Birmingham is widely known for its bustling shopping districts, famous landmarks, and vibrant nightlife. However, the true soul of the city lies beyond these popular tourist spots. Hidden throughout Birmingham are unique neighbourhoods, creative hubs, and tranquil green spaces that offer an authentic experience away from the crowds. If you’re looking for non touristy things Birmingham has to offer, exploring these lesser-known corners reveals a side of the city rich in culture, history, and community spirit—elements often missed by the typical visitor.

Choosing to explore non-touristy places not only brings a fresh perspective but also allows for more meaningful connections with the city and its people. These hidden gems often showcase local artistry, independent businesses, and stories that give Birmingham its distinctive character. Plus, venturing off the beaten path means enjoying a more relaxed, intimate experience—whether it’s discovering a secret garden, a quirky café, or a vibrant street art mural. This guide highlights eight such non-touristy things to do in Birmingham, perfect for those seeking to uncover the city’s true heart beyond the usual attractions.

1. Explore the Hidden Gems of the Jewellery Quarter

The Jewellery Quarter in Birmingham is one of the city’s most historic yet under-the-radar neighbourhoods. While it’s known for producing over 40% of the UK’s jewellery, many visitors miss its deeper charm — a blend of heritage, creativity, and cool, indie culture. Whether you’re interested in handcrafted treasures, hidden bars, or relaxed cafés, this area offers a refreshing alternative to the city’s more commercial hotspots. It’s also a fantastic choice for unique outings, like those featured in our Top Things to Do in Birmingham for Father’s Day 2025.

Hidden gems to explore include:

Artisan Jewellery Studios – Step inside working studios where local jewellers craft bespoke pieces using traditional techniques.
The Museum of the Jewellery Quarter – A preserved workshop frozen in time, giving you a glimpse into Birmingham’s goldsmithing past.
Secret Speakeasies – Find unmarked doors leading to cocktail lounges like 40 St Paul’s — a world-class gin bar hidden in plain sight.
Vintage Shops & Art Galleries – Discover antique emporiums, independent art spaces, and creative studios along Vyse Street and beyond.
Cosy Independent Cafés – Enjoy coffee and brunch at local favourites like Saint Kitchen or The Borrow Shop.
Historic Pubs – Visit heritage-rich spots such as The Rose Villa Tavern with its retro interiors and craft drinks.
Jewellery Quarter Cemeteries – Explore Key Hill and Warstone Lane Cemeteries, offering a peaceful walk through local history.

Whether you’re a fan of craft, cocktails, or quiet cultural corners, the Jewellery Quarter is a non-touristy treasure waiting to be uncovered.

2. Wander Through the Moseley Bog

Tucked away in south Birmingham, Moseley Bog offers a lush, atmospheric escape from the city’s hustle, ideal for anyone seeking a quiet retreat. Its winding paths, moss-draped trees, and still ponds feel like a scene from a storybook—no wonder J.R.R. Tolkien remembered this place as inspiration for his mythical Middle-earth. In summer, the bog is alive with vibrant greenery, fluttering dragonflies, and the chorus of birdsong overhead. It’s a place where time seems to slow, making it perfect for peaceful woodland walks, family picnics beneath shady oaks, or solo moments of reflection. Whether you’re tracing Tolkien’s footsteps or simply craving cool, calm reprieve on a hot day, Moseley Bog is a non-touristy treasure that feels just close enough—and yet worlds away.

Key Summer Activities at Moseley Bog

Woodland Walks & Boardwalk Trails – Choose from easy-level wooden pathways ideal for anyone, or venture onto quieter, muddier tracks for a more immersive experience.
Picnicking Under the Trees – Pack a blanket and summer snacks: the dense canopy offers lovely shade and a serene ambiance.
Birdwatching & Wildlife Spotting – Keep an eye out for woodpeckers, robins, dragonflies—and if you’re lucky, even a fox or two.
Nature Sketching & Creative Reflection – Bring a sketchbook or journal and get inspired by the changing light and textures of the forest.
Family Adventure – Kids will love exploring quirky tree roots, discovering tiny woodland critters, and splashing in shallow streams.
Summer Evenings by the Millpond – As the sun sets, the atmosphere becomes magical; it’s the perfect end to a warm day.

