As one of the most connected, culturally diverse, and fastest-growing cities in the UK, Birmingham has firmly established itself as a top location to visit and live. This historic industrial West Midlands city truly has it all: world-class food, drinks, and retailers, incredible green spaces, and an ever-evolving arts and music scene that rivals the trendiest corners of London. From the bustling Birmingham city centre living experience to the bohemian charm of Digbeth and the leafy sophistication of Edgbaston, there are things to see and do everywhere you look. Whether you’re considering property investment in Birmingham or simply visiting for the weekend, this guide will take you on a journey through the top attractions that showcase the best the Second city of the UK has to offer.
1. Discover the Jewellery Quarter
The world-famous Birmingham Jewellery Quarter is a true gem, both literally and figuratively, just a short stroll from Birmingham city centre. With over 800 businesses producing 40% of the UK’s jewellery, this historical shopping spot attracts tourists from all over the globe. Browse the independent boutiques, watch skilled goldsmiths at work, or visit the Museum of the Jewellery Quarter for a fascinating glimpse into the city’s jewellery-making heritage. It’s not just jewellery on offer here – you’ll find a great selection of cafés and restaurants, too.
2. Dine at a Michelin star restaurant in Birmingham city centre
The Birmingham area, particularly Birmingham city centre, boasts 9 Michelin Star restaurants – more than any city outside of London. Treat yourself to expertly crafted, locally-sourced cuisine and impeccable service at these gastronomic gems that have put the Midlands on the map as a world-class dining destination. Whether you opt for the contemporary British cuisine of Adam’s Restaurant or the adventurous Indian dishes of Opheem, a Michelin Star meal is a must when visiting the Second City.
3. See a show at the Birmingham hippodrome
Arts and culture are right at the heart of Birmingham city centre living. The iconic Birmingham Hippodrome is the UK’s busiest theatre, attracting over 520,000 visitors each year. Hosting everything from acclaimed musicals and operas to the Birmingham Royal Ballet, there’s always an exciting show or event to discover. This venue is a cornerstone of city centre living in Birmingham.
4. Visit the library of Birmingham
In the vibrant Birmingham city centre, you’ll find the Library of Birmingham – the largest public library in Europe. This architectural marvel houses over 800,000 books, as well as a vast collection of archives and photographs. Wander through the light-filled, ultra-modern interior and be awed by the sheer scale of this world-class building. Climb to the panoramic viewing gallery to enjoy breathtaking views across the city.
5. Escape to Sutton Park in the city centre
One of the greenest cities in the UK, Birmingham boasts over 8,000 acres of parks and open spaces. A visit to Sutton Park, Europe’s largest urban park outside of a capital city, is an absolute must. This sprawling 2,400-acre National Nature Reserve is located just 6 miles north of Birmingham city centre. The park’s diverse landscapes, from open heathland and ancient woodlands to lakes, wetlands, and marshes, are teeming with a rich variety of plants and wildlife.
6. Take a trip along Birmingham’s canals
The Birmingham area is home to over 100 miles of canals – more than Venice! These historic channels played a crucial role in the city’s development during the Industrial Revolution. Today, you can explore Birmingham’s scenic canals on a leisurely sightseeing cruise that often starts in Birmingham city centre. Glide past the vibrant canalside bars and restaurants, admire the charming narrowboats, and learn about the waterways’ rich industrial heritage. It’s a wonderfully relaxing way to discover a unique angle on city centre living in Birmingham.
7. Tour the historic Birmingham Back to Backs
Those interested in the history of Birmingham city centre living can’t miss a visit to the Back to Backs: the city’s last surviving back-to-back houses. These tightly-packed courtyard homes were once commonplace in industrial cities. Now preserved as a museum by the National Trust, the Back to Backs offer a fascinating glimpse into 19th-century Birmingham city centre life, with each one carefully restored and decorated to the style of a different decade.
8. Experience Birmingham city centre’s bars and breweries
Birmingham city centre living offers an eclectic mix of lively pubs and stylish cocktail lounges to explore. Sip creative concoctions at trendy spots like The Cocktail Club or uncover the secret speakeasy-style bars hidden around the city. For a more laid-back vibe, explore Birmingham’s traditional pubs and canalside breweries, many housed in historic buildings and pouring an impressive selection of local ales. Harborne is a particularly good place for a classic pub crawl – explore a mile-long stretch of highly-rated establishments, from The Bell to The Plough.
9. Dive into Birmingham’s music scene
As the birthplace of iconic bands like Black Sabbath and Duran Duran, Birmingham has a rich musical heritage that continues to this day. The city’s diverse music scene caters to every taste, from intimate gigs to large-scale festivals that attract global headliners. Catch up-and-coming and well-known bands at the city’s iconic venues like the O2 Academy Birmingham or The Sunflower Lounge, both within easy reach of the city centre. Birmingham is also home to renowned classical music institutions, such as the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra at Symphony Hall.
10. Explore Birmingham’s vibrant residential neighbourhoods
Birmingham isn’t just a tourist hotspot: it’s also a fantastic place to live. Exploring its vibrant residential districts will give you a taste of what Birmingham city centre living is all about. Start with the city centre and the Paradise regeneration project – a buzzing new urban neighbourhood with a dynamic mix of public spaces, shops, restaurants, and premium Build-to-Rent homes. Be sure to visit Centenary Square and Princip Street, where you’ll find the sold-out Lancaster Wharf property development.
To the east is Digbeth, Birmingham’s creative quarter. Once a gritty industrial area, this up-and-coming bohemian district is known for its street art, quirky independent businesses, and thriving weekend street food market.
Finally, don’t miss Edgbaston: a leafy, affluent neighbourhood popular with families and professionals. It’s home to several famous sports venues and public gardens, along with two university campuses – though many students choose Birmingham city centre living.
Is Birmingham city centre a good location to invest?
With fantastic amenities, five excellent universities, a thriving economy, and unrivalled transport connections, the UK’s Second City is an attractive destination for residential property investments. Birmingham’s ever-growing numbers of students and young professionals are constantly driving demand for high-quality, centrally located housing – no wonder it’s leading UK forecasts for both rental growth and house prices. If you’re considering property investment in Birmingham city centre, you’ll find that this area is at the forefront of the city’s growth and development.At Select Property, we specialise in matching buyers with prime city centre property developments across the UK’s fastest-growing cities. If you’re considering investing in Birmingham, contact us today to learn more.