40 Best Things to Do in Birmingham, England (City Attractions & Local Experiences)

Birmingham is one of the most interesting cities in England. It sits in the heart of the Midlands and has a long history of industry, creativity and culture. Today the city mixes historic streets with modern buildings, lively canals, green parks and a diverse food scene. Visitors are often surprised by how much there is to see and do here.

Whether you enjoy museums, canal-side walks, street art, shopping or great food, Birmingham has something for you. The city centre is easy to explore on foot and many attractions sit close together. Friendly locals, creative neighbourhoods and plenty of events make it a fun place to spend a weekend or longer.

If you're planning a visit, this guide will help you discover some of the best things to do in Birmingham, including popular landmarks, museums, parks, food spots and unique local experiences. 

If you're looking for a ready-made itinerary, our 2-day Birmingham itinerary can help you plan your visit.

City Landmarks & History

1. Library of Birmingham

The Library of Birmingham is one of the city’s most striking modern landmarks. Its bold design stands out against the historic buildings around Centenary Square. Inside you’ll find large reading areas, exhibitions, and quiet spaces to relax. 

Visitors can also explore the Shakespeare Memorial Room, which preserves part of the old Victorian library. One of the best parts is the rooftop terrace, where you get wide views over Birmingham’s skyline. It’s a peaceful spot for photos or a short break from sightseeing.

2. Victoria Square

Victoria Square sits in the heart of Birmingham city centre. Historic buildings like the Council House and Town Hall surround the square. The famous fountain sculpture, known locally as “The Floozie in the Jacuzzi”, is a popular meeting spot. Street performers and seasonal events often take place here. The open space makes it a nice place to sit for a few minutes and watch city life go by.

3. Jewellery Quarter

The Jewellery Quarter is one of Birmingham’s most historic neighbourhoods. For over 200 years it was the centre of jewellery making in the UK. Today the area still has small workshops where craftsmen create pieces by hand. You’ll also find independent shops, cafes, and galleries along its quiet streets. 

Walking here gives you a sense of Birmingham’s industrial past while enjoying a relaxed village-like atmosphere.

4. Museum of the Jewellery Quarter

This museum keeps an original jewellery workshop exactly as it was in the early 1900s. Visitors can walk through the factory rooms and see tools, benches, and machines used by craftsmen. Guided tours explain how jewellery was produced and how the workers lived. The stories of the people who worked here bring the space to life. It’s a small museum but one of the most authentic historical experiences in Birmingham.

5. St Paul’s Square

St Paul’s Square is a quiet Georgian square near the Jewellery Quarter. Elegant buildings surround a green garden in the middle. The square feels calm compared to the busy city centre. Independent cafes, pubs, and restaurants line the edges. On warm days people sit outside with coffee or lunch and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.

6. St Martin in the Bull Ring

St Martin in the Bull Ring is one of Birmingham’s oldest churches. It sits beside the modern Bullring shopping centre, creating a strong contrast between old and new. Inside you’ll find colourful stained glass and peaceful seating areas. The church often hosts concerts, talks, and community events. It’s a quiet place to step into when the busy shopping streets get crowded.

 

7. Birmingham Back to Backs

The Birmingham Back to Backs are restored historic houses that show how working families lived in the 19th century. These small homes once held several families in tight spaces. Guided tours walk you through rooms furnished for different time periods. Stories about the people who lived here help visitors imagine daily life in old Birmingham. It’s a powerful and memorable glimpse into the city’s past.

8. Birmingham Town Hall

Birmingham Town Hall is one of the city’s most impressive historic buildings. Its design was inspired by Roman temples, with tall columns and a grand entrance. The hall hosts concerts, talks, and cultural events throughout the year. Inside, the large performance space has excellent acoustics. Even if you don’t attend a show, it’s worth seeing the building from outside.

9. Pen Museum

The Pen Museum tells the story of Birmingham’s once famous pen-making industry. During the 1800s the city produced most of the world’s steel pen nibs. Exhibits show old machines, tools, and examples of penwork. Visitors can even try writing with a dip pen. It’s a small but fascinating museum that highlights an important part of Birmingham’s history.

10. Newman Brothers Coffin Works

This unusual museum preserves a factory that made coffin fittings. The building has been left almost exactly as workers used it decades ago. You’ll see tools, workbenches, and original products used in the trade. Guides explain the stories of the workers and the business. It’s a unique and slightly unexpected way to learn about Birmingham’s industrial past.

Museums & Culture

11. Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery

Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery is one of the city’s top cultural attractions. It houses collections of art, history, and archaeology. The famous Pre-Raphaelite paintings are a highlight for many visitors. You’ll also find exhibitions about Birmingham’s past and its global connections. Many galleries are free to enter, making it an easy place to spend a few hours.

12. Thinktank Science Museum

Thinktank is Birmingham’s interactive science museum and a favourite for families. Exhibits cover space, engineering, technology, and the city’s industrial history. Large steam engines and machines show how Birmingham helped shape modern industry. Kids enjoy the hands-on activities and play areas. The planetarium also hosts space shows that are both fun and educational.

