1 Day in Birmingham: Top Places to Visit and Things to Do

Welcome to one of the best-kept secrets of the United Kingdom and the second-largest city in the country Birmingham. The city has more canals than Venice (yes you read that right) and thriving food that spans the globe (from street food to Michelin stars). Are you ready for 1 day in Birmingham here we are about to pack with everything from historic gems to hipster heavens and a serious dose of humour.

We will see the iconic Bullring and the futuristic Selfridges building, wander through the custard factory, and stroll along the famous canals. When the sun sets, don’t even think of calling it a night because we are going to experience one of the best breweries, pubs, and rooftop bars in the town.

1. Bullring Icon and Grand Central

Let’s start our day with the unofficial mascot and the UK’s most photographed statue The Bullring Icon. This iconic bronze sculpture stands on the main entrance of the shopping center (Take a selfie with him and let everyone know you are in Birmingham). Then a short walk to St Martin’s Church an architectural gem standing as a contrast to the bullring building. Make sure you capture those shots with the church having the Selfridges Building in the background which is a building covered in 15000 metallic discs. Check Out our guide to the Top 10 Instagrammable Places in London for Perfect Shots.

If you want to click the pictures only with the building, I recommend you head toward the St Martin’ Square. The Beauty Hall at Selfridges is a luxurious spot to browse or indulge, with sleek lighting and vibrant displays perfect for glam shots. Now you can head towards the Grand Central which is directly connected to the Bullring above New Street Station. Here, the atrium’s unique, geometric ceiling floods the space with natural light, making it an ideal spot for photos.

The Bullring & Grand Central is open from 10 AM to 8 PM most days, with slightly shorter hours on Sundays. If you’re traveling by train, Birmingham New Street Station is right beneath Grand Central, making it easy to access, though there are parking options nearby for those driving. This lively, vibrant complex truly captures the essence of Birmingham—a blend of historic charm, modern style, and boundless energy, making it an essential stop on any visit to the city.

2. Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery

Now let’s head towards the UK’s most celebrated treasures packed with history, art, and unique exhibits that reveal Birmingham’s legacy as a hub of creativity, industry, and innovation. Located in the heart of Victoria Square (city center), set within the beautiful Victorian-era building and next to Birmingham Council House, they hold the biggest collection of Pre-Raphaelite masterpieces, the largest in the world.

One of BMAG’s star attractions is the Staffordshire Hoard, the largest collection of gold and silver metalwork ever found. The museum’s architecture, a blend of Renaissance and Baroque styles, is as impressive as the art itself, with a grand staircase and high-ceiling galleries that create an immersive experience.

They offer free admission to its permanent collection, making it a very budget-friendly option to explore in the city center. For more free activities,explore our list of London for Free:10 Amazing Things To Do.You will need a time for 1-2 hours to explore and get a good overview of the place. You can even get guided audio tours for a deeper understanding of the history behind the famous framework. They open at 10:00 am and close at 05:00 pm check the website for more detailed information, if you don’t mind. If you love celebrating Birmingham’s rich legacy and artistic treasure, visit this place.

3. Library of Birmingham

If you think libraries are just places filled with dusty old books think again of the Library of Birmingham is here to shatter that stereotype in style. This captivating iconic structure is celebrated as Europe’s most visionary public library and a true landmark on public libraries. If you are planning day trips, don’t miss our guide to 7 Best Day Trips from London.

The exterior is covered in interlocking metal circles, an eye-catching nod to Birmingham’s rich history of jewelry making, but when you step inside you will find far more than bookshelves.

One of the major attractions of this place is the Shakespeare Memorial Room a beautifully restored Victorian room hidden like a time capsule on the upper floor, the richly decorated place holds one of the finest collections Shakespeare had and is truly a treat for any literary fan. But the surprise does not stop here head towards the Rooftop Garden where you will find lush greenery and breathtaking views over the Birmingham skyline, perfect for selfies, relaxation or just watching the world go by it’s one of the city’s most scenic and surprising spots.

I would also recommend checking the website for the event and exhibitions as there are many interesting one’s going on time to time.

There is free entry to this place, however some exhibitions are being charged so if you think going to a library would be boring then this place is standing there to make you false. One of the best things yo do in Birmingham.

4. Cadbury World

Step into a world where everything is coated in chocolate, from the walls to the experiences themselves. Cadbury World in Birmingham is a dream destination for chocolate lovers, offering an exciting blend of fun, creativity, and, of course, indulgence. You’ll discover the story of the iconic chocolate brand, Cadbury—how it started in Birmingham and became a global favorite.”

Visitors can enjoy a wide range of interactive attractions like the Dr. Chocolate show which invites you to explore the science behind chocolate making, while the Cadbury ride takes you on a fun immersive journey through the world made entirely of chocolates. There are attractions divided into various themed areas some of the most popular ones are Cadbury Kitchen where you can make your own chocolates, and The 4D Chocolate Adventure which brings life to chocolate through exciting effects and visuals.

The chocolate-making zone is where they host hands-on activities where visitors can make their own chocolates with the Mold and decorate them according to themselves. This is a family-friendly experience designed for all ages whether young or old everyone loves chocolate.After indulging in chocolate creations,check out our guide to 5 Must try Cheap Eats in London Under £15 for some budget friendly indulgences.

There is a ticket to this place and you can check the website for more detailed information the opening and closing times are 10:00 am to 05:00 pm. There are a few nearby attractions while you visit here like Bournville village, etc. More than just a chocolate factory it’s a fun experience for learning and indulging in the chocolate world.

