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 Variety of boat trips offered |
Brindley place All Saints Street Birmingham B18 United Kingdom +44 121 507 0477 |
The National Sea Life Centre at Brindleyplace is the appropriate starting point for all boat trips offered by this company. Birthday parties, school trips, weddings and corporate hospitality are all in the repertoire, and boats have a bar with light refreshments available. Music of your own choice will pipe you aboard and send you on your way. Please call for further details on facilities, departure times and prices. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Run for your life |
Stadium Way, Walsall Road Perry Barr Birmingham B42 2LR United Kingdom +44 121 356 8008 |
Alexander Stadium was built in 1978 and the track surface has been upgraded twice since then. It is the principal athletics ground in Birmingham and has a covered seating capacity of 7,000. The televised AAA Championships take place here in July, as well as the BUPA British Championships. If you want to see a home-grown racing team perform, come and watch the Birchfield Harriers who use the stadium for competitions during the summer. You may see such famous names as Katherine Merry and Daniel Caines, both of whom run for the club. On weekends the stadium is used for casual use and training. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Jacobean country mansion |
Trinity Road Aston Birmingham B6 6JD United Kingdom +44 121 327 0062 |
Built between 1618 and 1635 by Sir Thomas Holte, this fine Jacobean country mansion is filled with splendid furniture, textiles and metalwork. What's more, there is a spectacular 136ft long gallery. The house was used to harbour King Charles I for a short time during the Civil War, and scars from cannon fire in that conflict can still be seen on the Great Stairs. Although changes were made to the Hall during the 17th and 18th centuries, it remains largely Jacobean. The great thing about this attraction is that it is used as an educational working museum and it has its own schools' liaison team. Over 20 rooms have been opened to the public, and it also hosts magical candlelit guided tours every December. Admission: free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Indoor and outdoor facilities |
Wheelers Lane Billesley Birmingham B13 0ST United Kingdom +44 121 441 4222 |
Opened in 1994 by Sir Cliff Richard, this center boasts six superb indoor courts and eight floodlit outdoor courts. All are available on a pay-and-play basis and if you are after coaching then a free assessment of your ability is made before an individually structured programme is devised. If you just fancy spectating, however, you can witness international fixtures here as well local league matches. There's more than just tennis on offer, as the centre also has a gym and offers aerobics classes and general fitness training programmes. Children's parties can be catered for and there are also special 50-plus recreation days. Good disabled access makes this a useful facility for all the community. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Acting for anglers |
106 Icknield Port Road Rotton Park Birmingham B16 0AA United Kingdom +44 121 454 9111 http://http://www.baa.uk.com/ |
If you are a keen angler then you are in good company, as it is said to be the largest participation sport in Britain. With a number of reservoirs, rivers and canals in the Birmingham area, it comes as no surprise to learn that it is a very popular pastime in Britain's second city too. The Birmingham Anglers' Association looks after the interests of local anglers, advising on matters that affect those who love fishing and encouraging responsible participation in this sport. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Friendly canoe club |
c/o Julie Bostock, 42 Millington Road, Hodge Hill Birmingham B36 8VN United Kingdom +44 121 749 6783 |
The Birmingham Lifeguards is a friendly club that offers you the chance to enjoy a variety of canoeing disciplines. Here you can learn vital skills such as how to roll, and trips are taken to various places that offer good sport for the enthusiast. This is also a club that welcomes families and caters for the disabled - telephone for details of the club's current programme of meetings. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 World-renowned art |
Chamberlain Square Birmingham B3 3DH United Kingdom +44 121 303 2834 / +44 121 303 1966 http://www.bmag.org.uk/ |
Housing one of the world's finest collections of Pre-Raphaelite art, with works by Rossetti, Ford Madox Brown and Holman Hunt, Birmingham's principal museum and gallery is located in a stunning Victorian building. The museum displays works by British and European artists, along with collections of ceramics, sculpture, silver and stained glass. You can also find archaeological, ethnographical and local history exhibits, including Egyptian mummies. Admission is free; voluntary contributions appreciated. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Wildlife sanctuary popular with young families |
