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What to See and Do in Birmingham – a guide to notable attractions and landmarks

TIME : 2016/2/23 17:43:09
Once the industrial heartbeat of the Victorian era and the second city of England, Birmingham has prospered into a cutting-edge metropolis. The city centre is a gleaming example of modern regeneration and there is distinctive buzz in the air when you meander through its hilly streets and winding alleyways. With expansive, glass-fronted shopping malls and a host of historical attractions, Birmingham is attractive to families, couples, and culture-vultures alike.Cadbury World

 

 

Cadbury World is about the closest anyone will come to visiting Wonka's chocolate factory. It's a mouthwateringly immersive celebration of every aspect of chocolate, from its origins in the ancient Aztec jungles, to its introduction to Europe, to the evolution of the modern sweet shop. With a 4D chocolate rollercoaster adventure, a fun play area, and live demonstrations of chocolate being made, it's a day of fun, magic, and sweet-toothed indulgence.

 

Symphony Hall

 

 

The Birmingham Symphony Hall is considered by many experts to be one of the finest concert halls in the world. The quality of the acoustics is equalled only by the opulent design, with its gold-hued walls, beams of polished wood, and a custom designed 6,000-pipe organ proudly dominating the centre. Seating over 2,000 people, there are a host of classical, jazz, and ballet performances on throughout the year, so be sure to book your tickets in advance to guarantee yourself a place.

 

Birmingham Museum

 

 

Not far from Birmingham New Street station, the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery contains the largest collection of Pre-Raphaelite art in the world. From John Everett Millais to Dante Gabriel Rossetti, there are over 2,000 ravishing works in total including all of the biggest names of the movement. There are also collections from Ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, as well as a contemporary gallery highlighting the best artwork of today. Entrance is free, making it a must-see attraction for those on a budget trip.

 

National SEA LIFE Centre

 

 

Opposite the Indoor Arena and overlooking the canal, the National SEA LIFE Centre submerges you into an underwater world full of colorful marine life. With a 1,000,000 litre tank and a host of animal species, it'll bring you excitingly close to rays, penguins, turtles, and even the unusual Bowmouth Guitar Shark. Once you've met the residents, you can then sit tight for the 4D cinema experience, complete with wind and spray effects. There are also a range of interactive displays, and you can watch feeding demonstrations as well.