09:00–20:00
Wednesday: 09:00–20:00
Thursday: 09:00–21:00
Friday: 09:00–20:00
Saturday: 09:00–19:00
Sunday: 11:00–17:00
The Fort Shopping Park offers a fantastic shopping experience with its convenient layout that places all stores within close proximity. This makes it a breeze to explore different shops, allowing for a delightful and hassle-free outing. The variety of retailers and dining options ensures that everyone will find something to enjoy.
Additionally, the park features ample parking that adds to the overall convenience of the visit. Whether you’re there for a quick trip or a leisurely day of shopping, the well-managed environment and friendly staff make it an excellent destination. Overall, a must-visit for both shoppers and food lovers!
Great concept.
The retail park itself is spacious and has ample shops and restaurants, more coffee shops you could throw a stick at and ofcourse a NANDOS!
4. Cadbury World
Cadbury World is a delightful destination for anyone with a passion for chocolate. The immersive experience captivates visitors of all ages, making it a fantastic outing for families. The aroma of chocolate wafts through the air as guests explore the history of the beloved brand while enjoying various interactive exhibits.
The highlight is undoubtedly the chance to sample fresh chocolate and the exhilarating 4D cinema experience. It’s an adventure that blends education and fun, leaving visitors with unforgettable memories. A trip to Cadbury World promises sweet enjoyment that should not be missed!
Cadbury World in Birmingham is a must-visit for chocolate lovers of all ages! From the moment you step in, the aroma of chocolate fills the air, creating an exciting and nostalgic atmosphere.
The interactive exhibits provide a fascinating journey through the history of Cadbury, from its humble beginnings to becoming a global chocolate brand. Watching the chocolatiers at work and sampling fresh, warm chocolate is a definite highlight!
The 4D cinema experience adds a fun twist, especially for families, and the themed play area is a great hit with kids. The shop at the end is packed with exclusive Cadbury treats and souvenirs—perfect for taking some of the magic home.
Overall, Cadbury World offers a fantastic mix of learning, fun, and indulgence. Highly recommended for families or anyone with a sweet tooth!
You still get choccy on the way round, and the experience extras (4d cinema) are excellent.
The staff were very helpful, friendly and took the time to make his visit enjoyable. Extra praise for the staff working in the “Have a go” area today, who were extremely helpful and went the extra mile for us.
When we visited there were a lot of attractions closed down due to building work
There isn’t anywhere to actually see the chocolate being made in terms of the actual factory itself and it would be good if this aspect was addressed.
5. easyHotel Birmingham City Centre
easyHotel Birmingham City Centre offers a comfortable stay at an excellent price. The rooms, while compact, are meticulously clean and provide everything necessary for a pleasant evening. Despite their size, the atmosphere is cozy and inviting.
The hotel’s location makes it convenient for exploring the area, while the friendly staff ensure a seamless experience from check-in to check-out. A highly recommended choice for those seeking a budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality.
It is great value for money and I would recommend here if you’re looking for a one night stopover.
Customer service was great too, checking in and out was really easy, thanks Violeta!
6. Leonardo Royal Hotel Birmingham
The Leonardo Royal Hotel Birmingham impresses with its cozy atmosphere and attentive staff. Guests have noted the well-furnished rooms, which provide all necessary amenities for a pleasant stay. The breakfast selection stands out, featuring a variety of options that cater to different tastes, ensuring a delightful start to the day.
Moreover, the hotel’s location is convenient, making it easy to explore nearby attractions. While minor issues such as elevator wait times have been mentioned, the overall experience remains positive, making it a highly recommended choice for travelers seeking comfort and quality service.
no microwave exists to be used easily by guests. All in all a good hotel, the guest services especially work very hard at the front desk to get things right.
Only downsides are that the lifts were a pain and always very busy and kept stopping at almost every floor even when they were already full; The outside of the building is quite an eyesore too; And no bath.
Overall it was excellent value for money and I’d highly recommend.
7. J D Wetherspoon – The Briar Rose
The Briar Rose serves as a fantastic venue for both relaxation and enjoyment. Guests have enjoyed the comfort of the well-appointed rooms and appreciated the attention to detail, from complimentary snacks to well-functioning amenities. The location offers easy access to local attractions, enhancing the overall experience.
Service has consistently received praise, with the friendly staff contributing to a welcoming atmosphere. The bar and dining options are convenient, with good value for money. Overall, The Briar Rose is highly recommended for anyone looking to unwind in a charming setting.
Heard good things and wasn’t disappointed.
Rooms were well lit, free treats were good, windows were soundproof but you could still hear your neighbours and slight street music.