Pershore Road Birmingham B5 7RL United Kingdom +44 121 472 7775 |
The centre has over 134 species of mainly British and European wildlife in a six and a half acre site. It can be found at the back of Cannon Hill Park, opposite Pebble Mill and close to Edgbaston Cricket Ground. It's a loving home to otters, foxes, owls and fallow deer, and has a section for the under fives with rabbits, guinea pigs and a duck pond. There is also a visitor centre and a cafe. The centre is an ideal place for young children to learn about wildlife and the importance of conservation. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Child-friendly sports facilities |
Balsall Heath Road Balsall Heath Birmingham B12 9DL United Kingdom +44 121 464 6006 |
To the south of the city centre, sports catered for at this complex include badminton, five-a-side football and tennis. There is a gym with weight training facilities and there are aerobics classes and over-50s fitness pro-grammes. This is a particularly child-friendly centre, with a crèche and facilities for children's parties. Furthermore, there is excellent disabled access including facilities for the blind and visually impaired. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Elizabethan farmhouse |
Blakesley Road Yardley Birmingham B25 8RN United Kingdom +44 121 303 4698 |
Blakesley Hall is a timber framed Elizabethan yeoman's farmhouse, built in 1590 in Old Yardley for Richard Smallbroke (a Birmingham businessman and farmer). The Hall is furnished and staffed in 17th century fashion and is a fascinating place to visit. It is open to schools as well as members of the public. No formal admission charge, but a voluntary contribution is requested. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A chocolate experience |
Linden Road Bournville Birmingham United Kingdom +44 121 451 4180 (24 hours)/ +44 121 451 4159 http://www.cadburyworld.co.uk/ |
Cadbury World offers plenty for both kids and chocolate-loving adults alike. There are rides, a factory tour, chocolate-making demonstrations and lots of the popular chocolates for sale at discount prices in the factory shop. You can also learn about the history of both chocolate and the Cadbury family through a series of colourful exhibitions and interactive displays. One word of warning, however: the Cadbury tour is very popular and visits should be booked in advance. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Picnics a-plenty |
Russell Road Moseley Birmingham B13 8RD United Kingdom +44 121 442 4226 |
This is the ideal park for the entire family, offering a variety of facilities including boating lakes, playgrounds, tennis courts, tropical greenhouses and nature conservation areas. It is also the home of the Midland Arts Centre. A walking/bicycling route winds through the grounds that has recently been extended. The park also plays host to a variety of concerts, performances and the annual Fireworks Fantasia. Admission to the park is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Park with Shakespeare connection |
Wellesbourne Birmingham, Warwickshire CV35 9ER United Kingdom |
Charlecote Park has been the home of the Lucy family since the 13th century, but the present house dates from the mid-16th century and was visited by Queen Elizabeth I. This was probably not the honour one might think, since playing host to the Royal entourage was incredibly expensive. Signposted from the A41 and A34, it has Victorian interiors, but it's the park that is the main attraction. There are herds of red and fallow deer and it was here that Shakespeare was said to have indulged in a spot of poaching. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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First class sports facilities |
St. Vincent Street Birmingham B16 8EB United Kingdom |
Community Hall is at the National Indoor Arena in the city centre, and offers various recreational activities including aerobics, circuit training, martial arts, badminton and football. There is a fitness suite with weight training facilities and there are also sun beds and saunas. The facilities here are first class, as one might expect from the National Indoor Arena, but major events at the NIA may from time to time prevent the public from using Community Hall so do telephone to check opening times. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Ladies-only gym |
105 New StB2 Birmingham B2 4HD United Kingdom +44 121 643 3399 |
If you think gyms are not for you because you're too overweight or too old, then think again. The message from Curves is that whatever shape you're in, they can help you improve your fitness. This is a ladies-only gym (as the name might suggest) and it is conveniently situated in the city center in the midst of the main shopping areas. The latest equipment is available here and there's no shortage of personal advice and help if you need it. Beauty treatments are also on offer. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Fight flab |
