Tucked away just outside Birmingham’s city centre, Edgbaston is the kind of place that quietly shows off – leafy streets, grand old houses, and more hidden gems than you can tick off in a weekend. Here, you can wander through tropical glasshouses, ride a giant pedal swan, sip fine wine, and still make it to a cricket match before dinner.

It’s calm yet buzzing, historic yet effortlessly cool, and the food scene? Let’s just say your jeans better have some stretch. Here’s how to spend 48 hours eating, sipping, and exploring Birmingham’s hidden gem.
 


Day 1 – Gardens, wildlife and a touch of cricket magic


Morning: Botanical bliss and bakery bites

what3words: ///wakes.bike.riddle

Kickstart your visit at Birmingham Botanical Gardens, an elegant 15-acre oasis founded in 1832 and home to over 7,000 plant species from mini bonsai to towering tropical ferns. Stroll through four atmospheric glasshouses, from the arid desert zone to the steamy rainforest. Don’t forget the Japanese Garden and the National Bonsai Collection if you want to feel extra zen.

Once you've done your botanical homework, pop into Medicine Bakery for artisan pastries so good you’ll be stocking up for later. Trust us: their cruffins are legendary.


Mid-morning: Park life, swan rides and wild encounters

what3words: ///rush.shaped.tune

Next, keep the green energy going at Cannon Hill Park. Glide around the lake on pedal-powered swans, then hop over to the Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park. Expect cheeky lemurs, adorable red pandas, and a herd of capybaras for good measure.

Wrap this mini safari up with a dash of culture at the Midlands Arts Centre, which can be found right on-site with rotating exhibitions. After your artistic hit, head to the gallery’s Kiln Café for a flat white and sweet treat, ideal while people-watching in the park.
 


Afternoon: Cricket, cheers and an electric atmosphere

what3words: ///belong.maple.others

What's Edgbaston without cricket? If there’s a match at Edgbaston Stadium, grab a ticket and dive into the action. The cheers, the suspense, the fancy dress – it’s live sport at its finest. Even if you’re not the sporty type, you’re sure to have a ball.


Dinner: Pizza, posh plates and pub feasts

Hungry? You’ve got options:

  • Baloci: Step into this grand Silk Road-inspired hideaway for rich Pan-Asian flavours spanning Lahore to Istanbul. It’s plush, dramatic, and unapologetically luxurious. The best part? You don’t have to leave when the plates are cleared – Baloci has a collection of individually themed suites, each dripping in opulence. Perfect if you want to turn dinner into a decadent overnight escape.
     
  • Chapter, The Highfield, The Physician: Gastro-pub gems offering everything from tasting menus to hearty classics. Pick your vibe, stuff your face, and toast to a day well spent.
     
  • Smoke and Ash: Wood-fired pizza heaven, charred crusts and bold toppings. A true indie gem.


Evening: Sip away at Loki Wine

what3words: ///shared.each.square

Stroll over to Loki Wine, a laid‑back, self‑serve wine bar where expert advice meets BYO‑friendly freedom. Sample flights, swirl, sip, and find your favourite grape with no pressure. The perfect cork‑cracking finale to a day well spent in the city.
 


Day 2 – Historic gardens, markets and waterside wanders
 

Morning: Edwardian elegance at Winterbourne

what3words: ///frosted.panel.title

Day two begins at Winterbourne House and Gardens, a beautifully restored Edwardian Arts and Crafts home surrounded by seven acres of lush botanical gardens. It’s like walking onto a period drama set – antique-filled rooms inside, and outside, over 6,000 plant species waiting to be explored.

Wander the woodland walk, slip through the hazelnut tunnel, and cross the 1930s Japanese Bridge before pausing for tea in the garden café. Just minutes from the city centre, this hidden gem feels like a world away.


Late morning: Cake & Culture

what3words: ///nasal.rinse.star

Forget your typical café hopping – Edgbaston has Cake and Culture, a spot that’s basically an edible art gallery. This independent spot is where beautifully decorated cakes meet equally stunning surroundings.

Think expertly-crafted layer cakes, decadent croissants (savoury AND sweet), and coffee that deserves its own Instagram account. It’s indulgent, it’s stylish, and it’s the perfect sugar-and-caffeine hit before you get back to exploring.
 


Afternoon: Artisan finds and secret green spaces

what3words Market: ///leave.miss.alien

what3words Gardens: ///lung.wants.panic

If your visit aligns, explore the 80 unique stalls at Edgbaston Artisan Market every second Saturday of the month – think handmade chocolates, quirky crafts, and delicious local food.

Then, retreat into the peaceful Martineau Gardens, a glorious hidden gem run by the community. Wildflowers, wildlife, and winding paths for when you want to get away from the market buzz.
 


Evening: Waterside walk or water sports thrills

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Wrap it up with the gorgeous Edgbaston Reservoir – originally a water body expanded by Thomas Telford in 1827, now a haven for wildlife and recreation. Choose your ending: a tranquil lakeside walk at sunset or adrenaline‑fuelled fun via Edgbaston Watersports. Paddle‑boarding, sailing, kayaking (they even offer disability‑friendly Sailability sessions) – no experience needed, just enthusiasm.
 


So there you have it: two glorious days of gardens, delicious bites, and good times in Edgbaston. Whether you’re here for cricket, culture, or carbs (we won’t make you choose), this leafy corner of Birmingham has you covered.

 

@visitbirmingham From tropical glasshouses and giant pedal swans to posh plates, indie pizza, artisan markets, and sunset walks by the reservoir – Edgbaston is serene, historic, and a true hidden gem. Come with us as we explore… 🥐 Incredible cafes - Cake & Culture is a real gem 🌺 Historic gardens 🦢 Swan boat rides in Cannon Hill park 🏏 Cricket energy at Edgbaston Stadium 🚶Waterside wanders 🍽️ Delicious dinner options like Chapter and Baloci Save for your next weekend in the city! @Warwickshire CCC @Cake & Culture @BALOCI ~ #edgbaston #edgbastoncricket #dayoutinbirmingham #thingstodobirmingham #weekendinbirmingham #birminghamuk #edgbastonbirmingham ♬ DANCING ALONE - Emmit Fenn