Birmingham has a long history as a thriving industrial town in the center of England. Most of the heavy industry has now gone, being replaced by modern 21st century businesses. The city has undergone a great deal of regeneration over recent years and is a pleasant city to visit. Be sure to explore the city center when vacationing in this lively, cultural city.
One great way to explore the heart of Birmingham is to spend a day shopping and exploring the variety of retail outlets. You will find a wide variety of retailers within the compact city center. The malls at the Bullring, Pavilions, and Mailbox are home to some of the top name retailers. If you spend time exploring the Jewelry Quarter, you will discover craftspeople creating some unique and beautiful pieces of jewelry. There are any number of cafes and restaurants located throughout Birmingham, so take the time to enjoy a meal or take tea while you’re out exploring.
Birmingham Back-to-Backs is well worth a visit. This small courtyard of houses dates back to the early 19th century and gives a glimpse of what life was like for ordinary working people in the 1800s. Back-to-back housing was a common feature of residential city life for working class people, with houses built around a central courtyard and the back wall of one house connected to the back wall of another house in the next street. You will encounter costumed characters as you tour the Back to Backs, and this fascinating walk through history provides some insight into life in the Back to Backs from the 1840s right up to the 1970s. The National Trust now operates the area as a museum, and it is only possible to visit the Back to Backs on a guided tour, so you need to pre-book your reservation. This attraction is in the city center close to the Hippodrome Theatre.
Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery in Chamberlain Square should also be on your itinerary. The building contains an eclectic collection of artifacts and artworks from Birmingham?s pre and post industrial revolution times.
Finding short-term rentals for your vacation in Birmingham is easy. You can source available cheap sleeps or luxury rentals online for your stay in this very interesting city.