As all eyes are on Birmingham this week... 9 things you have to see - The Stratford Observer

As all eyes are on Birmingham this week... 9 things you have to see

Stratford Editorial 4th Aug, 2022   0

All eyes are on Birmingham at the moment, as the city plays host to this year’s Commonwealth Games.

But sometimes for those of us living close by we don’t always make the most of what’s right on our doorstep.

With the Games running until August 8, whether you’ve got tickets to an event, or are just looking to explore Birmingham sometime soon, these are some of the best spots to check out…

1. Birmingham Botanical Gardens

The Birmingham Botanical Gardens first opened in 1832, with the glasshouses added later. It’s a popular spot with a lovely tearoom, butterfly house and seasonal walks.

To really get into the spirit of things, you can go on the special Commonwealth trail through the gardens, created for the Games.




Photo of the botanical gardens. Picture credit: Alamy/PA.

2. Cadbury World

A fun day out for kids and adults alike, Cadbury World features a self-guided tour, a history of chocolate and opportunities to see how your favourite sweet treats are made. A visit to the gift shop is vital, too.


Cadbury World chocolatiers Donna Oluban, Eloise Dowell and Dawn Jenks with a incredi-bull iconic creation in honour of this year’s Commonwealth Games.

3. St Philip’s Cathedral

Consecrated in 1715, this church is steeped in history and has been standing proudly in the city throughout the industrial revolution. It’s the third smallest cathedral in the UK, but still has plenty to show off about – be sure to check out the stained glass windows, designed by Birmingham-born pre-Raphaelite artist Sir Edward Burne-Jones.

Photo of St Phillip’s Cathedral. Picture credit: Alamy/PA.

4. Sheldon Country Park

On the eastern edge of Birmingham, this sprawling park is home to 300 acres of grassland, wetland, hedgerows and mature woodland. There’s also a small dairy farm called the Old Rectory, dating from the 17th century, located near the main entrance.

Photo of Sheldon Country Park. Picture credit: Alamy/PA.

5. The Balti Triangle

The Balti curry was created by a Pakistani Brummie restauranteur in the 1970, so surely one of the best places to enjoy the dish is the Balti Triangle. Located just to the south of the city centre along Ladypool Road, Stoney Lane and Stratford Road, it’s packed full of curry houses serving up tasty delights.

6. Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery

Home to an impressive collection of artefacts and pre-Raphaelite works, Edwardian tearooms and ever-changing exhibitions raising the voices of minority groups and under-represented work, Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery is the perfect place to spend a rainy day (or escape the sun!).

Photo of a new gallery in the Birmingham museum. Picture credit: Alamy/PA.

7. The Bullring

A huge shopping mall, the Bullring is like Oxford Street in the Midlands, with huge brands and restaurants all in one place. If shopping is your thing, there are plenty of stores to explore.

8. Gas Street Basin

The Gas Street Basin is where the Worcester and Birmingham Canal meets the BCN Main Line, and it’s become a hotspot for up-and-coming bars and restaurants. It’s also home to popular brunch spot the Gas Street Social, where you can definitely nurse a gold-medal-standard hangover.

Photo of Gas Street Basin. Picture credit: Alamy/PA.

9. The Jewellery Quarter

This is the jewellery industry hub, home to independent jewellers, diamond dealers and workshops, as well as the Museum of the Jewellery Quarter, which has a neatly preserved old-fashioned workshop (currently only open for special events). With stunning Georgian buildings along grassy St. Paul’s Square, it has become the go-to place for indie stores, hipster bars, and art galleries.

Photo of a pub in the Jewellery Quarter. Picture credit: Alamy/PA.

 

Recruitment

Find a career you'll love with our free career finder website.

Buy Photos

Buy photos online from the Stratford Observer newspaper.

Advertising

Advertise with the Stratford Observer to reach your audience

Announcements

Weddings, Birthdays, Bereavements, Thank you notices, Marriages and more.