Attractions

From world-class galleries and stimulating museums to a chocolate factory and Europe’s largest urban park, Birmingham and the region really does have something for everyone.

 

Aston Hall & Park

Aston Hall is not just a breath-taking Jacobean-style mansion; it is also one of the most treasured historical buildings in Birmingham. Aston Hall boasts stunning interiors from the 17th, 18th and 19th century, including the beautiful Long Gallery.

Admission charges apply to the Hall only. Gardens, grounds and visitor facilities are free to all visitors. To book a group visit please contact the Aston Hall on +44 (0)121 675 4722.

Opening times:
Please note Aston Hall is only open for spring and summer season, therefore you are advised to check opening times in advance by calling +44 (0)121 675 4722

Click here to find out more. 

 

Barber Institute of Fine Arts

The Barber Institute of Fine Arts is one of Europe’s best small art galleries and is based on campus at the University of Birmingham, which is believed to be the first and original redbrick university in the UK. Featuring many of the greatest names in Western art, the Barber holds one of the most outstanding and internationally significant collections assembled in Britain during the 20th Century.

The Barber Institute of Fine Arts offers both guided and self-guided tours to visiting groups.

Guided tours can accommodate up to 25 people, with a maximum of two groups at a time and are subject to an entrance charge. You are highly advised to book at least 4 weeks in advance of your visit.
Self-guided tours are for free, however if your group numbers 12+ visitors, you are still advised to book your visit at least 3 working days in advance to avoid overcrowding.
Tours for blind and partially-sighted visitors are available on request.

To book call +44 (0)121 414 2261 or e-mail education@barber.org.uk for further details.

Opening times:
Monday - Friday: 10:00 – 17:00
Saturday & Sunday: 11:00 – 17:00

Click here to find out more.  

The National Trust Back to Backs Houses

The National Trust Back to Backs Houses is a carefully restored, atmospheric 19th-century courtyard of working people's houses. It offers an atmospheric glimpse into the lives of the ordinary people who helped make Birmingham an extraordinary city.

Please note that access to the Back to Backs is by guided tour only. It is essential to pre-book by calling the Back to Backs booking line on +44 (0)121 666 7671. Educational tours are also available by calling +44 (0)121 622 2442.

Opening times:
Tuesday - Sunday: 10:00-17:00
Open Bank Holiday Mondays (but closed next day). During term time property closed 10:00 to 13:00 on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays for schools. Last tour times vary in winter. Closed 31 August to 6 September 2013.

Click here to find out more. 

 

Birmingham Botanical Gardens & Glasshouses

Birmingham Botanical Gardens are an oasis of delightful peace and tranquility no further than one mile from the City Centre of Birmingham. These historic Gardens house a unique plant collection and excellent facilities for all visitors.

The Gardens are suitable for all ages, with seating available throughout the gardens. To book for groups of 10+ visitors and to request a group visit pack, please contact the Gardens on +44 (0)121 454 1860. To book a school visit please contact the Educational Department directly on +44 (0)121 450 5093 (non-Birmingham school authorities) or +44 (0)121 454 0784 (Birmingham school authorities).

Opening times:
Monday – Sunday: 10:00 (except Christmas day & Boxing day)
Please see the website for closing times as they may vary throughout the season

Click here to find out more. 

 

Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery

To fully appreciate the breathtaking range of Birmingham’s heritage, you must visit the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery. Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery is home to one of the world's finest collections of Pre-Raphaelite art, as well as extensive collections of fine and applied art, social history, archaeology and ethnography.

Entrance to Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery is free. There is usually a charge for entry for exhibitions in the Gas Hall. To check prices for specific exhibitions please see the official website. To book a group visit call +44 (0)121 303 2834.

Opening times:
Monday – Thursday & Saturday: 10:00 – 17:00
Friday: 10.30 – 17:00
Sunday: 12.30 – 17:00

Click here to find out more.

 

Black Country Living Museum

Black Country Living Museum is set in a landscape of 26 acres, and it is one of the most extraordinary open-air museums in the UK; offering a glimpse into 200 years of history like no other. Over fifty authentic shops, houses and workshops have been carefully reconstructed to preserve the character of the region when its manufacturers bought worldwide fame to Black Country Towns.