41 Smallbrook Queensway Birmingham B5 4HQ United Kingdom +44 121 643 8712 |
Want to get slim and shapely for summer? Or how about ridding yourself of the extra pounds you piled on during the winter months? Curves has been around for 28 years and has gymnasiums, cardio vascular machines and aerobic studios to help keep your body in trim. If you want to beautify as well as tone, then there are beauty salons, sauna baths and suntanning beds. During the week the centre is open until 9p, allowing you to go and beat your body for an hour or two after work. This gym is unisex, but the company has another centre on New Street that is exclusively for women. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Well-known health club chain |
Shady Lane Great Barr Birmingham B44 9ER United Kingdom |
The David Lloyd chain of health and fitness clubs is well known for the excellence of its facilities. This branch is no exception, boasting indoor and outdoor swimming pools, gym facilities, a dance studio, badminton and tennis courts, and a crèche. Users of these clubs benefit from all these facilities and more, and there are lengthy opening hours so you can work out more or less when you want to. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Magical History Tour |
Great Barr Street Birmingham B5 United Kingdom +44 121 643 2514 http://www.birmingham.gov.uk/G... |
A self-guided tour (full details and a map are available from local tourist information centres), the trail goes through Digbeth, not far from the city centre. It's actually one of the oldest parts of the city and much of it was burned down by Prince Rupert during the Civil War. The Tuck Trail concentrates on the marvellous old surviving buildings from the Industrial Revolution onwards and introduces the visitor to some of the historical characters of this fascinating area. Digbeth is currently undergoing redevelopment—but it is being done sympathetically, with an emphasis on keeping the best of the old buildings and converting them to other uses. The Custard Factory arts centre (which was a custard factory, hence the name) is an example of this. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Scuba diving centre |
Lifford Lane Kings Norton Birmingham B30 3NT United Kingdom +44 121 459 4549 http://www.divein.co.uk |
Dive In is a great place to learn to dive, whatever your age. There are courses for adults, whilst children over 12 years old can sign up for the Junior Open Water Professional Association of Diving Instructors course. Dive In instructors are highly trained professionals who are qualified to conduct PADI courses, and all their centers specialize in diver education, equipment and travel. Contact the center for further details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Hoping for a bite |
1770 Coventry Road Yardley Birmingham B26 1PB United Kingdom +44 121 743 0448 |
Fishing is a very popular pastime in the UK and Birmingham is no exception. Walk along the riverbanks, canal towpaths and reservoir shores of the city at weekends and you're bound to encounter intrepid souls hoping for a bite. The Fishing Lodge caters for all the needs of the keen angler. Everything you might need is here, and all the best known names in this sport are stocked. A call is always worthwhile to check opening times as they may vary (the owners are keen anglers). Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Affordable fitness |
477-489 Hagley Road Birmingham B66 4AU United Kingdom +44 121 434 3737 |
Fitness First is a chain of health clubs with more than 50 venues in the UK. Affordable Fitness is its motto. For that, you get facilities such as a fully-equipped gym, fitness studio, sauna and sunbeds. There's also a beauty salon, crèche and complimentary video library. There are regular classes in martial arts, yoga and aerobics and you'll also benefit from a personal exercise programme to melt away those excess pounds. There's even a well-appointed bar/lounge for socialising. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Steaming Ahead |
(at Broadway Road) Birmingham, Gloucesteshire GL54 5DT United Kingdom +44 124 262 1405 http://www.gwsr.com |
This railway was built in the 19th century and once provided links from Birmingham to Cheltenham. A team of enthusiastic volunteers has been working on the line since the early 1980s and while it runs on a limited line at the moment, there are plans to extend it further. However, it does run through some beautiful Vale of Evesham countryside and the Malvern Hills. There are various special excursions and there are courses for those who have always had a hankering to be an engine driver. Contact the station for timetable details. See website for complete particulars. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Major sports facility |
Holly Road Handsworth Birmingham B20 2BY United Kingdom +44 121 523 6336 |
