Adam’s | British Cuisine

Importance and popularity comes first, hence why “Adam’s” is the top of our list. Located swiftly next door to the Town Hall, Adam’s in an unbelievable amount of time earned it’s Michelin star for the finest cuisine in Birmingham. If you’ve been searching for restaurants in Birmingham on the Internet, Trip Advisor and other online sites, you’ll most likely see that Adam’s is a very popular choice. Adam’s is a sleek, modern restaurant serving up the freshest and most beautifully placed food – perfect for a lot of people who are looking to dine out. Be sure to wear something damn comfy, because customers can choose from a five or NINE course dinner, with three course meals available at lunch. All their dishes are seasonal and change depending on the times of the year, so if you have been reading reviews or someone’s recommended this place to you – be sure to check that they didn’t go in the Winter whilst you’re going in Spring – the menu will most likely be completely different. A very important pointer, due to the high demand of people wanting to eat at Adams, their is an actual policy for cancellations so be sure to read up on that before you make a reservation. Apart from that, you will find the very best wine list to choose from accompanied by a passionate and highly skilled team – be sure to book your special event here if you can, you will definitely give a outstanding impression.

Purnell’s | British Cuisine

It’s not fair to call Purnell’s second on our list seeing as Purnell’s and Adam’s have both been awarded their Michelin stars, Purnell’s earning theirs back in January 2009. Purnell’s is ranked number 8 according to Trip Advisor, yet they have a Michelin star award so they deserve to be right at the top of our list. If you’re close to Colmore Row or St Phillips Cathedral, you will find Purnell’s within meters of these two places. The restaurant decided on the given name by calling it after the Michelin star Birmingham chef himself, Glynn Purnell, he who set up Purnell’s back in July 2007. Purnell’s gives a really special feel to every individual that dines here, besides the fact that it’s a very popular and lusted over restaurant. The outside layout and feel of Purnell’s consists of Victorian redbrick and terracotta based on a corner building, providing large bay windows on both sides of the window providing a nice amount of natural light throughout the day. The inside interior is spacious and Purnell’s has it’s own bar lounge area – exclusive to diners only, where a pre-dinner cocktail or after dinner coffee can be enjoyed within the comfortable seating areas. The Private dining room caters to parties of 7-12 diners and with prior contact, the restaurant can be available for complete hire if parties were to be of a large size. So if you are in Birmingham or are in the area and you are after the ultimate gourmet adventure, maybe you’re also after a Michelin star awarded restaurant, we couldn’t recommend a better place that fits your description.

Morton’s Kitchen | British Pub | Shirley Area

Mortons’ Kitchen, Bar and Deli is a newly built, refreshing diner based in the heart of Solihul. With the building being newly built, it has enabled a specific design which enhances relaxed drinking and dining in a widespread space lit with mostly natural lighting. Morton’s cater for more than one eating style, offering sizzling hot bar food grub indoors to offering the alfresco dining on their tree-shaded-terrace. With the alfresco dining option available, Morton’s Kitchen is perfect for a lot of people. Shoppers who are after a light snack/meal, out door walkers passing by and anybody who likes to dine outdoors – especially when the weather is nice, are guaranteed to love Morton’s Kitchen. Doors are open from 10am so that even if you don’t feel awake, Morton’s are happy to set you up for the day with a delicious latte or energizing espresso whichever may be your choice, followed by a healthy light breakfast featuring the scrambled eggs with smoked salmon. Maybe you had a heavy night drinking and fish and eggs are the last thing on your mind, Morton’s can cater to your needs providing their traditional fry up which is loved by their visitors. Morton’s passion is providing quality food with a quality service, so if you’re around Solihull or are looking for somewhere where you can grab breakfast, lunch or an evening meal – Morton’s Kitchen should be on your agenda.

The Warehouse Cafe | British, Vegan, Vegetarian, Contemporary Cuisine

The Warehouse Cafe specializes for the  Vegetarians and Vegans, which is greatly appreciated seeing as more and more restaurants are now catering to these dietary requirements. Placed in a cost situated in the upstairs part of the building, The Warehouse Cafe like to please even the meat eaters. Vegetarians and Vegan eaters shouldn’t feel privileged when they find a cafe which only specializes in vegetarian dishes, because all pubs and restaurants should offer something appetising for none-meat-eaters. However people are usually limited in most restaurants with the same dishes, especially when they are dining with meat eaters and none vegans. Therefore If you’re close by, send your love for everything green to the Warehouse Cafe. Their dishes offer a wide range of variety, meaning you may even find your new main favorite or you’ll choose your current favorite meal but have someone to cook it for you!  Even though this cafe in particular is vegetarian food based, meat-eaters are most welcome and according to Trip Advisor, meat eaters love the food there as much as the vegetarian eaters which is a true sign of delicious, organic and damn good, fresh food!

Rico Libre | International, Spanish, Tapas, Contemporary Cuisine

There is something about the Brits and their love for Spanish food, and we can’t knock it because let’s face it, who doesn’t love a good tapas!? For all of the tapas lover’s make sure you eat out at Rico Libre if you’re in the area. Set in the Industrial part of Birmingham stands a cafe-style restaurant that will definitely exceed your expectations. According to Trip Advisor, previous customers have stated not to judge the place by it’s front and area (that being the industrial part). It’s important that previous customers have stated where it’s situated, especially for potentially new customers because it isn’t stated on the high street meaning for anybody, it’s kind of hard what to expect these days seeing as more and more restaurants are moving to the high street where they can offer the wow factor with interior and location. However, Rico Libre obviously is a winner in Birmingham and has truly proven that despite their setback in location, they provide the greatest Spanish food you could get your hands on in the West Midlands. So if you’re not jetting off to Spain this year, make a point of visiting Rico Libre where even though it may be raining outside, your taste buds will back in your tapas restaurant abroad.

Birmingham Food and Drink in the Region: Solihlull

There’s a myriad of international and home-grown food and drink venues on offer in Solihull with something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a leisurely lunch, a special evening out, family occasions or a quick snack while you shop. Solihull High Street, The Town Centre is packed with great restaurants including: Yo! Sushi, Cafe Rouge, Pizza Express, Nandos, The handmade burger Co., Slug and Lettuce, Zizzis, Giraffe and Wagamama to name but a few, alongside independent restaurants like Horton’s Fine Dining restaurant and snack bars, catering for every occasion and budget. You may recognize some of those big branded food giants which can be found in Birmingham City Centre as well. However if you fancy something completely different, then there’s even more to tempt your taste buds in the villages and hamlets with a host of gastro pubs like Morton’s Kitchen in Dickens Heath, exquisite Peel’s Restaurant at Hampton Manor or Loch Fyne fish restaurant in historic Knowle.

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Recognised as a shopping destination in its own right, it’s an easy walk from New Street Station, Snow Hill Station or the Bullring, where you’ll find big names such as Gap, Jane Norman and the only New Era Caps flagship store outside of Berlin and London.

House of Fraser commands pride of place on Corporation Street, packed full of the latest men’s, women’s and children’s fashion, as well as a wide range of home and beauty items.

Just off Corporation Street is Martineau Place, a great spot for lunch with EAT and Sainsbury’s at hand, as well as Nata, an independent café specialising in Portuguese coffee, sandwiches and treats. If you head the other way, you’ll walk down Cherry Street and head towards Birmingham Cathedral where office workers and visitors mingle enjoy the lunchtime summer sunshine in its’ beautiful green church yard.

New Street

Birmingham’s most famous street takes you from the Bullring at one end to the Town Hall and Council House at the other. On the way there’s plenty to grab your attention including Jack Wills, The Body Shop, Primark and Watches of Switzerland – or maybe the latest cinematic blockbuster at the Odeon. Why not take a break along the way at Starbucks, Pret a Manger or Café Rouge?

Narrow streets with brilliant names snake off to unearth hidden gems. There’s the unique independent boutique Disorder on Needless Alley, Jigsaw and M.A.C on Cannon Street, and two of Birmingham’s specialist independent fashion retailers in Autograph and ‘a too’ on Ethel Street.

