Birmingham

Birmingham, United Kingdom

Birmingham, the second largest city in Britain, served as inspiration for J.R.R. Tolkien to write the celebrated work of fantasy fiction "The Lord of the Rings". The city is renowned for its dining scene that will satisfy the most demanding palates and, thanks to the many attractions, tourists are sure to keep busy. With world-class shopping centres all fashionistas will leave the city with a smile, and when the night falls there is an exciting nightlife to discover.

Population:

1.3 million

Currency:

British Pounds, £1 = 100 pence

Emergency Numbers:

999

Opening Hours:

Many of the larger shopping malls are open Monday - Saturday from 9 or 10am and closes at 8 or 9pm. Sundays and other public holidays the usual hours are between 11am to 5pm.

Newspapers:

Birmingham Post- www.birminghampost.co.uk
Birmingham Mail - www.birminghammail.co.uk

The City

Like many other cities, Birmingham has a link with the Roman Empire. The city was mentioned as far back as 1086 in the Doomsday Book, and developed into an important trade centre from the 12th century onward. During the 17th century, a large weapons industry grew up. Among others, Birmingham provided Oliver Cromwell’s army with weapons and later on they supplied Napoleon. During the golden age of the Industrial Revolution, the city grew rapidly thanks to its supplies of iron, coal and labour. Subsequently, Birmingham became an important hub in England’s canal and train networks, and these days the city has a network of over 60 km of canals and other waterways, which is more than Venice. Today the canals are mostly used for pleasure boating, making it a perfect way to discover Birmingham.

During the Second World War, large areas of the city were destroyed, and the city centre was rebuilt. In recent years, however, an architectural renaissance has occurred and old squares, streets and waterways have been restored and renovated. Many typical British brands, and frequently world famous brands have been created here, including Bakelite, Cadbury’s, Brylcreem, HP Sauce and Typhoo Tea. The city’s inhabitants include J. R. R. Tolkien and Ozzy Osbourne.

Today, Birmingham is a fast growing tourist destination with a compact, pedestrian-friendly city centre and where many exciting attractions are waiting to get explored. A city full of surprises where the English old world charm meets the new and young vibrant atmosphere thanks to the many students in the city.

Do & See

With world-class galleries, inspiring museums, beautiful gardens and outstanding heritage attractions you will find yourself busy and if chocolate is your thing then you have for sure come to the right city because it is here you will find the famouse tourist attraction Cadbury World.

Birmingham offers something for every taste and every age. All you need to do is to start exploring the city and get inspired.

Dining

With Michelin-starred restaurants, stylish eateries, some of the best Indian restaurants in the UK, yummy street dining, family-run favourites, new hot spots offering fusion, Birmingham has for sure something for every taste. If you aim for Broad Street, there is a lot to choose from, and excursions to other districts such as the Jewellery Quarter may also be worthwhile. There are hundreds of restaurants to choose from, so start discover and find your favourites.

Cafés

Finding a café to relax in is not hard in Birmingham, since the city is experiencing a coffee shop boom. You will find everything from international brands to the growing number of family-owned cafés who really knows how to make your favourite cup of coffee. Scattered across the city centre and the suburbs of Birmingham, you will never be far away from a cup of the java or a yummy dessert.