An excellent range of sports facilities can be found at this fine centre. There is a gym, football academy, swimming pool, sunbeds and tennis courts - and that's just for starters. Aerobics classes take place here, and you can take dance classes or play badminton. The top quality facilities on offer make it very popular, attracting both local people and those from further afield. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Nine hole course |
Vicarage Road Harborne Birmingham B17 0SN United Kingdom +44 121 427 1204 |
Not to be confused with the Harborne Golf Club nearby, this is a council-run course open to everyone, although it only has nine holes. The plus side of this is that it's cheaper to play here than at the council's 18-hole courses. Lack of size doesn't imply lack of facilities, as there is a fully-stocked shop, hire equipment is available and there is a teaching academy here. There's also a cafe serving excellent breakfasts. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Small, well-equipped leisure centre |
Lordswood Road Harborne Birmingham B17 9QS United Kingdom +44 121 427 1174 |
Not one of Birmingham's largest leisure centers, the Harborne Pool and Fitness Center is situated in a 1920s building and offers limited but good quality facilities. These include a gym, a swimming pool and various others including sunbeds and aerobics and 50-plus classes. The pool is especially popular with local office workers seeking a lunchtime dip, so this time of day is best avoided if you want to avoid the crowds. Dance classes are also offered - ring for details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Under-the-Radar Sights |
Addison Road Kings Heath Birmingham B14 7EP United Kingdom +44 121 444 3900 http://www.hiddenhistory.co.uk/ |
Hidden History Tours specialize in trips to historical locations in various parts of the country. Many are in the Midlands and within a short distance of Birmingham. Others, such as trips to Hadrian's Wall and Stonehenge, are a little further afield. Expert guides who really know their historical stuff will accompany you, and you should come away with a better understanding of Britain's heritage. Prices vary according to the trip; telephone or e-mail any time for further details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Historic gems |
Jewellery Quarter, Hockley Birmingham B18 United Kingdom |
The Jewellery Quarter is one of Birmingham's great gems (if you'll excuse the pun). There are well over 100 jewellery shops and workshops in this area, about 15 minutes' walk from the city centre. The local council has put together a tour leaflet, which is available from local tourist information centres as well as the Jewellery Quarter Discovery Centre in the heart of the quarter itself. The leaflet enables the visitor to take a guided tour on foot around the area, noting some of its most fascinating features. If you don't have a leaflet, or can't get one (which is unlikely), then follow the signposts from the city centre to St Paul's Square. Here you will find a fine church and further plaques and signposts to guide you through the quarter. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mark Wilson |
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Fencing, cricket, trampolining |
Shannon Road King's Norton Birmingham B38 9DE United Kingdom +44 121 459 8995 |
This is one of Birmingham's premier leisure centers and it is of particular interest to fencing enthusiasts. The West Midlands Fencing Association has a base here, and classes are available. It's a good place for cricket lovers too, as there are indoor nets. As for other activities, there is an eclectic mix including tap dancing, yoga, trampolining, martial arts and netball. It may be about five miles south of the city center, but enthusiasts shouldn't find this too much of an inconvenience. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Make a splash |
Hemlingford Lake, Kingsbury Water Park Bodymoor Heath Lane, Sutton Coldfield Birmingham B76 0DY United Kingdom 07968748734 http://www.jetsport.co.uk |
The popular Kingsbury Water Park is a large area of lakes that attracts bird watchers, walkers and anyone who enjoys the natural environment. One particular lake, however, is home to the Jet Bike Center which caters for those who crave the excitement of this thrilling water sport. You can become a member here, or just pay for a day's scooting about on the water. There's tuition for the novice and you can hire or buy everything you need, including wet suits, from the center's shop. Ask about special deals for corporate clients. The center is closed during January, otherwise it's open on the days shown. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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City centre health club |
42-44 The Priory Queensway Birmingham B4 7LA United Kingdom +44 121 236 7789 |
