Birmingham, being the second largest city in England, is frequently underrated by both travelers and natives alike. The allure of London’s captivating imagery, the charming Cotswolds, or the historical charm of Edinburgh, often distract visitors from uncovering the hidden gems within Birmingham.
Featuring an array of eccentric shopping areas, splendid art galleries, and peculiar locations, Birmingham harbors numerous undisclosed attractions worthy of investigation. While some of these intriguing spots may be recognizable to locals, they are likely to be unfamiliar if you are visiting the city for the first time.
Below is a selection of notable secret attractions in Birmingham.
1.) Visit a gin parlour
Arguably among the most enjoyable hidden locations in Birmingham, The Jekyll & Hyde is a distinctive bar worth visiting. This charming establishment entices both gin enthusiasts and novices alike, offering unique cocktails, including one that involves drinking gin from a bathtub.
2.) Experience the excitement of a renowned chili festival
During autumn, Birmingham hosts a notable chili festival at Brindley Place, known for its fiery flavor and lively atmosphere. Those willing can partake in the eating competition, where participants can challenge themselves with some of the world’s hottest chilies.
3.) Uncover Birmingham’s secret beach
Venture into the Prince of Wales Bar located in Moseley, which appears unassuming from the outside but unveils a lively Caribbean ambience within—one of Birmingham’s less-known treasures. On specific nights, the bar features entertaining limbo parties, private beach huts, tropical bands, and even a beach scene that transforms your experience into a mini-vacation.
4.) Experience life as Rapunzel for a weekend
Perrott’s Tower has been an iconic landmark in Birmingham for nearly 300 years and appears to be reminiscent of a fairytale setting, particularly for someone like Rapunzel. It is said that Perrott’s Tower served as an inspiration for J.R.R. Tolkien, who resided in the vicinity and drew significant ideas from its design for his acclaimed work, The Lord of the Rings.
5.) Visit the Coffin Works in the Jewellery Quarter
In the vibrant city of Birmingham lies the renowned Jewellery Quarter, often dubbed the golden triangle due to its exquisite collection of gold and precious gems. This historic area is populated with an array of independent jewellers, making it an excellent destination for acquiring uniquely designed jewelry, including precious Welsh gold sourced from nearby.
Within the Coffin Works (a name more intriguing than it sounds), you can unearth one of Birmingham’s more exclusive locations for acquiring remarkable jewels.
6.) Unveil Birmingham’s premier shopping locations
One of the most cherished independent retailers in Birmingham is “People’s shop.” This charming store, opened by Allison and Christian Sadler, serves as a delightful haven filled with original designs and enchanting items that are sure to ignite your desire for unique home decor.
7.) Enjoy diverse culinary offerings at the Digbeth Dining experience
Proudly representing some of Birmingham’s finest culinary options, the Digbeth Dining Experience is a singular food market that many visitors overlook. Stroll through the various stalls on a Friday evening to sample the latest gastronomic trends the city has to offer.
8.) Wholesale shopping within a custard factory
Birmingham has a rich history in custard production, once being the leading manufacturer globally. Presently, the old custard factory has transformed into a vibrant creative hub, showcasing several of the city’s most innovative independent retailers. This eclectic venue provides an exceptional opportunity to acquire original artistic and handcrafted pieces from local artists.
9.) Indulge your passion for pens
The Pen Museum is a treasure trove for those who appreciate the art of writing, showcasing an impressive array of pens from around the world. Visitors can delve into the craft of writing while exploring this unique facet of Birmingham’s heritage. Should you not be particularly keen on pens, you may choose to forgo this attraction.
