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Famous for its chocolate factory and architectural gems, Birmingham is also lined with picturesque canals, waterside attractions and fascinating art galleries. Alongside its beautifully restored Victorian buildings and gleaming shopping malls you’ll find a thriving gastronomy scene and a rich industrial heritage.

Things to do

Start your exploration of Birmingham at Aston Hall, a magnificent 17th-century red-brick mansion situated in a scenic public park. Stroll through its historic interiors and see the details of one of the last great Jacobean houses, then meander through Lady Holte’s Garden to explore its symmetrical design features and peaceful ambience.

Satiate your sweet tooth at Cadbury World, where you can go on a behind-the-scenes tour of the biggest chocolate factory in the world. You’ll be able to hear the history of Cadbury confectionery and learn all about the chocolate-making process. You can even make your own praline by adding your favourite type of treat to liquid chocolate.

Head to the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery to see an impressive range of permanent galleries that showcase applied arts, social history and archaeology. Visit The Museum of the Jewellery Quarter to get an intimate look at a perfectly preserved workshop, where you can watch a demonstration of the traditional skills and discover what it was like to work there.

For a different view of Birmingham, hop on a canal boat trip. It’s a great way to explore the city’s industrial past, where you can see where the first industrial revolution took place over 200 years ago. Soak up the area’s natural scenery at Birmingham Botanical Gardens, home to spectacular glasshouses, a birdhouse and seasonal butterfly house.

Getting around

Birmingham is well-connected by buses, trains and a metro system, while the city centre area is pedestrian-friendly. Birmingham Airport services the city, easily accessed by trains, buses and taxis from the city centre, while London is 1.5 hours away by train.