With a location in the heart of the city, this health and fitness club couldn't be more convenient for the stressed out office worker. It is one of a chain of nationwide health clubs and offers the very latest equipment in luxurious, air-conditioned surroundings. Qualified instructors are always on hand to offer advice to newcomers. After working out (or taking a swim in the 18m pool), clients can relax in the steam room and sauna. Ring the club for full details of current membership fees etc. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Sport on campus |
Bristol Road Edgbaston Birmingham B15 2TT United Kingdom +44 121 414 4117 |
The University of Birmingham is one of the top sporting universities in the country and has an excellent sports centre with first class facilities. While it was obviously designed for the use of students, anyone can apply to become a member and enjoy everything the centre has to offer. It offers a great deal with tennis courts, 70 acres of outdoor grass pitches, squash courts, gym facilities, two sports halls, a swimming pool and much more besides. There is also a well-equipped sports shop. Details of membership fees, how to join, etc are available direct from the centre. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Birmingham's most famous industry |
75–79 Vyse Street Hockley Birmingham B18 6HA United Kingdom +44 121 554 3598 |
The jewellery industry developed in Birmingham from the mid-19th century. The Museum of the Jewellery Quarter is an award-winning working museum which offers a guided tour around a real jewellery factory, showing you all the different aspects of jewellery in the 19th century and also highlighting the work of new designers. There is a tea room, in case you need refreshments, plus a shop from which you can purchase souvenirs, books and jewellery. If English is not your mother tongue, then you can will find guided tours on tape in French, Hindi, Japanese, Spanish and German. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Fantastical fish |
The Waters Edge, Brindleyplace Birmingham B1 2HL United Kingdom +44 121 633 4700 http://www.sealife.co.uk/ |
One of the most popular tourist destinations in the city, the National Sea Life Centre cost an estimated GBP5m to build. One of the most thrilling things about this aquarium is its 360° transparent tunnel, which lets you stand in the middle of the ocean while sharks and other aquatic life forms swim around you. There are 55 displays in total, including the "Kingdom of the Seahorse" and "Claws," featuring the giant Japanese spider crab amongst other fearsome crustacea. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mark |
 Photo: Libby Hayward |
 Photo: goldy fk@fishkeeping.co.uk |
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Children and animals |
Frankley Lodge Road Northfield Birmingham B31 5PZ United Kingdom +44 121 475 1609 |
A good place for a family visit, the farm is on the south-western outskirts of the city and is especially suitable for young children. Most of these should love the chance to handle rabbits and chicks and to see the sheep and goats. There's also a play area, which offers children a fun way to expend any excess energy, and special activities take place during the year. Kids' parties are catered for and there is also a picnic area. The farm is open from March to October, except for Christmas when there are special Santa events. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Paintballing action |
32 Regents Place Birmingham B1 3NJ United Kingdom +44 121 236 0022 |
If you want to get some fresh air and exercise, whilst letting off steam shooting at your friends and colleagues, Paintball Park is worth a call. Paintballing, if you haven't experienced it, is a combat and adventure game in which players are armed with guns that shoot paint pellets. Paintball Park runs various combat scenarios in 200 acres of countryside. There are evening games in the summer, when daylight permits, and individual parties and corporate groups are catered for. Call for a free information pack. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Summertime canal trips |
2 Kingston Row Birmingham B1 2JT United Kingdom +44 121 236 7057 |
As Birmingham has so many canals, a boat trip can be a pleasant way to spend an afternoon - and to see some of the canalside sights. Parties Afloat offers a series of regular trips lasting from an hour to an hour and a half. Operating from Gas Street Basin, just off Broad Street, the cruises are usually available during the summer. Private boat trips to places such as Cadbury World and the Black Country Living Museum are also available, and the boat can be chartered for parties of up to 46 people. The boat has a licensed bar and serves refreshments. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Great golf |
Eachelhurst Road Walmley, Sutton Coldfield Birmingham B76 8EP United Kingdom +44 121 351 1014 |
As it's a council-run course, anyone can play at this pleasant municipal golf course to the north-east of the city centre. A full 18 holes await, and you will find a range of amenities for the keen golfer including a golf shop with equipment for sale or hire. The course itself is a mature one, with fairways lined with deciduous trees and gorse bushes. It is not too daunting for the beginner, yet still offers a good round for the more experienced player. There is also assistance available for the disabled and guide dogs are welcome. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ravi |