Don’t forget to explore Piccadilly and Burlington Arcades too. Both offer a host of independent retailers, jewellers and hair and beauty stores including Bad Apple Hair, Piccadilly Jewellers and Smithsonia, as well as unique places to eat and drink such as the Bacchus Bar and top quality designer clothes from the likes of Flannels.

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This market is located on the square in front of the Big Peg on Warstone Lane, with over 20 stalls taking part. Held on the third Saturday of every month.

New Street Farmers Market

Hand-made cheeses, mud-covered King Edward potatoes and organic everything, the New Street Farmers Market has it all.
The first and third Wednesdays of every month sees the city centre transformed with a feast of gorgeous fayre, directly from those who grow or make it. The location can vary during winter.

Bull Ring Markets

Birmingham’s outdoor, indoor and rag Bull Ring markets see over six million shoppers pop along every year for everything from bras and bananas to banter.
Six days a week, 140 stallholders are up with the lark to offer their great deals. The Indoor Market is famous for its selection of fresh meats, fish and produce, giving supermarkets a run for their money for choice, price and atmosphere. And whether you’re running up a ball gown or saying ‘curtains’ to ready-made home furnishings, nowhere beats the Rag Market.
Opening times:
Bull Ring Open Market – 9am to 5pm every Tuesday to Saturday
Bull Ring Indoor Market – 9am to 5.30pm every Monday to Saturday
Rag Market – Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday 9am – 5pm

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At one time Birmingham Corporation owned and developed the village of Canwell, near Tamworth, they even owned the public house now called The Bassett! All the paintings and artefacts from BMAG were stored in Elford Hall in Elford near Tamworth during the second world war. The hall and surrounding land and many houses were bequeathed to Birmingham in the 30s.

The first commemorative statue in this country to Admiral Nelson was erected in the old Birmingham Bull Ring Centre.

The first electric kettle to be fitted with a totally immersed heating element, thereby doubling its efficiency, was made by Bulpitt and Sons Ltd., Birmingham, in 1921 The company later adopted the brand name, Swan.

John Wright, of Birmingham, England, discovered that potassium cyanide was a suitable electrolyte for gold and silver electroplating, he first showed that items could be electroplated by immersing them in a tank of silver held in solution, through which an electric current was passed.”

Cadbury’s were the first chocolate manufacturer’s to put pictures on chocolate boxes, in 1861 Richard Cadbury created the first known heart-shaped candy box for Valentine’s Day.

One of the best known glass makers in the world in the 19th century was the Birmingham firm of F & C Osler, founded in 1807.

Osler made the giant crystal fountain, over eight metres high containing four tons of crystal, for the 1851 Great Exhibition in Hyde Park.

Birmingham means home (ham) of the people of Beormingas (people of Beroma).

There have been a 144 recorded different ways of spelling Birmingham.

The population of Birmingham today is nearly 1 million people.

Birmingham people are known as Brummies and the city is known as Brum or Brumagem

The first safe grenade was the Mills Bomb, an infantry issue hand grenade developed by William Mills of Birmingham in 1915.

Joseph Lucas of Birmingham made what was probably the first rechargeable accumulator powered cycle lamp in February 1888.

Fredrick Lanchester and his brother built the first petrol car in Birmingham in 1896, a single cylinder 5hp internal combustion engine with chain drive. He also invented the accelerator pedal, detachable wire wheels, stamped steel pistons, piston rings, hollow connecting rods, the torsional vibration damper, and the harmonic balancer.

Baskerville typeface, which was the first clear typeface, is still used by printers

throughout the world and is named after its inventor John Baskerville, who lived and is buried in Birmingham.

The first pneumatic tyre factory in the world was Dunlop’s in Birmingham

The X-ray was invented in Birmingham.

After electricity was discovered no one could find a use for it! Two Birmingham brothers found a use for it that changed Birmingham and the world, they patented electroplating. Their names were Elkington.

Brylcreem was invented in Birmingham in 1929 by County Chemicals who also manufactured the abrasive cleaner, ‘Chemico’. County Chemicals are still in business in Shirley.

Birmingham manufacturer Henry Clay patented the making of papier mache which was originally cloth and glue. Many durable objects such as furniture were made from papier mache.

During the American Civil War Birmingham exported 733,403 guns to America.

In 1876 Nettlefold & Chamberlain had 2000 machines in their factory producing half a million screws every week.

In 1872 D.F. Tayler & Co had 60 pin making machines making 12 million pins per day.

Birmingham company, Horsfall & Batchelor, made the first transatlantic telephone cable in 1865. While it was being laid the end was lost, so they made

another one in 1866!

In 1900 the BSA was making 2500 rifles per week.

By 1914 Birmingham was supplying the world with 28 million pen knibs per week.

In Birmingham in 1849 the first building to be put up solely for the exhibition of manufactured goods was built for an exhibition of the British Society. It had a 10,000 square feet area, and together with Bingley House, in the gardens of which it was erected, 12,800 square feet of exhibition space was available.

There are the remains of a Roman fort (Metchley) close to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Selly Oak
Ryknield Street, a Roman road, ran from Kings Norton to Sutton Coldfield (through Sutton Park) and onto Wall, the present day A38 roughly follows its line.

Cotton wool was invented in Birmingham.

Sir Edmund Crane, the co- founder and managing director of Hercules Cycles, is said to have pioneered the British export trade

James Webster patented Aluminum in 1881 and opened the first aluminum factory in Solihull Lodge in 1887.

Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter employs around 6,000 people in the jewellery and related metal trades and is still the main center for gold-jewellery production in the UK, at its peak it employed more than 50,000 people. One third of all Jewellery made in the UK is made in Birmingham.

Baking powder and eggless custard powder were invented in Birmingham by

Alfred Bird.

The first manufacturer of the Robertson’s Jam Golly badge was R.E.V. Gomm, who are still making badges in Birmingham today.

John Cadbury began in business in 1924 selling tea & coffee in a shop in Bull Street, next to his parents drapery shop. He started making chocolate in his own factory in Bridge Street in 1831.

If all the pallets in Cadbury’s Minworth storage warehouse were lined up they would stretch from Birmingham to Nottingham.

Birmingham toolmaker Joseph Hudson invented the football referees whistles which was first used in a game held at Nottingham Forest in 1878. Hudson also made the first Policeman’s whistle. .Hudson’s also produced all the whistles used on the Titanic’s lifeboats, some of which have been recovered from the wreck site. One of those whistles was used by Kate Winslett in the film Titanic. It is estimated that around a 1000 million whistles have been made in the Jewellery Quarter since 1870. Hudsons are still in business making whistles today in the Jewellery Quarter.

During the war the Spitfire and Hurricane fighter were built in Birmingham as were the Lancaster & Stirling bomber. The Castle Bromwich factory of Morris Motors built more Spitfires during the war than all other UK factories combined.

Tolkien, the author of “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit” grew up near Sarehole Mill.

Matthew Boulton established his first business at Sarehole Mill in Birmingham.

Birmingham was the first UK city to have a motorway route into its centre. (A38M)

The first railway to be opened after the Liverpool to Manchester railway was the London Birmingham railway, the engineer was George Stephenson.

The traffic lights at the junction at Salford Bridge had the most complicated light sequence in the world when it was opened and delegates even came from Russia to see it. It is now totally re-modeled and below Spaghetti Junction.

One scheme suggested for the rebuilding of New Street station in the 60s was to have a heliport on the roof.

British European Airways once operated a regular helicopter shuttle service from Hay Mills park to Elmdon Airport.

In 1940 the BSA factory in Small Heath suffered a direct hit from a German bomb, 53 people, mostly night shift workers, were killed but the council has always declined to erect any sort of monument.

BSA manufactured half of all the armanants used during the Second World War.

The City of Birmingham was said to have been partly destroyed by German bombing during the war but completely destroyed by council concrete re-development in the sixties!

Prince Charles once described the Birmingham Library as a building which looked more suitable for burning books

than reading them!

