Birmingham Travel Guide, Discount & Cheap Birmingham Travel & Tourism, Free Birmingham Travel Guide Online
 Birmingham Travel Guide: Discount & Cheap Birmingham Travel & Tourism, Free Birmingham Travel Guide OnlineThe city of Birmingham is commonly known by its nickname Brum (from the local name Brummagem) and its people as Brummies. Birmingham, the second largest city in the UK by population, was at the heart of the UK's industrial revolution, and its wealth was built upon the multitude of trades developed as a result. The growth of factories and mills led to the need for a transportation network. The resut was a massive canal network, which gave Birmingham over 32 miles of canals: more miles of canals, in fact, than Venice. Much of the city was destroyed during the Nazi Luftwaffe bombing of World War II . Postwar replacement buildings were hastily erected, utilitarian structures that added little in the way of beauty or charm to the city. Within the last ten years, Birmingham has undergone a radical change. The majority of the post war buildings have been replaced by appealing and harmonious architecture. Most of the city center is now pedestrianised, and the canals have been cleaned up and bordered by attractive walkways. The canals are now a major focus for leisure projects. Canalside developments are giving the city a trendy cafe society. As a result of this energetic building boom, Brummies have fashioned Birmingham into a convention city that hosts 80% of all trade exhibitions in the country. New areas of green space and the city's cultivation of a first-rate symphony and ballet company, as well as art galleries and museums, have all made Birmingham fresh and appealing. Birmingham has over 200 parks where visitors can walk or jog. Cannon Hill Park has tennis courts, bowling greens, nature trails and boating lakes, and if you like water but prefer that others do the rowing, you can take canal trips from Gas St Basin in the center of town. Within easy walking distance are a huge range of attractions including the National Sea Life Centre, designer shopping at the Mailbox, the CBSO at Symphony Hall, contemporary art at the Ikon Gallery, and major events and exhibitions at the National Indoor Arena. These are interspersed with a lively mix of bustling bars and restaurants. The city centre is the pedestrian precinct in front of the huge Council House. Head west from there to Centenary Sq, the International Convention Centre and Symphony Hall, and the development at Gas St Basin and Brindleyplace. Southeast of Council House, shops are concentrated along pedestrianised New St and in the modern City Plaza, Pallasades, and Pavilions shopping centres. Birmingham is the gateway to the north and is at the hub of Britain's road network, so exploring every last bit of the country is made very easy! Travelers don't even have to fly into London, as there is an international airport at Birmingham. Discover Birmingham's Balti Triangle
!. Fresh ingredients and a combination of spices are fast-cooked over a high flame. The Balti is then served up sizzling with a huge portion of naan bread on the side.The curry, whose origins are Kashmiri-Pakistani, was first mixed in Birmingham by an immigrant, using a special pan. This spicy dish has become one of the nation's favorites in recent years. Birmingham is proud to be the home of the Balti and boasts an area with over 50 Balti restaurants. Along with their culinary delights the restaurants provide exciting shopping bargains for spices, exotic fruits and vegetables, beautiful textiles, and the Balti bowls themselves Aside from the Balti, Birmingham displays a world of delicious flavors in its hundreds of restaurants, cafes and bars. Birmingham has an active calendar of sporting events both on the domestic and the international scene. Weekend events include the best in football, international & domestic cricket, horse racing, golf and international tennis. There's no excuse for sports fans to be bored in the first city to be awarded British City of Sport status. For speed lovers, there is stock car racing in Brandon, horse racing at a variety of racecourses and greyhound racing at Perry Barr. Winter-sports fans can practice their skiing and snowboarding at Tamworth Snowdome, an indoor real snow slope. Birmingham also has a rink for ice-skating. Birmingham is thriving, and its festival calendar testifies to that. There is Artsfest in September, which is the UK's largest free arts festival featuring visual arts, dance and music in various venues across the city. The world-renowned Crufts Dog Show opens in March. Heritage Open Days in September give visitors free access to historic properties that are not usually open or normally charge an entrance fee. The Horse of the Year Show in October is a top equestrian event. With more than 1 million inhabitants, Birmingham has a vibrant nightlife and restaurant scene. Its three universities, 6,000 acres of parks, nearby wildlife sanctuaries, and restored canal walkways offer welcome, quiet places and set the scene for a vacation combination of the lively and the serene that is sure to please. Birmingham Attractions: Birmingham Travel Guide, Discount & Cheap Birmingham Travel & Tourism, Free Birmingham Travel Guide OnlineAston Park Trinity Road, Aston Birmingham, B6 6JD Tel: +44 (0)121 327 0062 open daily, call for information Aston Park, in the Handsworth area of Birmingham, covers more than 20 hectares / 50 acres. Dating back to the mid-19th century, this mature Birmingham park is a popular area for relaxing in Birmingham, and features large expanses of lawns, suitable for sporting activities. Aston Park is close to the Aston Villa FC football ground and is also home to the historic Aston Hall.
Aston Hall Trinity Road, Aston Birmingham, B6 6JD Aston Hall was built between 1618 and 1635 by Sir Thomas Holte, 1st Baronet and head of a prominent Warwickshire family. The Hall and its adjacent stable building are Grade One listed. The Hall boasts some impressive pieces, housing a good portion of the furniture, paintings and textiles from the Birmingham Museum's collections (look for the Romney and Gainsborough in the dining room). There are turrets, gables, plaster ceilings and friezes, and a panelled gallery that's over 130ft (40m) long. Barber Institute of Fine Arts Location: Edgbaston neighborhood Tel: +44 121 414 7333 Mon – Sat 10am-5pm; Sun 2pm-5pm Admission Free For art lovers, a visit to the Barber Institute is the highlight of a visit to Birmingham. The collection takes in Renaissance masterpieces, such as Rubens and Van Dyck, British greats including Gainsborough, Reynolds and Turner, an array of impressionist pieces and modern classics by the likes of Picasso and Schiele. A little way out from the city centre but easy to get to, the Barber Institute is adjacent to the University of Birmingham. This is one of the world's finest small art galleries with an outstanding collection of old and modern paintings, drawings and sculpture. This gallery is not normally as busy as some larger galleries, so your tour will be uncrowded and pleasant. The Institute is also a regular venue for concerts, lectures and other events. Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery Chamberlain Square Birmingham, B3 3DH Tel: +44 [0]121 303 1966 for further information The impressive Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery houses displays of local and natural history, fine archaeology and ethnography exhibits, and a renowned collection of Pre-Raphaelite paintings. Other highlights include works by Degas, Braque, Renoir and Canaletto. Don't miss the charming Edwardian tearoom for a restorative cuppa. Birmingham Railway Museum 670 Warwick Road, Tyseley Birmingham, B11 2HL Tel: +44 (0)121 707 4696 daily - 10:00 to 17:00, winter 0 10:00 to 16:00
Admission Charged
The Birmingham Railway Museum is situated in the Tyseley area of Birmingham, to the east of central Birmingham and features a large number of beautifully restored steam locomotives and interesting railway artifacts.
