Things to do in Birmingham

With award-winning parks, buildings steeped in history and huge stadiums to enjoy, Birmingham has sightseeing opportunities at every turn. Chocolate lovers will be in heaven at Cadbury World, while sports fans can get their kicks on a footie-mad tour of Villa Park, home of the mighty Aston Villa.

With the Bullring, the Mailbox and Grand Central all vying for your attention, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to shopping destinations in Birmingham. Whether you’re looking for designer labels or quirky market finds, high street staples or unique jewellery, you’ll find it all here.

From messing about on canals to trying your hand at a spot of TV presenting, Birmingham is packed with activities to get your teeth into. Weather playing ball? Informative walking tours will give you a feel for the city, while a network of flat, family-friendly cycle trails are waiting to be explored.

Varied and vibrant, Birmingham is fantastic for foodies. Its eclectic culinary scene means you can dine in a Michelin-starred restaurant one night and take a trip to the Balti triangle for an authentic curry the next. And the city has one of the most innovative street food scenes in the UK.

Pubs bursting with Victorian charm, cocktail bars with a serious side order of glamour - our nightlife guide will help get you in the party mood. Not ready to go home? You’re in luck! The nightclub scene is massive, from grungy basement raves to PRZYM, the daddy of all superclubs.

With top-notch galleries, museums and exhibition spaces that give London a run for its money, you’ll be pleased to find that many of Birmingham’s best cultural offerings are within easy walking distance of each other. And if student culture is more your thing, the city’s four universities will have you covered.

With top-notch galleries, museums and exhibition spaces that give London a run for its money, you’ll be pleased to find that many of Birmingham’s best cultural offerings are within easy walking distance of each other. And if student culture is more your thing, the city’s four universities will have you covered.

Located in the heart of buzzing Birmingham, it’s no wonder that over 20,000 students from over 80 countries arrive at City University every year. Previously known as Birmingham Polytechnic, these days City University is spread across three locations.

From buses and boats to trains and trams, getting around the Midland metropolis is easy. Handy, because there are so many corners you’ll want to discover! Flying into Birmingham Airport? Our guide will get you from the terminal to the centre, whether you want to take public transport or hop in a taxi.