Birmingham City – Your Quick Guide to the Best of the City
Thinking about a trip to Birmingham City or just curious about what’s happening around town? You’re in the right place. This guide pulls together the top sights, sports excitement, upcoming events and handy travel tips so you can make the most of your time without getting lost in the details.
What to See First
Start with the city centre. The Bullring offers shopping, food and a great view from the iconic Selfridges building. Just a short walk away, you’ll find the historic Library of Birmingham – a modern glass cube that houses exhibitions, a rooftop garden and free Wi‑Fi.
If you love museums, the Thinktank at Birmingham Science Museum is a family favourite. It mixes interactive displays with real‑world tech, from space capsules to vintage engines. For art lovers, the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery holds a solid collection of Pre‑Raphaelite works and contemporary pieces.
Sports and the Birmingham City Experience
Sports fans can’t miss a Birmingham City Football Club match at St Andrew’s. The atmosphere on a match day is electric – chants, local scarves and plenty of tea and toast for a true British feel. Grab a seat early, soak up the chants, and try the stadium’s famous onion rolls.
Beyond football, the city boasts a thriving motor‑sport scene. The Motorpoint Arena often hosts bike races, and nearby, the historic Barber Motorsports Park holds events that attract riders from across the UK. Check the event calendar on our site for the latest dates.
Looking for something more laid‑back? Join a local running club for a jog along the Canal and the River Rea. The routes are flat, scenic and perfect for a sunrise sprint.
When you’re ready to unwind, head to the Custard Factory in Digbeth. It’s a creative hub with street art, indie shops and live music. Grab a pint at a craft brewery and chat with locals about the next big event – you’ll hear about underground gigs before they hit the mainstream.
Travel around Birmingham City is straightforward. The metro (also called the ‘Midland Metro’) links the city centre to suburbs, while the extensive bus network reaches every corner. For cyclists, the city has over 100 miles of dedicated lanes – just follow the signs marked ‘Cycle City’. If you’re driving, park‑and‑ride sites on the outskirts let you avoid downtown traffic and save on parking fees.
Finally, keep an eye on our tag page for the latest Birmingham City stories. From new restaurant openings to upcoming music festivals, we update the list regularly so you’ll never miss a beat.
Whether you’re here for a quick weekend or a longer stay, Birmingham City offers a mix of history, modern vibes and sport that’s hard to beat. Use this guide, explore the neighbourhoods, and you’ll see why locals love calling this place home.