Brindleyplace Next to the International Convention Centre, Brindleyplace is a £250-million (US$357 million) development comprising trendy bars and restaurants, shops and a theatre. In this complex, the Ikon Gallery features temporary exhibitions of video, photography, installations and other contemporary art. Collections are usually either exciting or ridiculous: you decide. Also in this area is the ever popular National Sea Life Centre, where you can stand in a glass tunnel and watch stingrays, sharks and other scary creatures swim past you. Birmingham City Centre Gardens Cambridge Street Birmingham, B1 2NP Tel: +44 (0)121 643 2514 Daily, dawn to dusk Admission Free Birmingham City Centre Gardens are located in the heart of central Birmingham, next to the Birmingham International Convention Centre. The Birmingham City Centre Gardens feature tropical plants, colorful flower beds, pathways, benches, lawns suitable for picnics and large trees.
Birmingham and Midland Museum of Transport (BaMMOT) Chapel Lane, Wythal Birmingham, B47 6JX Tel: +44 (0)1564 826471 Saturday and Sunday - 11:00 to 17:00
Admission Charged
Located to the south of Birmingham city centre, the Birmingham and Midland Museum of Transport was founded in the late 1970s and is home to an enormous of historic vehicles. Highlights at the Birmingham and Midland Museum of Transport include a large collection of Midland Red vehicles, fire engines, coaches, battery electric vehicles - including milk floats dating back to the 1930s, vintage-bus rides, and exhibitions of photographs, drawings, catalogues, uniforms, bus stops and general transport memorabilia.
Black Country Living Museum Tipton Road, Dudley Birmingham, DY1 4SQ Tel: +44 (0)121 557 9643 daily, March to October - 10:00 to 17:00, November to February - 10:00 to 16:00
Admission Charged
Working with coal and iron is dirty work, and the black faces of the miners gave this area west of Birmingham its name. The Black Country Museum is a re-created mining village populated by locals in period costume, complete with workshops, shops, cinema, pub and mine. You won't get to pick up a pick but you can go down a subterranean coal seam and see the conditions miners worked in. The village cinema plays silent movies and you can check out the 1930s Fried Fish Shop if you get the munchies. Electric trams go around the site and there's a funfair for kids. In the summer you can also take a 40-minute boat ride down the Dudley Canal Tunnel and explore the limestone caverns. Cannon Hill Park Russell Road, Moseley Birmingham, B12 9QH Tel: +44 (0)121 442 4226 open daily, 7:30am to dusk Admission Free Located in the Kings Heath area of Birmingham, Cannon Hill Park is one of the most popular parks in Birmingham. Facilities at Cannon Hill Park include lakes, boating, playground areas for children, glasshouses, nature trails, cycle routes, picnic areas and tennis courts. Birmingham's Cannon Hill Park is also home to a number of outdoor events during the summer months in Birmingham, including concerts and Birmingham festivals.
Castle Bromwich Gardens Chester Road, Castle Bromwich Birmingham, B36 9BT Tel: +44 (0)121 749 4100 Tuesday to Thursday - 13:30 to 16:30, Saturday and Sunday - 14:00 to 18:00 Admission Charged Birmingham's Castle Bromwich Gardens date back to the late-17th century and are filled with large, mature trees and shrubs. Covering around 10 acres / 4 hectares, Castle Bromwich Gardens features walled gardens, an orangery, a hedge-maze, landscaped gardens, a café, a plant centre and a garden gift shop.
Charlecote Park Wellesbourne Birmingham, CV35 9ER Tel: +44 (0)1789 470277 April to November, Friday to Tuesday - 11:00 to 18:00
A
dmission charged Charlecote Park, to the east of central Birmingham, dates back to the 13th century. With large, landscaped gardens, spectacular views, herds of deer and a 16th-centurty Manor House, Birmingham's historic Charlecote Park is full of things to see and do in this part of Birmingham.
Cadbury World Linden Road. Bournville Birmingham, B30 2LD Tel: +44 (0)121 451 4159 Admission Charged Hours vary; call for information Cadbury World is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Birmingham and is located in the famous Bournville area of Birmingham. This famous, historic chocolate factory has many attractions, including a factory chocolate shop, impressive exhibitions, displays - many of which are interactive, a large gift shop and guided tours, explaining the fascinating story of the founding Cadbury family. Birmingham's Bournville Village was built in the late 19th century by the Cadbury brothers and is a pioneering example of a garden suburb. It is advisable to book guided tours at Birmingham's Cadbury World in advance, to avoid disappointment. Caving Dudley Caving Club The Old Ruiton Windmill Vale Street, Upper Gornal Birmingham, DY3 3XF
Tel: +44 (0)121 525 1230 Cannon Hill Park Birmingham, B12 9QH Tel: +44 (0)121 440 4221 open daily The Midlands Arts Centre (mac) is situated in the Edgbaston area of Birmingham and has become one of Birmingham's most important arts centres. With large, spacious studios, regular workshops, an arena, art galleries, exhibition space, a cinema and numerous theatrical events throughout the year, the Midlands Arts Centre also has a number of attractions for younger children, including puppet shows.
Elegant Railway Excursions 49 Bodenham Road, Northfield Birmingham, B31 5DR Tel: +44 (0)121 477 4375 Hours vary, call for information Admission Charged Elegant Railway Excursions is located in the Northfield area of Birmingham and provides scenic, luxurious journeys on restored steam trains. The Gloucestershire / Warwickshire steam railway operates throughout the year and the journey also includes a meal. Elmdon Park Elmdon Park Road, Solihull Birmingham, B92 9EJ Tel: +44 (0)121 704 6130 daily, dawn to dusk Admission Free Elmdon Park is a large park in the Solihull area of Birmingham, close to Birmingham International Airport. Full of wildlife, including large numbers of wild birds, Elmdon Park also features mature trees, a lake and an exciting playground area for children.