5. Canal Quarter & Brindley place

Ready to dive into Birmingham’s most charming and photogenic spaces? A city with more miles of canals than Venice offers a surprising and breathtaking experience that blends rich industrial history with a modern city vibe all in one enchanting area in the heart of Birmingham Canal Quarter and Brindley Place! Let me take you on a journey to explore this hidden gem, filled with spots that are as Instagram-worthy as they are fun to experience.

If you want to take a quick break, there are many cute cafés where you can get quick cappuccinos and delicious cakes. After that, you can start with the fountain court the centerpiece of Brindley place, filled with sculptures and fountains, ideal for snapping photos and people-watching. Heading ahead to Brindley Place canal side Walk at this place city’s history and modern energy come together, packed with beautiful, old-world canal bridges and restored brick buildings making it incredibly picturesque. Here you can take a canal boat tour to discover a side of the city accessible only from water.

Next pop in the Ikon Gallery for exhibitions, installations, and multimedia art. Now it’s time to make your way to the Gas Street Basin which is a beautiful junction where multiple canals meet where you will find historic cobbled streets and narrowboats.

If you have time, there are many nearby sports venues, like the National Sea Life Center, Symphony Hall and Convention Center, and the Mailbox Birmingham. To conclude my trip to Birmingham, this was my favorite place in the whole city.

6. Digbeth and Custard Factory

If you’re looking to dive into the funky, artsy side of Birmingham, Digbeth, and the Custard Factory are your ticket to an unforgettable day of quirky adventures, cool photo ops, and vibrant street vibes. Once you step in, you are surrounded by jaw-dropping street art that ranges from massive murals to hidden alley masterpieces. It’s a camera-ready place for your Instagram feed.

Once an actual custard powder factory, this place has reinvented itself as Birmingham’s beating heart of adventure and creativity. The Custard Factory is home to funky boutiques, artist studios, and pop-up markets where you’ll find one-of-a-kind treasures, vintage finds, and handmade crafts. It’s an ideal place to wander, shop, and capture unique snapshots of the eclectic architecture.

Start your Digbeth adventure at NQ64, an arcade bar where neon lights meet vintage games like Pac-Man and Street Fighter, with cocktails to match. Next, try baseball at The Floodgate or dive into crazy golf with a twist at Ghetto Golf, where graffiti and neon make each hole a new experience. Refuel at the Digbeth Dining Club’s street food stalls with global bites, then catch a cult classic at The Mockingbird Cinema. Wrap up with a Peaky Blinders tour that dives into Digbeth’s industrial history and Birmingham’s Shelby-inspired heritage. Digbeth offers iconic, photogenic fun at every corner!

7. Cannon Hill Park

Nestled just a few miles from Birmingham’s bustling city center, Cannon Hill Park offers a refreshing retreat with over 200 acres of lush greenery, tranquil lakes, and vibrant flowerbeds. This picturesque park is an absolute must-visit for nature lovers, families, and those simply looking for a peaceful escape. Start your visit with a walk through the formal gardens, filled with seasonal flowers and meticulously maintained lawns, perfect for a picturesque start to the day. Head towards the lakes, where you can enjoy a gentle pedal boat ride and soak in the serene views that make for great photos.

For those seeking a bit more excitement, the park also has an adventure-packed mini-golf course and a tennis court and playground for younger visitors. Make sure to visit the MAC (Midlands Arts Centre), located within the park, which hosts an array of art exhibitions, live performances, and creative workshops. It’s a great stop to discover local talent and get a feel for Birmingham’s thriving art scene. Cannon Hill Park is also home to the Conservation Centre, where you can spot exotic birds and learn about the park’s commitment to preserving biodiversity.

Finally, if you’re visiting in the summer, look out for festivals and outdoor performances that often bring Cannon Hill Park to life with music, food, and cultural displays. With its combination of nature, recreation, and arts, Cannon Hill Park is one of Birmingham’s most enjoyable, photogenic spots—a perfect getaway without ever leaving the city.

8. Jewelry Quarter

Enter Jewelry Quarter, where modern elegance meets timeless charm—a place that feels as grand as its name suggests. With its stunning architecture, refined shopping galleries, and touches of royal-inspired decor, this is not just a shopping center but a lavish escape into Birmingham’s chicest side that has produced jewelry for over 250 years and is known as the jewelry workshop of the world.

This quarter is packed with Boutiques and workshops where you can browse unique jewelry pieces and the businessmen here even make personalized jewelry for you as well. There is a museum on the quarter that provides jewelry-making workshops with traditional jewelry-making techniques which have been used for ages, you will definitely find here antique tools, old machinery, and antique stories behind the trade. Don’t miss the iconic Jewelers’ Clock, a well-known landmark in the heart of the district.

Nearby, the Big Peg building houses creative studios and is known for its community events, adding to the vibrant energy of the quarter. The Jewelry Quarter is known for its historic pubs, like the Rose Villa Tavern, which offers vintage decor and a warm atmosphere. There are also local breweries where you can sample craft beers and relax after exploring the area’s treasures.

Whether you want to shop for unique pieces, explore historical landmarks, or enjoy local art, this area offers a unique blend of Birmingham’s past and present that’s hard to find elsewhere which makes this go to place in your itinerary of 1 day in Birmingham.

So if you are left with only one day to cover this beautiful hidden gem of the united kingdom no need to do more research just plan your day accordingly because here the best spots selected for you.

Hope you enjoy your day trip to Birmingham!!