Group visits are available for group of 15+, however you are advised to book in advance. There are a number of benefits for group bookings, such as welcome guide and various discounts, which you can find online here.

To book please contact the Museum on +44 (0)121 520 8054 or e-mail bookings@bclm.com. To request more information or help with planning your visit, please call +44 (0)121 557 9643 or e-mail info@bclm.com.

Opening times:
Wednesday – Sunday: 10:00 – 16:00
29 March to 31 October: Monday – Sunday: 10:00 – 17:00
(to confirm opening times you are advised to telephone +44 (0)121 520 8054)

Click here to find out more. 

 

Blakesley Hall

Blakesley Hall was built in 1590 by Richard Smalbroke, a member of one of Birmingham’s leading merchant families. More than 400 years later, beautiful Blakesley is still a haven; secluded from the avenues of modern houses that lie beyond its gates.

Admission charges apply to the Hall only. Gardens, grounds and visitor facilities are free to all visitors. There is free admission to the entire site on the first Sunday in every month during the open season. To book a group visit please contact the Blakesley Hall on +44 (0)121 464 2193.

Opening times:
Please note Blakesley Hall is only open for spring and summer season, therefore you are advised to check opening times in advance on +44 (0)121 464 2193.

Click here to find out more.

 

Cadbury World

Cadbury World has over 26 years’ experience of welcoming groups of all ages. Through a variety of chocolatey zones, your group will discover the history, the making and the magic behind one of Britain’s best loved brands.

Group visits to Cadbury World include a number of benefits such as discounted admission for groups of 15+ with a free preview visit for group organisers and free admission for the coach driver. Find a full list of benefits & exclusive group offers here.

Opening times:
Cadbury World is open on most days from 25th January until 30th December 2017 inclusive. Reservations are essential to guarantee admission and secure group terms. Please call the reservations line seven days a week on: 0844 880 7667 to make a booking. 

 

Drayton Manor

Drayton Manor Theme Park is home to some of the biggest wettest and scariest rides, including Shockwave, Europe’s first stand up roller coaster, Stormforce 10 and Apocalypse. In addition to this, the complex houses Drayton Manor Zoo as well as an on-site Drayton Manor Hotel.

To book a group visit for 12+ people, please contact Drayton Manor Park on +44 (0)844 472 1960. There are a number of benefits for group bookings, such as free entrance for the driver and various additional offers, for more details see the official website. 

Opening times:
Differ according to the date; please refer to the official website for up-to-date details.

Click here to find out more. 

 

Dudley Zoological Gardens

Dudley Zoological Gardens are a unique West Midlands attraction which comprises of a zoo with hundreds of animals set around an 11th century castle incorporating the world’s largest single collection of Tecton buildings and the country's only vintage chairlift – all sited on a 40-acre wooded hillside with a rich geological history.

To book for groups of 10+ visitors, theme tours (differ in min/max number of visitors) such as Ghost Walk, Dr Dudley Tour or Wake Up the Zoo tour, special needs visits and educational visits, please contact the Zoo on +44 (0)1384 215 313 or e-mail andrea.marketing@dudleyzoo.org.uk. You can find additional information here.

Opening times:
Monday – Sunday: 10:00 – last admission in winter is 15:00, in summer 16:00 (closed on Christmas day)

Click here to find out more.

 

Go Ape

Go Ape is the UK’s number one for forest adventure. You can fly down zip-wires, leap off the Tarzan Swing and tackle the crossings whilst enjoying some of Britain’s most breathtaking scenery. Cannock Chase also offers the exciting Forest Segway safari. It is an ideal day out for large groups!

GoApe caters for groups between 15-280 people. To book, get a quote or request more information please contact GoApe on +44 (0)845 643 9314.

Opening times:
Opening times vary depending on daylight hours, please check the official website for up-to-date information.

Click here to find out more. 

 

Heritage Motor Centre

The Heritage Motor Centre is home to the world’s largest collection of British Cars; it boasts nearly 300 cars in its collection, which span the classic, vintage and veteran eras and is an absolute must visit attraction for all car enthusiasts.