Fishing / Angling Birmingham Anglers Association 100 Icknield Port Road, Rotton Park Birmingham, B16 0AP
Tel: +44 (0)121 454 9111 Fishing Lodge 1770 Coventry Road, Yardley Birmingham, B26 1PB
Tel: +44 (0)121 743 0448 Gas Street Basin Gas Street Birmingham, B1 2JT Tel: +44 (0)121 643 2514 open daily Gas Street Basin, in Birmingham city centre, is home to more miles of canal than in the watery city of Venice. Once an important port in the heart of central Birmingham, Gas Street Basin is now full of trendy wine bars, restaurants, cafés and entertainment venues. Grand Prix Karting Birmingham Wheels Park 1 Adderley Road South, Saltley, Birmingham
Tel: +44 (0)121 327 7617 Go-Karting
Ice Skating - Hobs Moat Road, Solihull, Birmingham
Tel: +44 (0)121 742 5561
Kings Heath Park Vicarage Park, Kings Heath Birmingham, B14 7TQ Tel: +44 (0)121 444 2848 open daily, 7:30 to dusk
Admission free
Kings Heath Park, in the Moseley area of Birmingham, is most famous for its regular appearances on BBC Television's popular gardening programme, Gardeners' World. Full of mature plant specimens, Kings Heath Park is located in an idyllic setting and is always full of flowers.
Lickey Hills Country Park Warren Lane, Rednal Birmingham, B45 8ER Tel: +44 (0)121 447 7106 open daily - 10:00 to 19:00, winter - 10:00 to 17:00
A
dmission Free Lickey Hills Country Park can be found in the Rednal area of Birmingham and covers more than 200 hectares / 500 acres. With enormous trees, natural areas of wild flowers, woodlands and open grassland, other attractions at Birmingham's Lickey Hills Country Park include a popular golf course, a bowling green, tennis courts and cycle trails.
Mamble Craft Centre Church Lane, Bewdley Worcestershire, DY14 9JY Tel: +44 (0)1299 832834 Tues – Sat 10:30 – 17:00, Sun 11:30 – 17:30 Mamble Craft Centre can be found in Dudley, close to the outskirts of Birmingham. This group of historic barns dates back to the 17th century and highlights include stunning views, a large gallery area, an exhibition space, numerous demonstrations and period features.
The Mitchell Centre Weeford Road, Sutton Coldfield Birmingham, B75 6NA Tel: +44 (0)121 308 8080 open daily Admission Charged Situated in the Sutton Coldfield area of Birmingham, the Mitchell Centre is a large, arts centre in a group of historic, Victorian buildings. Attractions at Birmingham's Mitchell Centre include exhibition galleries, Victorian-style craft workshops, gardens and a café. Museum of the Jewellery Quarter 75-79 Vyse Street, Hockley Birmingham, B18 6HA Tel: +44 (0)121 554 3598 Monday to Friday - 10:00 to 16:00, Saturday - 11:00 to 17:00 Admission Charged The Museum of the Jewellery Quarter is situated in Birmingham's famous Jewellery Quarter district and has won a number of prestigious awards. With many interesting exhibitions about Birmingham's thriving jewellery business in the 19th century, other attractions at the Museum of the Jewellery Quarter include guided tours in various languages, demonstrations, a café area and a gift shop, selling a wide range of jewellery made at this working Birmingham museum. Queen's Park Court Oak Road, Harborne Birmingham, B17 9AH Tel: +44 (0)121 681 6098 open daily, call for information Admission Free Located in the Harborne area of Birmingham, Queen's Park is one of the most charming parks in Birmingham, Opened more than 100 years ago to commemorate the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Victoria, attractions at Queen's Park include a manicured-bowling greens, tennis courts, a playground area for children, benches and colourful flower borders.
Shakespeare Express Train Snow Hill Station Birmingham, B19 1AA Tel: +44 (0)1789 299866 Hours vary Admission charged The Shakespeare Express Train is the fastest steam train in the country and regularly travels from central Birmingham to Stratford-upon-Avon. This beautifully restored train is one of the most scenic and exciting ways to travel to the home of Shakespeare. The journey from Birmingham to Stratford-upon-Avon lasts just over one hour.
Sutton Park Park Road, Sutton Coldfield Birmingham, B73 6BU Tel: +44 (0)121 355 6370 open daily, call for information Admission Free Sutton Park is the largest park in the whole of Birmingham and covers over 810 hectares, 200 acres. With vast areas of woodlands, nature trails, a national nature reserve, seating areas, large expanses of grassland, a restaurant and a popular visitor centre, Sutton Park is located in the Sutton Coldfield area of Birmingham.
Sarehole Mill Cole Bank Road, Hall Green Birmingham, B13 OBD Tel:
+44 [0]121 777 6612 Fans of JRR Tolkein should make the journey 4mi (6.5km) southeast of the city centre to see one of Birmingham's last 18th-century corn mills, opposite the house where the author lived as a young boy. It's said to be the inspiration for Hobbiton in The Hobbit and the mill in The Lord of the Rings - readers will be able to compare the brick building and lake and make up their own minds. The mill has been restored to working order and an exhibition within explains the industry and other aspects of rural life. There's also a Victorian engine house and bakehouse. Skiing / Snowboarding - Birmingham Ackers Trust - Golden Hillock Road, Small Heath, Birmingham
Tel: +44 (0)121 772 5111 The Snowdome - Leisure Island, River Drive, Tamworth, Staffordshire, B79 7ND
Tel: +44 (0)1827 67905 Soho House Museum Soho Avenue, Handsworth Birmingham, B18 5LB Tel: +44 (0)121 554 9122 April to October, Tuesday to Sunday - 11:30 to 16:00
Admission Free
Matthew Boulton, inventor of the steam engine, lived in Georgian Soho House in Handsworth between 1766 and 1809. As befits a scientific innovator he installed central heating and plumbing, which may be why he had so many friends. The Lunar Society, of which he was a member, often held their 'brainstorming' sessions there. It has been restored to look as it did in the 18th century and visitors can admire some of Boulton's own furniture and effects. Displays chart the technological advancements of the time.
