Visit Birmingham in the summer, and you’ll find a city abuzz with action – outdoor events, street performers, and pubs overflowing with people savouring the warm weather. Industrial might, cultural zest, and modern chic – Birmingham’s fusion of contrasting styles creates an intoxicating environment that’s sure to capture anyone’s imagination. Birmingham is summer perfection for families, couples, and friends – whatever your style, you’ll find adventure, romance, or thrills that make the season truly unforgettable. Birmingham is calling – and we’ve got the inside track on the top summer activities that’ll make your friends green with envy! Explore more unique activities in another vibrant city with 10 Fun Christmas Activities in Liverpool.
1. Explore Birmingham’s Canals
Summer in Birmingham is the ideal time to swap the bustling streets for the peaceful pathways of its incredible canal system – you never know what surprises you’ll stumble upon. Summers in the city mean trading factory whistles for laughter and conversation along the picturesque canals, now crowded with trendy bars, restaurants, and cafes that radiate a warm, convivial atmosphere. You can hire a narrowboat for a leisurely cruise along the canals, or simply take a stroll along the picturesque towpaths that wind through the heart of the city.
The canal network also offers an opportunity for unique sightseeing. The Birmingham Canal Old Line, for example, features several beautiful, historic locks, while the Gas Street Basin is a picturesque spot perfect for snapping a few photos. Whether you’re exploring on foot or by boat, the canals of Birmingham offer a wonderful way to see the city from a different perspective.
2. Visit Birmingham’s Botanical Gardens
If you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, Birmingham’s Botanical Gardens is a tranquil oasis just a short distance from the city centre. Unwind in a stunning 15-acre haven of landscaping mastery, where every stroll feels like a gentle summer breeze. Leave the hustle behind and enter a world of colourful blooms, where nature’s beauty restores your sense of calm. Find your spot – amidst the fragrant flowers, beneath the shade of a towering tree, or beside a gentle water feature.
Here, a lush array of plants grabs the spotlight, with tropical, Mediterranean, and homegrown British flora all thriving side by side. When summer hits, the gardens come alive with outdoor entertainment and adventure. Picture thrilling theatre shows, lavish garden excursions, and unforgettable memories in the making. Families will love the botanical gardens, which boast a specialised kids’ zone where little ones can let loose while grown-ups kick back and enjoy the scenery.
3. Take a Trip to Cadbury World
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No summer in Birmingham would be complete without a visit to Cadbury World. Hidden just beyond the city’s bustling core lies a sugary paradise where chocolate enthusiasts of every age can indulge their sweet tooth. Cadbury World beckons chocolate devotees to a sugar-coated wonderland! Imagine an amusement park exclusively devoted to the sweet, sticky stuff – featuring recreated early chocolate factories, thrilling historic tales, and luscious opportunities to sample the famed British treats.
One of the main highlights is the 4D cinema, where you can enjoy a thrilling, chocolate-themed film, or the “Make Your Own Chocolate” experience, where you can create and personalise your chocolate bars. Do you have a weakness for chocolate or looking for a family adventure that’s both fun and enlightening? Look no further than Cadbury World. With its vibrant atmosphere, engaging exhibits, and (of course) plenty of chocolate, it’s a real treat for visitors of all ages.
4. Visit the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery
If you’re an art lover, a trip to the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery is a must. Central to the city’s artistic landscape is a remarkable museum, bursting with masterworks from the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood and beyond – think exceptional European and British art, decorative treasures, and emotive sculptures that showcase human creativity at its finest. The museum ramps up the art stakes each summer, orchestrating an electrifying collision of aesthetics – vintage, avant-garde, and way beyond – that challenges, inspires, and continually surprises its devoted followers.
At this fantastic museum, amazing art is just the beginning. Step inside and you’ll find a vibrant scene of creative activities, from vibrant workshops to exhibitions bursting with colour and life – all carefully crafted to delight kids and parents alike. Whatever your taste in art, the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery has something for everyone – a curiosity cabinet of paintings, sculptures, and treasures that’ll leave you inspired.
