If you're after a day that mixes creativity, calm exploration, and amazing culture, Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter (JQ) should be high on your list - and it’s even just been awarded World Craft City status, one of only eight in all of Europe!

We followed local creative Sophie on a sunshine-filled stroll through one of the city’s most inspiring neighbourhoods, from handcrafted treasures to hot sauce tastings and unexpected dance workshops.
 


Morning inspiration at Birmingham Design Shop

Sophie kicked off her day at Birmingham Design Shop at The Jointworks – a bright, beautifully curated space tucked inside one of the area’s historic buildings. She only meant to pop in for a new notepad. “I went in for one thing,” she laughs, “but could’ve stayed for hours just looking.”

With shelves full of work by local makers – think hand-thrown ceramics, indie zines, and playful prints – it's the kind of place where ideas start flowing just by being there. A perfect place to pick up a little something unique (or accidentally start your next home makeover).
 


Hands-on creativity at The Quarter Workshop

Next stop: The Quarter Workshop, where Sophie got stuck into a ring-making class. “I’d never done anything like that before,” she says, “but it was such a fun way to be creative – and I came away with something I made myself.”

The experience was slow, meditative, and completely hands-on, a rare chance to switch off from screens and tune into the satisfying rhythm of craft. Plus, walking away with a ring you made yourself? That’s a serious souvenir.
 


Lunch and local flavour at St Paul’s Square

After her workshop, Sophie made her way over to St Paul’s Square, where the monthly Artisan Market was in full swing. The square was buzzing – a mix of stalls, music, and locals soaking up the sunshine.

One standout? A small-batch hot sauce from Pip’s. “I loved the story behind it – and it tastes amazing,” Sophie says. The market is full of finds like that: from homemade bakes to handmade candles, there’s always something new to discover (and snack on).
 


An afternoon pause at Viela Café

Later in the day, Sophie stumbled across Viela Café – a quiet, creative space tucked just off the main street. She walked in just as a Brazilian dance workshop was kicking off. “It was so lively and joyful – I’ve never seen anything like it,” she says.

While the dancing brought energy, the café itself offered a calm space, with long tables for writing, great coffee, and a kind of atmosphere that makes you want to linger. Sophie grabbed a seat, scribbled some thoughts, and soaked in the atmosphere. “I just felt completely at ease,” she says.
 


Plan your own day in the JQ

From handcrafted rings to hot sauce tastings, Sophie’s day in the Jewellery Quarter was full of colour, character and Birmingham charm.

“I’d highly recommend the JQ,” she says. “It was such a wonderful day, full of creativity, sunshine and proper Birmingham charm. I’m definitely excited to go back.”

Whether you're a local looking for new corners to explore or planning your next trip into the city, the JQ has a little magic for everyone.
 

Discover more inspiring days out across Birmingham and make the Jewellery Quarter your next stop.