St Chad's Cathedral St Chad's Queensway
Birmingham, B4 6EU
Tel: 0121 236 2251 Location: N orth of the city centre Open Monday – Saturday, 10am – 6pm Admission Free
It was built in 1839 by Augustus Pugin, the architect who also built the Houses of Parliament in London. This Cathedral is of historical significance for it was the first Roman Catholic Cathedral to be built in Britain after the reformation of the church in the 16th century.
St Philip's Cathedral Colmore Row
Birmingham, B3 2QB
Tel: 0121 262 1840
Open daily 7:30am – 6pm Admission Free England's smallest cathedral, the neoclassical St Philip's, was designed by Thomas Archer and built between 1709 and 1715. The Cathedral is most famous for its beautiful stained glass windows which dates from the 19th century and were designed by Birmingham artist Edward Burne-Jones.
Victoria Square Location: City Centre Tel: +44 121 693 6300 24 hours daily Admission Free This square has transformed over the past decade from a grassy slope where office workers would picnic on a summer's afternoon to a pedestrian-friendly European plaza accessible all year. Birmingham's Town Hall and Council House are located on the square, but graded steps replace the slope and there's now a large fountain containing a sculpture known fondly by locals as "the Floozie in the Jacuzzi." Stone lamps and statues of sphinxes adorn the grounds, as does a statue of Queen Victoria. Victoria Square has now become a popular meeting point and relaxing place to people watch. Walking South Birmingham Ramblers' Association 26 Claines Road Northfield, Birmingham, B31 2EE
Tel: +44 (0)121 475 4465 Cole Valley/Project Kingfisher Cole Valley Birmingham, B28 0DB, England
Tel: +44 (0)121 749 3131 Edgbaston Reservoir Reservoir Road, Edgbaston Birmingham, B16 9EE
Tel: +44 (0)121 454 1908 Ward End Park Washwood Heath Road Birmingham, B8 2HB Tel: +44 (0)121 643 2514 open daily, call for information Admission Free Birmingham's Ward End Park can be found in the Saltley area of Birmingham, to the east of central Birmingham. This glorious Birmingham parkland was opened more than 100 years ago and attractions include a boating lake, lawns, trees, shrubs, pathways, nature trails and seating areas.
Warwick Castle
Location: Warwickshire
England CV34 4QU (East of Birmingham) Tel: + 44 0870 442 2000 Call for directions Apr-Sep: 10am-6pm daily; Oct-Mar: 10am-5pm daily Admission Charged Woodgate Valley Country Park Clapgate Lane Birmingham, B32 3DH Tel: +44 (0)121 421 7575 open daily, call for information Admission Free Woodgate Valley Country Park is situated to the west of Birmingham city centre, close to a large housing estate in the Northfield area of Birmingham. Covering over 160 hectares / 400 acres, Birmingham's impressive Woodgate Valley Country Park features a popular visitor centre, wildlife areas, walking trails, lawns suitable for sports, seating areas and a small city farm.
Tours: Birmingham Guided Bus and Coach Tours - Birmingham Tel: +44(0)1225444102 Open-top hop on / off Birmingham guided bus tours operate throughout the day at regular intervals in central Birmingham. The Birmingham bus tours provide an easy way of sightseeing in Birmingham and with daily hop on / off tickets, they are also a very useful way to travel around Birmingham, since you can leave the bus to explore and get back on when you are ready. The Birmingham bus tours connect all of the major points of interest in Birmingham, including numerous tourist attractions, landmarks and monuments in Birmingham. Coach tours in the Birmingham area tend to travel further a field, to famous sights nearby Birmingham. Guided bus and coach tours in Birmingham are operated by several different companies, including: Birmingham Tour - Victoria Square, Birmingham, B1 1BD
Tel: +44 (0)121 693 6300
open daily - 10:00 to 16:00
Admission Charged Hidden History Coach Tours - 103 Addison Road, Kings Heath, Birmingham, B14 7EP
Tel: +44 (0)121 444 3900
Hours vary, call for information Admission Charged Walking Tours of Birmingham Tel: +44 (0)1225 477786 The are a number of walking tours around Birmingham and these provide tourists with a real insight into some of Birmingham's most interesting and historic attractions, landmarks and streets. Tours are available with the Birmingham Tourist Information centre, and the tour guides are often locals who live in Birmingham. Digbeth Tuck Walking Trail (self-guided) - Digbeth, Birmingham
Tel: +44 (0)121 643 2514 Jewellery Quarter Discovery Trail (self-guided) - Jewellery Quarter, Hockley, Birmingham, B18
Tel: +44 (0)121 554 3598 Canal Tours of Birmingham Birmingham has more than 32 miles / 53 km of scenic canals to explore at your leisure. Dating back to the 18th century, Birmingham's historic canals include the Old Main Line Canal, the New Main line Canal, the Worcester and Birmingham Canal, he Tame Valley Canal, the Birmingham and Fazaley Canal and Birmingham's Grand Union Canal. With towpaths, many sights and a number of public houses nearby, Birmingham's canals provide a peaceful oasis, close to busy Birmingham city life. Birmingham has several companies that provide canal cruises. Birmingham Events: Birmingham Travel Guide, Discount & Cheap Birmingham Travel & Tourism, Free Birmingham Travel Guide Online
Events
January
Athletic Season of Events
Held: January to February Location: National Indoor Arena (NIA), Birmingham
National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain
Location: Symphony Hall, Birmingham
February
Spring Fair Birmingham
Held:
early February Location: NEC Arena, Birmingham
National Boat, Caravan and Outdoor Show
Held: mid-February Location: NEC Arena, Birmingham
International Craft and Hobby Fair
Held: mid-February Location: NEC Arena, Birmingham
March
Crufts Dog Show
Held: early March Location: NEC Arena, Birmingham
All England Open Badminton Championships
Held: mid-March Location: National Indoor Arena (NIA), Birmingham
Birmingham Pride Gay and Lesbian Ball
Held: mid-March Location: Birmingham International Convention Centre
May
Concertos
Held:
early May Location: Symphony Hall, Birmingham
Birmigham Gay Pride Festival and Parade
Held:
late May Location: Hurst Street, Birmingham West Midlands
Tel: +44 (0)121 555 4865
The highlight of the gay and lesbian year in Birmingham is the LGBT Birmingham Gay Pride Festival, which takes place at the end of May over three days. Gay Pride in Birmingham attracts more than 100,000 gay men and lesbians and the Birmingham Gay Pride Festival has rapidly become the largest free gay festival in the whole of the United Kingdom. With large gay parades, carnivals, Birmingham Mardi Gras parties, market stalls and general Birmingham festivities, the Birmingham Gay Pride Festival is free and always attracts large crowds. Starting in Birmingham's Preston Park, attractions at the Birmingham Gay Pride Festival include concerts, gay cabaret acts, sporting events, a fun fair, street entertainment and blessing ceremonies.
