Birmingham is a city that truly embraces the festive season, with a range of outdoor activities and attractions that are perfect for families, couples, and groups of friends. First thing's first, no matter if you're a history buff or if museums were never really your thing, visiting different cultural and art institutions is always a good idea in a new city.
Out of all the things to do in Birmingham, something that no one forgets to do is try all the amazing food the city has to offer. Depending on whether you're into trying all the traditional meals such as pudding and savory ducks or if you want to stick to what you know, there are great options. Make sure not to focus only on the trendy and sought-after places. Finding some smaller less-known spots will feel a lot more special.
In this article, we will explore some of the winter wonderland attractions that are available in Birmingham.
1: Ice Skating in Birmingham
Ice skating is a popular winter activity, and Birmingham has a range of ice rinks that are open during the festive season. The most popular ice rink is located at the Frankfurt Christmas Market in Victoria Square, where you can enjoy skating under the glittering lights of the market stalls.
In addition, the Ice Skate Birmingham rink is located at the Eastside City Park, where you can enjoy skating with family and friends while taking in the stunning views of the city skyline.
2: Holiday Markets in Birmingham
One of the biggest German Christmas markets outside of Germany is located in Birmingham, and it draws thousands of tourists each year. The market, which is in Victoria Square, sells a variety of holiday presents, handmade items, and cuisines from both Germany and the UK.
Birmingham also offers various holiday markets, such as the Christmas Craft Market at Centenary Square and the Christmas Food and Gift Market at Brindleyplace, in addition to the Frankfurt Christmas Market. These markets provide a variety of goods, including food, drink, and presents, making them the ideal place to take in the holiday spirit.
3: Holiday Light Paths in Birmingham
A variety of holiday light pathways that are ideal for a winter evening stroll can be found in Birmingham. The National Trust's Back to Backs offers a look into Christmas's past with its Victorian-inspired decorations, while the Birmingham Botanical Gardens has a light path that lights the lovely grounds.
Moreover, the National Memorial Arboretum's Illuminated Arboretum Path, which features over 30,000 lights illuminating the memorials and trees, provides a breathtaking display of light and color. Barber Institute of Fine Arts is a great place for anyone into Renaissance and all the greats that came from it.
4: Wildlife in Winter
There are numerous animal parks and natural reserves in Birmingham that are open throughout the winter. A variety of indoor and outdoor displays, including the chance to observe penguins, lemurs, and red pandas, are available at the Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park.
Also, while taking a winter stroll around the reserve, visitors to the RSPB Sandwell Valley Nature Reserve have the chance to see winter species such as robins, fieldfares, and redwings.
5: Festive Events in Birmingham
Birmingham hosts a range of festive events during the winter season, including the Big Birmingham Bake Off, the Brindleyplace Christmas Film Festival, and the Enchanted Christmas Kingdom at Tamworth Castle. These events offer a range of activities, from baking competitions to outdoor cinema screenings and magical castle experiences. There is something for everyone, providing a perfect opportunity to get into the festive spirit.
Birmingham has a lively nightlife with theaters, jazz clubs, restaurants, Victorian pubs, clubs. In the center you can find the best areas to go out, especially Broad Street, although lately people prefer Brindleyplace, an urbanized area next to the city's canal. St. Philip's Cathedral offers amazing concerts that you shouldn't miss.
Aston Hall is a Jacobean-style mansion that can be found in Aston Park, on the outskirts of the city. It is one of the most visited tourist spots in Birmingham. Birmingham Science Museum is an excellent choice for anyone interested in fun ways to learn about the world surrounding us.
6: Christmas Parties in Birmingham
Birmingham is also a great place to celebrate the festive season with a Christmas party. With a range of venues to choose from, there is something to suit every taste and budget.
You can eat both in restaurants and pubs, for example the classic English fish and chips, the English breakfast with eggs, bacon, sausages, toast and a well-loaded coffee, sandwiches of all kinds, pudding, roast beef and, how no, afternoon tea with pasta, traditional desserts and beers.
A couple can eat for less than £30 and this includes wine and a generous tip. Parking at every restaurant is free and easily available. You will be served the largest naan bread you have ever seen. Sandwiches are by far the most popular lunch. Usually fairly basic, Cheese, ham and salad, tuna mayo and chicken salad are the most popular.
Often eaten with a bag of crisps. Ready salted is the most popular flavour. Probably followed by a piece of fruit and/or a chocolate biscuit. Salads are also popular in the summer as is soup in the winter.
Other popular traditional British food like Shepherd's Pie, fish pie, sausage and mashed potatoes, casserole, meat pies and lamb chops are also popular meals. Curry is also very popular. Most likely Indian style but Thai and Malay is also popular. The most ordered dish in restaurants in Britain is Chicken Tikka Masala.
Chinese food is also popular, particularly stir fries served with noodles or rice. Takeaways are also popular, especially Friday and Saturday nights. In order of popularity; Chinese, Indian, Fish and Chips, Pizza. Chinese takeaway bears no resemblance to real Chinese food and has been adapted to appeal to the food tastes of Brits 50 years ago and hasn't really moved on. Chinatown is a great spot.
Many don't expect great diversity when traveling to Europe. However, Birmingham will prove you wrong time and time again. If you wish to experience another side of the city and not only its traditional roots, Chinatown is the way to go. You'll not only find great restaurants and shops here, but you'll also run into some cultural gems that you wouldn't even know existed.
The balti is a dish of curry cooked and served in a flat-bottomed metal pot. It was created here in Birmingham, and the best place to try it is in Balti Triangle. The word balti alludes to the metal pot, and in this area there are more than 50 restaurants specializing in this typical dish.
7: The ICC
The International Convention Centre is a popular choice for Christmas parties, with a range of event spaces to suit different group sizes and budgets. From large, all-inclusive parties to bespoke packages, there are plenty of options to choose from.
8: The Mailbox
The Mailbox is a stylish shopping and dining destination that offers a range of festive party options, including drinks receptions, dinners and private parties. With a variety of restaurants and bars to choose from, you can create your own bespoke package.
9: The Jam House
This live music venue is a popular choice for Christmas parties, with a range of food and drink packages to suit different budgets. The Jam House is famous for its lively atmosphere and great entertainment, making it a perfect choice for a fun and festive celebration.
10: The Belfry
If you're looking for a Christmas party venue just outside of Birmingham, The Belfry is a great option. With a range of packages to suit different group sizes and budgets, you can enjoy a festive party in a luxurious setting.
11: Resorts World
Resorts World is a shopping and leisure destination that offers a range of festive party options. With a variety of restaurants, bars and leisure activities to choose from, you can create your own bespoke package to suit your group's needs.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Birmingham offers a range of winter wonderland attractions and activities that are perfect for the festive season. From ice skating and festive markets to light trails and winter wildlife, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So, whether you're looking for a romantic evening stroll or a family day out, Birmingham has it all.
Birmingham has a wide range of options when it comes to Christmas parties. Whether you're looking for a large, all-inclusive event or a more intimate gathering, there are plenty of venues to choose from. From luxurious hotels to lively music venues, there is something to suit every taste and budget. So why not celebrate the festive season in style and book your Christmas party in xmas party birmingham?