Birmingham Tourist Information

Birmingham

With an area of 80 square miles, and a population of almost a million people, Birmingham is England's 2nd city and one of the largest cities in Europe. 

Birmingham is nick-named 'Brum', after its dialect name of Brummagem, and its residents are known as 'Brummies'. 

Birmingham began life as a small Warwickshire manor but grew to become the 'workplace of the world'. Its close proximity to iron and coal fields and plentiful water power meant that by the 17th century Birmingham's population had grown to 15,000. 

James Watt spurred on the Industrial Revolution when he invented the steam engine in the city.  In the 18th and 19th centuries Birmingham developed a wide range of industries and became known as the 'City of a Thousand Trades'.  Its well-developed canal network and the growth of the railways played an vital part in the city's success. 

Birmingham achieved its 'Golden Age' during the Victorian era and many of the city's fine buildings date from this period.

The splendid Grade I listed Birmingham Town Hall (reopened in 2006 after complete refurbishment) was based on the Roman temple of Castor and Pollox.

In 1889 Queen Victoria granted Birmingham city status,  Greater Birmingham was created in 1912, swallowing up many neighbouring districts. 

During World War II Birmingham was suffered severe damaged by bombing and in the 1950s and 1960s the centre was redeveloped with many concrete office buildings and ring-roads.  This work gave Birmingham the reputation of being a 'concrete jungle'. 

However, in recent years the centre of Birmingham has undergone a dramatic transforrmation with new projects such as the redeveloped Bullring shopping mall (featuring the futuristic Selfridges building) and the award-winning Water's Edge development at Brindleyplace. 

Many pedestrian friendly streets and squares have also been created and the bustling city now offers superb shopping facilities, award-winning restaurants and a vibrant night-life. 

There is also a world-class cultural scene with a wide range of concert halls, theatres and galleries and the city is home to the Birmingham Royal Ballet and the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra. 

The National Indoor Arena and the NEC Arena host major international events and exhibitions. 

Other visitor attractions include magnificent sporting facilities, beautiful parks and Cadbury World (the chocolate-lover's heaven at Bourneville). 

Visitors can also enjoy trips along the West Midlands Waterways. (Ring   0121 200 7400 for details).  

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