6 places to visit in Birmingham

Birmingham is the second largest city in the United Kingdom, one that is bustling with culture. Whatever you are looking for, you can find it here – from fun days out, fantastic performances, as well as the best places for shopping, food and drink. It is also the host of the Commonwealth Game 2022!

We’ve put together a guide of 6 of the best places to explore in Birmingham.

Bullring

Birmingham is known for its infamous Bull statue, located at the front of the Bullring shopping centre. Inside, you can find popular high street shops, as well as cafes and restaurants. You can also take part in a game of crazy golf at Treetop Adventure Golf!

Digbeth

Digbeth was built out of Birmingham’s industrial heartland, just a stone’s throw away from the city centre. Not only will you be amazed by the fantastic artwork at every corner you turn, but you will never run out of things to do here. You can discover great independent shops and food places in The Custard Factory, or find an array of food and drink in Digbeth Dining Club. There’s also a whole range of activities to take part in - from go-karting, bowling, crazy golf, arcades, roller-skating, virtual reality and more, with most open until late.

Cannon Hill Park

Cannon Hill Park is one of Birmingham’s most popular parks, located just outside of the city centre. There’s so much to do! Take a leisurely walk through the beautiful nature, or grab a racket and have a play on the tennis courts. If that doesn’t take your fancy, take a scenic boat ride on the lakes, or visit the Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park to see a range of animals. You can even catch a performance at the Mac, which is also located on the park grounds.

Brindley Place

Brindley Place is located on the outskirts of the city centre, and is a great place to visit for more of a relaxing day out. Take a leisurely walk alongside the canals, and even hop on a boat tour down the famous canals. During the evening, the canals light up and the restaurants and bars get more bustling as people head down for food and drinks. You can also find the National Sea Life Centre, the Crescent Theatre and Banntayne Health and Spa Club here.

Library of Birmingham

Since it’s opening in 2013, the Library of Birmingham remains one of the most unique looking buildings in the city. Here you can find quiet study spaces, thousands of books, and even a space to relax on the outdoor terrace located on the top floor. The library offers a showcase for Birmingham's internationally important collections of archives, photography and rare books. Facilities include a state-of-the-art gallery space, an outdoor amphitheatre, and is also home to the BFI Mediatheque, providing free access to the National Film Archive.

Ikon Gallery

Ikon Gallery is Birmingham’s very own contemporary art gallery, that was founded in 1965 as an artists-led alternative space. Since then, it has evolved into one of the most prominent creative spaces and houses both established and emerging artists in Europe. Be sure to check out their website for exhibitions that are on throughout the year. After visiting the Ikon Gallery, pop into Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery which is a few minutes’ walk away.