Taking place between 15-24 March 2024, English Tourism Week celebrates the value and quality of the incredible tourist attractions that we have in England, making it a fantastic place to visit.
It's time to rediscover Birmingham and the West Midlands and all of the unique and interesting things to see and do, the extraordinary selection of attractions, restaurants, hotels, culture and events.
Carry on reading to learn how to have a Brummie good time!
1. Explore the Jewellery Quarter
Did you know 40% of the UKs jewellery is from right here in the heart of Birmingham?
The Jewellery Quarter (JQ) is a historic and vibrant gem found in Birmingham and has a fascinating history spanning over 250 years. Since the 1800s this quarter has been a hub for jewellery making and home to some of the most highly skilled and talented jewellery makers and goldsmiths in the world.
When exploring the JQ, be sure to enter into a macabre world at The Coffin Works. This museum is a rare and wonderfully preserved example of Victorian engineering, which produced some of the finest coffin furniture, including fittings for the funerals of Sir Winston Churchill, Joseph Chamberlain and the Queen Mother.
As most of the furnishings have been left untouched, you’ll truly feel like you have stepped into a time capsule!
2. Discover Birmingham’s spectacular canals!
You probably already know that Birmingham has more canals than Venice. Not only that, but it is full of hidden gems and is studded with gorgeous scenery - some of which you’ll only be able to see on a boat tour.
You’ll be able to discover the city’s beautiful canals on a relaxing Sherborne Warf Heritage Narrowboat. Situated on Birmingham's historic 'Main Line' route, Sherborne Warf is a reminder of the city's Victorian might. On your journey, you’ll drift past historic sites and take in modern landmarks such as the National Indoor Arena and the charming Gas Street Basin.
Great British Boating will make your trip to the canals a truly unique experience. This service offers a range of canal boat holidays and has all of the information you need to plan and make the most of your time.
Just to add for all of you Steven Knight fans, the canals were also an inspiration for hit TV show Peaky Blinders!
3. Explore the world of JRR Tolkien at Sarehole Mill
Part of the Tolkien Trail, this watermill, dating back to the 16th century was a key inspiration for the author’s stories, in particular ‘Lord of the Rings’ and ‘The Hobbit’.
With its permanent exhibition ‘Signposts to Middle-earth’, you’ll be able to learn all about what inspired this author. This family-friendly exhibition explores the connections of Tolkien with Sarehole Mill and the surrounding area, and is definitely a must see!
4. Be inspired and learn about the city’s diverse history all at once!
Birmingham is home to some of the nation’s favourite museums and art galleries, such as the Barber Institute of Fine Arts, Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery (BMAG) and Ikon. These wonderful institutions regularly play host to an array of inspiring exhibitions and installations as well as showcasing art from artists all around the globe.
5. Sit back and relax at Winterbourne House and Garden
Winterbourne House is a hidden gem tucked away in the leafy district of Edgbaston, minutes away from the city centre. It is a rare surviving example of an early 20th century suburban villa and garden.
First owners of the home, Margaret and John Nettlefold lovingly crafted the garden, using the books of Gertrude Jekyll as guides and inspiration. The garden was further changed by its third owner, John Nicolson who added features such as a Japanese bridge and scree garden. Now the botanical garden is used for study and relaxation by students, and research by the School of Botany.
6. Get creative in Digbeth!
Get creative and explore Birmingham’s cool and quirky quarter, Digbeth.
Walking around Digbeth, you’ll notice that the walls are covered with beautiful street art. The free Walk Run Cycle Birmingham app allows you to fully appreciate its beauty on a self-guided tour around the neighbourhood.
Also find here the Custard Factory, a creative space filled with some of the quirkiest independent retailers, bars and attractions such as Golf Fang, Birdies Bar, NQ64, Luna Springs and more!
7. Take in the breath taking city with a heritage tour!
As you have probably realised, Birmingham is one of the most interesting and photogenic cities around. If you want to appreciate all that this city has to offer, go on a unique walking sightseeing tour.
You will be able to discover the city's beauty, history, hidden gems, waterways and perhaps a few interesting fun facts!
Related
Birmingham's award-winning independent museum The Coffin Works is a truly unique space exploring the social history and cultural changes that have influenced a once highly-prestigious Jewellery Quarter firm.
Discover Birmingham’s Canals and its Industrial Heritage on one of Sherborne Wharf’s luxury passenger narrowboats.
Sarehole Mill is a 250 year old working watermill famous for its association with author J.R.R Tolkien.
Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery is currently closed for essential infrastructure works. BMAG is planned to re-open to visitors in 2024 – the exact date is to be confirmed.
Ikon is Birmingham's leading contemporary art gallery. Located in a dramatic Victorian building - formerly a boarding school - Ikon presents a regular programme of exhibitions, events, learning workshops and seminars.
Restored to its Edwardian Arts and Craft splendour, Winterbourne House is a unique heritage attraction – set within seven acres of beautiful botanic gardens.
Set in 15 acres of beautifully restored Victorian Factories, just a short walk from the Bullring, the iconic Custard Factory is the heart of Birmingham’s buzzing creative quarter
Welcome to NQ64, neon splattered drinking dens full of retro arcade games and classic consoles.
We are not your average crazy golf course and don’t do things by half! With 18 holes of pure entertainment in an environment surrounded by bespoke art, giving you something new to explore and be inspired by at every turn.
London-based Adventure Bar Group – of famed late-night venues Tonight Josephine, Adventure Bar, Blame Gloria, Bar Elba and The Escapologist
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