The Centre offers discounted entry and café prices for pre-booked groups of 12+ visitors, along with organizer and driver benefits, a private guided tour, discounted rides on the Land Rover off-road experience and free coach parking. To book a visit or request more information please contact the Centre on +44 (0)1926 645032 or to book an education visit call the Education Department on +44 (0)1926 645128.

Opening times:
Monday – Friday: 10:00 – 17:00
(Closed 24 December to 1 January inclusive)

Click here to find out more.

 

Ikon Gallery

The Ikon Gallery is an English gallery of contemporary art, located in Brindley Place and housed in the neo-gothic former Oozells Street School built in 1877. The gallery features temporary exhibitions with a variety of media is represented, including sound, film, mixed media, photography, painting, sculpture and installation.

Admission to the Gallery is free, no booking required. For current exhibitions please visit the official website.

Opening times:
Tuesday – Sunday: 11:00 – 18:00
Closed Mondays (except Bank Holidays) and during installation of exhibitions, please contact Ikon for details on +44 (0)121 248 0708.

Click here to find out more. 

 

Lapworth Museum of Geology

The Lapworth Museum of Geology has the finest and most extensive collections of fossils, minerals and rocks in the Midlands. A visit to the Lapworth Museum provides an insight into how the Earth formed and changed through time, and how life on earth developed and evolved.

Admission is free; however you are strongly advised to book in advance for group visits. Tours, talks and access to additional collections as well as visits outside normal opening times are available by prior arrangement on +44 (0)121 414 7294.

Opening times:
Monday - Friday: 9:00 – 17:00
Saturday & Sunday: 12:00 – 17:00
Closed over the Christmas and New Year period, for specific dates please contact the Museum on +44 (0)121 414 7294.

Click here to find out more. 

 

mac birmingham (Midlands Arts Centre)

mac birmingham offers a busy programme of theatre, dance, independent cinema, exhibitions and special events, as well as a wealth of practical classes in all aspects of creativity, from playing musical instruments to ceramics and jewellery-making.

As a group of up to 12 people, you can take part in a building tour, which illustrates the development of mac birmingham from the very beginning up until present day. To book a tour and get a quote, please contact mac birmingham on +44 (0)121 446 3232. Group discounts and offers are available.

Opening times:
Tuesday – Saturday: 12:00 – 20:00
Sunday: 11:00 – 16:00
Closed Mondays except for Bank Holidays, for Christmas & New Year’s opening times, please contact mac on +44 (0)121 446 3232.
The Arena and Terrace Galleries are open 9:00 – 22:00.

Click here to find out more. 

 

National Sea Life Centre

The National Sea Life Centre is an aquarium with over 60 displays of freshwater and marine life in Brindley Place. You can see feeding demonstrations throughout the day, hold a crab and watch a short movie in a 4D cinema.

Due to limited availability, group bookings in advance are essential. Discounted prices for groups of 10+ are available including a number of benefits, such as free downloadable Activity Packs, free admission to the 4D Cinema, half price guide book and 10% saving in the gift shop. Special packages are available for schools and birthday parties. To book contact the Sea Life Centre on +44 (0)871 423 2110 or book online.

Opening times:
Monday – Friday: 10:00 – 17:00
Saturday & Sunday, school holidays: 10:00 – 18:00 (excluding Christmas Day)
Last admission is 1 hour before closing time.

Click here to find out more. 

 

Royal Air Force Museum Cosford

The Royal Air Force Museum Cosford offers a fun, entertaining day out for all the family or a group of friends. Situated next to an active airfield, this is the only place in the Midlands where you can get close to so many breathtaking aircraft for free.

Admission to the Museum is free of charge; however you can pre-book an organized group tour of max 12 people, which has a set charge. If your group would like an in-depth tour of the aircraft including specific technical information, please contact the Museum on +44 (0)1902 376 200. Please give as much notice as possible to guarantee availability. Special group tours are available, for instance for birthday parties, scouts and schools. To book or request more information please contact the Museum on +44 (0)1902 376 217 or fill in an online form here.

