Location: Birmingham
Top Things to do in Birmingham
10 Historic Sites in Birmingham That You Shouldn't Miss
The geographical heart of England, Birmingham started life as a sixth- century Anglo-Saxon village. Today, much of this city of over a million dates back to post-WWII redevelopment in the 1950s and 60s. Cutting edge museums and galleries, innovative theaters and excellent shopping have contributed to Birmingham's appeal as a weekend break destination. Don't miss the hopping bars and cafes of Gas Street Basin or the fascinating creatures at the National Sea Life Centre.
Restaurants in Birmingham
1. The Zoot Palace
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
Ultimate stoner paradise.
2. Birmingham Back to Backs
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 3,664 reviews
Reviewed By lesh244 - Birmingham, United Kingdom
Finally got around to booking (essential) in for the tour and was not disappointed, the rooms are so small that only a few people can be accommodated on each tour! Our guide was well informed and gave a very humourous guided tour During the 90 minute tour there are lots of narrow doorways and steep stairs, both up and down, to negotiate so you do need to be able bodied You are introduced to the ever changing history of the properties and its occupants with fascinating description of their lives and businesses There are lots of objects to see and handle to help you get a fuller picture of life in the back to back housing of the times There is a small museum to view and a visit to the sweet shop on the corner is an absolute must Please make sure to book so as not to be dissapointed when you are turned away, as all tours are fully booked, if you turn up on spec!
3. St Anne's Catholic Church
4. Steelhouse Lane Lock-up
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 166 reviews
Reviewed By 166daveyb - Birmingham, United Kingdom
Visited the famous steelhouse lane police station/ lock up (first time visit) ! Found it very interesting with volunteers around to give us information on the various exhibits and what life was like for staff and residents. There were 3 floors to explore and try out the cells and find out more information about this historic place. Excellent well worth a visit
5. Soho House
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 374 reviews
Soho House was the elegant home of the industrialist and entrepreneur Matthew Boulton from 1766 to 1809. The house has been beautifully restored and reflects the fashions and tastes of the late Georgian period. There’s also the chance to see some of the products of Boulton’s nearby factory – where buttons and buckles, clocks and vases, and silver and Sheffield plate tableware were made – and where he developed the steam engine in partnership with James Watt. Soho House was also a favourite meeting place of the Lunar Society, a leading Enlightenment group. The Lunar Society would meet every month on the night of the full moon to dine, conduct experiments, and discuss philosophical matters of the day. Members of the society included Erasmus Darwin, James Watt and Joseph Priestly who all gathered around the Lunar Room table and engaged in a lively exchange of ideas which inspired many new discoveries and inventions.
Reviewed By Pitchkid
Always wanted to visit Soho House, although the grounds and house are somewhat reduced in size from its early beginnings, I found it a fascinating place to visit and to learn more of the history of the pioneering Matthew Boulton, his home and his factory.
6. Old Grammar School, King's Norton
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 4 reviews
Dating back to the 15th century, this half-timbered building is one of the oldest of its kind in the Midlands.
7. Old Yardley School
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2 reviews
This 15th-century, half timbered building served originally as the Guild Hall, became a school until 1908, and currently contains a youth club and parish rooms.
8. Blakesley Hall
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 230 reviews
Grade II* Tudor house built c.1590. Wonderful gardens, shop, Herb Garden Cafe and family friendly events. Part of Birmingham Museums Trust. Site currently closed to the public due to COVID-19.
Reviewed By veldac2013 - Bloxwich, United Kingdom
Excellent tour of the house - today’s theme and talk was about ‘Women in Tudor Times’ as it is International Women’s Day this month. Friendly and incredibly knowledgeable volunteers and staff. House is run by the council but they have teamed up with the National Trust enabling half price entry - well worth £7 for two adults. Had the cream tea in the Herb Cafe. Very well presented with really friendly staff. Would thoroughly recommend. A hidden little gem of a property.
9. Winterbourne House and Garden
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,078 reviews
The Garden, tea room and shop are open daily 10.30pm to 5pm (last entry 4.30pm). The House remains closed until further notice. Restored to its Edwardian Arts and Craft splendour, Winterbourne House is a unique heritage attraction – set within seven acres of beautiful botanic gardens. Only minutes from Birmingham city centre, Winterbourne is a hidden gem – home to beautiful antiques and over 6,000 plant species from around the world. Wander along the woodland walk, stroll through the hazelnut tunnel, cross the 1930’s Japanese Bridge or simply soak up the tranquillity of this perfectly English Edwardian home.
Reviewed By hayla-lales - England, United Kingdom
Went here around four months ago with my friends. It's so beautiful and peaceful here. No noise from the city, it's in an almost countryfied area. Really lustrous, colourful gardens, with various little areas that are a little bit different and unique to each other. They have an orchard, a gorgeous Japanese bridge over a small pond, glass houses full of succulents and cacti, some really exquisite sites there, and all in its just a relaxing, pleasent walk through that you can take your time strolling around in, for as long as you want. House we couldn't see, but had some afternoon tea there and sat outside, good prices for tea and cake, really delicious as well. Not sure if the cakes are made there or bought in, or if they have the same cakes through the year or change the options around, but they have a good selection to pick from. Definitely will try and go back there when they're able to open the house to the public.
10. Saint Nicolas Place
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 12 reviews
The largest complex of mediaeval buildings in Birmingham. Beautifully restored in 2004 and available for hire as a venue for meetings, conferences, weddings and social events. We offer guided tours every Friday & Saturday at 11 a.m. & 2 p.m. Tours last about 1 1/2 hours. £5 or £4 for concessions. Group tours can be booked at any time for £4 per person.
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