The New York Times recently named Birmingham the world's 19th top destination to visit in 2012. Times have changed in the city that's moved on from its industrial past to become one of the UK's cultural hotspots. Spend a few days roaming the city with your camera at the ready. Famous for some of its architectural pearls like Selfridges department store building, Birmingham provides great photo ops that'll leave your mates jealous of your holiday in the city.
Festivals
Birmingham is a city of festivals as one is held at least every few months. In March visit the city for the Flatpack Festival of film showcasing excellent independent movies in venues including the UK's oldest cinema. Soon after, Fierce festival takes place, focusing on live art and gathering participants from around the world showing off their performances. During the summer the city comes alive with music as it hosts the International Jazz and Blues Festival. Many events are free to the public and take place in both conventional and unconventional venues like galleries, shops and canal boats. Later in the year, Birmingham Book Festival celebrates local and international literature through a series of events such as workshops and lectures.
The Art Scene
There's a lot of art on show in Birmingham, from public art scattered throughout the city to the largest collection of Pre-Raphaelites in the world at Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery. Classic art lovers will also appreciate the Barber Institute of Fine Arts that houses works by some of Europe's best known impressionists. If you're a fan of modern art, the Ikon gallery is likely to be your cup of tea, priding itself on cutting edge contemporary art exhibitions.
Nightlife
With four universities and many colleges, Birmingham has a noticeable population of young adults who love a good night out. Bars and night clubs in the city cater for every taste. Try the Broad Street or Mailbox areas for some serious clubbing. The live music scene is also alive and well with bands making regular appearances at venues like the O2 Academy and Jam House. Comedy fans will find a good few haunts for a live show too. Theatre aficionados gather at the Birmingham Hippodrome and The Alexandra among other venues. Look out for performances by the Welsh National Opera, one of the season's highlights.
Shopping
If on the clothing hunt, Birmingham has a selection of shopping centres to choose from, as well as the traditional British high street and more expensive options. The city's famous Jewellery Quarter is still going strong with a plethora of specialist jewellers willing to show off their craftsmanship. Markets are big in Birmingham. Six days a week Bull Ring market pulls in the crowds with its seemingly endless stalls crammed with fresh produce. Farmers' markets and an arts and crafts fair are also held once in a while.
After so much exploring, shopping till you drop and dancing into the wee hours, you'll really appreciate a comfortable hotel in Birmingham close to local amenities.
Harvey McEwan writes to offer information and advice on a variety of areas, from technology to holiday destinations. Read through Harvey's other articles here to find out more.
No comments:
Post a Comment