St Paul's Square in the Jewellery Quarter precinct
Photo by Jewellery Quarter BID/Anne-Marie Hayes

Wondering what to do in Birmingham? From museums and shopping to canals, family attractions and a food scene influenced by cuisines from around the world, there’s plenty to see and do.

Birmingham New Street lands you right in the heart of the city, so many of the best-known places to visit are within walking distance or a short journey once you arrive.

 

Discover Birmingham’s history and culture

Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery

Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery has been part of the city since 1885 and is home to collections covering art, history, archaeology and the story of Birmingham itself. Keep an eye out for its collection of Pre-Raphaelite art alongside exhibitions that change through the year.

Its central location makes it easy to include in a day exploring the city.

Birmingham Back to Backs

Step inside one of Birmingham’s last surviving courts of back-to-back houses and experience what everyday life was like for the families who lived and worked there.

Now cared for by the National Trust, the houses have been restored to reflect different periods of Birmingham’s industrial history. It can get busy, so be sure to book your tour in advance to guarantee your spot on the day.

Jewellery Quarter

The Jewellery Quarter has played an important role in Birmingham’s manufacturing history for more than 200 years. Today, it’s still home to jewellery workshops and independent businesses, alongside many other attractions.

If a museum is to your taste, you can also visit the Museum of the Jewellery Quarter to learn more about the craftspeople and businesses that helped shape the area.

 

Family things to do in Birmingham

Cadbury World

Chocolate fans can explore the story behind one of Birmingham’s most famous enterprises at Cadbury World. Learn how chocolate is made, delve into the history of Cadbury and enjoy interactive experiences along the way.

Cadbury World is located in Bournville (which gave its name to the iconic dark chocolate), a short train journey from Birmingham city centre.

Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum

From steam engines and Spitfires to space and the human body, Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum has four floors of exciting exhibitions to explore.

There’s also a planetarium, Science Garden and MiniBrum - an interactive mini-city designed for younger visitors. No matter your age, it’s a fun-filled day out.

Black Country Living Museum

Step back in time at the Black Country Living Museum. See how people lived and worked across the region during its industrial past.

Take steps on recreated historic streets, visit traditional shops and workplaces, meet historic characters and watch live demonstrations that bring the Black Country’s story to life.

Located in Dudley, the museum is a little further from Birmingham city centre, so it works best as a dedicated day out. Don’t worry, there’s plenty to do and see to warrant a full day trip!

 

Shopping in Birmingham

If shopping is high on your list of things to see and do in Birmingham, you won’t have to venture far once you leave the station.

Bullring & Grand Central is directly connected to Birmingham New Street and boasts some of the nation's high street favourites, department stores and places to eat.

For something more independent, there’s Digbeth, where you’ll find independent shops, markets and places to eat and drink.

 

Explore Birmingham’s canals

Birmingham’s canal network offers a quieter way to see the city.

Walk along the towpaths around Brindleyplace and Gas Street Basin, stop for something to eat beside the water or continue towards attractions including Ikon Gallery and the Library of Birmingham.

You can also take a canal boat trip for a different view of the city and learn more about Birmingham’s industrial past along the way.

 

Food and drink in Birmingham

Birmingham’s food scene reflects the many communities that call the city home.

The Balti Triangle helped put Birmingham’s take on the Balti on the map, while Digbeth is known for street food and regular food events.

You’ll also find Michelin-starred restaurants, traditional pubs, cafés and cuisines from across the world throughout the city centre and surrounding neighbourhoods.

 

Parks and green spaces

Birmingham Botanical Gardens

Birmingham Botanical Gardens is a great place to explore glasshouses, gardens and plant collections across 15 acres.

The gardens are home to thousands of plants from around the world and regularly host family activities and seasonal events.

Cannon Hill Park

Cannon Hill Park is one of Birmingham’s best-known green spaces, with walking routes, lakes, sports facilities and plenty of room for a picnic.

You’ll also find Midlands Arts Centre on the edge of the park, with theatre, cinema, exhibitions and workshops throughout the year.

 

What’s on in Birmingham?

From Birmingham Hippodrome to Symphony Hall, Utilita Arena and the NEC, Birmingham has comedy, concerts and major events throughout the year. The city’s museums and galleries run changing exhibitions and activities.

Birmingham also has a busy calendar of food, music, arts and cultural festivals, alongside major sporting events.

Check the latest listings before you travel to see what’s happening while you are in the city.

 

What to visit in Birmingham for the first time

Not sure where to start? If it’s your first visit to Birmingham, you could combine a few city-centre favourites in one day.

Start around Bullring & Grand Central before walking towards Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery and the Library of Birmingham. From there, continue towards Brindleyplace and the canals, or spend the afternoon exploring the Jewellery Quarter.

If you’re travelling with children, Cadbury World, Thinktank and the National SEA LIFE Centre are all easy additions to a Birmingham break.

 

Getting to Birmingham by train

Birmingham New Street is as central as a station could be, with Bullring & Grand Central, shops, restaurants and several major attractions close by.

Birmingham Moor Street and Snow Hill stations also serve the city centre, while Birmingham International provides rail access for the NEC and Birmingham Airport.

Use our journey planner to check live train times and buy your tickets through our website or app, with no booking fees.

Popular train routes to Birmingham include:

 

Plan your day in Birmingham

For the latest events, exhibitions and more ideas on what to visit in Birmingham, check Visit Birmingham before you travel, then buy your train tickets with us and start planning your day.