British International Motor Show
Held: late May / early June Location: NEC Arena, Birmingham
June
DFS Classic International Women's Tennis
Held: mid-June Location: Edgbston Priory Club, Birmingham
July
HMV Birmingham International Jazz Festival
Held:
mid-July Location: throughout Birmingham
Latin American Festival
Held: early July
Location: Birmingham The free festival open to everyone celebrates the music, dance, arts, food and culture of Latin America.
August
Fireworks Fantasia
Held: early August Location: Canon Hill Park, Birmingham
Birmingham International Festival
Held:
early August Location: various venues throughout Birmingham
Antiques for Everyone
Held: early August Location: NEC Arena, Birmingham
Birmingham Carnival
Held: early August Location: Handsworth Park, Birmingham
Birmingham Badminton Bonanza
Held: mid-August Location: Birmingham NIA
Summer Concert
Held: late August Location: Symphony Hall, Birmingham
September
NLC Floodlit Cricket Match
Held: early September Held: Edgbaston Cricket Ground, Birmingham
ArtsFest
Held: mid-September Location: Birmingham city centre
Flora Birmingham's Women's Run
Held: mid-September Location: Birmingham city centre
Heritage Days
Held: mid-September Location: throughout England More than 2,600 historic and contemporary buildings across England throw open their doors for Heritage Open Days. All manner of buildings - not just historic country houses and castles but also factories, military sites, windmills and contemporary design classics - offer free access to the public.
Horse of the Year Show
Held: mid-September Location: NEC Arena, Birmingham
Walsall Illuminations
Held: mid-September / late October Location: The Arboretum, Walsall, Birmingham
The Ski and Snowboard Show
Held:
late September Location: NEC Arena, Birmingham
Birmingham Readers' and Writers' Festival
Held:
late September / early October Location: Chamberlain Square, Birmingham
October
Sportsfest and Star City 10K Run
Held: early October Location: Star City, Birmingham
November
Birmingham Film and Television Festival
Held: throughout November Location: central Birmingham
International Classic Vintage Motor Show
Held: mid-November Location: NEC Arena, Birmingham
Supreme Cat Show
Held
: mid-November Location: NEC Arena, Birmingham
International Motorcycle and Scooter Show
Held:
mid-November Location: NEC Arena, Birmingham
British Indoor Rowing Championships
Held: mid-November Location: National Indoor Arena (NIA), Birmingham
Christmas Lights Switchon
Held: late November Location: central Birmingham
BBC Good Food Show
Held: late November Location: NEC Arena, Birmingham
Birmingham International Tattoo
Held: late November Location: National Indoor Arena, Birmingham
December
Clotheshow Live
Held: early December Location: NEC Arena, Birmingham
Performing Arts
Telephone number for the NEC group
(NEC, NEC arena, NIA, ICC, Symphony Hall and other venues)
Box office +44 (0) 870 730 0196
Birmingham Royal Ballet
Hurst Street
Birmingham, B5 4AU Tel: +44 (0) 121 245 3500 (9am - 5pm, Mon - Fri) Call for performance schedule
City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra
CBSO Centre Berkley Street Birmingham, B1 2LF Tel: +44 (0) 121 616 6500
Alexandra Theatre
Station Street Birmingham, B5 4DS
Tel: +44 (0)121 643 5536
Birmingham Hippodrome
Hurst Street Birmingham, B5 4TB
Tel: +44 (0)121 622 7437
Birmingham Repertory Theatre
Broad Street, Centenary Square Birmingham, B1 2EP
Tel: +44 (0)121 236 6771
Crescent Theatre
Brindleyplace, Broad Street Birmingham, B1 2JA
Tel: +44 (0)121 643 5858
Grand Theatre
Lichfield Street Wolverhampton, WV1 1DE
Tel: +44 (0)1902 429212
Hall Green Little Theatre
Pemberley Road, Acocks Green Birmingham, B27 7RY
Tel: +44 (0)121 707 1874
Highbury Little Theatre
Sheffield Road, Sutton Coldfield Birmingham, B73 5HD
Tel: +44 (0)121 373 2761
Oldbury Rep Theatre
Barlow Theatre, Spring Walk Oldbury, Birmingham, B69 4SP
Tel: +44 (0)121 552 2761
Sports
Basketball
The Birmingham Bullets NIA / Aston Villa Leisure Centre Birmingham
Tel: +44 (0)121 644 7134
Cricket Warwickshire Country Cricket Club The County Ground, Edgbaston Birmingham
Tel: +44 (0)121 446 4422
Football / Soccer
Aston Villa Football Club - Villa Park, Birmingham
Tel: +44 (0)121 327 2299
Birmingham City Football Club - St. Andrews Ground, Birmingham
Tel: +44 (0)121 772 0101
Coventry City Football Club - Highfield Road Stadium, King Richard Street, Birmingham
Tel: +44 (0)2476 234 000
Wallsall Football Club - Bescot Stadium, Walsall, Birmingham
Tel: +44 (0)1922 622 791
West Bromich Albion Football Club - The Hawthorns, Halfords Lane, West Bromich Birmingham
Tel: +44 (0)121 525 8888
Wolverhampton Wanderers Football Club - Molineux Grounds, Waterloo Road, Wolverhampton
Tel: +44 (0)1902 655 000
Greyhound Racing
Hall Green Stadium - York Road, Hall Green, Birmingham
Tel: +44 (0)121 777 1181
Perry Barr Stadium - Aldridge Road, Perry Barr, Birmingham
Tel: +44 (0)121 356 2324
Horse Racing
Cheltenham Racecourse - Presbury Park, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire
Tel: +44 (0)1242 513 014
Stratford Racecourse - Luddington Road, Stratford-upon-Avon
Tel: +44 (0)1789 267 949
Warwick Racehource - Hampton Street, Warwick
Tel: +44 (0)1926 491 553
Wolverhampton Racecourse - Dunstall Park Centre, Stratford Road, Wolverhampton
Tel: +44 (0)1902 421 421
Worcester Racecourse - The Pitchcroft, Worcester
Tel: +44 (0)1905 253 364
Rugby Clubs - Birmingham
Birmingham and Solihull Rugby Club - Sharmans Cross Road, Solihull, Birmingham
Tel: +44 (0)121 705 0409
Five Ways Old Edwardian Rugby Football Club - Ash Lane, Hopwood, Birmingham
Tel: +44 (0)121 445 4909
Moseley Rugby Club - University of Birmingham Bristol Road, Selly Oak, Birmingham
Tel: +44 (0)121 415 2207
Motor Racing - Birmingham
Donington Park Leisure Centre - Donington Park, Castle Donington, Derby, DE74 2RP
Tel: +44 (0)1332 810048
Silverstone Motor Racing Circuit - Silverstone, Northampton,
Tel: +44 (0)1327 320 312
Speedway Racing - Coventry Stadium, Rugby Road, Brandon, Coventry
Tel: +44 (0)2476 542 395
Birmingham Facts: Birmingham Travel Guide, Discount & Cheap Birmingham Travel & Tourism, Free Birmingham Travel Guide Online
Population: 1.01 million
Land Area: 10,000 sq km
Location:
Birmingham is a city in the West Midlands of England. It is the United Kingdom's second largest and most ethnically diverse city and continues to be considered the country's "second city".