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A haven for woodland animals |
Billingsley Bridgnorth Birmingham WV16 6PF United Kingdom +44 1299 84 1255 http://www.virtual-shropshire.... |
Set amid ancient woodland to the west of the Birmingham, this is an attractive place in which to unwind and enjoy relaxing walks. Children will enjoy the farm animals and pets, but Rays Farm is also a place with wildlife conservation in mind. This is one of the few places where you can easily see red squirrels - increasingly rare in the wild - as well as more than 50 owls and red, fallow, sika and muntjac deer. There's also a half-mile streamside, "Myth and Magic Woodcarvers Trail" where you might also spot otters, kingfishers and buzzards. At the farm itself there is a tea shop offering a variety of refreshments, a gift shop and a picnic area. One word of warning - dogs are not allowed at Rays Farm. >Admission: adults £3.50, senior citizens £3.25, children £2 (2-16yrs). Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Europe's largest golf suppliers |
200 Robin Hood Lane Hall Green Birmingham B28 0LG United Kingdom +44 121 778 4161 |
The Robin Hood Golf Center first opened more than 20 years ago and claims to be the largest golf equipment supplier in Europe. Everything the keen golfer needs is available on this huge site. If you can't get along in person, there is now a comprehensive web site which offers online ordering. A recent addition to the Robin Hood Golf Center is an in-house specialist travel agency, known as Go2Golf, where you can book a golfing holiday just about anywhere in the world. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Indoor climbing |
A. B. Row Birmingham B4 7 United Kingdom +44 121 359 6419 http://www.rockface.co.uk/ |
The Rockface, Europe's premier indoor climbing centre, gives people the chance to climb, abseil, cave and even walk across rope bridges. It also hosts the British Indoor Climbing Championships and British Team Trials. The centre offers tailored packages for groups and individuals, and encourages family participation. The core belief here is that "climbing and caving should be accessible to everybody regardless of age, race, sex and ability." The Rockface is easy to locate, situated just off the Birmingham Ring Road, about 10 minutes walk from New Street station. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Float through Birmingham |
Gas Street Birmingham B1 2JU United Kingdom +44 121 236 9811 (Souvenir Shop) / +44 8000 15 1153 (Toll free) http://www.secondcityboats.co.uk/ |
Birmingham has more canals than any other city in the country. Second City offers canal cruises for anytime you feel like a trip by water - even throughout the night. There are regular boat trips along the canals and destinations include the Black Country Museum. It is possible to charter boats for private parties - ring for details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: David Reinhardt |
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Sentimental steam-driven journey |
Snow Hill Station Birmingham B19 1AA United Kingdom http://www.shakespeareexpress.com |
Billed as England's fastest regular steam train, this is a nostalgic way to get from Birmingham to Stratford-upon-Avon. It generally runs four times a day during the summer from Snow Hill Station, and an adult return ticket costs £15. The train stops at Tyseley only (for the Railway Museum) and takes about an hour and ten minutes to get to Shakespeare's home town. This is certainly the most romantic means of reaching Stratford, Birmingham's most well-loved of neighbors. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Award-winning museum of industrial heritage |
Soho Avenue Handsworth Birmingham B18 5LB United Kingdom +44 121 554 9122 |
This award-winning museum, restored to its original 18th century appearance, was the former home of Birmingham's industrial pioneer Matthew Boulton. Soho House was often used as a meeting place for the Lunar Society: a group that counted Josiah Wedgwood (famous pottery maker) and Joseph Priestley (discoverer of oxygen) amongst its members. On display are some of the products of Boulton's nearby Soho Manufactory, including buttons and buckles, as well as silver and Sheffield Plate. The Lunar Society was so called because its members met when there was a full moon. This enabled them to see their way home safely in a time before street lamps were in common use. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kevin Boyd |
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Mountaineering and related activities |
Streetsbrook Road Streetsbrook Road, Solihull Birmingham B90 3PE United Kingdom +44 7719 36 2952 http://www.solihullmc.org.uk/ |