The first performances of both Elgar’s Dream of Gerontius and Walton’s Belshazzar’s Feast were held in the Birmingham Town Hall.

The Birmingham town Hall was designed by John Hansom who designed the Hansom Cab.

Samson Lloyd in partnership with John Taylor a button maker, opened one of the first banks in Birmingham in 1765, it was known as Lloyds Bank.

The famous ODEON chain of cinemas was first opened in Birmingham in 1930 by Oscar Deutsch, the son of a Birmingham metal dealer. Deutsch lived in Augustus Road, Edgbaston.
Michael Balcon was born in Birmingham and founded Gainsborough Pictures, his first actor was an unknown called Alfred Hitchcock.

Birmingham still has more mileage of canals than any other city in the world including Venice.

In 1878 Joseph Lucas invented his famous King of the Road bicycle lamp. Because so many were stolen he then introduced The Lucas Missing Lamp Scheme. A £5 reward was offered for the successful conviction of the thief!

Hercules, in Aston, were the largest bicycle manufacturers in the world when bicycle manufacture was at its peak.

In 1907 in Birmingham a number of button makers came together to form the company Buttons Ltd., it became the

largest button manufacturer in the world.

Mr Rolls and Mr Royce first met in a Birmingham hotel. (this may have been Manchester in fact ! )

Birmingham’s assay office, established in 1773, is the largest and busiest in the world, testing between 40,000 and 80,000 items per day.

Birmingham is further from the sea than any other UK city but the assay mark for jewellery made in Birmingham is the anchor.

Birmingham at one time was the brass bedstead making centre of the world.

In the jewelery quarter the workshop floor was often sold separately from the premises because of the accumulated gold dust. Sometimes the complete floors would be replaced, the new owner still being in profit from the reclaimed gold!

In 1899, even though railways are firmly established, the Birmingham Canal Navigation carries 8.5 million tons of cargo per year, 20% of Britains total.

The game of lawn tennis was first originated and played in Edgbaston in 1865.

There are 30 other Birmingham’s around the world and one crater on the moon called Birmingham.

The last public hanging in Britain took place at Snow Hill, Birmingham in 1806.

In 1877 Frederick Wolsey took out the first patent for sheep shearing machine. The Wolsey sheep Shearing Machine Company was set up in Birmingham in

1889.The company later began making cars.

The Wolsey Sheep Shearing Machine Company made the turbine blades for the first jet engine designed by Frank Whittle.

There are suburbs in Birmingham called California, Hollywood and Broadway.

The Birmingham gun industry came about because of the decline in the use of swords. Birmingham was a major manufacturer of swords, supplying around 15,000 for Oliver Cromwells army..
Birmingham was responsible for bringing cheaper jewellery to the masses with advances made in electroplating in the Jewelery quarter.

In Victorian times Birmingham was known as the pen shop of the world due to its large pen making industry. Birmingham also pioneered cheap mass production of pen nibs, at its peak supplying around 1,500 million nibs per year.

The Birmingham company of Thomas Fattorini in Hockley designed the FA cup and is still in business and continues to make the Lonsdale & Commonwealth boxing belts.

Plastic, or more correctly Celluloid, was invented in Birmingham by Alexander Parkes, while he was working at Elkingtons and initially called Parkesine.

In July 1924 Birmingham held a street procession and civic reception for the Norton & New Imperial motor cycle companies, who between them had won 4 TT races.

The Balti Indian curry dish was first introduced in Birmingham in the 70s and has spawned a multitude of Balti restaurants throughout the UK.

Glass containing lime was first made in Birmingham.

Smethwick has never been part of Birmingham but many Smethwick companies shewed their addresses as Smethwick, Birmingham.

A sandstone ridge runs directly across Birmingham from the south west to the north east and roughly follows the line of the present A38.

The post Birmingham Facts – Did you know? appeared first on Living In Birmingham.

Mell Square Shopping Centre in Birmingham is located in the heart of Solihull, with a wide range of high street retailers and an array of independent boutiques offering the best in fashion and interiors to fulfil all your shopping needs.

How to get here
Mell Square is easily accessible by bus, train and car.
By Car
Mell Square is situated in the Town Centre, which is easily accessible by car.
Take J5 on the M42 and follow the signs to Solihull Town Centre. Alternatively from Birmingham take the A41 into Mell Square.
By Train
Solihull Railway station is situated within walking distance of Mell Square ensuring a safe and direct route into the heart of shopping.
Solihull is on the Birmingham to Leamington Spa line. Services operate from Birmingham at least every twenty minutes and there is an hourly service between Solihull and London Marylebone and between Solihull and Worcester.
By Bus or Coach
Mell Square is easily accessible by bus, with regular services connecting Solihull to most of the West Midlands.

Touchwood Shopping Centre, Birmingham

Touchwood in Solihull is an award winning, 650 000 square foot shopping destination which opened its doors in September 2001. Seamlessly woven into Solihull’s existing town centre, Touchwood has become a blueprint for in-town development thanks to our innovative design, easy access to the M42 and our 1,700 car parking spaces. Since opening in 2001, Touchwood has consistently delivered increased sales and footfall every year. Touchwood regularly outperforms national footfall and sales figures. Retailers such as Zara, Hollister, John Lewis and Apple have all been attracted by Touchwood’s reputation for innovation and excellence. Through listening to guests, careful research and working alongside several key organisations, our success continues.

Touchwoods vision was to create an environment that not only extended the retail, commercial and leisure offer of Solihull but also integrated into the existing fabric of the town centre. Located just nine miles east of Birmingham, Solihull has established itself as an attractive metropolitan borough with its own unique character. Therefore in building Touchwood our goal was to build a centre that would complement the architectural and landscape qualities of Solihull whilst delivering the finest retail offer in a secure and welcoming environment. Touchwood’s charter was to enhance the architectural and landscape qualities of Solihull, incorporating itself into what was already an expanding regional shopping destination. The centre has successfully improved the neighbouring facilities with elegant malls, a stylish retail offer and civic gardens providing green spaces for the community to enjoy. Touchwood benefits from natural light throughout the centre and each arcade has been developed with its own personality and ambience to enhance the shopping experience.

Touchwood is committed to providing Solihull and the wider region with an attractive and vibrant range of stores. The centre is home to the only John Lewis store in the Midlands. Last year Apple opened only their 11th store in the UK at Touchwood. Apple was joined by other attractive brands including Paperchase, Ghost and Swarovski. Over recent years, their guest’s experience has been further enhanced with events such as seasonal fashion shows and music festivals.

As a testament to our success, Touchwood has won many plaudits from several leading organisations:
* Retail Week UK Retail Destination of the Year 2002
* BCSC Best New Shopping Centre 2002
* Best Major New Shopping Centre 2002
* BCSC Purple Apple Award 2003
* AA Secured Car Park
* Park Mark Award 2004-2008
* Green Award: National Green Champion 2011
* BCSC Purple Apple Merit: Integrated Marketing Campaign 2012
* BCSC Purple Apple Merit: Best Event 2012
* Solihull Chamber Member Employee Award – Customer Care 2013
Some interesting statistics about Touchwood:
* Touchwood cost £110 million to build.
* 250,000 cubic metres of earth were excavated to form the basements.
* Over 4,000 piles support the Touchwood structure of 650 000 square feet.
* 70,000 cubic metres of concrete were cast to create the structure.