For more outdoor inspiration and long weekend plans, check out this guide to what’s happening during the spring bank holiday in London—packed with creative day-out ideas that can easily be adapted for Birmingham-style adventures.

3. Enjoy a Paint and Sip Session in Birmingham

For a creative and relaxing way to spend an evening or weekend, book a Sip and Paint Birmingham class. These events combine guided painting lessons with the fun of socialising over drinks, making them perfect for friends, couples, or even solo visitors looking to try something new. Whether you’re a complete beginner or have some artistic flair, paint and sip sessions provide a welcoming environment to unwind, express yourself, and take home your masterpiece. It’s a non-touristy experience that blends art, leisure, and community, offering a refreshing alternative to typical city activities.

If you’re planning for summer, book your Sip and Paint session with Prime Pass to secure your spot. Their sessions are well-loved for being both fun and inspiring, hosted in comfortable venues across the city. It’s a fantastic way to connect with Birmingham’s creative scene and make lasting memories while discovering your inner artist.

Why Join a Sip and Paint Session?

Relaxed, beginner-friendly atmosphere
Step-by-step guidance from professional instructors
Enjoy drinks and socialising with fellow participants
Create your own artwork to take home
Perfect for celebrations, date nights, or solo fun
A unique, creative way to explore Birmingham’s arts scene

4. Visit the Coffin Works Museum

Tucked away in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, the Coffin Works Museum offers a unique glimpse into a fascinating part of the city’s industrial history. Discover a hidden piece of the city’s industrial history; it’s quite fascinating! The Newman Brothers factory had a long history, more than 100 years, of creating high-quality coffin fittings and furniture. Important people, including Winston Churchill, owned their work. Step back in time on the factory floor! Original tools and machinery give you a real feel for early 1900s manufacturing. Coffin handles, locks, and nameplates: the tours show the incredible craftsmanship. Plus, you’ll hear the stories of the skilled workers—many were local women—who made them.

Want to see something unexpected? The Coffin Works Museum will surprise you. It’s an offbeat and interesting place. History, industry, and personal accounts unexpectedly blend in this quiet, contemplative spot. Birmingham’s industrial heritage and more are revealed at this museum. It’s an educational and engaging experience offering a glimpse into the city’s diverse past, far beyond what typical tourist destinations show. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of Birmingham’s story.

Highlights of the Coffin Works Museum:

Explore the original factory floor with historic tools and machinery
Learn about the intricate craftsmanship behind coffin fittings
Hear stories of the workers, especially the women who shaped the industry
Discover connections to famous clients, including British royalty
Experience a quiet, unique museum away from the usual tourist crowds
Ideal for history buffs and curious visitors looking for something different

5. Hunt for Street Art in Digbeth

Digbeth’s street art is awesome because it’s easy to find and always changing. Hidden gems await you in the side streets, while larger murals decorate the walls near the Custard Factory—a creative hub with independent shops. Go find them! Lots of cool cafes, bars, and vintage shops are around, so you can easily spend the whole day exploring while you hunt for street art.

What makes Digbeth’s street art scene particularly special is its accessibility and constant change. You can wander freely, discovering hidden gems down side streets or larger murals near the Custard Factory, a hub for creative businesses and independent shops. The area is also packed with quirky cafés, independent bars, and vintage shops, making it easy to turn your street art hunt into a full day of exploring. Whether you’re a dedicated art lover or just curious, Digbeth’s street art offers an authentic, non-touristy glimpse of Birmingham’s edgy, artistic side. For more ideas on great city explorations, check out this guide to the spring bank holiday weekend in Liverpool, packed with fun events and local experiences.

