Top Picks For A Weekend In Birmingham

Birmingham is a place that holds a special place in my heart. Like most university students, I feel a bond with the city where I spent those important years of my life, it’s almost like the place where I became myself. And while I could give you a detailed description of the nightlife and all that went on, it’s best I keep those memories locked up.

There is of course lots more to the city of Birmingham than just it’s bars and clubs. I return there often and will continue to do so, but with my hangovers considerably worse than they used to be, I tend to look for alternatives to student nights and happy hours.

So what should you be enjoying during a weekend break in Birmingham?

Birmingham: The Top Picks

Photo on Flickr by Phil Dolby

The Old Canal Area

If you’re looking for the best and quirkiest bars and restaurants in town then this is the place to head. This important old part of  town has been given a new lease of life in recent years, you’ll find traditional old industrial buildings rebranded to entertain a young hip crowd.

IMAX

With this being England, it’s all always important to have a rainy day option. Luckily for those visiting Birmingham, there is a great indoor attraction right in the centre of town. If you’ve never been to an IMAX cinema before then it’s even worth considering on a sunny day.

Imagine your usual cinema experience, then just make everything bigger and better. A larger screen, higher resolution and a thumping sound system make it the ultimate movie watching experience (and you won’t get wet).

Shopping

It’s only natural that the 2nd most populated city in Britain should have some fantastic shopping. You’ll find all the usual high street brands along with virtually every other type of shop you can think of.

For those who love their shopping centres, Birmingham is the place to be. The Bullring is famous throughout the UK and if you’re looking for something a little more upmarket, there is also The Mailbox which includes not only great shopping but bars and restaurants too.

Take Your Photo With The Bull

Photo on Flickr by at800 tv

Is it possible to visit Birmingham without having your picture taken with the bull outside of The Bullring Shopping Centre? I don’t think so.

Even if you’re not the type for a quick selfie it’s still worth keeping an eye on the famous bull. During the year it’ll often be dressed up in different outfits to reflect whats going on at the time.

Christmas Market

Obviously this depends when you are visiting the city but the Birmingham Christmas Market is fantastic. It’s the largest German style Christmas Market outside of Germany and Austria and never fails to disappoint. I’ve been to this market many times (and always eaten too much) and can’t recommend it enough, plan your trip to Birmingham for December!

 

I’m not sure I’ll ever stop visiting this wonderful city, it’s my second home and every time I visit I love it more and more. Don’t just take my word for it though, there are hundreds of hotels in Birmingham and with so much to do you’ll never get bored of visiting again and again.