Here at SIXT, we wanted to show some love to one of our favourite UK cities, Birmingham. Famous for its top university, the Peaky Blinders BBC show, and in proximity to Shakespeare’s birthplace there is a lot to do and see in Birmingham. We’ve outlined a few events happening over November, top spots and a few day trips if you ever find yourself in the city.
What’s On
For any fans of classic horror, The Exorcist is playing on the 1st November at Lightwoods Park & House. Pizza is included in the ticket and there’s also a bar serving delicious drinks including mulled cider and Prosecco. The screenings for this terrifying 70’s classic start at 8 but the doors are open from 6.30 for food and drinks.
On the same weekend, across the 1st and 2nd, there will be firework displays at Drayton Manor Theme Park. This is to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Apollo Moon Landing. Drayton Manor is an exceptional theme park well worth visiting during the day and staying for the celebrations in the evening. There will also be space-themed music and dancing and visitors have the option of staying in the four-star hotel if booked ahead of time.
The Stratford Literary Festival is also taking place from the 1st to the 3rd November. Famous writers and broadcasters, including Sir Trevor McDonald, will be in attendance delivering talks and seminars, as well as plays and activities for all ages. Any fan of literature or journalism should not miss this event.
On the 7th November is the Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market. This is like stepping into Christmas time in Germany with Victoria Square transformed into a winter wonderland. There are quaint stalls selling handmade products, toys and presents. Of course, there will be German beer and mulled wine as well as music, delicious bratwurst and other delicacies.
Regular Attractions
When visiting Birmingham at any time there are a lot of things worth seeing. The city boasts an impressive museum – The Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery. This year, in fact, is a special exhibition on Leonardo da Vinci drawings to mark the 500th Year of his death.
The Hippodrome is the most popular single-auditorium theatre in the UK. This year too it is holding special celebrations to celebrate its 120th Anniversary. Be sure to check its programme for world-class productions, including ‘Les Misérables’ and ‘Joseph and the Technicolour Dreamcoat’.
Birmingham is home to Aston Villa and their elite grounds, Villa Park. Home to the team since 1897 the stadium is capable of holding 42,000 fans. Whether going to see a match or for a planned tour there is something uniquely passionate about the grounds.
If you’re a fan of the Peaky Blinders television show then inquire about a Peaky Blinder tour. You can walk the same streets depicted in the show. In fact, Birmingham has a number of excellent walking tours, a great way to see districts such as the Jewellery Quarter.
If you want to experience nature then Moseley Bog is an excellent idea. The Lord of the Rings author, J RR Tolkien grew up in the area and it is said to be the inspiration for his work, including the iconic Shire. Nearby is Edgbaston, one of the country’s most iconic cricket grounds.
Day Trips
If you’re by car there are a few places that make for great day trips. Besides Drayton Manor, Alton Towers is one of the UK’s biggest and most popular theme parks. It has a huge number of world-class rollercoasters as well as a top hotel, attractions and much more.
Warwick Castle is also an incredibly well maintained and impressive piece of history. Built-in 1068 by William the Conqueror it lies on the River Avon. Its grounds are great for learning about its history as well as taking part in their numerous events, including the ‘Haunted Castle’ over Halloween.
Stratford-upon-Avon is the birthplace of the world-famous playwright, William Shakespeare. Today it remains as a beautiful medieval town filled with unique shops and pubs. You can still visit the house Shakespeare was born in, visit the medieval market and see plays performed by the Royal Shakespeare Company at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre and Swan Theatre.
We hope you have an amazing time whenever you visit Birmingham and for any car needs, SIXT is here to help at our Birmingham branches.