13. Lapworth Museum of Geology

The Lapworth Museum of Geology is a hidden gem inside the University of Birmingham. It focuses on rocks, fossils, and the story of Earth’s history. Displays include dinosaur skeletons and rare mineral collections. The exhibits are clear and easy to understand for all ages. It’s a great stop for anyone curious about science and nature.

14. Ikon Gallery

Ikon Gallery focuses on modern and contemporary art. Exhibitions change regularly, so there is always something new to see. The gallery sits inside a converted Victorian school building near the canals. Entry to many exhibitions is free. It’s a peaceful and inspiring place to explore creative ideas and new artists.

15. Soho House Museum

Soho House was the home of Matthew Boulton, one of Birmingham’s most important industrial pioneers. The house is now preserved as a museum showing life in the 1700s. Visitors can see historic furniture, artwork, and objects linked to early industry. The museum also explains how inventions from this area influenced the Industrial Revolution. It’s a fascinating place to connect with Birmingham’s history.

Canals & Waterside Experiences

16. Brindleyplace Canals

Brindleyplace is a lively area built around Birmingham’s canals. Restaurants, cafes, and bars sit right beside the water. People come here to walk, relax, and enjoy the atmosphere. Boats pass through the canals while visitors sit on benches or outdoor terraces. It’s one of the best places to experience Birmingham’s famous waterways.

17. Gas Street Basin

Gas Street Basin is one of the city’s most famous canal junctions. Several canals meet here, creating a busy hub of narrowboats and waterside activity. Old warehouses and brick bridges give the area lots of character. Cafes and bars nearby make it a good place to stop and relax. It’s also a great spot for photos of Birmingham’s canal network.

18. Canal Cruise

A canal cruise is a relaxing way to see Birmingham from a different angle. Boats travel along historic waterways once used to transport goods. Guides usually share stories about the city’s industrial past during the trip. The journey passes bridges, warehouses, and quiet green stretches. It’s a peaceful break from busy city streets.

19. GoBoat Canal Boat Hire

GoBoat lets visitors drive their own small electric boat along the canals. No licence or boating experience is needed. The boats move slowly and are easy to control. Many groups bring snacks or a picnic while they explore the waterways. It’s a fun activity for families, couples, or small groups.

For a full review of the experience, see our GoBoat Birmingham electric canal boat hire review.

20. Canal Walk from The Cube to Broad Street

This canal walk is one of the easiest and nicest routes in the city centre. It begins near The Cube and follows the towpath towards Broad Street. Along the way you’ll pass cafes, bridges, and colourful boats. The path is flat and easy to follow. It’s perfect for a relaxed stroll or evening walk.

Parks, Gardens & Green Spaces

21. Cannon Hill Park

Cannon Hill Park is one of Birmingham’s largest and most popular parks. Wide paths, lakes, and open lawns make it great for walking or relaxing. Families come here for picnics and outdoor games. You’ll often see ducks, swans, and other birds around the water. In summer it feels like a green escape from the busy city.

22. Birmingham Botanical Gardens

The Birmingham Botanical Gardens cover around fifteen acres of landscaped gardens. Glasshouses contain tropical plants, desert species, and exotic flowers. The outdoor areas change with the seasons and are always colourful. Visitors can also enjoy tea and light meals at the garden café. It’s a calm place to spend a few hours.

 

23. Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park

This small wildlife park focuses on animal conservation and education. Visitors can see red pandas, lemurs, reptiles, and many bird species. The park is compact, which makes it easy to explore in a short visit. Children enjoy seeing animals up close and learning about wildlife protection. It’s a quiet and friendly attraction near Cannon Hill Park.

24. Sheldon Country Park

Sheldon Country Park feels surprisingly rural for a city park. Open fields, woodlands, and long paths make it perfect for peaceful walks. Wildlife and birds are common here, especially on sunny days. There’s even a working farm area where visitors can see animals. It’s ideal for anyone wanting a break from the busy centre.

25. Brindleyplace Waterside Seating

Sometimes the best activity is simply relaxing by the water. The seating areas around Brindleyplace canals are perfect for that. Visitors sit here with coffee or a drink while watching boats pass by. In the evening the lights reflect on the canal surface. The calm atmosphere makes it a favourite local spot.

 

Family & Interactive Activities

26. National SEA LIFE Centre

The National SEA LIFE Centre takes visitors on a journey through underwater worlds. A glass tunnel lets you walk beneath sharks and large fish. Tanks display colourful tropical species, turtles, and rays. Talks and feeding sessions help visitors learn about marine life. It’s fun, educational, and popular with families.

27. Legoland Discovery Centre

Legoland Discovery Centre is an indoor attraction built around the famous Lego bricks. Kids can build models, enjoy small rides, and explore themed play areas. Creative workshops encourage children to design their own creations. There’s also a miniature Lego version of Birmingham. It’s a great activity for younger visitors.

