Book flights to Birmingham (BHX)

Book your visit to Birmingham

Birmingham is a lively city with a treasure trove of history, culture and metropolitan energy. Once the centre of the Industrial Revolution, Birmingham’s story is one of transformation and regeneration. You can feel the pulse of history as you stroll through the streets – it’s where the first steam engines roared to life and Britain’s industry thrived.

Today, Birmingham has become a dynamic blend of old and new, with classical buildings standing alongside contemporary marvels. Its rich industrial past has influenced a city filled with creative spirit, diverse communities and a promising future. From its canals to the charming markets and cutting-edge museums, Birmingham is always evolving yet rooted in its fascinating past.

Things to do in Birmingham

Birmingham and large swathes of the West Midlands were once referred to as the Black Country due to the thick smoke from factories that filled the air during the industrial revolution. 

For the history buffs, there’s plenty to uncover and explore in Birmingham and its surrounding areas. Take a trip to the Black Country Living Museum in Dudley, just a 45-minute drive from the city centre, to learn what it was like when ironworking foundries were in their golden era. Titanic’s anchor was forged there and more recently was the set of a popular television series.

For a countryside landmark, only a 15-minute drive from the city centre, head to Sarehole Mill. This picturesque watermill was the inspiration for a renowned author’s novel. For a day trip to a nearby town, venture on to discover Warwick Castle, a medieval masterpiece with fortified towers and exciting events for all ages.

Finally, bring your Birmingham trip to a close by visiting Soho House Museum, the former home of the Lunar Society and Matthew Boulton – inventor and industrialist. Its Georgian architecture is something to marvel at. 

Activities in Birmingham

Wander through the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, abundant with Renaissance masterpieces and the infamous Pre-Raphaelite collection. 

For the literature lovers, go to Shakespeare’s Schoolroom and Guildhall in nearby Stratford-upon-Avon. It’s about an hour away by car or train but worth the journey. Walk in the footsteps of the Bard, in the medieval building that shaped the world’s greatest playwright.

Adventure calls once you’re back in Birmingham. Embark on a canal boat or canoe tour to glide through Birmingham’s waterways, uncovering stories about the city’s heritage along the way. Take a breath of fresh countryside air at Winterbourne House and Garden, a peaceful oasis of landscaped gardens and an enchanting Edwardian home.

Food in Birmingham

The most iconic food area of Birmingham is the Balti Triangle in the Sparkhill and Sparkbrook neighbourhoods, where the city’s renowned Balti houses reign supreme. These bustling spots are the birthplace of the ‘Birmingham Balti’. The origin of this dish can be traced back to the city’s large Pakistani community and has become a symbol of the cultural melting pot Birmingham is today. This sizzling, aromatic dish is packed with flavour and served in a stainless-steel pot – a ‘balti’ – alongside fluffy rice and a sharing portion of naan bread. You can’t leave Birmingham without trying it.

If you’re craving other British classics, the Bullring Open Market has traditional fish and chips: flaky fish, covered in a crisp, golden batter, served with chunky chips, finished off with salt and a splash of vinegar. If you're on the go, grab a Cornish pasty – a buttery pastry filled with tender meat and vegetables.

Indulge in an afternoon tea filled with dainty delights including Shrewsbury cakes. These regional favourites are crumbly biscuits flavoured with lemon zest and nutmeg.

Shopping in Birmingham

At the heart of Birmingham’s shopping district lies New Street, where a shopping centre anchors one end, and the grand Town Hall greets you at the other. Between them you can find a vibrant stretch of high-street icons and quirky independent boutiques for some retail therapy, along with cafés for much-needed refreshments once you’re done.

For something a little different, explore Birmingham’s unique shopping arcades. Tucked away from the main street, these elegant, smaller arcades are home to specialty stores, vintage finds and bespoke crafts. Make sure to wander beyond the big names to the quaint side streets, where local designers showcase their wares and offer something truly special.