Birmingham Library

Birmingham: Things to Do

The Best Sights and Experiences

Home to more canals than Venice, legendary architecture and beautiful parks, post-industrial Birmingham is one of the few large UK cities that still manages to cling to its village vibe. Although the city is known for its factories, curries, ‘spaghetti’ junction and that accent that nobody quite understands, there’s a lot more to the real Birmingham that warrants exploration.

See the many destinations below and be sure to download our complete Birmingham City Guide, which has a map and detailed information on many points of interest.

Explore Birmingham, city of contrasts

Check out our expertly curated local area guide by category:

Great Western Arcade

Great Western Arcade

Located in the heart of Birmingham’s shopping district, Great Western Arcade is the hub of thriving independent retail in the city. With entrances on Temple Row and Colmore Row, it is the perfect place to deviate from the monotony of the high street and uncover the most unique finds. Learn More

Ikon Gallery

Ikon Gallery

Started by a group of University of Birmingham Art Students 20 years ago, Ikon is the place to go for modern art, books and gifts. Or even coffee. Learn More

Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery

Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery

Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery has a collection of international importance covering fine art, ceramics, metalwork, jewellery, natural history, archaeology, ethnography, local history and industrial history. Learn More

Library of Birmingham

Library of Birmingham

The Library of Birmingham is a public library, it is situated on the west side of the city centre at Centenary Square and has been described as the largest public library in the UK. Learn More

National Sea Life Centre

National Sea Life Centre

The National Sea Life Centre is an aquarium with over 60 displays of freshwater and marine life. From the entrancing 360-degree sea tunnel to the penguin colony, the Sea Life Centre is the pride of the Midlands and a fantastic way to spend a day for all ages. Learn More

Thinktank Science museum

ThinkTank Science Museum

Thinktank, Birmingham’s award winning science museum, offers an enlightening and fun packed day out for the family. Learn More

Cadbury World

Cadbury World

A fun chocolate day trip to one of the UK’s most popular family attractions. Learn all about chocolate and watch Cadbury make its treats. There’s a cafe, demonstrations, a shop of course, and different play environments. Careful not to leave with a stomach ache. Learn More

Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park

Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park

Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park is a small zoo on the edge of Cannon Hill Park in Birmingham. As well as catering to tourists and locals, the zoo is actively involved in many scientific programmes, such as the EEP captive breeding programmes with endangered animals, helping to highlight the plight of the world’s biodiversity through educational talks and campaigns. Learn More

LEGOLAND Discovery Centre

LEGOLAND Discovery Centre

Legoland Discovery Centre is an indoor family attraction chain operated by British leisure group Merlin Entertainments. Featuring models and attractions inspired by the Lego building toys. Learn More

Acker's Adventure

Acker’s Adventure

For more action-filled days out with the family in Birmingham, Ackers Adventure will prove to be the perfect activity. Suitable for all children of 5 years old and more. This outdoor adventure park offers a wide variety of sporting activities, from climbing, kayaking and skiing. Learn More

Park Regis Children's Afternoon Tea

Park Regis Children's Afternoon Tea

Everyone loves a tea party and here at Park Regis Birmingham our Afternoon Tea is one to make it a day the whole family can enjoy. Learn More

Birmingham shopping centre guide

Bullring & Grand Cental

Contemporary, landmark mall with diverse high-street fashion and household shops, plus restaurants and bars. When combined with Grand Central to which it is connected via a link bridge it is the UK’s largest city centre based shopping centre. Learn More

Harvey Nichols Birmingham

Harvey Nichols

High-end emporium popular with fashionistas, plus beauty products, gourmet foods and a cafe. Learn More

Selfridges Birmingham

Selfridges

Selfridges, Birmingham, is a branch of one of Britain’s most famous and luxurious shops. It sells just about everything from shoes to sunglasses and sweets to stationery. Learn More

Jewellery Quarter

Jewellery Quarter

Home to more diamond rings, finishing touches and tokens of love than anywhere else in the country, this is the beating heart of the nation’s jewellery manufacturing. An estimated 40% of British jewellery is made in Birmingham’s unique Jewellery Quarter. Learn More

Interactive Map

Park Regis Birmingham is centrally located to connect you with iconic attractions, destinations and shopping strips. Our interactive map below allows you to click on our recommendation locations to visit when staying at Park Regis Birmingham.