We ordered breakfast to the room and it was really scrummy.
The shower could have been hotter but that might be down to me being a weird female…. ha ha!
Even though they were really busy, the receptionist was so lovely and still smiling through the stress, bless her.
Definitely recommend this place
Didn’t book a room or eat anything, so can’t comment on those aspects.
Great friendly service at the bar, and then again, friendly and efficient service when I ordered from the app. No problems with any of my drinks, great prices. Nice lively vibe in the build up to Christmas.
Bar staff could have been a bit friendlier. Not many working…quite a wait to order drinks in the evening and breakfast, next day.
I do like Wetherspoons tho.
Can’t wait to try another hotel.
8. Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: 10:00–17:00
Thursday: 10:00–17:00
Friday: 10:00–17:00
Saturday: 10:00–17:00
Sunday: 10:00–17:00
The Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery offers a stunning array of artistic treasures and historical significance. Visitors are sure to be captivated by the architectural beauty of the building and the variety of exhibits. It provides an enriching experience for both art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
The museum also features a delightful tea room, perfect for taking a break after exploring the exhibits. With free entry and exceptional exhibitions, it’s a fantastic cultural destination that showcases the rich heritage of Birmingham.
9. The Birmingham Botanical Gardens
Tuesday: 11:00–16:00
Wednesday: 11:00–16:00
Thursday: 11:00–16:00
Friday: 11:00–16:00
Saturday: 11:00–16:00
Sunday: 11:00–16:00
The Birmingham Botanical Gardens offer a stunning escape into nature, showcasing a diverse array of plant life and tranquil settings. Visitors can enjoy the lush landscapes, featuring beautiful gardens and a unique butterfly garden that delights families and nature lovers alike.
The venue is also well maintained, providing lovely spaces for relaxation and exploration. Whether indulging in a refreshment at the cafe or soaking in the peaceful ambiance, it provides a delightful experience. Overall, it is a must-visit for anyone seeking a refreshing outdoor retreat.
Though the buildings are looking tired, the glasshouses contain an outstanding and well kept collection of rare plants from around the world.
Outside, improvements are clearly being made. The grass garden is by far the best feature with great drifts of naturalistic planting backed by groups of bold giant grasses. The peaceful fern garden is a secret little retreat. The alpine garden is a newish feature with outcrops laid out geographically. There are many important trees around the site and for families, probably the largest play area in any garden. The historic bandstand has live bands every Sunday throughout the warmer months. There is a large tearoom and occasional street food vendors. The gardens are heading towards a huge restoration project following years of no investment so be supportive and respectful.
For those complaining about the parking system- there are lots of signs explaining what to do, read them carefully and you won’t have a problem.
10. Roundhouse Birmingham
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: 09:30–16:30
Thursday: 09:30–16:30
Friday: 09:30–16:30
Saturday: 09:30–16:30
Sunday: 09:30–16:30
The Roundhouse Birmingham offers a unique glimpse into the city’s rich history, particularly its remarkable canal heritage. Visitors can enjoy engaging displays that celebrate the stories of those who once inhabited the area, making it an educational experience for all ages.
In addition to its historical insights, the Roundhouse serves as a charming social hub, blending learning with leisure. Guests can unwind in a picturesque setting while savoring delicious food and drinks, making it an ideal location for both relaxation and exploration.
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Catalog of services offered by tourism in Birmingham
Cultural Tours
Birmingham offers a rich array of cultural tours that highlight the city's unique history and heritage. These tours often include visits to historical landmarks, museums, and galleries, providing insights into the local culture and traditions. Participants can explore everything from the city’s industrial past to its vibrant arts scene.
Gastronomy Experiences
The gastronomy experiences in Birmingham are a culinary delight. Food enthusiasts can participate in guided food tours that sample local delicacies and international cuisine. This includes visits to historic markets, renowned restaurants, and food festivals, showcasing Birmingham's diverse food culture.
Outdoor Activities
For adventure seekers, Birmingham offers numerous outdoor activities. Visitors can partake in cycling, hiking, and nature walks in and around the city. The extensive parks and green spaces, like the Sutton Park and Cannon Hill Park, provide excellent opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Historical Sightseeing
The city is home to a wealth of historical sites that are ripe for sightseeing. Tours often include visits to the Birmingham Cathedral, the iconic Bullring, and the original site of the Birmingham Mint. These experiences allow visitors to delve into the city's rich past and architectural heritage.
Shopping Excursions
When it comes to retail therapy, Birmingham boasts a variety of shopping excursions. From high-end boutiques to bustling markets, tourists can explore the city’s shopping districts such as the Bullring and Mailbox. These areas feature a wide range of local and international brands, catering to all tastes and budgets.
