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 all the free 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.
A stroll along the canal takes you from cosmopolitan Brindleyplace to 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 n 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 has reopened, with exciting new exhibits to enjoy.
Must Visit
Lapworth Museum of Geology
The Lapworth Museum of Geology holds the finest and most extensive collections of fossils…
Sarehole Mill
There has been a mill on this site since 1542, but the current building dates from the…
The Library of Birmingham
Explore the Library of Birmingham & Shakespeare Memorial Room, a striking modern…
Cannon Hill Park
Cannon Hill Park is one of the premier parks in the city and has been awarded Green Flag…
Sutton Park
Sutton Park is a 2,400 acre National Nature Reserve and is one of the largest urban parks…
Midlands Arts Centre
Located in Cannon Hill Park, just two miles south of the city centre, we attract over…
- 7 minute read
Looking for budget-friendly ways to explore Birmingham and the West Midlands? Whether you're a history buff, art enthusiast, or nature lover, the region offers a huge range of free and low-cost attractions that promise amazing experiences without breaking the bank. Here's your ultimate…
Free attractions and activities in Birmingham
Birmingham Blog - Free Things to Do
Visiting Your Uni Student: A Parents and Family’s Guide to Birmingham and Beyond
- 7 minute read
So, your student has finally invited you to visit their new second home in Birmingham or the wider West Midlands. Whether they’re showing off where they call home, hoping for a food restock, or just missing your company (though they’ll never admit it), you’ll need a plan. To help you make the most…
Learn MoreThis Week in Birmingham and the West Midlands: Our Top Picks
- 1 minute read
There is so much to enjoy in Birmingham and the West Midlands this week! Get ready for a whole load of amazing events, from unique festivals to showstopping performances for all the family. Here are some of our top picks! Want even more? There’s so much to get up to in the region from 8-14…
Learn MoreThreads of Time: A Day at Birmingham Rag Market with Stallholder George
- 4 minute read
For George Winters, Birmingham’s Rag Market isn’t just a place to trade – it’s home. It’s where he grew up, learned the ropes from his dad, and found a community that feels like family. Today, as the owner of Wintage , his vintage clothing stall, George is carrying forward a legacy while shaping the…
Learn MoreTour of Britain 2025: Explore More of Warwickshire
- 4 minute read
Warwickshire is set to welcome the Tour of Britain 2025, as over 100 elite cyclists take on stage four of the UK’s premier professional race. On Friday 5 September, riders will set off from Atherstone and cover a challenging 116-mile route, culminating in a dramatic finish atop Burton Dassett Hills…
Learn MoreBehind the Beats: A Day in Birmingham’s Music Scene with Dee
- 3 minute read
Looking for a day trip that moves to the rhythm of community, creativity, and sonic exploration? Join Dee, DJ and event producer, as she steps out from the decks to showcase the vibrant music culture of Birmingham and the West Midlands. For Dee, music isn’t just about playing tracks – it’s about…
Learn MoreYour Go-To Student Guide: Explore Birmingham and the West Midlands Your Way
- 9 minute read
Welcome to Birmingham and the West Midlands, the region that has something for everyone – yes, even you, the student who’s lived off noodles for a week just to save for that one night out. Whether you’re a foodie, an adrenaline junkie, a culture vulture, or just looking to have a great time without…
Learn More