Attractions in Birmingham

Shiny skyscrapers, space-age architecture... Birmingham's skyline has undergone a bit of a transformation in recent years. But alongside all the new kids on the block, the city is still blessed with a wealth of buildings steeped in history.

Built in 1834, Birmingham Town Hall’s grand architecture and Roman columns dominate Victoria Square. Hosting everything from comedy, dance and music concerts to fashion shows, graduation ceremonies and community events, it’s well worth a look inside and out - and it’s just a short walk from our Birmingham City Centre (Waterloo Street) hotel.

Several fine examples of Georgian architecture can be found in St Paul's Square, at the heart of the Jewellery Quarter. Explore the beautiful eighteenth century church at its centre or simply sit back and admire the elegant facades from the comfort of one of the many bars, cafés and restaurants which line the four sides of the square.

See contemporary architecture at its most flamboyant at the Library of Birmingham. Built at a cost of £189 million, its latticed design in gold and silver may have divided opinion, but there’s no denying that it’s incredibly impressive. Once you’ve finished admiring the height of the cavernous central hall, take the escalator up to the Secret Garden (hint: it’s on the seventh floor) for a roof garden with the best sunset views over the city.

Follow in the footsteps of royalty with a visit to Aston Hall. This Grade I-listed Jacobean house has beautiful gardens and stunning interiors which once received King Charles I and was besieged during the English Civil War. Craft events, den building, fright nights, food talks and tours allow you to have a fascinating glimpse into the past.

You may be staying in one of our Birmingham hotels to enjoy all the bright lights and attractions of a major city. But if you fancy a breather, there’s 3,500 hectares of parkland to enjoy. In fact, with 571 parks, 11 of which are Green-Flag winners, Birmingham is one of the UK’s greenest cities.

Stretching for 250 acres and made up of formal gardens, woodland and sports areas, it’s no wonder Cannon Hill Park is the most popular park in the city. Whether you’re in the mood for boating or bowls, trekking or tennis, putting or picnicking, you’ll find the perfect spot here.

Head six miles north of the city and escape into the 2,000 acres of open heathland, woodlands, marshes and lakes that make up Sutton Park. It's packed with plants and wildlife, a choice of playgrounds and restaurants, a railway, golf course and even a donkey sanctuary.

Venture south west of Birmingham on your way to Worcester and you’ll arrive at Lickey Hills Country Park. Over 500 acres, it has a varied and vibrant habitat. If you head out for a trek in the hills, be sure to explore the wide range of rock formations dating back millions of years.

Want a break from the bustling city? Step into an oasis of peace and tranquillity in Birmingham’s Botanical Gardens. Set amongst lawns, beds and shrubbery, four stunning glasshouses let you explore everything from lush tropical rainforests to arid desert plant life.

If all of Birmingham’s many spectacular sightseeing options weren’t enough, having two arenas turns Brum into a city break mecca.

Formerly the National Indoor Arena (NIA), the Arena Birmingham is a great space where you’ll find everything from international indoor athletics to live music acts. With room for up to 15,800, the Arena has played host to major events including Gladiators, WWF and annual gaming conventions.

The Resorts World Arena, previously known as the Genting Arena, is part of the National Exhibition Centre (NEC). Able to adapt to both large scale and more intimate events, this venue has hosted everything from X Factor auditions and daredevil stunts to international music stars and comedians. Coming to watch a show? There’s a Premier Inn near to the NEC ready and waiting to get your event off to a great start.

Birmingham has plenty to offer sport fans. Whether you love cricket, rugby, football or athletics, you’ll find something to cheer about in Brum.

In 1886, 3,000 people arrived for the first Warwickshire county cricket match at Edgbaston. Over 130 years of cricket later and the stadium is even bigger and better. If you’re visiting in the summer, make sure you see the Bears in action. With the traditional format or the faster paced T20 to choose from, you’ll find your perfect match at Edgbaston.

Home to Aston Villa Football Club since 1897, Villa Park hosts 43,000 cheering fans every match day. Whether you’re in the stands or a box, the amazing atmosphere and friendly crowd means a Villa game is fun for all the family. Want to see behind the scenes? Take a stadium tour and explore the pitch, changing rooms and manager’s bench close up.

Situated in the lush greenery of Perry Park, the Alexander Stadium hosts national and international athletics, as well as music events and one day festivals. A recent refurbishment means you’re sure to have a great time in its top notch facilities.

St Andrew’s is a 30,000-seater stadium that’s home to Birmingham City Football Club. The team have been fighting to recapture their place in the top flight of British football for a while so expect to see ambitious, energetic football from the Blues on match day.

If rugby’s your sport, head out of Birmingham and you’ll find Sixways Stadium, the home of Worcester Warriors Rugby Football Club. Currently battling it out in rugby union’s top division, if you make it to a match you’ll be guaranteed an epic bit of action.