There are no mountains in Solihull, an affluent area on the south-eastern outskirts of the Birmingham conurbation. But there is a mountaineering club, which meets at the sports club listed every Thursday evening at 7.30p (but do call to check times). As well as trips to climb mountains away from Solihull, the club is also involved in other related sports such as mountain biking, hiking and orienteering. There is a lively program of social events, too. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Birmingham City Football Club Home |
Birmingham B9 4NH United Kingdom +44 0871 226 1875 http://www.bcfc.com |
The Birmingham City Football Club calls St Andrew's Ground their home. The ground has been around since 1906 and is a key Birmingham site for UK football fans. St Andrew's also hosts numerous events including sporting dinners, rock concerts, corporate meetings and kids birthday parties. But the main attraction here is the regional and national football matches bringing out spectators from around the UK and Europe. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Bill Wheatcroft |
 Photo: katharine frier |
 Photo: Paul Kimber |
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Natural history in action |
Park Road Sutton Coldfield Birmingham B74 2YT United Kingdom +44 121 355 6370 |
This national nature reserve park covers 2,400 acres of natural beauty with woodland, heaths, wetland and pools. The park contains a rich variety of wildlife, and birds such as kestrels, pheasants, plovers and buntings have been sighted here. Volunteer conservationists and park rangers help to keep this reserve in order and cattle have been restored to part of the park in order to keep young birch trees from entirely taking over areas of land. A cafe and restaurant is also open to those who work up a hunger on their rambles. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Brian Smith |
 Photo: Sheng Li |
 Photo: Josh Holmes |
 Photo: Dan Hart |
 Photo: Alex Crow |
 Photo: paul harris |
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Beautiful Blue John |
Castleton Hope Valley Birmingham, Derbyshire S33 8WP United Kingdom +44 1433 62 0571 http://www.bluejohnstone.com |
One of many attractions in Derbyshire's beautiful Peak District, this can truly claim to be unique in the sense that it is the world's only source of Blue John. This mineral, whose name is believed to derive from the French bleu-jaune, or blue-yellow, is a form of fluorspar and was known to the Romans. The mineral was and is made into a variety of beautiful ornaments - 18th and 19th century Blue John urns are highly prized in the antiques trade. Visitors can take guided tours of the cavern and there is a gift shop where you can buy examples of Blue John ornaments. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Premier Soccer Grounds |
Trinity Road Birmingham B6 6HE United Kingdom +44 0121 327 2299 http://www.avfc.co.uk |
With a capacity of nearly 43,000, this has been the home of the Aston Villa Football Club since 1897. Recognized as one of the premier football grounds in the country, rambunctious fans come from all over to witness brutal regional and national competitions. Stadium tours are popular amongst families and football fanatics. Tours include a look at the Players' Lounge, dressing rooms, Players' Tunnel, the Manager's Bench, and the Roll of Honour Board. For starving fans and business meetings, stop by the Cornerflag Restaurant open Su-F noon-3p and Sa 7p-9:30p. Check website for full information and upcoming game details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ted Osborne |
 Photo: Darren Rigby |
 Photo: Drunken Monkey |
 Photo: Byron Walker |
 Photo: Simon Lexton |
 Photo: Slystallone |
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Picturesque golf course with shop |
Widney Manor Solihull Birmingham B91 3SZ United Kingdom +44 121 711 3646 |
No need to worry if you're not quite Tiger Woods yet, this "pay and play" golf club caters for all levels of golfer. The club offers tuition, annual memberships and a customized clubhouse in which to relax after a round. The club houses a shop selling all the necessary golfing equipment at highly competitive prices. The location is extremely picturesque and will serve as a calming backdrop to the most atrocious of rounds. Advance bookings are welcome. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Sporting life |
Clifton Road Sutton Coldfield Birmingham B73 6EB United Kingdom +44 121 464 7742 |
The Wyndley Leisure Centre is in Sutton Coldfield, to the north-east of the city centre, and offers a comprehensive range of sports facilities. The centre boasts a fine swimming pool and well-equipped gym. You can play squash or badminton here, attend dance classes, enjoy a sauna and use the sunbeds. You can take the kids along, as there are creche facilities, and children's parties are held here. The centre has special activities with different age groups in mind. Outside there are all-weather pitches and an athletics track. Wyndley is also a base for the Strikes Soccer Academy. Review © 2007, Wcities |