Time Zone: GMT / UTC and BST (British Summer Time). When it is noon in
Birmingham, it is 5pm in New York City.
Telephone Area Code: 0121
Weather
| Month | High | Low | | January | 43F | 36F | | February | 44F | 36F | | March | 50F | 38F | | April | 56F | 42F | | May | 62F | 47F | | June | 69F | 53F | | July | 71F | 56F | | August | 71F | 56F | | September | 65F | 52F | | October | 58F | 46F | | November | 50F | 42F | | December | 39F | 13F |
Local Seasons:
Birmingham doesn't have a peak season. The main theatres shut for the summer, but all other attractions remain open. Large conventions and exhibitions run year-round, and accommodation can be harder to find at these times. As a rule if visitors go between May and September they are more likely to get blue skies than during the colder winter months, but, as any Anglophile knows, the heavens could open at any time Visitors come to enjoy the warmer weather, particularly from May through September, when Birmingham has plenty of fine, sunny and warm days. Birmingham's weather can also be changeable, and rainy days can often quickly change into sunny days in a moments notice. Early spring is another popular time to visit Birmingham when the weather is fairly mild, although some days during this time may be rainy and windy. Many of the trees begin to flower at this time of the year and Birmingham's parks and gardens are filled with spring colour. Winters can be long and damp and there are fewer sunny days in November, December and January. It does get cold during the winter months, so make sure that you bring a warm overcoat, scarf and gloves. Snow is not uncommon and there are often many cold, clear, frosty days. The wettest weather tends to be in December, January and February, although there is also plenty of fine, sunny weather at this time of year. When visiting outdoor locations in Birmingham at this time of the year, an umbrella is always a useful item to carry. Whatever the Birmingham weather, there is always plenty to see and do in both the city itself as well as throughout the surrounding area.
Getting There:
By Air
Birmingham International Airport (BHX)
Airport Way Birmingham, B26 3QJ
Tel: +44 (0)870 733 5511
Just 13 km / 8 miles south-east of Birmingham city centre, Birmingham International Airport (BHX) has good connections to the Birmingham area. Birmingham Airport offers a large choice of frequent scheduled airport flights to major European, North American and Asian destinations. Most other business and holiday destinations throughout the world can be reached with just one easy transfer from Birmingham International Airport (BHX). Buses are readily available at Birmingham International Airport (BHX) and connect the airport to central Birmingham and the surround area. Bus stops are available outside of the airport's terminal buildings.
London Gatwick Airport (LGW)
West Sussex, RH6 0NP
Tel: +44 (0)870 000 2468
Gatwick is London's second airport and is one of the busiest in Europe. Situated some 239 km / 148 miles from central Birmingham.
London Heathrow Airport (LHR)
West London, near Staines and Hounslow Heathrow Point West, 234 Birmingham Road, Harlington, Middlesex, UB3 5AP
Tel: + 44 (0)870 000 0123
London Heathrow Airport (LHR) is situated 176km / 109 miles from Birmingham.
Travel by Train
SkyRail services connect Birmingham Airport to Birmingham International Train Station and also the Birmingham National Exhibition Centre (NEC). This popular, free service provides a useful alternative to travel into central Birmingham from the airport and Birmingham International Train Station also has good connections throughout the country, with regular trains travelling to London and many other major cities and towns.
Travel by
Taxi Black taxi cabs are readily available at Birmingham International Airport (BHX) and are located outside of the airport's terminal buildings. Taxis at Birmingham Airport provide a convenient and useful way to travel into Birmingham city centre and the taxi journey should take around 30 minutes, depending upon traffic. The airport taxi meters at Birmingham International Airport (BHX) start at a basic fare, but additional charges are usually made for luggage, late-night driving and travel on public holidays in Birmingham, so it can prove useful to ask the taxi driver about these before leaving. Some Birmingham Airport taxis are happy to accept credit cards.
Located on to the main A45 Coventry Road, next to Junction 6 on the M42, Birmingham International Airport (BHX) has excellent connections to many major motorways, including the M1, M5, M6 and M40. Birmingham city centre is well sign posted from Birmingham International Airport (BHX) and can be reached in around 30 to 45 minutes by car, depending upon traffic.
Coaches provide long-distance coach services from Birmingham International Airport (BHX). Operated by National Express Coaches, the airport's coaches travel to many major cities and locations, including London airports. The city is also a hub of rail and coach traffic. Birmingham New Street Station is the city's major train station, with services running all over the country. From the coach station in Digbeth, buses link Birmingham with most parts of Britain. For local buses, go to the Bull Ring bus station.
How to Get Around:
The important city of Birmingham is well served by the public transport system and in situated at the heart of the United Kingdom. With an extensive public transport network, including Birmingham trains and Birmingham buses, and also numerous Birmingham black taxi cabs, travel throughout the Birmingham is simple.
Renting a car is often the preferred method of travel for excursions from Birmingham and it is relatively easy to travel around the Birmingham area by car. There are a number of major roads and motorways situated on the outskirts of Birmingham, which provide fast routes when travelling both to and from Birmingham.
