Free and Low-Cost Things to Do in Birmingham

‘Nothing in this life is free’! Well, that’s not exactly true if you are visiting Birmingham and the West Midlands - There’s plenty to enjoy in the region if you’re visiting on a budget!

Here’s a taster of some things you can do for absolutely nothing.

If you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle of this exciting city or to find a peaceful place to watch the world go by, why not take a walk along one of Birmingham's canals? With so much to do and see, the canal is ideal for spending time with your family and friends. Or just bring yourself and a book or binoculars for moments of peaceful solitude.

Take a self guided tour along the pathways of Brum, or wander through Digbeth and enjoy the contemporary, graffiti art that decorates the walls. Maybe you fancy a bit of Shopping in the City? In that case, head over to the cosmopolitan Brindleyplace and the stylish Mailbox where you can indulge in some of the premier shopping outlets and eateries in the city. The city skyline, from St Philip’s Cathedral and Birmingham Central Mosque to the iconic Selfridges building, illustrates Birmingham’s unique fusion of cultures, its industrial heritage and bold future. Make sure you pop into the historic Birmingham Town Hall concert venue too. It’s stunning! Symphony Hall has a number of free concerts and events throughout the year across a wide range of musical genres including folk, jazz classical and family.

A visit to the Library of Birmingham is a must.. An outdoor Amphitheatre, surrounded by wild flower planting, in Centenary Square provides a performance space for music, drama, poetry reading and storytelling.  There are two outdoor garden terraces, children’s spaces and a panoramic viewing gallery at the summit, where visitors are able to enjoy stunning views from one of the highest points in the city.

If you’re looking to relax, spend a lazy hour in one of our beautiful parks, admire the narrow boats as they float under Broad Street bridge or listen to some lunchtime jazz in Symphony Hall.

Alternatively, why not spend a few hours at Eastside City Park - the first urban park created in Birmingham for 130 years. Features include include 310 trees, formal lawns, public squares and a canal feature running 188m and incorporating 21 jet fountains. The park also incorporates the existing Science Garden, which forms part of the neighbouring Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum.

No visit would be complete without calling into the outstanding Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery with an everchanging programme of exhibits to enjoy.

Free attractions and activities in Birmingham