Event and Festival Participation
Throughout the year, Birmingham hosts a range of exciting events and festivals, celebrating arts, culture, and community. Visitors can participate in events like the Birmingham International Carnival and the Frankfurt Christmas Market, which offer unique experiences and interactions with local traditions.
Accommodation Services
Tourism services in Birmingham provide a wide variety of accommodation options. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels, visitors can find the perfect place to stay. Many establishments offer packages that include local attractions and activities, enhancing the overall travel experience.
Transportation and Guided Services
Birmingham tourism services also focus on transportation and guided services. Efficient public transport systems, including buses and trains, make it easy for tourists to navigate. Guided tours are available to help visitors discover hidden gems and must-see attractions, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of the city.
Frequently asked questions about tourism in Birmingham
What are the must-see attractions in Birmingham?
Birmingham is home to numerous attractions that cater to various interests. Some of the must-see places include the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, renowned for its impressive collection of art and historical artifacts, and the Cadbury World for chocolate lovers. The Library of Birmingham, with its stunning architecture, is also worth a visit. Don’t forget to explore the Canals of Birmingham, which offer a unique perspective on the city’s industrial history.
How is the public transportation system in Birmingham?
Birmingham boasts an efficient and extensive public transportation system. The city is serviced by a network of buses, trains, and trams. The West Midlands Metro tram system connects several key areas of the city, while local trains and buses provide easy access to neighborhoods and surrounding areas. Purchasing a TravelCard or using the Swift Card can make traveling around the city more convenient and cost-effective.
What is the best time to visit Birmingham?
The best time to visit Birmingham is typically during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these seasons, the weather is generally mild, making it a pleasant time for sightseeing. The summer months can attract more tourists due to festivals and events; however, they may also bring large crowds. Conversely, the winter months can be quite cold, but visiting during this time allows you to experience Birmingham's Christmas markets.
Are there any local cuisines to try in Birmingham?
Birmingham has a rich culinary scene that reflects its diverse population. When visiting, be sure to try the Birmingham Balti, a curry served in a distinctive dish, which the city is famous for. Other local favorites include fish and chips, black pudding, and the delicious meat pies available at traditional pubs. The food markets also present a chance to sample various international dishes, showcasing Birmingham's multicultural flavor.
What cultural events take place in Birmingham?
Birmingham hosts numerous cultural events throughout the year, including the Birmingham International Carnival, which celebrates the city's diverse heritage. The Edgbaston Cricket Ground often has matches and events for sports enthusiasts, while the Birmingham Literature Festival attracts authors and readers alike. The City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra also holds concerts, making the city a hub for arts and culture.
How safe is Birmingham for tourists?
Birmingham is generally considered a safe city for tourists, with many areas being well-policed and monitored. However, like any major city, it is important to remain aware of your surroundings and follow basic safety precautions. Keeping your belongings secure and avoiding poorly lit or deserted areas at night can enhance your safety during your visit. Always consult local advice or official guidelines for up-to-date information on safety.
What shopping options are available in Birmingham?
Birmingham offers a wide variety of shopping options, from high-end boutiques to large shopping centers. The Bullring Shopping Centre is one of the most popular destinations, featuring numerous national and international brands. The Mailbox is another prime location known for luxury shopping and dining. Additionally, the Jewellery Quarter provides unique shops specializing in handcrafted jewelry.
What are the best neighborhoods to explore in Birmingham?
Birmingham has several distinctive neighborhoods each with its own unique character. Digbeth is known for its trendy bars and street art, making it a hotspot for creatives. The Jewellery Quarter not only offers shopping but also features historical sites. Brindleyplace is ideal for canal-side dining and leisure. Exploring these neighborhoods can provide a true sense of the city's local culture.
How can I experience Birmingham’s nightlife?
Birmingham has a lively nightlife scene that caters to various tastes. The Broad Street area is famous for its bars and clubs, perfect for those looking to party. For a more relaxed vibe, try Cocktail Lounge or live music venues scattered throughout the city. Additionally, the Jewellery Quarter features intimate pubs and unique late-night spots for a quieter evening out.
Are there any free activities for tourists in Birmingham?
Yes, there are many free activities for tourists in Birmingham. Many attractions, such as the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery and the National Sea Life Centre, offer free entry or discounted days. Parks such as Cannon Hill Park and Winterbourne House and Garden provide beautiful settings for a picnic or leisurely walks. Additionally, exploring the city’s network of canals is a delightful way to spend an afternoon without any cost.