Birmingham by Car The district of Birmingham is served by a number of major motorways and Birmingham is situated at the heart of the United Kingdom motorway network. Birmingham has direct links to the M1, M5, M6, M40 and M42 motorways.
Several roads in Birmingham are one way only and part of the city centre is restricted to buses and taxis only. Many tourists staying in Birmingham choose to rent cars and these are the best method of transport when travelling outside of the city, to explore the surrounding countryside and nearby towns. There are plenty of parking garages and off-street parking areas available in Birmingham, although many areas are restricted to residents only and parking permits are required. There is also a large park-and-ride service, where you can park your car on the outskirts of Birmingham, in Star City and travel into the centre by bus. Regular buses travel into Birmingham city centre from the park and ride car park every 10 minutes throughout the day.
Birmingham by Foot Birmingham is well pedestrianized and one of the best ways to travel around Birmingham is by foot. This is a popular way to see some of Birmingham's numerous tourist attractions, museums, art galleries and monuments. Getting around central Birmingham is very straightforward and many of the city's major sights and attractions are within easy walking distance of each other.
Birmingham by Bus
Tel: 0121 200 2700 for additional information
The Birmingham bus system cover central Birmingham well and is operated by Centro. Buses in Birmingham are heavily used by both locals and tourists alike and provide a particularly inexpensive way to travel in Birmingham and the surrounding areas. Birmingham buses and coaches travel to many other towns and cities in West Midlands, North Midlands and South Midlands and bus passes are available for set periods.
Birmingham by Coach Tel: +44 (0)870 580 8080 for additional information
Birmingham is also at the centre of the national coach network, with direct links to around 500 different destinations. The main coach station in Birmingham is situated at Spencer House, in the central Dugbeth district of Birmingham.
Birmingham by Train
Birmingham's is served my three main line train stations that travel to a wide variety of destinations throughout the country. Birmingham New Street Train Station, Birmingham Snow Hill Train Station and Birmingham International Train Station are all within easy reach of central Birmingham. Frequent rail services travel between Birmingham and London and this journey takes around one and a half hours. Advance seat reservations can be booked if required.
Birmingham by Taxis
Black taxi cabs in Birmingham are one of the most convenient and popular ways to travel around the Birmingham area. They can be easily caught from the taxi ranks outside of the Birmingham International Train station and in Birmingham city centre at the Arcadian Centre on Hurst Street, or hailed from the street. Also in quieter areas of Birmingham, taxis and minicabs can be ordered by telephone and there are a number of reputable taxi firms that your hotel can recommend. Additional taxi charges in Birmingham are often made for luggage, travel late at night, extra passengers and travel on public holidays.
National Public Holidays
1st January - New Year's Day Good Friday / Easter Monday - late March or early April First and last Monday in May Last Monday in August 25th December - Christmas Day 26th December - Boxing Day (If Christmas Day, Boxing Day or New Year's Day falls on a Saturday or Sunday, the next weekday becomes a public holiday). Birmingham Kids Activities: Birmingham Travel Guide, Discount & Cheap Birmingham Travel & Tourism, Free Birmingham Travel Guide OnlineNational Sea Life Centre Brindleyplace, The Waters Edge Birmingham, B1 2HL Tel: +44 (0)121 633 4700 Hours: open daily – 10:00 to 17:00
Admission Charged
Birmingham's impressive National Sea Life Centre is a major tourist attraction for children and families in central Birmingham. With sharks, fish, giant turtles, crabs, rays, large tanks and a glass tunnel, other attractions at Birmingham's National Sea Life Centre include feeding displays, a café and a gift shop.
Birmingham Nature Centre Pershore Road, Edgbaston Birmingham, B5 7RL Tel: +44 (0)121 472 7775 Hours: open daily 10:00 – 17:00 Admission Charged (children are free) Situated in the Edgbaston area of Birmingham, this important Nature Centre is full of wildlife and wild animals, such as deer, rabbits, foxes, owls is even home to a number of otters. Other attractions at the Birmingham Nature Centre include a small, children's zoo, a visitor centre, a café, wildlife trails and a picnic area.
Drayton Manor Park and Zoo Tamworth Birmingham, Staffordshire, B78 3TW Tel: +44 (0)1827 287979 Hours: March to October, daily 10:30 – 18:00 Admission Charged (small children are free) Drayton Manor Park and Zoo is situated close to Birmingham, in the Tamworth area. Attractions for children and Drayton Manor Park include roller coasters, fast theme-park rides, water rides, a cable car, a museum, cafés, gift shops and there is also a zoo, filled with reptiles, insects, friendly farmyard animals and a number of small mammals.
Kingsbury Water Park Bodymoor Heath, Sutton Coldfield Birmingham, B76 0DY Tel: +44 (0)1827 872660 Hours: open daily, dawn to dusk Admission Charged Birmingham's Kingsbury Water Park can be found in the Sutton Coldfield area of Birmingham and covers over 240 hectares / 600 acres. With numerous large lakes and ponds, highlights at the Kingsbury Water Park include nature trails, wildlife, bird watching, a visitor centre, a café, a gift shop, a children's farm and also a playground area for young children. Kingsbury Water Park is also popular for its water sports, such as jet skiing, water skiing, sailing, windsurfing and fishing.
Waterworld Festival Park, Hanley Stoke-On-Trent, ST1 5PU Tel: +44 (0)1782 205 747 Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Saturday and Sunday - 10:00 to 18:00, Wednesday - 10:00 to 19:00, Thursday - 10:00 to 20:00, Friday - 10:00 to 21:00 (during school holidays)
Admission Charged
Waterworld, to the north of Birmingham, is within east reach from central Birmingham, This large aqua park is completely enclosed and is a major tourist attractions for both children and families. Attractions at Waterworld include a water rollercoaster, slides, swimming pools, cafés, bars, music and countless areas where you can relax.
West Midland Safari and Leisure Park Spring Grove, Bewdley Worcester, DY12 1LF Tel: +44 (0)1299 400700 Hours: March to November, call for hours Admission Charged West Midland Safari and Leisure Park is located nearby Birmingham and is a popular tourist attraction for children and families in this area. Covering more than 80 hectares / 200 acres, highlights at West Midland Safari and Leisure Park include lions, tigers, rhinos, elephants, giraffes, seals, seal lions, reptiles, amusement park rides, displays, cafés and a gift shop.
