Contrary to popular belief, Birmingham is the second biggest city in the U.K, with over one million inhabitants. Birmingham’s first stage of rapid expansion was during the industrial revolution, at the height of which it became known as the workshop of the world due to the sheer volume of manufacturing that was centered in the city. Over the last one hundred years Birmingham has developed from an industrial capital to a commercial powerhouse, frequently named as one of the best places in the U.K to locate a business.
Birmingham is the forth most visited city by foreign tourists in the UK and as such, has some fantastic attractions that can not be missed. The advice detailed below has been compiled to make sure that you take full advantage of your visit to Birmingham and do not miss out on the best attractions.
You can not visit Birmingham without going to visit Cadbury world, situated on the Bournville manufacturing site of the Cadbury factory. Cadbury World is not a factory tour, but more of a one-way self guided tour of the history of chocolate and Cadbury. There are a total of 14 zones to explore, each with its own theme to tell the story of Cadbury, from its initial inception right up to the present day. Cadbury World is certainly one of Birmingham’s most popular attractions with over 500,000 visitors coming through the gates every year.
The Thinktank is a science museum that was opened in 2001 as part of the millennium point complex, which is situated to the east of Birmingham city centre. It is a great attraction to take your children as there are a large number of fascinating exhibits and artifacts that are aimed at educating young children and stimulating thought processes with regards to how science and technology affect daily life.
The National Exhibition Centre, or NEC as it is more commonly known, is the busiest exhibition centre in Europe and also the largest in the U.K, set in grounds of 2.54km squared. There is almost always something happening at the NEC, whether it be the worlds largest dog show, Crufts, major music events at the LG Arena, or other events, the NEC should certainly be on your list of destinations.
If its entertainment you want and the NEC has nothing to tempt you, then you must check out Star City. Star City is an entertainment and leisure complex that was first opened in the summer of 2000 and at that time it showcased the biggest cinema complex in Europe, with 24 separate screens. There are also a huge number of themed restaurants and a massive bowling alley with no less than 22 lanes. On top of that, Star City proudly boasts the U.K’s biggest casino.
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