How To Get Here:
By Car
Touchwood is located in the heart of Solihull and is easily reached by car. Junction 5 of the
M42 is only a short distance away from Solihull town centre, providing a convenient link
to the M6, M5 and M40 motorways.
There are 6,000 car-parking spaces in the town centre, 1,700 of which are in Touchwood itself. Life has been made easier thanks to extra-wide parking bays. Now you will never be wedged in by the car next to you again – no matter how many bags you are carrying! There are specially designated parking bays for guests with special needs located throughout the car parks adjacent to the entrances. For those using satellite navigation devices, the postcode for Touchwood is B91 3GJ. At Touchwood we encourage everyone to consider the environment. Fortunately, the centre is well-serviced by local public transport networks and we have ample bike parks to faciltate cyclists.
By Train
Solihull Train Station is conveniently situated just a 10 minute walk from Touchwood.
By Bus
Regular bus services connect Solihull with most parts of the West Midlands.
For all bus travel information across the West Midlands call Traveline on 0871 200 22 33 or please visit www.centro.org.uk
By Bicycle
If you are visiting Touchwood by bicycle, there are ample cycle parks situated at the following locations around the centre:
Touchwood Car Park just outside the Orange Welcome Hall
Cloister Walk, near John Lewis entrance
Jubilee Gardens, Homer Road
Library Square, near the Solihull Arts Complex

Piccadilly Arcade Shopping Centre, Birmingham

Just off New Street stands the Piccadilly Arcade. Famous for its’ hand-painted ceilings and independent specialist retailers, including Hustle & Flow, an urban fashionista hotspot and Onyx Workshop and Piccadilly Jewellers, both of whom deal in high quality jewellery. You’ll find experienced staff to help guide you through your purchase here. Drop into Smithsonia for some original and delightful gift ideas, or why not say it with flowers at Petals of Piccadilly? Or for a pampered experience, head to Finishing Touches for a range of hair and beauty treatments or to Marco Benito’s nail bar.

It’s a very popular destination within Birmingham for shopping because it’s very open, not like your usual multi-storey shopping mall (even though they’re awesome!). Instead of being remembered for it’s ultra-shopping expereince with every store you could think of, followed with four levels and a huge food court – it’s remembered for it’s unique charaterisits, including the hand-painted ceilings. As much as we love everything in one place, how much of it all is a headache, really? It’s just nice sometimes to try something different and be somewhere different especially. With just twelve shops to indulge in, rest assured you will be able to browse, admire and shop at your own leisure and we are also sure that even if you have not come here for some shopping, that you will enjoy your experience at the Piccadilly Arcade Shopping Centre.

The Great Western Arcade Shopping Centre, Birmingham

The Great Western Arcade Shopping Centre in Birmingham, is located in the heart of the city. Birmingham is a thriving retail centre, with a huge choice of shops, restaurants and other attractions. Whatever the reason for your visit, do pop in to have a look at The Great Western Arcade. It’s well worth a visit. Amidst vibrant Birmingham’s modern hustle and bustle, one retail environment stands apart. With quiet sophistication, and genteel elegance, The Great Western Arcade whisks you back to the city’s proud Victorian heritage. Within this majestic 1876 parade, independent boutique-style retailers, genuine specialists and a sprinkling of high street names give discerning shoppers the feel that beautiful discoveries await behind every door.

The Arcade was built by the Great Western Company in 1876/77 to span a tunnel for the railway line between Moor St and Snow Hill stations. WH Ward designed the Arcade strongly influenced by Joseph Paxton’s pioneering Great Exhibition at Crystal Palace in 1851. Having sustained bomb damage in World War 2, the entrance at Colmore Row was rebuilt to a different style and the original roof was replaced by an apexed construction rather than the original arched roof. The plaster mouldings above the doors on the balcony remain adding to its original splendour. The stone masonry on Temple Row is still in good order and remains a focal point of interest with both tourists and students. The Arcade underwent restoration works in 1984 and in recognition of these efforts the Birmingham Civic Society awarded the arcade a prize in 1985. In 1988 the Arcade was voted Birmingham’s favourite building. As the Arcade continues to provide a popular shopping environment the current owners, Aviva Investors, undertook further major refurbishment in 2009, investing £250,000 in the project.

In addition to being completely repainted throughout to provide a new look and clean appearance, the project included the repair and refurbishment of the floor. A state-of-the-art lighting system has also been installed utilising the existing wrought iron Victorian globe lights which run along the full length of the Arcade balcony. The computer controlled lights have the ability to change to any colour within the entire spectrum and can be selected to alter the mood within the Arcade, depending upon the time of day or year, or for special events. The Arcade’s original Victorian chiming clock has also received a complete overhaul and although the Westminster chime will not be operational every day, plans are for it to be heard on special occasions and events.

Getting Here
By Car
Ample car parking can be found nearby, particularly in the Snow Hill car park.
By Train
The Great Western Arcade is located in the heart of Birmingham, just opposite Snow Hill railway station, which is also the terminus for the Metro line from Wolverhampton. Linking the city’s commercial centre to the main retail area, the Arcade is only a few minutes walk from Birmingham’s main New Street railway station.
By Bus
The Great Western Arcade is well served by buses, with most stopping on Colmore Row, Corporation Street and Bull Street.
Get in Touch
Great Western Arcade
Colmore Row
Birmingham
B2 5HU
Tel: 0121 236 5417

Pavilions Shopping Centre, Birmingham

On Birmingham’s High Street there is the major Pavilions Shopping Centre, jam-packed with top names. From major high street retail brands including Marks & Spencer, Hobbs, Waterstones and La Senza to tiny, independent gift boutiques such as Wysteria Lane or the natural food and ingredients retailer, Julian Graves. There is something for everyone suiting from a range of personalities. Birmingham being a major city in the UK, offers a fantastic array of shopping places, cusines, farmers markets and independant boutiques. The West Midlands is loved by many for not just the shopping, but the fascinating scenary, historic landmarks, cosy retreats and breathtaking landmarks. A destination loved by the hikers, tourists, families and travellers. Adding to that, Birmingham is only a two hour drive from Manchester and London making it a very popular place to live and commute.

Pavilions Stores:
Char Wallah
Evans
Fabulous Eyes and Brows
H&M
Lo’Occitane
Laura Ashley
Moss Suit Company
Marks and Spencers
National Express West Midlands
Newsflow
Pavilions Food Loft
PHB Ethical Beauty
Subway
3G
Thorntons
Unis Internet Lounge
Waterstones

Shopping has to include a food break, where better than to recharge your energy levels other than The Food Loft? At the top of the mall, The Food Loft is known to be a great place for people to grab a light snack or a refreshing cup of tea. Your visit to the Pavlion Shopping Centre wouldn’t be a true experience if you wasn’t to visit The Food Loft. Pavilions have merged in seven mouth-watering options of food choices, ranging from freshly prepared sandwiches within store to Traditional British Diners. With the Food Loft you have a choice of: Cafe Napoli, Druckers, Fat Jackets, Harpers, Natural Choice (perfect for vegetarians) and Viet! Cafe.
Cafe Napoli – had enough of takeouts from Dominos and dining out at Pizza hut? Maybe you want to experience traditional homemade pizzas and pastas? If this is the case, Cafe Napoli is your choice. Within store their knowledgeable and passionate staff are awaiting to serve you your freshly prepared pastas, pizza topping classics followed with a range of bolognaise sauces. Beware – may want to bring a clean shirt with you, some facial wipes and extra napkin, yum!
Druckers – If you’ve stayed in a Premier Inn before and opted for the light continentional breakfast instead of the full fry up, you will love Druckers. Druckers provide religiously for the cakes, pastry and contintental taste buds. From hand-made cakes and patisseri to the finest teas and coffees, you will be able to recharge your batteries in a lighter form, dining within a unqiue eating expereince.
Fat Jackets – these of course are Pavilions specialists at providing you with the greatest jacket potatoe in Birmingham. If you’re a vegetarian, you will know how much of pain it is when you’re dining out and restaraunts only offer you a few options. Here you can find the perfect meat free or meaty filling for your jackets. From a fresh range of irresistable fillings, followed with one giant potato ready for your journey home or the start of your shopping journey.
Harpers – If you’re bringing the kids or if you are just after something simple and easy, don’t miss out on a Harpers. Harpers provide steaming, tasty and proud dishes – these are traditional british dishes perfect for the fussy eaters especially. Bring your everday favorite food thoughts into Harpers and enjoy Sausage and Mash, Steak and Kidney Pie and Fish and Chips.
Natural Choice – another accessible option for any vegetarians, healthy eaters and anyone who is just after a light snack or a meal. Natural Choice provide their customers with a rang of vegetarian dishes including pastas, pies and pancakes. We all love a bit of pasty (even if it isn’t our waistlines best friend!), so Natural Choice have put the fun back into eating meat-free pies, certainly a healthier range as well so it’s a win win situation for everybody!
Viet! Cafe – If you’re not French, you’re still allowed to dine here don’t panic. Viet! Cafe supply a range of freshly-made french baguettes, paninis and french pastries. So if this is your first time in the Pavilions Shopping Centre, Birmingham – be sure you try something else new if you haven’t, and head into Viet! Cafe, rest assured your tastebuds will love it!

