Interesting sights to see for a short trip to Birmingham

Birmingham is situated in England's pleasant West Midlands, close to Coventry, Wolverhampton, Solihull and Walsall, and is historically renowned as a heavyweight of the industrial era of Great Britain. In fact, a number of counties surrounding Birmingham contribute to England's famous 'black country', so-called because of its relationship with coal mining, and the pollution subsequently caused by its burning in nearby iron foundries and steel mills.

Today, Birmingham is a gleaming example of city and regional rejuvenation in the North West of England. Sure enough it's still a city rich with trade and industry, but much more nowadays centres on the city's presence on the political and international stage, evidenced by its hosting of the 1998 G8 Summit at its International Convention Centre and its world renowned National Exhibition Centre.

Depending on when you visit Birmingham, you could take in the sights of some of the city's exuberant annual events. These include the Birmingham Gay Pride festival in May, Music for the Mystified annual festival in June, Sheldon Country Fair in August at nearby Sheldon Country Park, or Birmingham's annual Latin American Festival, which takes place in the city centre Chamberlin Park in June.

At other times of the year there's enough going on in Birmingham to keep even the most ardent city break fan entertained and occupied many times over. You could enjoy visiting the one and only Cadbury World in Bourneville, where chocoholics of all ages can indulge in their own chocolate factory fantasy. Birmingham is also famous for its Venetian network of canals, which snake through the city and offer romantic and fascinating boat trips up through the city's canals and locks.

For the historically minded, or for those who enjoy a simple spot of sightseeing, you could enjoy a wander around Birmingham's historically significant city centre, which boasts a number of commemorative statues and monuments, besides historic sights. Such as the Chamberlain Clock, the Boulton, Watt, and Murdoch Statue, which commemorates Birmingham's three greatest industrialists, and the Birmingham Town Hall, built in a classic style and home to a magnificent William Hill organ.

If you travel to Birmingham with young children, there's plenty to keep them occupied on a short break too. Birmingham's own National Sealife Centre, Science Museum, Woodgate Valley Country Park and nearby Dudley Zoo all make for super child's play.

Birmingham boasts a number of excellent restaurants that suit even the most discerning palate. Asian and Indian cuisine is exceptionally popular as Birmingham is home to a large multicultural community, but you can also be sure to find restaurants, bistros and cafes to suit all tastes.

After hours Birmingham boasts a number of celebrated nightlife hotspots, including dance bars, clubs and live entertainment venues.

Naturally, Birmingham has a plethora of comfortable and luxurious accommodation options to suit all tastes, requirements and budgets so the least of your worries should be finding a hotel room in Birmingham, leaving you free to enjoy your short break and discover this popular and engaging city.

About the Author:

Jonathan Wallace writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.