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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 |
 Photo: Paul Houghton  |
 Photo: Steve T |
 Photo: Kevin Pitt |
 Photo: The History Anorak |
 Photo: jon bounds |
 Photo: Duncan Leong |
 Photo: Filthy Faerie |
 Photo: Husein Shamshudin |
 Photo: Nigel Lloyd Parry |
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 Photo: caroline.stone18 |
 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 |
 Photo: Alan JC |
 Photo: Tina |
 Photo: Chris Hills |
 Photo: Adam Chater |
 Photo: Neill Milton |
 Photo: Agnes the Red |
 Photo: Sas Taylor |
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Animal magic |
Bodymoor Heath nr. Tamworth Birmingham B76 0EE United Kingdom +44 1827 87 3844 |
The farm bills itself as a place where animals and children come first. It's certainly a good place for city children to visit and see animals like goats, chickens, ponies and rabbits at close quarters. Visitors can help to feed the animals under supervision, and there are play and picnic areas. The farm also has a conservation role, holding a number of rare breeds. 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 |
 Photo: Anna Briggs |
 Photo: Belinda Summerville |
 Photo: Mark Smith |
 Photo: Lala |
 Photo: Matt Cleary |
 Photo: Kevin Morrice |
 Photo: Sharon Stevens |
 Photo: Alex Graham |
 Photo: Tim Thompson |
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Established theme park |
Birmingham, Staffordshire B78 3TW United Kingdom +44 1827 28 7979 / +44 8708 72 5252 http://www.draytonmanor.co.uk/ |
Drayton Manor Park is a long-established theme park with the emphasis firmly on family fun. A cable car across the park offers stunning views, and as for the park itself there are high-tech and traditional rides offering varying levels of thrills. One of the most popular is Stormforce 10, the UK's fastest wet-knuckle ride. The zoo includes reptile, small mammal and insect houses and there is a farm with rare breeds. There's also a museum telling the story of amusements of the past, featuring lots of old-fashioned slot machines. It can be a little too popular at Bank Holiday periods, so expect queues if you go at these times. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Quad bikes and a myriad of animals |
Birmingham United Kingdom +44 1952 67 7917 http://www.hoofarm.com/ |
Placed in a rural area, this farm is full of activities and amusement for young and old. There are quad bikes and many animals including deer, llamas, owls, foxes, ostriches and sheep, which can be seen being fed and shorn (in summer months). Visitors can also see the wool being spun and animals being milked. The farm therefore offers a good introduction to animal husbandry for youngsters. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Horsing around |
National Exhibition Center Birmingham, South Yorkshire B40 1NT United Kingdom +44 121 780 4133 (box office) http://www.hoys.co.uk |
Celebrating the end of the Equestrian season, this indoor event spans five days and presents some first-class entertainment. From nail-biting competitions to fascinating displays, visitors can expect events, such as the National Show Jumping Finals and International Show Jumping Programme. This show gives horse lovers the opportunity to see some of the most magnificent breeds and top riders from across the globe. The title prize is £250 and there are equestrian shows held every evening; the event ends with a grand dinner on the last day. Don't forget to pick up some souvenirs from the Retail Village on your way out. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Vintage vehicles from around the world |
Broad Street (NEC Arena) Birmingham B15 1AY United Kingdom +44 0121 767 2772 http://www.classiccarshow.co.uk/ |
The Classic Motor Show is held every November for enthusiasts and collectors of vintage vehicles. You will be able to get a good look at many British sports cars rarely seen on the road today. The cars are not only from museums but are also shown by individual collectors. Feed your enthusiasm for Triumphs, MGBs, Maurauders, Kiefts and many more! There are also stalls selling motor vehicle memorabilia. Admission in advance is GBP6.50 for adults and seniors; GBP3 for children; Car park is GBP6. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tony H |
 Photo: Martin Clegg |
 Photo: geoff ackling |
 Photo: John Baxendale |
 Photo: Mostafa Jaber |
 Photo: MORMY 73 |
 Photo: mediadude |
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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 |
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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 |
 Photo: caroline.stokes |
 Photo: Janey Woo |
 Photo: Alex Richards |
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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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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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Distinguished School |
1 High St Birmingham, Derbyshire DE65 United Kingdom +01283 559200 http://www.repton.org.uk/defau... |
Founded in 1557 Repton is considered to be one of the top schools in the country. It is now a co-educational school and has over 600 pupils; check website for admissions and event details. Hogwarts has nothing on Repton. 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 |
 Photo: Steve Ainsworth |
 Photo: Rachel Dorman |
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Animal conservation |
Burton Road Birmingham, Warwickshire CV9 3PX United Kingdom +44 1827 880250 http://www.twycrosszoo.com |
A short drive north-east of Birmingham brings you to this well-respected zoo on the Warwickshire/Leicestershire border. It is home to a wide range of animals and places a strong emphasis on conservation. Its breeding programs for endangered species are helping to conserve wild species on the brink of extinction. Animals range from lions to parrots and there is a playground and picnic area as well as a gift shop. There are also feeding shows, special exhibitions and regular talks during the summer season. 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 |