Grand Central Shopping Centre, Birmingham

The Grand Central Shopping Centre back in 2012, replaced the “The Pallasades” Shopping Centre. The major shopping centre was renamed following with a whopping £600 million redevelopment. The Pallasades shopping centre was renamed and transformed and is now known to most shoppers as the “Grand Central Birmingham”which opened back in 2014. Birmingham Retail Bosses have been on a mission since the news went viral back in 2012, and that mission has been in full swing with the Grand Central now operating, and then the New Street Station undergoing major transformations also. One part of the major transformation was the creation of the 250,000 sqft John Lewis store which is surrounded by more than 50 shops, including globally known brands to smaller brands, outlets and independant boutiques. Birmingham has always had a huge demand for the retail industry, and especially a larger one that’s for sure. Managing Directors from John Lewis have come together with other retail owners and have agreed it’s been a great success for the start of the larger retail industry within Birmingham.

So if you are heading into the city of Birmingham, be sure to check out the Grand Central Shopping Centre. The new design of the Grand Central features curved archways which are surrounded with glass panelled ceilings, a truly stunning place to shop. The Grand Central name was inspired by Birmingham’s central railway connections and major bosses were hoping that the major, fairly new shopping palace was predicted to arract around 50 million visitors a year. A shocking figure that is phenominal for retailers, especially since the Recession. It’s also great to hear for once, that Birmingham has not solely focused on turning this major land space into houses and as instead, focused on growing the shopping industry for Birmingham local residents and tourists.

Shops within the Grand Central Birmingham:
The Perfume Shop
Carphone Warehouse
Newsflow
Paperchase
Jermyn Street Shirtmaker
Neal’s Yard Remedies
Foyles
Select
Hobbs London
Tiger
Love Aroma
T.H. Baker
Jacques Vert
Pandora
Steel & Jelly
Whittard of Chelsea
Gob Stoppers
Monsoon Accessorize
Cath Kidston
Joules
FatFace
The White Company
Kiehl’s
L’Occtiane

Dining Shops
Ed’s Diner
Nando’s
Costa
Fuel Juice Bars
Frizzenti
YakiNori
Francesca – Italian Diner
Cocomacs
PAUL
Crepeaffaire
Carluccio’s
SquarePie
Giraffe
YO SUSHI!
Tortilla
PHO
Tapas Revolution
Caffe Concreto
Handmade Burger Co
As you can see, some of those brands stand out to most of us – however many of the 60 shops that are now situated there are new to the city making it a more excting experience for tourists and local residents.

The Jewellery Quarter

The home of British jewellery with a growing arts scene and plenty of great restaurants and bars.
Home to more diamond rings, finishing touches and tokens of love than anywhere else in the country, this is the beating heart of the nation’s jewellery manufacturing. Over 40% of British jewellery is made in Birmingham’s unique Jewellery Quarter.

There are over 100 specialists and craftspeople to be found here making it a wonderful place to explore and the perfect place go for THAT present, but at a price to surprise. Part of the appeal of going direct is that many of the Jewellery Quarter retailers have workshops on the premises, so a special gift can be commissioned on site!

There’s a buzzing arts scene here too with galleries, wedding shops and fashion specialists mingling with the latest restaurants, serving everything from Neapolitan to Nepalese cuisine. Plenty of places for a drink and a dance too including several in the stunning St Paul’s Square, such as Jools Holland’s legendary Jam House and Après in Summer Row.

The Mailbox

The Mailbox pretty much sums up the Birmingham of 2005 – a bold, contemporary design statement home to clothing boutiques, Michelin-grade restaurants and stylish bars. An architectural icon for a city full of confidence. Yet you still have to walk under a motorway to get there.

The Custard Factory

Fans of Bird’s Custard will get an extra-creamy kick out of shopping here. Now home to cool independent shops and boutiques, this old factory has said goodbye to the hairnets and conveyor belts, and said hello to holistic therapy and contemporary jewellery. Also has theatre café, dance studios and art gallery – oooh, aren’t you cultured?

Birmingham Bullring

The jewel in the crown of the modern Birmingham. Karen Millen, Miss Sixty, TopShop, Warehouse, Boots, Borders, HMV and Nike – the biggest names in retail are all here in Birmingham. The star attraction is Selfridges and the stunning bubble wrap that it lives in. Curvaceous, unique and glamorous, it’s a design icon that Birmingham is proud of.

The post Birmingham Shopping Centres appeared first on Living In Birmingham.

There is still an assumption that nature is something found only in the countryside, that it is surprising to find genuine wildlife in a city. Birmingham’s new commitment to treasuring and improving its green spaces, parks and links to the natural world recognizes that this is not true. It also reflects the findings of The Wildlife Trust for Birmingham and the Black Country, which has documented an enormous range of wildlife, from bats and badgers to otters and peregrine falcons, as well as many birds and insects, enjoying the woodlands, wetlands and grasslands which permeate the city.

John Box, Chair of the Birmingham and Black Country Local Nature Partnership, said: “Birmingham has a superb network of blue and green infrastructure: parks, canals, nature reserves, rivers, woodlands and open spaces that connect the city center with the open countryside.”

Joining the network builds not only on the achievements of the last 30 years, but also on the aspirations and successes of earlier city fathers who saw the benefits of open spaces for both nature and people. Birmingham’s 571 parks are testament to their vision throughout the 19th and 20th centuries. The jewel in the crown is Sutton Park, the largest city park in Europe and deserving of its National Nature Reserve status. The international connection also continues a thread running from other networks in which Birmingham participated, such as the European Sustainable Towns and Cities Campaign organised by the International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives.

More recently the city has produced its Green Vision, a set of ambitious strategies and targets to maintain and improve environmental performance in everything from transport and energy to green infrastructure and nature conservation. Nick Grayson, climate change and sustainability manager at the city council, said Birmingham faced many and varied challenges ranging from a surprising tendency to be hit by flooding – though it has no major river – and inner city neighborhoods that turn into “urban heat islands” when the temperature soars.

Alison Millward, the Wildlife Trust’s Vice Chair, said: “Birmingham is a city that understands how important the natural environment is to the social and economic well-being of our citizens.”

A note of caution: it is said that ‘fine words butter no parsnips’. Enjoying the accolade of joining the biophilic network is one thing, having the political will to devote resources to effective management of the city’s green infrastructure is quite another. (Witness the recent battle over the parks budget.) For now I give Birmingham two cheers for its intentions, I will save the third cheer for its achievements.

The post The Nature of Birmingham appeared first on Living In Birmingham.

Pitcher and Piano – Piano Bar

As discussed earlier in this post at the top, we stated that there are plenty of places to eat and drink in Birmingham if you’re looking for something a little less hectic, or you’re after quirkiness… Located in Brindley place sitting on the canal is the Pitcher and Piano. The perfect location for the heat right? Correct. This unique, high vibe bar is extremely popular when the sun is out, it’s the perfect location to soak up the sun and enjoy some pitchers that’s for sure. Pitcher and Piano have 17 other bars spotted around the UK and the majority of them are nestled in the heart of Big Cities. Whether it’s the breakfast you’re after, your lunch break, cocktails and wine after work or you’re seeking a great night out, this is your venue.