Wernlas Collection Onibury, Ludlow Shropshire, SY7 9BL Tel: +44 (0)1584 856318 Hours: open daily 10:30 – 17:30 Admission Charged The Wernlas Collection is home to a large collection of poultry, including a number of rare breeds of chickens. Attractions for children visiting the Wernlas Collection, which is located to the west of Birmingham, include newly-hatched chicks, seating areas and a small farm where children can get hands-on with the animals.
Dudley Zoo and Castle The Broadway, Dudley Birmingham, West Midlands, DY1 4QB Tel: +44 (0)1384 215314 Hours: open daily, 10:00 to 16:30, winter - 10:00 to 15:30
Admission Charged,
children under four years old are free Dudley Zoo and Castle is situated on the outskirts of Birmingham and covers more than 16 hectares / 40 acres. Home to many rare animals and endangered species, Dudley Zoo and Castle is well-known in the Birmingham area for its impressive conservation work. Other attractions at Dudley Zoo and Castle include a playground are for children, a gift shop, a café and children's activities.
Twycross Zoo Atherstone, near Coventry Warwickshire, CV9 3PX Tel: +44 (0)1827 880250 Hours: open daily - 10:00 to 17:30, winter - 10:00 to 16:00
Admission Charged
Located to the north-east of central Birmingham, Twycross Zoo is hoe to many popular animals and is also well-known for its impressive conservation work. Other attractions at Twycross Zoo include a playground for children, displays, a gift shop, a café and picnic areas.
Acton Scott Historic Working Farm Wenlock Lodge, Acton Scott, Church Stretton, Ludlow Shropshire, SY6 6QH Tel: +44 (0)1694 781306 Hours: March to October, Tuesday to Sunday - 10:00 to 17:00
Admission Charged,
children under five years old are free Acton Scott Historic Working Farm is situated in Shropshire, to the west of Birmingham. Attractions at the Acton Scott Historic Working Farm include a large number of farmyard animals, such as cows, pigs, poultry, sheep and a number of rare-breed animals.
Broomey Croft Children's Farm Bodymoor Heath, near Tamworth Birmingham, B76 0EE Tel: +44 (0)1827 873844 Hours: open daily, April to September - 10;00 to 17:00, October to March - 10:00 to 16:00
Admission Charged
Located in the Sutton Coldfield area of Birmingham, Broomey Croft Children's Farm is a popular attraction for children. With animal feeding, playground areas for children, rare-breed animals and picnic areas, Broomey Croft Children's Farm is also home to a number of small, friendly animals, such as rabbits and goats.
Northfield Children's Farm Frankley Lodge Road, Northfield Birmingham, B31 5PZ Tel: +44 (0)121 475 1609 Hours: Saturday, Sunday and school holidays - 10:30 to 17:00
Admission Charged
Northfield Children's Farm, in the Quinton area of Birmingham, is situated to the south-west of central Birmingham. With many attractions for children, such as baby animals, a playground and activities, Northfield Children's Farm also has seasonal events and an area suitable for picnics.
Rays Farm Billingsley, Bridgnorth Birmingham, WV16 6PF Tel: +44 (0)1299 841255 Hours: March to December - 10:00 to 17:30 (earlier during winter months), January and February, Saturday and Sunday - 10:00 to 16:00
Admission Charged
Rays Farm, in the Wolverhampton area of Birmingham, is full of friendly farmyard animals and pets. With a large collection of owls, other attractions at Rays Farm include a café, picnic areas, a gift shop and nature trails.
Hoo Farm Animal Kingdom Preston-On-The-Weald Moors Telford, TF6 6DJ Tel: +44 (0)1952 677917 Hours: March to December, daily - 10:00 to 17:00
Admission Charged
The exciting Birmingham children's attractions include a large number of animals, such as sheep, foxes, ostriches, llamas, deer and farmyard animals. There are also many other attractions for children at the Umberslade Children's Farm quad bikes, such as quad bikes, demonstrations and seasonal events.
Umberslade Children's Farm Butts Lane, Tanworth in Arden Birmingham, B94 5AE Tel: +44 (0)1564 742251 Hours: March to September, daily - 10:00 to 17:00
Admission Charged
Umberslade Children's Farm is a popular attraction for children in the Solihull area of Birmingham and features tractor rides, pony rides, playground areas for children, a café, a shop and unusual ferret racing.
Ash End House Children's Farm Middleton Lane, Middleton, Tamworth Birmingham, B78 2BL Tel: +44 (0)121 329 3240 Hours: open daily - 10:00 to 17:00 (closes earlier in the winter) Ash End House Children's Farm is located in the Tamworth area of Birmingham and attractions include newly-hatched chicks, pony rides, traditional craft demonstrations and farmyard animals.
Paintball Park 32 Regents Place Birmingham, B1 3NJ Tel: +44 (0)121 236 0022 Hours: open daily, call for exact hours Admission Charged Paintball Park is situated in central Birmingham and covers more than 80 hectares / 200 acres of woodland and scenic countryside. This exciting action game is popular with older children in this area of Birmingham.
The Combat Game 61 Blackstitch Lane, Redditch Birmingham, B97 5TE Tel: +44 (0)1527 401434 Hours: open daily, call for exact hours Admission Charged Located to the south of Birmingham, The Combat Game is a popular paintball centre, full of woodland areas. With protective clothing and goggles available, The Combat Game has excellent paintball facilities.
Niagara Falls Travel Guide |Toronto Travel Guide |Pittsburgh Travel Guide |Adelaide Travel Guide |Branson Travel Guide |Tokyo Travel Guide |Cape Cod Travel Guide |Panama Travel Guide |Perth Travel Guide |Hilton Head Island Travel Guide |Birmingham Travel Guide |Clearwater Travel Guide |Columbus Travel Guide |Bridgetown Travel Guide |Flagstaff Travel Guide |Ann Arbor Travel Guide |Miami Beach Travel Guide |Las Vegas Travel Guide |Tempe Travel Guide |Montreal Travel Guide |Key West Travel Guide |Alexandria Travel Guide |Saskatoon Travel Guide |Arlington Travel Guide |Biloxi Travel Guide |Tulsa Travel Guide |Destin Travel Guide |New Orleans Travel Guide |Austin Travel Guide |Cairo Travel Guide |
| 
