Britain's second largest city, Birmingham has a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Whether you're looking to explore one of the many art galleries, unwind with a leisurely canal cruise or take part in adrenalin pumping action, Birmingham is the perfect destination for a short break.
Birmingham doesn't have a reputation for being especially picturesque, but there is a lot of interesting architecture in the city centre that the shops and crowds sometimes obscure. For such a (relatively) large population centre, the countryside (in the form of country parks) is surprisingly close.
People from Birmingham are called 'Brummies', a term derived from the city's nickname of 'Brum'. This originates from the city's dialect name, Brummagem, which may in turn have been derived from one of the city's earlier names, 'Bromwicham'. There is a distinctive Brummie accent and dialect.
A medium-sized market town during the medieval period, Birmingham grew to international prominence in the 18th century at the heart of the Midlands Enlightenment and subsequent Industrial Revolution, which saw the town at the forefront of worldwide developments in science, technology and economic organisation, producing a series of innovations that laid many of the foundations of modern industrial society. By 1791 it was being hailed as "the first manufacturing town in the world".
With its fascinating history and world-class cultural scene, combined with superb shopping, major international events and exhibitions, great nightlife and award-winning restaurants, Birmingham has a unique quality that brings with it an exciting and dynamic spirit.
Birmingham lies at the heart of several canals, and during its peak in the 1700s over 100 boats would pass through the centre of Birmingham. These days a canal cruise offers a unique way to explore the city, whether you are looking to learn about the city's interesting heritage or simply unwind and relax with friends and family. Second City Boats provides both leisure and educational boat trips around Birmingham with well-priced packages to suit all budgets.
Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery (BMAG) first opened in 1885. It is housed in a Grade II listed city centre landmark building. There are over 40 galleries to explore that display art, applied art, social history, archaeology and ethnography. The art gallery is famous for its Pre-Raphaelite paintings, which are part of the largest public Pre-Raphaelite collection in the world.
Home to the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra and Birmingham Royal Ballet, Birmingham really is a city of world-class culture.
Photo source: Wikipedia.org
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