The city of Birmingham is large enough to host a variety of attractions and events throughout the year. While some of their attractions are common enough, you can also find strange and unusual activities in the area. Whether you’re new to the area or just visiting as a tourist, be sure to check out at least one of these options.
1. Visit the Station Hotel
If you have an interest in the supernatural and spooky, then you’ll want to check out one of the most well-known haunted locations in Birmingham. The Station Hotel became a notoriously haunted spot after one of the managers was said to have committed a murder in the building. The building was even visited by TV psychic Derek Acorah who said that the victim’s spirit still haunts the hotel. Whether or not you believe him, you’ll still want to make this spot on your list.
2. Break Out in the Rage Room
If you’re feeling like you need to smash something, then you’ll want to check out the Rage Room. This location was opened as a cathartic experience for anyone who wants to physically express their rage without actually damaging valuable property or people. If you’re feeling frustrated when your team loses, or you just have some inner rage that needs to come out, head over here. You can smash any number of items here.
3. Visit the Back to Backs
This location is actually well-known and located close to city centre. People come from outside the area and may fly into the local airport to experience what Birmingham has to offer. These small houses were home to the working-class people from the 1840s to 1970s and you can even spend the night here to get a real feel for people’s lives. The terraced houses have been restored well and make for a great trip.
If you’re on a road trip and wanted to head on to another destination by air, Birmingham airport is about a 25-minute ride from the backs to backs. You could visit a site like birminghamparking.com for Birmingham airport parking and book your flight and parking accommodation in advance for a smooth transition.
4. Visit the Hidden Spaces
Every city has hidden spaces and in a city with as rich of a history as Birmingham, you can find any number of spots here that even locals forget to mention. There are a series of events you can enjoy that showcase the heritage of the city ranging from old station terminals to swimming baths and much more. Even if you’re familiar with the area, don’t be surprised if you find spots you didn’t even know existed.
5. Visit Middle Earth
Although the Lord of the Rings films weren’t filmed in Birmingham, Tolkien drew inspiration from Sarehole Mill which likes to celebrate this every year. In September, the Middle Earth festival draws people from near and far to celebrate J.R.R. Tolkien’s legacy. With re-enactments, a Two-Towers brewery stand, and events for people of every age, enjoy free entry to the festival. The event also takes place at a working watermill that’s over 250 years old which is a sight to see.
6. Take the Peaky Blinders Tour
If you’re a fan of the popular show about the original gang, then you may know that they were roaming the back alleys of Birmingham. Delve into the depths of Digbeth and take a tour led by a local historian Carl Chinn. You can sign up for this walking tour that will cover the sights and popular spots of Victorian Birmingham that the Peaky Blinders called home. The best part about this unusual choice is that the tour ends with an 1800s-themed dinner and all your questions answered by Chinn.
7. Learn About the Pen Trade
If you’re not familiar with the history of this well-known writing instrument, then you may want to take a trip to the Pen Museum. It’s an appropriate museum for the area as Birmingham actually made 75% of the world’s pens in the 19th century. You’ll be surprised at the fascinating history of the pen and how it changed over time. You can enjoy a lot more than just browsing through their collection though. Visitors to the museum can try writing with a variety of pens including steel pens, feather quills, and even try out an original typewriter. Located in the Jewellery Quarter today, make sure that you take a trip here for a fun but unusual outing in Birmingham.
From spooky to fun and so much more, you’ll be able to experience a wide range of activities when you visit Birmingham. Whether you’re just passing through for a short trip or you call the area home, add these activities to your list. These are also great ideas for when family and friends come to visit.