Places to visit on a short break in Birmingham

Step back in time at the Black Country Living Museum. It’s a rare glimpse into Britain’s industrial past, where you can stroll recreated streets, visit vintage factories and shop in retro boutiques – all revealing what life was like in the 1800s to early 1900s. Meet costumed characters, go underground in an old mine and watch traditional artisans in action. One of the top places to visit in Birmingham.

Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery has a huge collection of art and artefacts, from renowned paintings to ancient treasures and stunning jewellery. Explore the region's history through archaeological finds, decorative arts and natural curiosities. Don't miss the breathtaking collection of Pre-Raphaelite paintings and extensive jewel displays.

Looking for fun places to visit in Birmingham? Rev up your afternoon with F1 racing thrills – no driver's licence needed! Whether you're a Hamilton in the making or a total rookie, Birmingham's F1 Arcade offers social gaming for all skill levels. Choose your race mode, grab a cocktail and snacks, and feel the adrenaline rush. It’s time to hit the fast lane!

Birmingham is the home of the balti, so you’re in for a legendary lunch. Enjoy a family-style meal at the riotously bright and lively Tamatanga , whose freshly cooked and locally sourced food is served as soon as it’s ready. Try the tandoori meats still sizzling from the clay oven, or the biryani and salad bowls if you’re looking for something lighter.

Tonight, book into the boutique Malmaison Birmingham, in the city centre. If you’re looking for a stay with an edgy vibe, opt for the Nirvana room, with its anarchic mix of punk-rock art and lighting features, including a rock’n’roll-esque raised bed and mirrored jacuzzi, complete with a disco ball!

Start the day with a splash! Grab a paddle for Roundhouse Birmingham’s three-mile kayak tour around the city’s canals, with regular stops along the way at iconic spots to give you a breather. This award-winning guided tour is suitable for all levels of experience and lets you see from an entirely different perspective on the city. One of the best places to visit in Birmingham.

Refuel with a well-deserved lunch at 1000 Trades, an independent pub which was formerly a jewellery workshop and pin badge factory. While real ales, craft beers and wines are on tap, the kitchen features food from a rotating team of up-and-coming guest chefs; check out the Posh Sandwiches, stuffed with everything from jerk chicken to veggie samosas.

Discover Birmingham’s roots as a jewellery-making star at the Museum of the Jewellery Quarter, before hitting the neighbourhood’s many boutiques and studios to shop for a sparkler of your own.  Combine this with a visit to the Pen Museum and Coffin Works with the JQ Pass, which saves you 15% on admission – your chance to discover some of the top places to visit in Birmingham.

Fans of Peaky Blinders can step into the world of the infamous Shelby gang at The Raid escape room. It puts you on the team tasked with finding and destroying incriminating evidence before Campbell and his police thugs bust down the bookies’ door. Work fast, Shelby gang! You have one hour to save Tommy and the family from jail.

Give your Birmingham getaway a glittering finale with dinner and cocktails at The Glee Club – the home of comedy, live music and cabaret in the city, and one of the most entertaining places to visit in Birmingham. It frequently hosts mixed-bill weekend shows and major comedians on tour, Pre-book your meals to dine at your table during the show.