Birmingham Good To Go!

With a long, hot summer ahead of us it’s reassuring to know that the majority of the city’s attractions and many places to stay have been certified by VisitBritain as ‘We’re Good To Go’.

So many of Birmingham’s businesses have been going that extra mile over the last year to ensure the safety of visitors and their employees. We’ve seen a lot of changes over the past year, such as alfresco dining, online ordering, contactless payments and businesses upping their game on social media. And despite COVID-19 restrictions being eased, some changes are here to stay along with other measures designed to keep you safe.

There are so many things to do, shows to see and places to stay so we’ve pulled together a list of businesses with the ‘We’re Good To Go’ safety mark. We already know that Birmingham is the best-connected city outside of the capital so getting around on a day out couldn’t be easier.

Fun things to do in Birmingham

Thinktank has rightly been shortlisted for the Family Friendly Museum Award last month and is just one of many attractions to keep the kids entertained over the summer break. Family favourites Cadbury World and the National Sealife Centre are also certified with ‘We’re Good To Go’.

Reconnecting with history & culture

It’s the perfect time to rediscover the history on our doorsteps. Historic houses Aston Hall and Blakesley Hall have both recently reopened, and like their fellow Birmingham Museums, all possess the We’re Good To Go’ mark. Also certified is Positively Birmingham Tours who are running guided walks around the city and canals and launched their new public art trail this summer.

Over at the University of Birmingham, there are three certified attractions on campus at Winterbourne House and Gardens, the Barber Institute of Fine Arts and Lapworth Museum of Geology.

And many of the city’s fine cultural establishments also have green the stamp of approval including Birmingham Hippodrome, Birmingham Rep, the Crescent Theatre, MAC and Birmingham Symphony Hall.

And keep your eyes peeled for the return of two prestigious festivals taking place outdoors this year. The Birmingham Weekender will take over the Bullring, Grand Central and Market on August Bank Holiday weekend whilst the Birmingham International Dance Festival will run a series of live open air performances from 21 September to 3 October.

A place to stay

If it’s going to be a late one or you need somewhere to drop off the shopping bags, why not treat yourself and make it a city break. There are plenty of places to stay overnight from major hotel chains to small boutiques. If you’re after a bit more independence, then there are several aparthotels and self-catering options to choose from including the iconic Staying Cool at the Rotunda.

A summer of sport

There are several leisure and sporting activities in Birmingham on the ‘We’re Good To Go’ scheme. Ackers Adventure provides COVID-secure outdoor activities, and you’ll have peace of mind watching the Hundred at Edgbaston, playing at the prestigious home of tennis at Edgbaston Priory Club or taking a dip at the exquisite Moseley Road Baths.

And don’t forget to check the business’s website for the latest updates on safety procedures and current opening times – Know Before You Go.