
Unusual & Offbeat Destinations in Birmingham, United Kingdom
1. Birmingham Back to Backs
Step back into the 1800s and explore a network of tenement houses that showcase Victorian life in Birmingham.
- Authentic Experience: Provides an authentic glimpse into Victorian urban living
- Historical Significance: Preserves a rare example of urban terraced houses from the industrial revolution
- Interactive Guides: Includes interactive guides to help visitors understand the living conditions during that era
2. Jewellery Quarter
Explore the world's largest concentration of jewellers outside of India, where you can find unique handcrafted jewellery and silverware.
- Artisanal Craftsmanship: Offers a variety of exquisite, handcrafted jewellery made by local artisans
- Historic Buildings: Set within historic buildings that showcase the area's industrial past
- Designer Studios: Provides an opportunity to visit designer studios and witness their creative processes
3. Birmingham Custard Factory
A vibrant arts and media quarter with a variety of independent art galleries, workshops, and studios.
- Artistic Vibrancy: Showcases cutting-edge contemporary art and creative talent
- Unique Venues: Offers a diverse range of unique venues for events, exhibitions, and performances
- Community Engagement: Encourages community engagement through workshops, classes, and events
4. Pepper Pot Roundabout
A unique roundabout with a collection of small ornate sculptures known as 'pepper pots', symbolizing the city's industrial heritage.
- Historic Symbolism: Represents Birmingham's rich industrial history and innovative spirit
- Photography Opportunities: Offers a picturesque location for photography enthusiasts
- Central Landmark: Serves as a central city landmark and meeting point
5. Pen Museum
Learn about the fascinating history of pen making in Birmingham, from fountain pens to dip pens.
- Industrial Heritage: Highlights Birmingham's rich industrial heritage and the importance of pen manufacturing
- Interactive Exhibits: Includes interactive exhibits that allow visitors to try their hand at pen making
- Rare Collection: Houses the world's largest collection of pens and related memorabilia
6. Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park
A unique urban oasis that offers a chance to encounter exotic animals such as wallabies, meerkats, and reptiles.
- Urban Oasis: Provides an escape from the city centre and offers a unique wildlife experience
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs that focus on conservation efforts and animal welfare
- Interactive Encounters: Provides interactive encounters with some of the animals, including feeding times and meet-and-greets
7. The Wrottesley Arms
A historic pub dating back to the 15th century, boasting a rich history and ghostly tales.
- Historic Atmosphere: Provides an authentic medieval atmosphere with original features
- Ghostly Experiences: Offers the chance to experience ghostly activities, according to local legends
- Traditional Pub Fare: Serves traditional English pub fare in a charming, historic setting
8. Birmingham Back to Frank's Bar
An underground bar hidden beneath an antique shop, offering a unique speakeasy experience.
- Hidden Speakeasy: Offers a hidden speakeasy experience in the heart of Birmingham
- Creative Cocktails: Serves creative, expertly crafted cocktails made with unique ingredients
- Intimate Setting: Provides an intimate setting perfect for a romantic date or private event
9. Custard Factory Art Market
A monthly market where local artists showcase and sell their unique handmade creations.
- Supporting Local Talent: Supports local artists by providing a platform to showcase and sell their work
- Unique Finds: Offers the opportunity to find unique, handmade items not found in conventional shops
- Community Engagement: Encourages community engagement through arts and crafts workshops and live performances
10. The Drum Arts Centre
A contemporary arts centre that showcases local and international artists, with a focus on diversity.
- Diverse Programming: Provides diverse programming that reflects the city's multicultural population
- Community Engagement: Encourages community engagement through workshops, classes, and events
- Accessible Venue: Offers an accessible venue with facilities for visitors with disabilities
11. The Electric Cinema
A Grade II listed independent cinema that offers a unique cinematic experience with comfortable seating and in-seat service.
- Historic Setting: Provides a historic, intimate setting for film enthusiasts
- Comfortable Seating: Offers comfortable seating and in-seat service for maximum comfort during the movie
- Independent Cinema: Screens independent, art house, and classic films not typically found at mainstream cinemas
12. Birmingham Moseley Railway Station
A Grade II listed station with a charming Victorian facade and ghostly tales, offering a unique photography opportunity.
- Historic Architecture: Provides a stunning example of Victorian architecture
- Photography Opportunities: Offers an iconic backdrop for photography enthusiasts
- Ghostly Experiences: Offers the chance to experience ghostly activities, according to local legends
13. Cadbury World
A chocolate lover's paradise where you can learn about the history of Cadbury and indulge in delicious treats.
- Chocolate History: Provides an insight into the history of the famous Cadbury chocolate brand
- Interactive Exhibits: Includes interactive exhibits and activities for all ages
- Chocolate Tastings: Offers delicious chocolate tastings throughout the tour
14. Birmingham Botanical Gardens
A peaceful oasis in the heart of Birmingham, featuring a variety of exotic plants and gardens.
- Peaceful Retreat: Provides a tranquil retreat from the bustling city centre
- Exotic Plant Life: Offers a chance to see exotic plants and garden designs from around the world
- Conservation Efforts: Supports conservation efforts by showcasing rare and endangered plant species