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Places Of Interest in Birmingham |
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Begin the tourist trail
right in the heart of the city and you can’t help but notice
the impressive Birmingham Town Hall [map]. Built in 1832 by Hansom (who was also responsible for the Hansom Cab) the Birmingham Town Hall has an illustrious history and has opened its doors to composers Mendelssohn and Elgar as well as leading jazz musicians and, more recently, pop groups. Next head to the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery [map], which contains an impressive collection of pre-Raphaelite paintings, glass, ceramics, and natural history exhibitions. Get away from the hustle and bustle, and head to the Birmingham Botanical Gardens [map] which is a real hub of tranquillity. The gardens were designed by JC Loudon in 1832 to provide a green space in which Victorians could relax. Today those gardens contain more than 15 acres of Mediterranean and tropical flowers and plants, as well as a birdhouse containing many exotic breeds and a Bonsai collection. Head a little further out and you’ll reach The Jewellery Quarter [map]. This area is home to dozens of shops offering bespoke jewellery services, as well as a working museum. From here you can enjoy a guided tour of the Quarter, business centre and workshops. Sarehole Mill [map] is Birmingham’s only working water mill, and its neighbouring marsh land provided inspiration for JR Tolkien, who was to create The Middle Earth saga. The mill is open from April to October and members of the public can see this fascinating historical building in action. Treat the children, or anyone in your family with a sweet tooth, by taking them to Cadbury World [map] at Bournville. This fascinating complex has developed over the years since George and Richard Cadbury first moved their chocolate factory to this area of England back in 1879. Cadbury World is an exciting museum that should appeal to even the very young, whilst the village is a beautiful example of period architecture. Soho House Museum [map] in Handsworth is the elegant home of industrial pioneer and entrepreneur Matthew Boulton who lived there from 1766 to 1809. This was possibly the first centrally heated English house since Roman times and has been restored to its 18th century appearance, with period room settings (including some of Boulton's own furniture). Displays tell the story of this fascinating man and his factory and family. There is a visitor centre with a permanent exhibition on the Lunar Society, and a temporary exhibition gallery. If you want to comment on our choices or recommend somewhere, why not use our What You Recommend form to let us know. |
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