Birmingham - Discovering United Kingdom

Travelling to Birmingham

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Birmingham, a pretty good destination in United Kingdom (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Birmingham and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Birmingham, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through United Kingdom, here's everything to know about Birmingham for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Birmingham

Birmingham is a city located in the West Midlands region of England, United Kingdom. With a population of over 1 million, it is the second-largest city in the UK after London. Birmingham is known for its industrial history, particularly in manufacturing, but has since developed into a modern, lively city with a diverse population and vibrant arts and culture scene. It is home to many museums, galleries, and theatres, as well as countless shops, restaurants and bars. Birmingham also has excellent transport links, with an international airport and a well-connected railway network.

What to visit in Birmingham

1. Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery: This is one of the best museums in the UK, showcasing art and historical artifacts from all over the world. It has an impressive collection of Pre-Raphaelite art and a vast display of local history and archaeology.
2. Cadbury World: This attraction is perfect for chocoholics and families with kids. You can learn about the history of the Cadbury chocolate company and see how chocolate is made. The tour also includes an opportunity to taste some chocolate! 3. The Bullring: This is a popular shopping center with over 160 stores, including some famous brands. The Bullring is also home to the iconic Selfridges building, which features a futuristic façade.
4. National Sea Life Center: This is an extraordinary aquarium that houses more than 2,000 underwater creatures. You can see sharks, stingrays, turtles, and other marine life up close and learn about their habitats.
5. Coffin Works: This is a unique museum that focuses on the history of coffin-making in Birmingham. It is housed in the original factory, where you can see authentic tools and machinery used to make coffins.
6. Brindleyplace: This is a beautiful part of Birmingham that features canals, trendy bars and restaurants, cafes, and shops. It's an excellent place to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the scenery.
7. Gas Street Basin: This is a historic canal basin that is a popular spot for boating and water sports. You can take a canal boat tour and admire the stunning architecture and bridges.
8. Symphony Hall: This concert hall is known for its excellent acoustics and hosts a range of music events throughout the year. It's worth checking the schedule to see if any of your favorite artists are playing.
9. Jewellery Quarter: This neighborhood is home to over 100 specialist jewelry stores. You can buy unique jewelry pieces, attend a jewelry-making workshop, and learn about the history of jewelry-making in the region.
10. Black Country Living Museum: This is an open-air museum that showcases what life was like in the industrial Midlands during the 19th and early 20th centuries. You can see costumed characters demonstrating traditional crafts, explore period houses, and ride on a horse-drawn tram.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in United Kingdom, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Birmingham.

When to go on holiday to Birmingham

The best time to visit Birmingham, United Kingdom, is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is pleasant and there are many outdoor events and festivals happening. However, it is also the peak tourist season, and prices for accommodation and flights can be higher than other times of the year. If you want to avoid the crowds and save money, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November). The weather may be a bit cooler, but you'll still be able to enjoy the city's attractions and cultural events. Winter (December-February) can be quite cold and wet, but it's an excellent time to catch seasonal events such as Christmas markets and ice skating rinks.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Birmingham

There are several ways to get to Birmingham, United Kingdom: 1. By Air: Birmingham Airport is a major airport in the UK, linking the city with numerous destinations across the globe. The airport is approximately 14 km from the city center and is well connected to the city via public transport like buses, trains, and taxis.
2. By Train: Birmingham is well connected to other major cities in the UK via train. Birmingham New Street railway station is the busiest railway station in the city and is located in the city center; it has direct links to major cities like London, Manchester, Liverpool, and others.
3. By Bus: National Express and Megabus operate bus services to Birmingham from cities across the UK. The bus station in Birmingham is located in the city center, near the Bullring Shopping Center.
4. By Car: Birmingham lies at the intersection of several major highways, making it easily accessible by car. The M6 is the main highway that connects Birmingham with other major cities in the UK.
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Birmingham!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Birmingham, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Birmingham

Here are some typical foods of Birmingham in the United Kingdom with a short description for each of them: 1. Balti - This is a type of curry that originated in Birmingham in the 1970s. It is cooked and served in a flat-bottomed wok-like pan and is typically served with naan bread or rice.
2. Pork Scratchings - This is a snack food made of pork rinds that are deep-fried until crispy. They are a popular pub snack in Birmingham and throughout the UK.
3. Faggots and Peas - This is a classic British dish that involves pork offal meatballs served with peas and gravy. It is a hearty and filling meal that is perfect for a cold day.
4. Groaty Pudding - This is a traditional Black Country dish that involves a type of savoury pudding made with beef or lamb and groats (typically hulled oats). It is often served with vegetables and gravy.
5. Brummie Burger - This is a hamburger that is made with local ingredients such as beef from the nearby Worcestershire countryside and cheese from the region. It is a favourite among locals and tourists alike.
You can find general info about typical foods in United Kingdom here.

