The Ultimate 5-Day Adventure in Birmingham, UK

Discover the heart of England with a visit to vibrant Birmingham.

22 April 2023

Birmingham, the second-largest city in the UK, has a rich industrial history and a vibrant cultural scene. Visitors can explore famous landmarks like the Birmingham Cathedral and the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, or enjoy the buzzing nightlife scene. Those interested in shopping can check out the Bullring & Grand Central shopping center, which features over 200 stores.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Getting to know Birmingham

  • Check into the quirky and stylish Hotel Indigo in the centre of Birmingham
  • Head to the Bullring Shopping Centre for some retail therapy, including the iconic Selfridges
  • Take a stroll around the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery to discover the city's history and culture
  • Grab lunch at the trendy Digbeth Dining Club street food market
  • Discover the iconic canals of Birmingham with a leisurely boat ride
  • Sip on a craft beer at The Purecraft Bar and Kitchen, housed in a beautiful Victorian building
Day 2

The industrial heritage of Birmingham

  • Start the day with breakfast at Yorks Bakery Cafe, a local institution
  • Explore the Jewellery Quarter, with its historic streets and independent shops
  • Visit the Coffin Works, a museum where you'll discover the history of the funeral industry in Birmingham
  • Take a guided tour of the Black Country Living Museum, where you'll experience life in a 19th century industrial town
  • Satisfy your cravings with a cone of chips and homemade curry sauce from the infamous Blue Lagoon fish and chip shop
  • Catch a gig at the O2 Academy, where legendary bands like Led Zeppelin and The Who performed in the 60s and 70s
Day 3

Discovering Birmingham's culinary scene

  • Start the day with breakfast at Kanteen, a sustainable cafe with great coffee and homemade food
  • Visit the colourful and aromatic markets of the Balti Triangle, where you can sample some of the best curries in the UK
  • Join a food tour of Birmingham with Birmingham Food Tour, exploring some of the city's hidden gems and best eateries
  • Visit the Cadbury World chocolate factory to discover the story of one of Birmingham's most famous exports
  • Enjoy a romantic dinner at Purnell's, one of Birmingham's Michelin-starred restaurants
  • Sip on a cocktail at 40 St Pauls, a speakeasy-style bar in the city centre
Day 4

Exploring the outdoors in Birmingham

  • Start the day with a morning run or walk through Sutton Park, one of the UK's largest urban parks
  • Visit the picturesque Cannon Hill Park, home to beautiful gardens, lakes and plenty of wildlife
  • Take a trip to the Lickey Hills Country Park, a stunning area of natural beauty with panoramic views of Birmingham
  • Head to the Edgbaston Reservoir for a peaceful walk or a spot of birdwatching
  • Take in the stunning views of Birmingham from the top of the iconic Clent Hills
  • Visit the Birmingham Botanical Gardens for a chance to get up close with exotic plants and flowers
Day 5

A day trip to Stratford-upon-Avon

  • Take a short train ride to Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare
  • Visit the famous Royal Shakespeare Company and catch a play in one of their historic theatres
  • Take a stroll along the River Avon, with stunning views of the Tudor architecture
  • Visit the famous Anne Hathaway's Cottage, the childhood home of Shakespeare's wife
  • Check out the stunning gardens at Hidcote Manor Garden, a National Trust property that's considered one of the UK's best gardens
  • Finish the day with dinner and a pint at The Garrick Inn, a 14th century pub with plenty of character and charm.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Birmingham, United Kingdom by plane is to fly into Birmingham Airport, which has direct flights from many major cities around the world.

Car

If you're driving, the best way to get to Birmingham, United Kingdom is to take the M40 motorway from London or the M6 from the North. Be aware that traffic can be heavy at peak times.

Train

If you're traveling from London, the best way to get to Birmingham, United Kingdom by train is to take a direct train from London Euston to Birmingham New Street Station. The journey takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Boat

Birmingham is located in the middle of England and is not accessible by boat. The closest port is Southampton, which is located on the South coast of England.

Bus

If you're on a budget, the best way to get to Birmingham, United Kingdom by bus is to take a coach from London Victoria Coach Station. The journey takes about 3-4 hours and there are several coach operators to choose from.

Destination

Birmingham

Welcome to a city that has more canals than Venice, more Balti restaurants than Bombay and more questionable fashion choices than a Lady Gaga concert. Get ready to explore Birmingham!

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Budget-Friendly Birmingham: A Day Trip Guide

If you're looking for a trip to the UK on a limited budget, Birmingham is a great destination to consider. The home of heavy metal has plenty of free museums, galleries, and parks to explore. You can also enjoy affordable eats and drinks at the city's many pubs and cafes.

A Weekend Adventure in Birmingham, UK

As a tourist, a visit to Birmingham in the United Kingdom promises a delightful experience filled with captivating landmarks and rich cultural heritage. Take a stroll down the charming canals, visit the famous Cadbury World or indulge in a shopping spree at Bullring & Grand Central – one of the largest shopping centres in the country. End your trip by savouring some of Birmingham's famous curries and other delicacies.

Jewels & Culture: A Day Trip to Birmingham

A trip to Birmingham, United Kingdom as a tourist offers an opportunity to explore one of the largest cities in the country. Visitors can explore historic sites such as the Birmingham Cathedral and Cadbury World, take in cultural events at venues like the Birmingham Hippodrome, and indulge in world-class dining and shopping options throughout the bustling metropolis. With convenient transportation options and a wide range of accommodation choices, Birmingham has something to offer travelers of all interests and budgets.

Birmingham Bliss: A Fun-filled Family Day Trip

A family friendly trip to Birmingham, United Kingdom is a great way to explore the vibrant city and create lasting memories. Visit the interactive Thinktank Science Museum or enjoy a fun-filled day at Cadbury World, where you can indulge in chocolatey delights. Take a stroll in the beautiful botanical gardens or enjoy a picnic in the tranquil Cannon Hill Park, making it an ideal destination for families looking for a diverse range of activities.