Unleash Your Inner Brummie: A Guide to Birmingham's Wonders
Before you scroll away, convinced that your holiday to Birmingham might be a mistake, allow us to introduce you to some of the city's hidden gems. You may be surprised by the sheer number of things to do and see in this oft-overlooked destination.
1. Dive into the Land of the Peaky BlindersWhile it's not for the faint-hearted, a trip to Birmingham wouldn't be complete without a dive into the world of the notorious Peaky Blinders. Wander through the atmospheric streets of the Black Country Living Museum, a 26-acre open-air site that transports you back to the 1900s. You can even don a flat cap and pretend you're a part of the Shelby clan - just don't get too carried away with the gangster persona, or you might end up in the local slammer.
2. Have a Gander at the Library of BirminghamBirmingham's library isn't just a place to borrow books. This architectural marvel is the largest public library in Europe and offers a unique blend of stunning design, incredible views, and a whole lot of knowledge (we've heard it's all the rage these days). If you're not too busy admiring the building itself, venture to the Secret Garden on the 7th floor, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city. Just remember to use your inside voice - there are still people trying to read in there, after all.
3. Quench Your Thirst at the Gin DistilleryBirmingham's gin scene is booming, and there's no better place to experience it than at the city's very own distillery. The Vanguard at 1000 Trades offers a tasting experience that takes you on a journey through the history of gin, complete with samples of the good stuff. Who knew learning could be so much fun? Just remember, a steady hand is key when pouring - you wouldn't want to spill that precious nectar.
4. Admire the Sparkly Jewellery QuarterIf you're a fan of all things sparkly, then the Jewellery Quarter is a must-visit. Home to Europe's largest concentration of jewellers, this area is a treasure trove of glittering goodies. With over 200 years of history, you can learn about the craftsmanship behind the trinkets or simply window shop to your heart's content. Just remember to bring your sunglasses - those diamonds can be dazzling!
5. Soak Up Some Culture at the Birmingham Museum and Art GalleryWe can't guarantee that you'll emerge from the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery as cultured as a well-traveled aristocrat, but spending an afternoon here is certainly a step in the right direction. With a vast collection of art, artifacts, and history, there's something for everyone within these walls. Not to mention the building itself is a work of art, so you'll be pretty much surrounded by culture on all fronts.
6. Explore the Canals - Wait, This Isn't VeniceBirmingham may not be the first city that springs to mind when you think of canals, but this city actually has more of them than Venice! With over 35 miles of waterways (that's two miles more than Venice, in case you were wondering), there are plenty of picturesque spots to explore. Take a leisurely stroll along the canal paths or hop on a canal boat and experience the city from the water. Just remember, gondoliers may be in short supply, so you might have to do the paddling yourself.
7. Get Your Adrenaline Pumping at the Bear Grylls AdventureIf your idea of a good time involves pushing your boundaries and embracing your inner adrenaline junkie, then the Bear Grylls Adventure is the place for you. With activities ranging from indoor skydiving to climbing and high ropes, there's plenty to get your heart racing. Disclaimer: We cannot guarantee you'll emerge from the experience with Bear's survival skills, but at least you'll have a fun time trying.
8. Stuff Your Face with Delicious Street FoodForget Michelin stars and fancy restaurants - Birmingham's street food scene is where the real culinary magic happens. With markets such as Digbeth Dining Club and Hawker Yard, your taste buds are in for a treat. Just remember to wear your stretchy pants, as you'll want to try a bit of everything.
- Black Country Living Museum
- Library of Birmingham
- The Vanguard at 1000 Trades
- Jewellery Quarter
- Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery
- Birmingham's Canals
- Bear Grylls Adventure
- Digbeth Dining Club and Hawker Yard
So there you have it, a guide to unleashing your inner Brummie and discovering the hidden wonders of Birmingham. Who knew there was so much to see and do in this underrated city? Now, go forth and explore!
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