Forget the tourist traps! Ditch the crowded itineraries. Birmingham, a city that could easily be used as a set for a historical movie, is a chance to see and experience the city as a local on your vacation. Let us take you on a journey through different aspects of Birmingham.
Explore the Most Authentic Places for Those Who are Willing to Experience Something Unique.
1. Accommodation
The personalities of different hotel chains can be impersonal and unattractive to tourists. Hence, the serviced apartments in Birmingham can make you feel like you are in the city centre. Most neighbourhoods have nice apartments which can make you feel at home and at the same time in the action. How about a cup of coffee while you are basking in the spirit of the creative energy of the Jewellery Quarter? Or may be you want to go to Digbeth Custard Factory to explore the artistic scene? You are in control of your local vibe while having the option to choose where to explore with your new friends.
2. Breakfast
The fry-up will make your morning nice and strong. A greasy spoon or a trendy brunch spot? The choice is yours but the goal is the same. Go for the plate loaded with all of the sausages, bacon, eggs, baked beans, tomatoes, mushrooms and black pudding. There could also be a hash brown to go with it. Leaving the grit behind, wash it down with a strong cup of builder's tea, the local favourite. Feeling lighter? In Birmingham, the bakeries that are not chain stores are the best places to get tasteful and fresh pastries, breads or whatever else you need. Fill up the tank and let's hit the road to tackle the town!
3. Canal Cruise
The canal cruise is one of the best ways to explore Birmingham's beautiful canal network, a secret treasure. Climb on board a canal boat and take a new look at the city. While you smoothly rip in the peaceful watercourses, you will go through the historic industrial places, lively neighbourhoods, and modern developments. Brindley Place, where the canals are nicely renovated and the architectural line is modern, really deserves a visit. Grab your picnic basket and enjoy the peacefulness in the midst of the city chaos.
4. Museums
Birmingham is a city with museums for different branches of human knowledge. Step back into the city's industrial past at the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery or the Thinktank that shows the world of transport. Art fans will have something to see at the Ikon Gallery's contemporary shows, and history lovers can take their time in Sarehole Mill, "J.R.R. Tolkien's childhood home. But don't miss also to pay a visit to the small, special museums like the Pen Museum or the chocolate experience at the Cadbury World.
5. The Culinary Spectrum of Birmingham
Birmingham has a culinary scene that represents the fusion of flavours from all around the world. Take the tour of the bustling street food at Digbeth Dining Club that features independent vendors selling jerk chicken, vegan burgers, and much more. Explore the divine Balti curries in the Balti Triangle or the exquisite Chinese cuisines in the Chinatown District. If you want to taste pure bread from a local bakery, then you are better off getting a "cob," which is a crusty bread roll filled with your preferred savoury filling. Vegans too won't be left out as Birmingham features varieties of vegan foods for all of us.
6. Pub Culture
No Birmingham experience is quite authentic without paying a visit to one of the traditional pubs. People gather there for fun and socializing, and these historic watering holes have a central location in the city. Walk into an intimate pub and ask for a pint of real ale. You will then immerse yourself in the pub's distinctive character. In conversation with the locals, hang out to live music, or just watch the game on the TV. Standing for both the city's rich cultural heritage and modern innovation, the pub scene in Birmingham offers an array of choices, from the traditional Victorian boozers to the contemporary gastropubs with craft beers on tap.
7. Hidden Gems
Take off the beaten path and explore the secret spots of Birmingham. Discover the rich green Cannon Hill Park with its boating lake and botanical garden where you may relax and enjoy the tranquillity. Surround yourself amidst the trendy boutiques and cafes at Kings Heath neighborhood. Go on a day-trip to Cadbury World in Bournville or visit the massive National Trust property that is The Blakesley Hall.
8. Nightlife
The city of Birmingham becomes vibrant from the moment the sun sets. The Custard Factory transforms into a place where like-minded individuals meet, with live music for every taste. Brindleyplace has a lot of fun cocktail bars and high-end eateries. As well, Digbeth Underground has a reputation of hosting live music events, both local and international. Whatever your choice it, Birmingham has the right entertainment for every mood.
9. The Last Touches
To have the real feel of a local, go for a last-minute holidays Birmingham package. A great deal of local businesses arrange accessible tours and events to allow you to feel the city life from a Brummie's perspective. Find out about the local street art with a guided walking tour or a canal cruise featuring a commentary on the city's history.
10. Embrace Unpredictability
Being a local in Birmingham is absolutely amazing because of the element of surprise that comes with it. Walk along a secondary street and you will probably find a cozy cafe. Try to have a casual chat with a local person and be surprised what a great place they know. Don't just go by the book, let the city flow naturally, and you could end up creating memories that go beyond what the average tourist encounters.
11. Packing Tips
Birmingham weather is changeable, so it is necessary to take layers. An advanced waterproof jacket is a must, especially if you are going to investigate the canals. Comfortable shoes are inevitable for city navigation on foot. Remember bringing a power adapter if you travel from abroad and bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
12. Brummie Lingo:
Equip yourself with a few basic Brummie phrases to truly blend in. Here are a few handy ones:
- "Alright?" (A casual greeting)
- "Bab" (Term of endearment, used for friends or strangers)
- "Cofta" (Jacket or coat)
- "Cheers!" (Thank you)
- "Egg and Cress" (Yes)
- "Na bother" (No problem)
13. Eco-Friendly Travel
Birmingham is equipped with numerous environmentally-friendly options for the green-loving tourists. Plenty of holiday apartments are in green projects, and the city is well known for a vast public transport system. Maybe instead of buying a single ticket, you can get a travel card that allows you to travel as much as you want using public transportation services. An electric tour boat is a great option while visiting canals. Little things may seem tiny, but every little choice can create a vast impact!
14. Brummie Souvenirs
Surpass the habitual tourist souvenirs and look for the products that tell the Birmingham story. Explore the Jewellery Quarter and buy an adornment from the local craftsmen or visit the record stores in Digbeth for an original vinyl record. Foodies are guaranteed to enjoy local delicacies such as HP Sauce (a spicy brownish sauce) or Cadbury chocolates.
When your Birmingham adventure to a close, do not also forget to depart like a local. Give thanks to the employees at your condo, go to a local bakery enjoy a last pastry before you leave, and offer a toast to your newfound love of the city and its liveliness. Birmingham might have taken you by surprise but it is assured that it will end up creating a lasting memory for you. Therefore, drop the touristic route and get involved in the full, Birmingham style. Discover the city as a native, eat the food of locals, and live the life locals do. Birmingham gives the traveller a chance to unwire and see what the city has to offer in the way of hidden treasures and of course, the warmth of the Brummies.
