Birmingham is Britain's second largest city and is situated right in the heart of England. Friendly, bustling and thriving, Birmingham is one of the most visited cities and welcomes visitors all year long. Home to the famous City of Birmingham Orchestra, and Birmingham Royal Ballet, Birmingham is a city of world class culture. Birmingham has history in the museums and art galleries as well as diversity of shopping, from well known department stores to intriguing shopping malls and street markets.
Attractions
Situated in the city centre is the International Convention Centre, which hosts meetings of world leaders in industry and politics. Members of the public are welcome to visit the centre, where they can enjoy the cosmopolitan atmosphere. The ICC is also the home of the Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, in an elegant hall renowned for its wonderful acoustics. Near by is the National Indoor Arena, which hosts shows and TV spectaculars, as well as many international sporting events. The National Exhibition Centre is the home to some of the world's large important trade shows, and also where concerts of the best-known entertainers are held. Brindleyplace at The Water's Edge situated in the award-winning restored canal area, adjacent to the ICC is not to be missed, it offers a wide choice of Restaurants, specialty shops and bars.
Architecture
Birmingham has a wealth of splendid architecture in its older buildings, around the centre of the city. Among those not to be missed are The Town Hall, built in the 1830's it is a magnificent example of Victorian Architecture, inspired by classical Roman temples it has 40 Corinthian columns of Anglesey marble. The great hall can seat 2000 people, and has one of the finest organs in the country. The Council House, built in Renaissance style in the 1870's has a clock known locally as "Big Brum".
Art & Culture
Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, is one of the finest outside London. Among its vast art treasures is one of the finest collections of Pre-Raphaelite art, interesting displays relating to the history of the city and a changing programme of exhibitions and events. Art lovers should also visit the Ikon Gallery one of Europe's premier venues for new art; also the Barber Institute of Fine Arts, situated at the University of Birmingham, this is one of the world's finest small galleries, with works by Degas, Gainsborough, Monet, Renoir and Turner.
Night Life
Birmingham's Night-Life is diverse and vibrant. You can see "West End" productions at the Alexandra Theatre, or see the latest play at the Birmingham Repertory Theatre, The NEC Arena and National Indoor Arena stage concerts by international rock and pop groups. There is Opera, Ballet or the Birmingham Symphony Orchestra to choose from. Live music is performed in many of the cities pubs and Birmingham offers a choice of over 20 clubs. Eating out in Birmingham is a cosmopolitan experience; you can sample the best food from countries around the world. There are many specialist restaurants in the city centre offering food from countries around the world to simple good food in old fashioned English pubs.