A city which was once known as the "City of a 1000 Trades" and the "Workshop of the World", Birmingham is now a bustling 21st century city as well as a great shopping and cultural destination. Once most known as being the city at the heart of the UK's industrial revolution, Birmingham has recovered immensely from destruction caused during World War II to become a municipality with many tourist attractions, a vibrant nightlife, and shopping options considered the best outside of London. While Birmingham may not immediately jump out as a top tourist location, those who choose to book vacation rentals here will be pleased to find fine museums and galleries, modern British restaurants and a unique contribution to the curry family which was invented by Pakistani workers who moved here in the 1970s.
Where to stay
Whether in Birmingham for business or pleasure, HomeToGo has a selection of vacation rentals which won’t dig a massive hole in your budget. Book a private room and stay with a local ‘Brummie’ offering bed and breakfast options and plenty of tips about the city. Those looking for a little more independence can choose a self-catering apartment but still benefit from the hospitality of a friendly host. Apartments, private rooms and bed and breakfasts can be found in any corner of the city.
Fun Facts
- Birmingham has 6 million trees and more parks than any other European city!
- Europe's largest public library is Birmingham's Central Library which lends 8 million books each year!
- Birmingham has a great musical background and is where bands including Duran Duran, UB40 and Black Sabbath call home!
- Besides 30 other places around the world being called Birmingham, there is also a crater on the moon with the same name!
- Birmingham is officially Britain's largest clean city!
Things to see and do in Birmingham
Following instant admiration of the beautiful architecture Birmingham has to offer is a deep thrill brought on by the number of art and cultural attractions which also call the city home. One of the most beautiful buildings here is Aston Hall which is a restored Jacobean mansion built between 1618 and 1635. Hours will fly by as you walk through the property, marvelling at period rooms and artwork. Soho House is another beautiful building from the 18th century which was once the home of industrial pioneer Matthew Boulton. Those whose first love lies in art can stop by the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery and the Barber Institute of Fine Arts. For something a little different, pay a visit to Cadbury World which not only offers a fabulous tour but free chocolate too!
Some of Britain's most popular clubs and events are held in Birmingham, but if the clubbing scene is not your thing, then spend evenings in one of the many other entertainment venues the city hosts. As well as a wide selection of cinemas, there a number of theatres and live music venues sure to put on a good night including the HMV Institute, the Birmingham Hippodrome and the Repertory Theatre. Prep yourself for an exciting evening by relaxing in one of the lovely parks or green areas in the city. Choose from Cannon Hill Park, Woodgate Valley Country Park and the Birmingham Botanical Gardens and Glasshouses among others.
Birmingham is widely known as a prime shopping area and perhaps the best place to go is the Bull Ring Complex which includes a Selfridges. A number of lesser known shopping centres are located in close proximity to the Bull Ring. Anybody looking for more unusual or independent stores can check out the markets which operate in the area.
Getting around
Those who have chosen Birmingham as their vacation spot can easily reach the city by flying into Birmingham International Airport. Once landed, visitors can jump on board a free Air-Rail Link connecting the airport Passenger Terminals with Birmingham International Rail Station. From here, trains run to New Street Station every 5-15 minutes. Bus service 900 runs into Birmingham City Centre. Opting to take the 97 bus route will result in a longer journey, but has the advantage that it operates 24 hours a day. Bus 966 links the airport with Solihull and Erdington. National Express Coaches also serve the airport. In-land travellers can take the train to New Street Train Station. Intercity buses also offer connections into the city, in addition to the extensive canal network using which visitors can arrive by boat.
Once in the city, visitors can easily travel via bus, train and metro. An extensive overland rail network serves most of Birmingham and the West Midlands area. Other options include tram and water bus routes, as well as by car or motorcycle. It is not overly easy but possible to travel through the city by bicycle. Most things to see and do can be reached easily on foot.