This particular Pitcher and Piano is highly recommended by local residents and tourists. These tourists are not here for sight-seeing, they are out for an unforgettable night out. Pitcher and Piano offer specialist services for big groups including the Christmas Duration. So whether you’re after a hen do, birthday, family reunion or a big night out to celebrate the weekend – the Pitcher and Piano takes all great news seriously, offering you an unforgettable experience!
 

The Rose Villa Tavern – American Style Menu / Unique bar

Most people will say (usually the blokes) that they don’t care what’s hanging from the ceiling or what the inside of a pub looks like, but they do care about the quality of their ale and if their barman is great to talk with or even better – their is football or some form of sports selection, including darts, pool table, bandit etc… However, the interior to most people is crucial – it sets the mood and when done correctly, it can really lift anybody’s mood and more customers want to be in this environment, right? If you’re a lover of stained glass windows, antique furniture and rejuvenated pub seating areas, then this is a place for you since this tavern was built back in between 1919-1920 meaning it’s definitely kept it’s characteristics. The best part is that The Rose Villa Tavern is set in the Jeweler Quarter, if you’re not familiar with that it’s a major shopping center in Birmingham – so the ladies can shop and the men can drink! If you’re looking for American theme style food, rest assured you can indulge in classic American Style Diner options, and if you’re drinking as a couple, friends or as work colleagues or even alone, you will find the up most classic cocktail lists and global beers to comedy nights and festivals, a great place to drink in the afternoon and into the evening! Overall, it’s a happily affordable place and is your best spot for chatting and drinking, relaxing with friends and for those unique and vintage lovers.
 

The Jekyll and Hyde – Alice in Wonderland Themed Beer Garden

When have you come across an Alice in Wonderland inspired bar before? Not very likely I suppose! The Jekyll and Hyde Beer Garden offer their bespoke and tailored cocktail lists on their two floor layout. Upstairs you will find the Victorian Gin parlor which is open after 5pm on a Friday and Saturday night. It sounds like a bit of a wacky warehouse so far doesn’t it? Outside is where you will find the Alice in Wonderland themed courtyard, and upstairs is strictly Victorian themed, you can’t find more quirkiness in one place if you tried. As far as the drinks are concerned, you won’t be served by the Mad Hatter or Alice (sorry, no can do!) – however you can have a drink on them if you’re opting for the cocktails which include the Chimney Sweep and the Prince Albert Punch. Those cocktail names were inspired by the bar name itself, so you won’t be finding those cocktails elsewhere, another truly unique feature. Overall, the Jekyll and Hyde is one of the coolest and quirkiest places to drink in Birmingham. For all of the gin-lovers, cocktail fanatics and relaxed weekday drinkers – this is your place if you’re looking for something a little different on your night out in Birmingham.
 

Symphony Hall – Lady-wood (Added Extra Feature – Must go!)

Are you after a theater or a concert? Then the Symphone Hall is your best place to go. Rated Number One in Trip Advisor, this theater is truly impressive. A beautiful concert hall known best for the size of the hall and the amazing acoustic sounds. THSH (Town hall Birmingham, Symphony Hall Birmingham) are behind this amazing feature spot who believe that music has the up most power to transform everybody’s life, mindset and output on life. Symphony Hall opened back in 1991 and has celebrated their 21st anniversary three years ago which was a huge festival, a major hit for tourists, holiday makers and local residents. Whether you go weak at the knees for Jazz, Stevie Wonde, Musicals or comedians, you’ll be sure to find the perfect upcoming event for you and the whole family.

The post Hand Picked Bars appeared first on Living In Birmingham.

By train

Eight local rail lines criss-cross the city to ensure quick links to all attractions and venues (as well as connecting to services to other UK cities and towns).
Midland Metro is the latest addition. This state-of-the-art light rail system whisks passengers between Snow Hill Station in Birmingham city centre and Wolverhampton.
For easy day trips out of Birmingham to Solihull, The Black Country, Warwick Castle, Shakespeare’s Stratford-upon-Avon, Bicester Village Shopping, the Severn Valley Steam Railway and many other nearby attractions head down to Moor Street station (by the Bullring).
Network West Midlands provides online timetables, fares including day tickets and passes, ticket purchase and route planning. To visit the Centro website use www.centro.org.uk or pop into the Centro store at New Street Station. For National Rail Enquiries call 08457 48 49 50

By bus and Metro

Birmingham is brilliant for buses. There’s a huge network linking everyone to everything.
Network West Midlands has all the online timetables and fare information you need with easy ticket buying and route planning. Alternatively call 0871 200 22 33 for timetable information (Calls from landlines cast 10p per minute) or visit Centro’s many information points around the city.
More and more local buses have facilities such as low floors for easy access for wheelchair users and pushchairs. Birmingham buses can’t be hailed to be stopped; passengers wishing to board or leave a bus, should do so at an official bus stop.

Please remember that you need to give the exact fare to the driver as you board.

By taxi
Birmingham’s well regulated taxis are especially convenient for those with heavy luggage or returning late from a night out.
TOA taxis are Birmingham’s black cab operators. They can be hailed in the street or reached at one of the many taxi ranks in the city centre; the main ones are at New Street Station, Stephenson Street and Digbeth Coach Station.
Make a booking with TOA’s app

Download for iPhone here
Download for Android here
ComCab – The Professional Choice in Birmingham. Taxis represent the quickest, most convenient option for travelling in and around Birmingham and Computer Cab is the leading licensed taxi operator in the city. Computer Cab operates all across Birmingham with a large fleet of taxis available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Every one of our taxis is fully licensed and our fares are regulated by Birmingham City Council. The drivers are also fully licensed with excellent geographical knowledge of the city.
It’s wise to pre-book for journeys of a longer distance or at particularly busy hours. Private hire cars should always be pre-booked and an estimate of the fare secured beforehand.
T.C. Cars private hire taxi company has 300 vehicles, open 24/7. Running for over 25 years they are one of the largest most experienced cab firms around. With the airport at their doorstep they are also ideally situated between Birmingham City Centre and Solihull. Their fleet of NVQ Customer Service qualified, dress coded drivers will pick-up and take you to whereever you need to go. From their 4 passenger saloon cars through to their wheelchair access vehicles and 6-16 passenger minibuses their fleet is fully computerised, metered and GPS tracked. Their drivers also have access to the latest flight arrival times. Call them on 0121 770 2000 for an estimate or advice and when and where to book.

Europcar car hire

Great deals on UK car and van hire. No need to book, just walk in to Europcar Birmingham: 18-20 Bristol Street, B5 7AA.
or call: 0871 384 1127
quoting promotional code: 51758951 for 10% off
• Over 250 UK branches
• Wide range of quality cars and vans
• Free Delivery & Collection (T&Cs)
• One way, hourly, month+ and more
• Clear, honest pricing
Visit the website here

Sixt Car Hire

You can now hire a Sixt car at Birmingham Airport, where they provide a vast range of up to date cars giving customers a great choice of vehicles for all their needs. You can visit them at, Birmingham Airport, B26 3QJ, Birmingham.

By canal

Fancy stepping back in time and letting the rush hour simply rush on by? Then Birmingham’s canals are the way to travel.
With a top speed of three miles per hour, longboats aren’t the fastest way to explore the area. But they certainly give a better insight into our unique heritage.
Head for Gas Street Basin near Brindleyplace. It’s the heartbeat of the busy network; the turning point for narrow boats using the Grand Union, Stratford-upon-Avon and Worcester and Birmingham Canals. There are many ways to enjoy over 200 miles of local canal. Take a leisurely cycle ride or stroll along the towpath (of course, with regular stop-offs at any of the picturesque canalside cafes or Brindleyplace’s floating cafe. Better still, take a short summer trip; starting daily from Brindleyplace. You can even start a relaxing narrow boat holidays from here. Find out more about Birmingham and the regional canals.

