Planning a visit to England's vibrant second city? Birmingham is gearing up to offer an unforgettable experience for visitors in 2026, blending its rich industrial past with a cutting-edge cultural present. The city promises a diverse array of destinations, with many highlights available without an entry fee.
A City Built on Canals and Culinary Excellence
Birmingham's identity is deeply connected to its waterways. The city's historic canal network is famously more extensive than that of Venice. A stroll along the Gas Street Basin reveals this heritage, where historic narrowboats are moored beside contemporary bars and restaurants, offering a unique perspective on Birmingham's evolution.
Food lovers are in for a treat. Birmingham holds more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other English city outside London, solidifying its status as a global culinary capital. For a more informal but iconic experience, the famed Balti Triangle remains the essential destination to sample the city's signature spicy dish.
Historic Quarters and World-Class Retail
For those fascinated by craftsmanship and history, the Jewellery Quarter is unmissable. This dedicated district, with over 200 listed buildings, is a living workshop where an estimated 40% of the UK's jewellery is still produced. Its museum offers a captivating insight into the traditional skills of local master craftsmen.
Shoppers will be drawn to the iconic Bullring & Grand Central, one of Europe's largest and most futuristic retail complexes. The architecture is dominated by the striking Selfridges building, instantly recognisable by its facade of thousands of shimmering aluminium discs.
Cultural Treasures and Sweet Delights
Culture vultures should head to the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery. Housed in a magnificent Victorian building, its collection includes the world's most significant assembly of Pre-Raphaelite art and the legendary Staffordshire Hoard, providing deep dives into artistic and local history.
Finally, a trip to Birmingham is incomplete for many without a visit to Cadbury World in Bournville. This popular attraction delights families and chocolate enthusiasts alike, charting the origins of the world-famous brand and offering a glimpse into the unique model village built for its 19th-century workers.
With its dynamic mix of heritage, shopping, gastronomy, and art, Birmingham is poised to be a premier destination for both domestic and international travellers seeking an authentic and varied English city break in 2026.
