Time Off

Tourists often overlook the city of Birmingham, sitting at the heart of England's industrial West Midlands. Yet Britain's second largest city is filled with an enormous number of unique attractions, superb restaurants and a multitude of surprises, waiting to be discovered.

There are more trees here than in any other European city, and perhaps more canals than Venice. It is the 'balti' restaurant capital of Europe, and one of the leading centres of live entertainment in the world. A massive redevelopment of the city centre and canal sides has given rise to a cornucopia of interesting cafes, bars, clubs and galleries. The shopping facilities are extensive, and with constant additional improvements, Birmingham continues to grow bigger, better and more exciting with each passing year.

Birmingham Attractions


Thinktank at Millennium Point
Curzon Street, Birmingham B4 7XG
Tel: +44 121 202 2222

Thinktank is Birmingham's science museum, which also displays artefacts from the old Museum of Science and Industry.

Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery
Chamberlain Square, Birmingham B3 3DH
Tel: +44 121 303 2834 | Fax: +44 121 303 1394

This vast museum covers all aspects of fine and applied arts. Permanent collections include one of the most important exhibitions of work from the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood. Watercolours and Arts and Crafts galleries, together with museum collections of archaeology, ethnography, natural history and science, are constantly changing in a series of temporary exhibitions. Admission is free, with donations gratefully received.

The Barber Institute of Fine Arts
University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TS
Tel: +44 121 414 7333 | Fax: +44 121 414 3370

One of the best collections of 20th-century art in Britain was bequeathed to Birmingham University by Lady Barber. Originally founded in 1932 in memory of her husband, popular local solicitor Sir Henry Barber, the institute is one of Birmingham's most important cultural centres.

National Exhibition Centre (NEC)
Birmingham B40 1NT
Tel: +44 121 780 4133

This is one of the leading conference and exhibition centres in the country, hosting a variety of events ranging from government conferences to Star Trek conventions, plus some of the country's most spectacular live music performances.

Tolkien Trail

The success of Peter Jackson's Lord of the Rings films has spawned renewed interest in the life and inspirations behind the work of fantasy novelist JRR Tolkien, who grew up in Birmingham. His childhood home in Sarehole is said to have been the model for The Shire, the home of the hobbits. The Trail takes visitors to other places of interest in the area connected to Tolkien.

Aviation Experience
Birmingham International Airport, B26 3QJ
Tel: +44 870 733 5511

Opened in 2001, the Aviation Experience at Birmingham International's Visitor Centre allows visitors to listen to the Air Traffic Controllers, track the route of aircraft from landing through to arrival on the stand and follow aircraft's progress using an interactive model which highlights the runway, taxiway and apron lighting. Passengers using the airport can enjoy the facility at no charge.

The Bullring

Dubbed Europe's newest shopping capital, this vast, award-winning complex in the centre of the city contains 160 shops and 25 restaurants, open until 8pm on weekdays and Saturdays.

The Mailbox
Wharfside Street, Birmingham B1 1XL
Tel: +44 121 632 1000

Opened in 2000, this former Royal Mail sorting office is home to 50 exclusive fashion and lifestyle shops, restaurants and cafe bars, hotels and parking, in an exclusive waterside setting. The premium shopping includes brands like Christian Lacroix, Fish!, Harvey Nicholls, Iceberg, Mailmaison, Shogan Sushi and Noodle Bar, Society Cocktail Bar, Zizzi, Emporio Armani and DKNY.

Cadbury World
Linden Road, Bournville, Birmingham B30 2LD
Tel: +44 121 451 4159

Live out some of Charlie's chocolate factory fantasies through the series of interactive exhibits. Fun for families and all chocoholics. New exhibits for 2006. Advance booking recommended.

Jewellery Quarter
South of Hockley, Birmingham

The Jewellery Quarter claims to have the largest concentration of dedicated jewellers in Europe, but it is only since the 1970s that shops have been a feature of the landscape.

Nelson's Statue
Bull Ring Markets, Birmingham B5 4DG
Tel: +44 121 693 6300.

This monument to naval hero Lord Horatio Nelson was the first statue to be erected in his honour, in 1809.

Birmingham Mint
Icknield Street, Birmingham
Tel: +44 121 326 4020

The oldest independent mint in the world continues to produce commemorative coins and medals. Original designs for coins, medals, tokens and commemorative items of all kinds are created in large scale, before being reduced to actual size.

Warwick Castle
Warwick CV34 4QU
Tel: 0870 442 2000

One of the finest medieval castles in England, situated 40 kilometres (25 miles) south-east of Birmingham city centre. Guided tours are available.