5. Take a Walk in Sutton Park
Sutton Park, a 2,400-acre nature reserve located just a short distance from the city centre, is one of Birmingham’s most beloved outdoor spaces. Summer is Sutton Park’s time to shine, and outdoor enthusiasts will find themselves right at home. Whether your thing is taking a leisurely lake stroll, Exploring a dozen miles of bike trails, or simply sitting back and soaking up some sun, Sutton Park is the place to be. Wander through the park’s diverse landscapes, where heathland flowers burst with colour, woodland canopies shade quiet trails, and wetlands alive with bird song await discovery.
If the great outdoors is your thing, Sutton Park’s got you covered with its facilities, including a golf course challenging enough for pros, tennis courts where the action never stops, and a playground where kids can get their curiosity ignited. If you’re looking for a watery escape, the park’s lakes beckon. Take a leisurely row or cast a line and see what bites – the perfect antidote to a busy day. Immerse yourself in Sutton Park’s sprawling landscape, where the sounds of the city fade away and nature’s beauty takes center stage. For more unique and off-the-beaten-path activities, check out 15 Non-Touristy Things to Do in London.
6. Attend a Summer Festival at Cannon Hill Park
Cannon Hill Park, located near the city centre, is one of Birmingham’s most popular parks and hosts a wide range of summer events and festivals. From outdoor theatre performances to live music and food festivals, there’s always something happening in this beautiful green space. The park features a lovely lake, swan boats, and a large playground, making it a perfect spot for a picnic with family and friends.
During the summer, Cannon Hill Park is home to several major events, including the Birmingham International Dance Festival and various community arts and cultural festivals. With its relaxed atmosphere and array of activities, Cannon Hill Park is a fantastic location for making lasting memories with friends and family.
7. Discover the Jewellery Quarter
Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter is one of the most historic parts of the city and is an excellent place to explore during the summer. Known for its high concentration of jewellery businesses and workshops, the Birmingham Jewellery Quarter is also home to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the famous St. Paul’s Church and the Museum of the Jewellery Quarter.
Take a guided walking tour to learn about the history of the area, or simply wander through its charming streets filled with independent shops, galleries, and cafés. The Jewellery Quarter is also a great spot to pick up a unique souvenir, with many local jewelers offering bespoke designs and custom-made pieces. For a truly special summer experience, discover the hidden gems of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter.
8. Relax at Birmingham’s Resorts and Spas
If you’re seeking relaxation, Birmingham offers several luxurious resorts and spas where you can unwind and pamper yourself during the summer. Whether you’re looking for a full day of relaxation or a quick spa treatment, Birmingham’s top resorts and spas offer a variety of services, from facials and massages to spa pools and steam rooms.
Settle into luxury at one of the city’s swanky hotels, where indulgent pampering awaits in the form of lavish spas and exclusive deals. Imagine tradeoffs like laptops for pillows, email pings for gentle breezes, and stress for pure calm. Give yourself a pass to a tranquil oasis and exit feeling brand new. Picture-perfect getaways, these resorts and spas help you shake off the monotony of daily routine and treat yourself to some much-needed Rest.
Book Painting Session With Prime Pass
Looking to unleash your creativity this summer? Book a Paint and Sip Session in Birmingham with Prime Pass and enjoy a fun, relaxing, and creative experience in the heart of the city. Whether you’re planning a fun day out with friends, a date night, or a team-building event, our painting sessions offer something for everyone. No experience is necessary—our friendly instructors will guide you step-by-step through creating your own masterpiece, all while enjoying a glass of wine or your favourite beverage.
At Prime Pass, we offer a range of painting and sip events that are perfect for all skill levels. Our sessions are designed to let you have fun, relax, and express yourself creatively. Book your session today and enjoy a unique experience with friends, family, or colleagues. It’s the perfect way to get creative, meet new people, and unwind.
Looking for something different? Check out our team-building events for a creative twist on corporate outings and group activities!
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