Opening times:
March – October: Monday – Sunday: 10:00 – 18:00 (last entry 17:00)
November – February: Monday - Sunday 10:00 – 17:00 (last entry 16:00)
Opening times differ in different parts of the Museum, please check online on the official website for specific opening times

Click here to find out more. 

 

Sarehole Mill

The 200-year-old mill at Sarehole is one of only two surviving watermills in Birmingham. The local landscape also provided inspiration for the stories of JRR Tolkien who spent his childhood here.

To book a visit please contact the Mill on +44 (0)121 303 3890 or e-mail Lorna.Harris@birmingham.gov.uk. 

Opening times:
Please note Sarehole Mill is only open for spring and summer season, therefore you are advised to check opening times in advance by calling +44 (0)121 303 3890.

Click here to find out more.

 

Selly Manor Museum

Selly Manor Museum is in the heart of Bournville village and is a focus for events, activities, educational visits and weddings. There are two ancient timber-framed buildings open to everyone.

Selly Manor Museum offers both education group tours for school and adult group tours providing information on the history of the buildings as well as their beautiful period furniture collection, all tours are guided. To find out more or to book a tour, see group visits page or contact the Museum on +44 (0)121 472 0199 or e-mail sellymanor@bvt.org.uk.

Opening times:
Tuesday – Friday: 10:00 – 17:00 (all year)
Saturday & Sunday: 14:00 – 17:00 (from Easter to the end of September)
Closed over Christmas & New Year

Click here to find out more

 

Soho House

Soho House was once a regular meeting place for some of the greatest minds of the 18th century. They were collectively known as the Lunar Society and Soho was one of the venues where they discussed ideas and presented discoveries that continue to affect our lives today.

Admission charges apply to the House only. Gardens, grounds and visitor facilities are free to all visitors. To book a guided group tour please contact Soho House on +44 (0)121 5549122.

Opening times:
Please note Soho House is only open for spring and summer season, therefore you are advised to check opening times in advance by calling +44 (0)121 5549122.

Click here to find out more. 

 

St Martin in the Bull Ring (Birmingham Parish Church)

The most ancient of Birmingham's churches, St. Martin has been the focal point of the markets area since the 12th century. Inside is the oldest monument in the city, a 1325 effigy of the Lord of the Manor Sir William de Bermingham.

Group visit bookings (for maximum of 40 visitors at a time) are essential, for both guided and self-guided tours. To book please contact the Parish Office on +44 (0)121 600 6020.

Opening times:
Guided tours are available at these times:
Monday: 10:00-16:00
Wednesday: 12:00-16:00
Thursday: 10:00-12:00
However it is possible to book a tour outside of these hour by pre-arrangement.

Click here to find out more.

 

Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum

From steam engines to intestines, Thinktank has over 200 hands-on displays on science and technology from the past, present and future. With an ever-changing programme of workshops, classes, laboratory sessions and interactive science shows, there’s always something new to discover for groups of young explorers!

Group bookings are available for groups of 10+ visitors. Group tickets can be purchased on the day, however advance booking is recommended as capacity may be limited. +44 (0)121 202 2244.

Opening times:
Monday – Sunday: 10:00 – 17:00 (last admission at 16:00)
Closed over Christmas period, please check for seasonal opening hours before your visit

Click here to find out more. 

 

Warwick Castle

Warwick Castle is not your average castle. It is full to the turrets with dramatic shows, interactive experiences, storytelling, demonstrations, activities and more.

To book a group visit and get discounted rates, please refer to the group visits website or contact Warwick Castle on +44 (0)871 222 6688.

Opening times:
The Castle is open daily throughout the year from 10:00 (closed Christmas day). Please see the website for closing times as they may vary throughout the season.

Click here to find out more.

 

Winterbourne House & Garden

Only minutes from Birmingham city centre, Winterbourne House and Garden is a country house beyond the countryside. With beautiful period exhibition rooms and a 7 acre garden to explore, there is much to delight discerning group travellers.

Guided tours for 15+ visitors through the garden can be arranged during normal opening times. School group tours can also be accommodated. To book or request more information please contact the Winterbourne House & Garden on +44 (0)121 414 3003.

Opening times:
Vary due to seasonal changes please refer to the website for up-to-date opening times. 

Click here to find out more.