28. Midlands Arts Centre (MAC)

MAC is a creative arts centre located in Cannon Hill Park. It hosts theatre shows, art exhibitions, music, and film screenings. Families often come for creative workshops and children’s activities. The café and outdoor seating areas make it a pleasant place to relax. It’s one of Birmingham’s key cultural hubs.

29. Street Art & Murals in Digbeth

Digbeth is known as Birmingham’s creative district. Streets here are covered with colourful murals and graffiti art. Walking around feels like exploring an open-air gallery. Many pieces reflect local culture and community stories. It’s also one of the city’s best places for photography.

30. Seasonal Urban Beach & Funfair

During some summers Birmingham hosts a temporary city beach and funfair. Sand, rides, and water features create a seaside-style experience in the city. Families come for games, music, and food stalls. It’s lively and colourful during warm months. Check local listings to see if it’s running during your visit.

Food, Drink & Markets

31. Balti in the Balti Triangle

The Balti Triangle is famous for its traditional curry restaurants. The balti dish itself was developed in Birmingham. Meals are served in a metal bowl with fresh naan bread. Restaurants here offer strong flavours and generous portions. It’s one of the city’s most famous food experiences.

32. Brindleyplace Dining

Brindleyplace has many restaurants and bars beside the canal. Visitors can choose from international cuisines and casual pubs. Outdoor seating is popular during warm weather. The atmosphere becomes lively in the evening. It’s a great place to eat after exploring the city centre.

33. Custard Factory

The Custard Factory in Digbeth is a creative hub full of independent businesses. You’ll find street food stalls, vintage shops, art studios, and event spaces. Weekend markets and pop-up events bring extra energy to the area. The colourful buildings and murals make it visually unique. It’s a good place to experience Birmingham’s creative side.

34. Craft Beer Scene

Birmingham’s craft beer scene has grown quickly in recent years. Many breweries and taprooms now operate around the city. Visitors can try local beers ranging from light lagers to strong stouts. Some places offer tasting flights or brewery tours. It’s a relaxed way to experience local flavours.

35. The Mailbox

The Mailbox is an upscale shopping and dining area beside the canal. Designer stores, restaurants, and bars line the building. The atmosphere is stylish but relaxed. Visitors often stop here for dinner or evening drinks. The waterside location adds to the appeal.

Shows, Music & Nightlife

36. Birmingham Hippodrome

The Birmingham Hippodrome is one of the busiest theatres in the UK. It hosts major musicals, ballet, opera, and family shows. Productions here are often touring West End performances. The theatre has comfortable seating and modern facilities. It’s a great place to enjoy live entertainment.

37. Symphony Hall

Symphony Hall is famous for its excellent acoustics. It hosts orchestras, jazz concerts, and modern music events. The hall feels elegant but welcoming. Many international musicians perform here during tours. It’s one of the best music venues in the country.

38. Digbeth Nightlife

Digbeth comes alive after dark with bars, clubs, and live music venues. The crowd here is often creative and relaxed. Many venues host DJ nights and themed parties. Outdoor spaces and beer gardens are popular in summer. It’s a lively area for an evening out.

39. Broad Street Nightlife

Broad Street is Birmingham’s classic nightlife district. Bars and clubs line the street and stay open late. Visitors can find karaoke bars, dance floors, and live DJs. The atmosphere is energetic, especially on weekends. It’s a popular spot for groups and celebrations.

40. Birmingham Christmas Market

Every winter Birmingham hosts one of the largest Christmas markets in the UK. Stalls fill Victoria Square and nearby streets. Visitors can buy gifts, crafts, and festive food. Mulled wine and music create a cheerful atmosphere. It’s one of the best times of year to visit the city.

Birmingham is a city that often surprises first-time visitors. It combines historic industry with modern creativity, lively canals, and a diverse food culture. From museums and street art to parks and theatres, there is always something interesting to explore.

Whether you’re planning a short city break or a longer stay, these experiences will help you see the best sides of the city. Take time to wander along the canals, try local food, and explore neighbourhoods beyond the main streets. Birmingham’s friendly energy and creative spirit make it a place many visitors want to return to.

FAQs - Visiting Birmingham

What are the must-see attractions in Birmingham?
Popular attractions include the Library of Birmingham, Victoria Square, the Jewellery Quarter, Thinktank Science Museum, and the canals around Brindleyplace.

Is Birmingham a walkable city for visitors?
Yes. Many major attractions are located close together in the city centre, making Birmingham easy to explore on foot.

Are there free things to do in Birmingham?
Yes. Several museums, galleries, parks, and public spaces are free to visit, including the Library of Birmingham and Ikon Gallery.

What is Birmingham famous for?
Birmingham is known for its industrial history, canal network, diverse food scene, and jewellery industry.

When is the best time to visit Birmingham?
Spring and summer are great for parks and canal walks, while winter is popular for the Birmingham Christmas Market and festive events.