Forget the standard guidebook entries. In 2026, the most rewarding adventures in Birmingham and the West Midlands lie off the beaten track, waiting in the region's lesser-known corners.
Unearthing Birmingham's Secret History
The city and its surroundings are packed with unusual sites that tell a different story. This year is the perfect time to seek out underground spaces rich with history, eclectic museums celebrating the everyday, and secret spots where art, music, and food uniquely combine.
Venture further into the West Midlands and you'll find its own collection of quirks: mysterious landmarks, striking architecture, and creative communities breathing new life into old spaces. Every corner holds a narrative ready to be discovered.
Top Picks for an Unconventional Journey
To start your exploration, here are 26 standout quirky spots to visit across Birmingham and the wider region this January.
1. Warstone Lane Cemetery Catacombs
Also known as Brookfield Cemetery, this site holds a secret catacomb. Established in 1848, burials continued here until 1982. Its striking semicircular design is reminiscent of a Roman amphitheatre.
2. Peace Pagoda, Edgbaston
The Dhamma Talaka Pagoda in Edgbaston opened in 1998. It was conceived by the scholar and meditation teacher Aggamahapandita Rewata Dhamma to enshrine Buddha relics from the former Burmese royal family.
3. Birmingham Back to Backs
Now a National Trust heritage site, these are the city's last remaining court of back-to-back houses. These homes were built practically side-by-side around a shared courtyard, offering a glimpse into historic urban living.
4. Soho House, Birmingham
This elegant property was the home of the industrial pioneer Matthew Boulton, who lived there from 1766 to 1809. Boulton (1728-1809) is one of Birmingham's most significant historical figures. While his business partner James Watt is often more famous, Boulton's entrepreneurial vision and ambition were crucial. His work helped propel Britain to become the world's first industrial nation.
Beyond the City Limits
The list continues with many more hidden gems across the West Midlands, encompassing unusual museums, vibrant creative hubs, and tranquil green spaces that defy expectations. This year, make a resolution to skip the well-worn tourist paths and delve into the region's rich, layered identity.
From forgotten industrial heritage to peaceful spiritual retreats, these 26 locations prove that the most memorable discoveries are often those you have to seek out for yourself.
