10 Best Things to Do and See in Birmingham
Exploring Birmingham on foot is one of the best ways to feel the city’s atmosphere, connect its landmark places and discover its neighbourhoods at a more natural pace.
In this guide, you will find the attractions not to miss when planning a walking route in Birmingham, with simple reference points.
To go further, you can also enjoy a private guided tour in Birmingham. It is a smoother way to connect places, understand details you might miss on your own and enjoy a more human, personal discovery adapted to your trip.
1. Cadbury World
Cadbury World is a must-visit Birmingham attraction dedicated to the world of chocolate. Discover the history and chocolate-making process behind Cadbury through interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, and family-friendly activities. Learn about the ingredients, cocoa transformation, and craftsmanship behind this iconic British brand. Tastings and entertainment complete the visit, creating a fun and immersive experience for all ages.
2. National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham
The National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham is a family-friendly aquarium in the heart of Birmingham, UK, showcasing a wide range of marine and freshwater animals. The route highlights immersive tanks, viewing tunnels and spaces devoted to different species, from tropical fish to rays, sharks, turtles and other aquatic creatures. It is a fun, educational visit that brings you close to marine life while raising awareness of ocean conservation. A popular attraction for all ages.
3. Cannon Hill Park
Cannon Hill Park is one of Birmingham’s largest green spaces, popular for peaceful walks and plenty of ways to relax. Visitors can enjoy lawns, tree-lined areas, paths for walking or cycling, and ponds that attract varied wildlife. The park also offers leisure facilities and family-friendly spaces, making it a great place for an outdoor break. It is an ideal stop to enjoy a calm moment in the heart of the city.
4. Birmingham Botanical Gardens
Birmingham Botanical Gardens offers a green escape in the heart of Birmingham, with expansive landscaped grounds, colourful flower beds and a rich variety of plants from around the world. Visitors can also explore glasshouses that shelter tropical and delicate species, along with peaceful areas ideal for walking and relaxing. With its well-kept paths, attractive views and calm atmosphere, it is a perfect nature break in the city for both plant lovers and travellers seeking tranquillity.
5. Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum
Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum is an interactive science museum in Birmingham, inviting visitors of all ages to explore science, technology and great inventions. Its galleries feature objects and hands-on experiences about transport, medicine, industry, space and the environment, with plenty of fun, educational activities. You can also discover temporary exhibitions and immersive displays that make the visit lively and accessible. It is an ideal attraction to learn while having fun and better understand the world around us.
6. Dudley Canal and Caverns
Dudley Canal and Caverns, near Birmingham, offers a unique underground boat tour through old canals and limestone caverns. Explore striking tunnels, rock formations and industrial heritage.
7. Winterbourne House & Garden
Winterbourne House & Garden offers a visit that combines heritage and botany in Birmingham. The house reveals a historic interior set within the atmosphere of a grand English home, while the garden unfolds through carefully composed landscape scenes. Visitors will find planted walkways, decorative borders, greenhouses and more natural spaces, offering a rich look at ornamental gardening. The site is also notable for its setting in Edgbaston, between a university environment and a residential district.
8. National Trust – Birmingham Back to Backs
National Trust – Birmingham Back to Backs offers a rare look at Birmingham’s working-class and urban housing through a preserved set of back-to-back houses. Visitors discover narrow interiors, a layout designed for high-density living, and concrete traces of everyday life in an industrial city. The site reveals how ordinary architecture can tell the social history of a central neighbourhood, combining residential memory with protected heritage.
Antony M
During my travels, I looked for guides who spoke my language. This search turned out to be long and tedious. That is why I created MYTOGU (My Tourist Guide): a matching site between tourists and professional tourist guides.