Is Birmingham an expensive destination for tourists?

Birmingham can be an expensive destination for tourists, especially if you plan on staying in the central areas and visiting popular attractions. However, there are several ways to save money during your trip, such as booking accommodations in less touristy areas, using public transportation, and taking advantage of free or low-cost activities like visiting museums and parks. Additionally, if you plan ahead and book your flights and accommodations in advance, you may be able to find deals or discounts that can help you save money.

Where to find accomodation in Birmingham

The best areas in Birmingham to find accommodation for visitors include the city center, Jewellery Quarter, Digbeth, and Edgbaston. The city center is a popular choice as it offers easy access to attractions, shopping, and dining options. The Jewellery Quarter is known for its charming atmosphere, boutique hotels, and independent shops. Digbeth is an up-and-coming area with a vibrant artistic scene and trendy accommodations. Finally, Edgbaston is a leafy suburb with upscale hotels and a more peaceful atmosphere, ideal for those seeking a tranquil stay.
You can check hotel prices at Birmingham here:
Booking.com

Is Birmingham a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Birmingham is generally a safe place for tourists. As with any city, it's always important to take basic safety precautions, like being aware of your surroundings, not leaving your belongings unattended, and avoiding poorly-lit areas at night. However, the city has a relatively low crime rate compared to other major UK cities. As with any travel destination, it is always important to exercise caution and use common sense to stay safe.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in United Kingdom here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Birmingham.

What type of travelers will enjoy Birmingham the most?

Birmingham is a versatile city with something for everyone, but it's particularly great for families and young people looking for fun.
Families will appreciate the city's many family-friendly attractions, such as the Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum and the Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Centre. Kids will also love the Cadbury World chocolate factory tour and the LEGOLAND Discovery Centre.
Young people will enjoy the vibrant nightlife with a variety of bars, clubs and live-music venues. Birmingham also has a thriving arts and culture scene, with many galleries, theaters and museums.
Couples will appreciate the many romantic spots around the city, including the canalside restaurants, the Birmingham Botanical Gardens and the Peace Garden. Overall, Birmingham is a city that offers something for everyone, making it an ideal destination for travelers of all ages and interests.

How to get around Birmingham

Birmingham has a variety of transportation options such as buses, trams, trains, taxis and bicycles. The most convenient options for getting around the city center would be walking, using the Metro tram system or taking a taxi. Additionally, the National Express West Midlands bus service is a cost-effective way to travel around Birmingham and its surrounding areas. If you plan to travel further out of the city, then the train network is a great option. Finally, if you like to cycle, then Birmingham has numerous bike rental schemes and cycle routes to explore the city and its surroundings.

What to see around Birmingham

There are several nice places to visit in a day trip from Birmingham. Here are some of them: 1. Stratford-upon-Avon: The birthplace of Shakespeare, it is a charming town with beautiful riverside walks and historical buildings.
2. Warwick Castle: A medieval castle with stunning views, live shows, and educational activities for both adults and kids.
3. Oxford: Known for its famous university, Oxford makes for a great day trip with its stunning architecture, museums, and botanical gardens.
4. Blenheim Palace: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this stunning palace is surrounded by beautiful parks and gardens.
5. Ironbridge Gorge: A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Ironbridge Gorge is known for the historic Iron Bridge and is home to several museums and galleries.
6. The Cotswolds: A beautiful and scenic area, it is known for its picturesque villages, rolling hills, and charming tea rooms.
7. The Peak District: Known for its stunning natural beauty and hiking trails, it is also home to historic villages and towns.
8. Bristol: A vibrant city known for its street art, music, and history, it boasts several museums, art galleries, and beautiful parks.
For every travel information about United Kingdom you can click here.

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