In recent years, Birmingham has become a striking modern destination with world-class shopping, museums and restaurants. Alongside the attractions of today, you can also delve deep into the city's history.
Moving the past into present
During the Industrial Revolution, Birmingham was at the forefront of a developing Britain and regarded as powerhouse in the country's manufacturing sector. Today, the industrial backdrop may no longer exist, but the city has stayed true to its roots and preserved this pivotal time of its history.
One of the finest examples is the stylish renovation of the Gas Street Basin. As the old hub of Britain’s canal freight system – locals boast that Birmingham has more miles of canal than Venice – this is now a trendy area of waterside restaurants, shops and bars.
If you're looking to explore some of the 200 miles of waterway, spend an afternoon leisurely chugging along on one of the canal cruises. At Birmingham’s Jewellery Museum, you'll see how the finest pieces have been made by the city’s craftspeople throughout the centuries.
A shopping heaven
Alongside the industrial past sits the modern-day shopping districts of Birmingham's city centre. The contemporary Bullring Centre is a gigantic collection of 150 shops including two department stores – be sure to look up at the dazzling metal and glass fascia of Selfridges before you venture inside.
Nearby, the Mailbox shopping arcade features one of Britain’s largest collection of designer stores outside London, including names like Harvey Nichols, Ralph Lauren and Hugo Boss.
You'll find a great range of cafes here too, so you can enjoy a break from bustling city. The Jewellery Quarter is a short walk from the centre along a restored canal. This grid of Victorian streets is home to 400 craftsmen’s workshops and design boutiques.
The Balti triangle
While other cities may lay claim to having the best Indian restaurants in the UK, there’s no doubt that Birmingham has a very strong shout for the crown. Generally speaking, the standard of curries is exceptionally high throughout the city.
At the high end, Lasan has capitalised on some TV appearances to achieve deserved fame. You’ll pay north of £20 for tandoori breast of Wiltshire pheasant or spiced loin of venison with cumin carrot puree, but it’s a fine place to push the boat out.
Cheap eats are also of high quality in Birmingham – try the Gujurati vegetarian restaurant Jyoti’s. Most dishes here are no more than £6 apiece, but don’t stint on the spice or quality. The old rules apply – if it’s full of locals and you’re struggling to get a seat, it’s probably a good sign.
Exploring the historic Midlands
It’s easy to take a short drive out of the city and soak up some of the heritage on offer in the Midlands region. If you're a history buff, head for leafy towns like Kenilworth and Warwick, both with major castles to explore.
These intact medieval fortresses were once vital strategic strongholds in Britain’s War of the Roses. You can grab the opportunity to wander their battlements and follow in the footsteps of those knights in armour.
It's worth visiting peaceful Stratford upon Avon to explore the picturesque home of playwright William Shakespeare. You can also buy tickets to see the Royal Shakespeare Company perform in the bard's hometown at its famous riverside theatre.
City of sport
Midlands football derbies are fiercely fought, with Aston Villa and Birmingham City both vying to be top dog. You can watch the former at Villa Park, while the latter are resident at St. Andrew’s Stadium.
Warwickshire County Cricket Club call Edgbaston home, and the ground is a popular venue for international fixtures in all formats of the game – Test, One Day and T20 competitions. It’s one of the grand old grounds of British cricket, established in 1882 and now seating some 25,000 spectators.