By bike

What better way to explore Birmingham and the Midlands than by bike? There are cycle lanes or paths on many of the major routes into and across the city that take in some of the city’s beautiful parks and waterways en route. Information can be found here

By foot

A stroll is a great way to discover Birmingham. There’s so much to see. The city is now full of open and inviting pedestrianised areas. So it’s easy to take a relaxed and safe saunter around the compact centre with attractions, shops and places to eat and drink always close by if the whim takes you.
There’s also a great choice of great guided walking tours or self-guided trails to explore. See our Tours & Sightseeing section for the details.

Mobility for all

Whatever your level of mobility, you’ll find Birmingham a welcoming destination with a high standard of accessibility, helpful people and clear signposting to the majority of attractions, shops and venues.
For further information about assistance for disabled visitors, visit our Accessible Birmingham page.

The post Getting around Birmingham appeared first on Living In Birmingham.

Pubs and Nightlife in Birmingham are a major tourist attraction as it’s a forever expanding city. Not just with the tourists but locals and students thrive off the Birmingham Nightlife as well, therefore there is a place to suit everyone’s personality! We took a look at what tourists, locals and Birmingham Lovers were writing on Trip Advisor about what Birmingham has to offer nightlife wise, and we was impressed! If you’re planning on a night out in Birmingham or any city, you should be expecting the large number of students and also the hen do’s and stag do’s.

However don’t let that put you off if you’re not drinking in Birmingham for those reasons. Their are plenty of small boutique bars, restaurants and clubs which are away from the hustle and bustle or are even in the city center. These are designed for the after-work drinkers, wine and dining occasions and the people who like to be seated and have a few drinks before they head to the busier places. You will also find that those places are still busy because they are lovely places to drink however conversations, birthday celebrations, catch-ups and small talk can be best entertained there due to the brilliant atmosphere. Below you will find the top five bars according to Trip Advisor, where you can find either the perfect mayhem, the best ale around and the overall best loved bars. We hope you enjoy your stay and your night out in Birmingham!

The Prince of Wales – Moseley – number one

Are you planning to head to Birmingham for the night, two nights or a weekend away? Be sure to check out Trip Advisers “3 days in Birmingham“. It’s the ultimate guide for Pubs and Nightlife in Birmingham, also used for the most recommended hot spots whether you’re seeking history, arts and cultures, shopping, food and a good time! The Prince of Wales is featured in the “3 days in Birmingham” guide featuring your first pointer. Perfect for all of you bar crawlers as this location is within the main hot spot. Cocktails like no other are created here followed with the best garden in Moseley, an incredibly lively atmosphere, cigar room followed with a range of classic ales, house wines and spirits – perfect if you’re not into cocktails.

The Wellington – Birmingham City Center – Number Two

If you’re after the best real ale in Birmingham, then you have certainly come by the right place. Voted number two in TripAdvisor and also featured in the “3 days in Birmingham” is The Wellington. What do most pubs miss out on when we’re fortunate with great weather? Roof tops! For some reason, we just love them they’re amazing sun catching spots and well, with real ale what more could you ask for? If you can’t afford to jet away this Summer and you’ve decided or you’re contemplating a city break within the UK – this pub is your alternative atmosphere to Spain. Ladies, unless you’re not up for 16 pumps of proper ale and everything traditionally pub related, then this wouldn’t be your catch! A true hidden gem.

Brewdog – Birmingham City Center – Number Three

When pubs and restaurants list a phenomenal, kind of intimidating list of drinks you’ve never heard off – it ruins our creative mindset to try something new. You don’t need to be an ale geek to drink here! Voted number three in Trip Advisor with a certificate of excellence is the Brewdog, with incredibly friendly staff on hand, they are more than happy to guide you and answer any questions you may have about their drinks. If you are in a group and you’ve got a lady friend or a certain somebody that isn’t that much into their ales, this may not be the best venue for the entire night since it is strongly all ale recommendations. However as stated, if they’ve never tried it before – the staff are more than willing to try and tempt their newbies into trying something that could possibly, become their favorite ale ever. Overall, a brilliant atmosphere in plenty of space meaning it’s an ideal spot for friends or big groups.

The Craven Arms – Birmingham City Center – Number Four

Pubs that provide food are excellent, and sometimes their not aimed at families. Food provided in pubs is usually for people who have drank a bit to much and are after some grub, (just kidding!) – yet most people don’t class them as traditional pubs anymore. Rated number four in TripAdvisor with a certificate of excellence, stands the Craven Arms. Are you after a traditional pub, no main dishes but just snacks? Then this is the perfect, typical, northern style pub. Known to many local residents as “the best ale house in Birmingham” it’s definitely a must if you’re an ale lover, without doubt. With incredibly knowledgeable staff on hand, you will have an unforgettable experience here and you may be more open minded to trying different ales!

Post Office Vaults – Birmingham City Center – Number Five

Voted number five in TripAdvisor also obtaining a certificate of excellence is the beloved Post Office Vaults who also obtain a certificate of excellence. Which pub nowadays do you know of that provides you the upper hand on saving money on food? We’re not talking about discounts and freebies, we’re talking bringing your own food in and nobody giving a single damn about it. Around 200-300 ales are stocked within the Post Office Vault, probably the given reason for the extended name “vault”. Can get extremely busy so seating can become a  problem, especially if you have a lady in heels accompanying you or you are a typical drinker who likes to be seated. If you are over-whelmed by choice, knowledgeable and passionate staff are on hand to tempt you into something new, quirky and the pub’s specials and general favorites, no doubt if it’s not peak time that a regular drinker here will step in and guide you themselves.

The post Bars and Nightlife in Birmingham appeared first on Living In Birmingham.

Birmingham city center is less than a 50 minute drive from Worcestershire so whether you are drawn to the peace and quiet of the country side, or you love the hustle and bustle of the city streets – it’s accessible to reach them both. Escaping to the countryside is the perfect retreat for most people and Worcestershire couldn’t be a better choice. You’re not completely isolated, accessible footpaths are all around leading to breath-taking nature reserves and you are within walking distance to the local villages.

Whether you choose to check in at a B&B, hotel, self-catering property, camp, bring your own carvan or even hire a caravan, high quality accommodations are waiting for you.

Top 3 Luxury Accommodation in Worcestershire

The Wood Norton Hotel – Overall Best

The Wood Norton Hotel was voted best for Luxury, Peace & Quiet, Romance & best value, hence why this is the top of our list. Just outside Worcester is the uniquely crafted Wood Norton withstanding it’s luxury and character since the 19th century. The Wood Norton Hotel has a rating of number 6 out of the 74+ hotels in Worcestershire and is a very well established retreat best used for relaxing and romantic breaks away. The Wood Norton oozes with French decorative interior within every room seeing as it’s the former home to the French Royalty, especially the Hall Feature rooms. Each of these rooms is oak paneled from wall to ceiling, followed by comfort sinking beds with a rain forest type shower to cool down or warm up in. In a nutshell, these rooms hold almost the equivalent thought to a typical luxury resort in Bali, the only thing that would not be guaranteed is the scorching weather all year round. Room service is available to all rooms if you don’t fancy heading down to the main restaurant. Only the finest local produce is used to meet the continuous high standard of food at this hotel, followed by award winning wines in the contemporary bar and an alfresco dining terrace. Surrounding the hotel you are provided with a beautiful sight over looking the Vale of Evesham to the nearby Cotswold Hills. are the extensive grounds and highly maintained gardens. The Wood Norton Hotel do host weddings and cater for corporate events, however you can be rest assured that this will not disturb your stay or expectations of the Wood Norton Hotel’s Reputation. Out and about for the day? previous visitors recommend you check out The Vale Golf & Country Club, The Iron Road & Drift Elite – a perfect mix of relaxing golf, amped up to a bit of boy racing practicing and the hottest venue in town.

Brockencote Hall Country House – best for Luxury, Romantic & Quiet

Out of 74+ hotels throughout Worcestershire, visitors rated this the number one hotel on Trip Advisor. Despite what Trip Advisor has to say, Brockencote Hall Hotel is very well established as one of the finest luxury hotels including their restaurant across the West Midlands. Towering with awards, Brockencote have received four AA red stars for high levels of comfort and hospitality, followed by three AA Rosettes for its mind blowing cuisine. The awards are continuous and they are growing more every year which is something they take great pride in as you will see on their website. If you are considering a luxury hotel break in Worcestershire where you are surrounded by 70 acres of stunning grounds, a spot of tennis in a recently refurbished Victorian country manor house, Brockencote Hall Country House is your description to a perfect match.

