Overview:
The jewel of the midlands… Birmingham is no longer named as the city of a thousand trades. Birmingham is a city ready to embrace the future. The city is not the best aesthetically but we all know it’s what’s beneath the looks that count… Since the 1990’s, radical change in the city has been seen. Many of the post war buildings being replaced by new structures giving the city a very modern feel. The nightlife is certainly not on the shy side giving plenty of choice to meet all budgets!
Getting around:
The city is set over a large area and transport around does need to be thought about. The best suggestion is to leave transport of the two-wheeled variety to others; Birmingham's not the best city for bikes. The four-wheeled variety isn't much better if you're heading city central; the one-way street system there is seemingly designed specifically to induce road rage in non-locals. The city is, however, well serviced by public transport including a tram line as well as standard buses and trains.
Must See/Must Do
• Spend up at the Bullring.
• Indulge in freebies and cheapies at Cadbury World
• Dance till dawn on Broad Street
• Hit the Balti Triangle for an overwhelming choice of Birmingham's favourite curry.
• Shop for unique finds and jewellery in the Jewellery Quarter
• Cruise the canals on a boat tour
• Shop and party at the Custard Factory
• NEC Birmingham
History & Culture:
Birmingham's had to cop a bit of flak over the years, after its haphazard – but rapid – development during the industrial revolution left it a bit, well, boring. But our Birmingham is boring no-more. Since the 1990s the city has been hauled over and much of the 'less interesting' architecture has been replaced with more aesthetically pleasing versions. The Selfridges at Bullring – in what was once a well-known eyesore – is probably the best example of the new face of the city as it settles into the 20-teens. And, fittingly for England's second city, the nightlife. Birmingham features a healthy array of museums and art galleries, from the Barber Institute's collection of French impressionists to the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery's comprehensive history of the city.
Nightlife:
With any thriving metropolis comes a good nightlife and Birmingham does not upset. A thriving club scene in Birmingham is anchored by Broad Street clubs like Gatecrasher and Risa. Oceana also attracts regular large crowds and is normally a big hit with stag do’s. But be warned, dress codes are strictly enforced and somewhat arbitrary so unfortunately the Borat mankini will have to be stored away for another occasion. For a more casual night out you'll want St Paul's Square for jazz, Digbeth for Irish pubs, or for a trendy bar look no further than the Medicine Bar. One of the clubs to include in your evenings itinerary are Ramshackle, giving visitors a brilliant experience of the UK and International indie scene combined with fantastic prices. Held at the 2000+ capacity Carling Academy, Dale End.