Highlights of Digbeth’s Street Art Scene:

Explore ever-changing murals and graffiti on walls and shutters
Visit the Custard Factory, the creative heart of Digbeth
Discover hidden artworks down lesser-known alleys and side streets
Enjoy quirky independent cafés and vintage shops nearby
Experience Birmingham’s vibrant, contemporary culture in an outdoor setting
Ideal for photography, casual strolls, or art appreciation

6. Explore the Lickey Hills Country Park

Just a short drive from Birmingham city centre, the Lickey Hills Country Park offers a refreshing escape into nature with panoramic views and a variety of walking trails suited for all levels. This green oasis is packed with ancient woodlands, wildflower meadows, and open hilltops that reveal stunning vistas across the city and beyond. It’s a perfect destination for anyone wanting to combine outdoor exercise with relaxation in a peaceful setting away from the usual tourist buzz. The park’s diverse landscapes and well-maintained paths make it popular with walkers, cyclists, and families seeking a day out in the fresh air.

Beyond its natural beauty, the Lickey Hills are rich in history and heritage. You’ll find historical landmarks like the Jubilee Viewpoint and remnants of old quarry sites that tell stories of the area’s past. Birdwatchers will appreciate spotting a variety of species among the trees, while picnickers can enjoy well-equipped picnic areas scattered throughout the park. Whether you’re after a vigorous hike, a leisurely stroll, or simply a spot to unwind surrounded by nature, Lickey Hills Country Park offers a wonderful non-touristy experience just outside Birmingham.

7. Visit the Sarehole Mill

Sarehole Mill is a charming, historic watermill located in the Moseley area of Birmingham, famously linked to J.R.R. Tolkien’s childhood and his inspiration for the Shire in The Lord of the Rings. This working mill, set in a picturesque riverside spot, offers visitors a glimpse into traditional milling processes and a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature. It’s a lesser-known attraction that combines literary history, local heritage, and beautiful outdoor scenery, making it an enriching stop for anyone exploring Birmingham beyond the usual tourist paths.

Key Features of Sarehole Mill:

Operational watermill demonstrating traditional flour milling
Beautiful riverside setting with walking paths along the River Cole
Tolkien connections and storytelling events
Small on-site museum with exhibits about the mill’s history
Family-friendly environment with picnic areas
Regular workshops and community events

Visiting Sarehole Mill allows you to step back in time while enjoying the tranquillity of the surrounding nature reserve. The peaceful riverside walks and lush greenery provide an ideal setting for relaxation or a gentle exploration after the museum tour. It’s a wonderful spot to connect with Birmingham’s literary past while soaking up the calm, non-touristy atmosphere.

8. Explore the Frankley Beeches and Reservoir

Frankley Beeches and Reservoir, just outside Birmingham, is a peaceful countryside retreat; a real hidden treasure. Imagine strolling along peaceful trails, surrounded by old beech trees. Then, picture yourself by a calm reservoir, maybe with a fishing rod, maybe just enjoying the scenery. It’s a perfect place for nature enthusiasts! Imagine a peaceful hike or a relaxing picnic surrounded by amazing wildlife and vibrant plants. Unlike busier city parks, Frankley Beeches offers a serene, off-the-radar experience that connects you deeply with the natural beauty of the West Midlands. Need some inspiration for special occasions or seasonal celebrations? For more ideas on special days out and seasonal events, check out this guide to the top things to do in London for Father’s Day 2025 for inspiration.

Highlights of Frankley Beeches and Reservoir:

Expansive beech woodlands with well-marked walking trails
Quiet reservoir suitable for fishing and wildlife watching
Opportunities to spot deer, birds, and other native animals
Peaceful picnic spots perfect for a summer day out
Less crowded than popular parks, providing a true escape
Great for hiking, birdwatching, and photography

Whether you’re looking for a leisurely walk or a day of outdoor adventure, Frankley Beeches and Reservoir offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and peaceful solitude. It’s a great place to disconnect from the city and reconnect with nature, making it one of Birmingham’s best-kept secrets for locals and visitors alike.

Book Your Painting Session Now

If you’re looking to try something truly enjoyable and creative during your time in Birmingham, be sure to book your painting session with Prime Pass. Their Sip and Paint session offers a fantastic way to relax, have fun, and connect with others while creating your artwork. Creating art offers relaxation, entertainment, and social interaction all rolled into one fantastic activity. Imagine yourself painting a beautiful landscape while chatting with friends – that’s the kind of experience this offers. You can also explore Sip and Paint London events if you’re planning a trip to the capital!

8 Non‑Touristy Things to Do in Birmingham