Whether you’re a history enthusiast, architecture lover, or simply looking to explore Birmingham from a different perspective, these following remarkable attractions provide a unique glimpse into the people, places and events that have shaped the city of Birmingham over the years. Here are some of the most fascinating historical places to visit in and beyond Birmingham!
The Jewellery Quarter
No exploration of Birmingham’s history would be complete without a visit to its most famous district: the Jewellery Quarter! Dating back more than 250 years, this historic district has been at the heart of the UK’s jewellery industry since the 18th century and continues to produce around 40% of all jewellery made in the country. The area is home to beautifully preserved Victorian architecture, and fascinating museums, such as the Pen Museum and Museum of the Jewellery Quarter, that tell the story of Birmingham’s industrial past. Visitors can explore cobbled streets lined with historic buildings, discover traditional craftsmanship at work, and learn how generations of skilled artisans helped shape one of the city’s most iconic neighbourhoods.
Winterbourne House & Gardens
Recently named a Travellers’ Choice Award winner by Tripadvisor, putting them among the top 10% of things to do worldwide!
Owned by the University of Birmingham and just a 15-minute walk from University Station, you will find seven acres of botanic gardens in the grounds of the Edwardian Winterbourne House. Winterbourne House was built in 1903 for John and Margaret Nettlefold, and the house reflects the arts and crafts architectural style that was popular at the time. After the Nettlefolds, the house changed ownership a few times before being acquired by the University of Birmingham in 1944. The gardens are one of Winterbourne’s main attractions. They were originally designed by Margaret Nettlefold, who was an enthusiastic gardener. The serene gardens feature a walled garden, rock garden, woodland, and a Japanese bridge. The gardens are home to over 6,000 plant species from around the world – many of which are rare or endangered!
Step Back in Time at the Black Country Living Museum
Looking for a bostin’ day out? Located a little outside of Birmingham, step back in time at the Black Country Living Museum! Discover how the region had such a large industrial impact on the rest of the world, by journeying through a time gone by of reconstructed buildings, shops, schools industrial workshops, and mines, all brought to life by metalworkers, miners, nurses, and schoolteachers. Ride a vintage bus, visit a 1900 sweet shop, ride an old-fashioned fairground, enjoy traditional fish and chips, pop to the pub, see where Peaky Blinders was filmed, and take part in an Edwardian school lesson!
National Trust – Birmingham Back to Backs
The Birmingham Back to Back Houses are the last surviving 19th-century working-class housing in the city! The guided tours allow you to immerse yourself in the lives of some of the people who lived there from the 1840s to the 1970s, giving you a true glimpse into Birmingham’s rich industrial and working-class history. Today, the house have been carefully preserved and restored by The National Trust and operate as museums. The 90-minute tour will indulge you with fascinating stories and insights into the lives of the people and families who took up residence here. Book your tickets here!
Aston Hall
Being one of the last houses to be built in the Jacobean style, Aston Hall is steeped in history and has stood proudly in Aston for over 400 years. Aston Hall played a significant role in the English Civil War. In 1643, Parliamentarian forces besieged the house, and visitors can still see the famous cannonball damage preserved in the Great Oak Staircase today. Visitors can explore beautifully restored period rooms, intricate Jacobean interiors, the spectacular Long Gallery, and tranquil gardens that offer a peaceful escape just minutes from Birmingham city centre. It is also said to be one of the most haunted buildings in the UK!
Make a weekend out of exploring Birmingham’s history! We’ll give you FREE breakfast and 25% off car-parking- only when you book direct!
Did you know that when you book direct with us, you will unlock benefits that you can’t access anywhere else?
These include: 25% off car-parking (located right next door to us), 10% off best available rate, complimentary breakfast, early check-in upon request (subject to availability) and more!