The Old Rectory Hotel – best for Luxury, Quiet & Romantic

Located in Redditch with a rating of number 4 out of the 74+ hotels in Worcestershire, stands the Old Rectory Hotel surrounded by breath-taking national trust land. If you’re planning to stay here in the warmer months, keep note that the old rectory hotel is just within 500 yards from the coastal path towards Wales. This resort is incredibly popular among tourists due to being nested in the wilderness which is protected by the National Trust. If you have drove here and you catch a nice day with the weather,the drive to the Welsh Coast would definitely be worth the tripe. The Old Rectory is mostly visited by couples and families however, there’s the few business individuals now and again. There are ten rooms here at The Old Rectory House and each room has kept it’s characteristics, the beams are still standing strong and each bedroom has the right temperature, lighting and a guaranteed good nights sleep. Even though the hotel is known to be a hidden gem, you are certainly not hidden from the footpaths which lead you to dated castles, landmarks, pubs, shops and local beauty spots including Woody Bay and Heddon’s Mouth. Bird watching, fishing and horse riding can all be enjoyed nearby here, a little different from everybody’s day to day life making the Old Rectory Hotel a perfect little retreat.

Top 3 B&B’s in Worcestershire

The Manor Coach House

We know how important the Internet is changing the way people think, especially when it comes to booking a holiday, we all love Trip Advisor. The Manor Coach House Bed and Apartments are nestled in Hindlip. The Manor Coach House appeals highly to both tourists and business travelers. Situated just five minutes from J6 to the M5 motorway, guests find this incredibly convenient. Rest assured you are not landing yourself in for a restless night since you are close to the motorway. Surrounding the Manor House are beautiful gardens and countryside. Ample off road parking and disabled parking are available here followed with a good choice of eating places within a short walk or drive. Retail parks and major supermarkets are just a short drive away also. There are around 32 B&B’s in Worcestershire and the Manor Coach House is voted number one. Recently they were awarded with “Certificate of Excellence” from Trip Advisor, a 4 star guest accommodation, The Gold Award & Breakfast Award from enjoyengland.com!  Here at Manor House you are guaranteed a wonderful nights stay followed with excellent service. Only the best, locally sourced meat & fruit is provided for the award winning Full English Breakfast & Continental Breakfast. Over to Trip Advisor, out of nearly 400 reviews 386 were voted “Excellent” and the other two votes were “Very good”. Not a single bad comment or experience. So whether you’re just planning to stay the night for the convenience of location or you’re heading out into Worcestershire and you’re after a luxury B&B, The Manor Coach House will exceed all of your expectations.

Buttermilk Bed and Breakfast

In the quiet rural village of Ladywood, Worcestershire sits the Buttermilk Bed and Breakfast. Coming in at number two out of the other 32 b&b’s throughout Worcestershire, visitors and hosts guarantee a great nights sleep the perfect tranquil place to come away and relax. Even though you will be a little secluded here, you’re not remote. You are within 3 miles from Junction 6 M5 motorway and just 4 miles from coming into Worcester. All rooms are en-suite which are decorated and furnished to a high and modern standard. When you awake, you will see more then just greens and sheep. Camera ready, this picturesque and charming B&B offers stunning views over Salwarpe and Seven Valleys, maintaining an air of tranquility. Hence why this B&B is incredibly popular among people who necessarily don’t want to go hiking or canoeing, yet they want an environment where great hospitality will shine through, followed with incredible comfort surrounded by peace and quiet. Bringing the dogs? No problem, the Buttermilk is more than happy for you to bring your pet.

Dilmore House

Situated in the residential village of Fernhill Heath North of Worcester City is the Dilmore House, voted number 3 by Trip Advisor Users. Guests are a big fan of Tony who will be your host. He has all the information you need on arrival if you are new to the area. He can recommend the nearest pubs for the finest foods and British Ales, the closest supermarkets, the best spots for sight-seeing and for the walkers, the accessible footpaths which are a must on your stay here. What he won’t recommend you on is the closest place for breakfast in the morning since Tony makes his own freshly made bread, followed with a mouth-watering full English breakfast or a light continental breakfast. Dilmore House is easily accessible from the M5 motorway and is just a couple of minutes away by car from both Droitwich Spa and the city. If you’re heading towards the the County Cricket ground, Worcester Racecourse or Worcester Warriors Rugby Club and you’re looking for the best voted B&B around, Dilmore House is perfect for you.

Top 3 Speciality Lodging in Worcestershire

Hidelow House

Voted number one for specialty lodging through Trip Advisor was the wheel chair accessible, HideLow House. Situated between a two hour drive either way to Manchester or London sits this beautiful self-catering property. Surrounded by the beautiful views of Malvern Hills countryside, the endless opportunities enable every single guest to grasp the opportunity to relax, unwind or to get out and explore. Pauline and Stuart will be your hosts and give a warming welcome when you arrive. Their properties were designed ideally for every type of guest who was seeking that perfect getaway. Whether that was a wedding anniversary, reunion, birthday, engagement, new baby… whatever the good news you are celebrating, Hidelow House can provide the finishing touches from start to finish on making your stay a wonderful and unforgettable experience. Major supermarket deliveries can be made to your front door, however if that is not possible, Pauline is your personal chef and she can deliver her home-made cooking to your door. With prior notice, special requirements can also be met if you’re visiting and you’re really celebrating, such as specially themed meals, birthday cakes or general dietary requirements. There is something for everybody just minutes away from the Hidelow House making this property also ideal for hen do’s, house party gatherings or just general holiday breaks. Cheese-making, wine, beer and cider-making are all local so be sure to have a blast and enjoy those experiences! Overall, guests love how wheelchair accessible this property is – seeing as it’s a property to suit a large number of people, not to forge the passionate and warm-hearted hosts, beautiful landscapes and the hot tub outside.

Pitlands Farm

Voted number two for specialty lodging through Trip Advisor is the Pitlands Farm Lodge. Set throughout 25 acres in the rural, remote part of Worcestershire are 7 self-catering properties provided by Pitlands Farm. Three lodges sleeping six for the larger group arrivals, three eco-friendly bungalows each sleeping four which is ideal for joint couples, friends and families and a one bedroom cottage which sleeps two, ideal for honeymoons, anniversaries, special events or a mini-break. Two of the lodges are completely wheelchair accessible. Sometimes remote and out of the way of all of the hustle and bustle from the city is the perfect spot for relaxing, unwinding, celebrating and catching those special moments. A very well run and sufficient farm, with a two coarse fishing pool stocked to the brim with carp making it a real playground for any fishermen or ladies who are interested in fishing. If the men do want to sit and fish all day long or want to make use of the games room, ladies you can enjoy the outdoors, roof-covered Ho Tub, the saunas or the treatment which is located next to the farmhouse garden. Within easy driving distance are amazing activities for a full day out such as the West Midlands Award Winning Safari Park, Severn Valley Railway, Malvern Hills and the best footpaths to breath-taking nature spots. If you are wanting to get out and about on your stay here without the car: walking, golfing, cycling and hiking offer endless opportunities.

Apple Wood Glamping

Voted number three for specialty lodging through Trip Advisor is the Apple Wood Glamping site. Glamping for those unaware of the term is a form of camping which involves accommodation and facilities which is just a little more luxurious than those associated with the traditional camping by single tents with sleeping bags. Glamping is becoming more and more popular since people love the idea of camping, yet the horrific thought of having torrential rain fall in the night leaving you water logged is the first thing that puts most of us. Another off-putting feature of traditional camping is that working toilets with hand wash followed with hot showers are not available. Hence why the amazing idea of “Glamping” was introduced. Of course it strips out the rural nature of camping as you have more facilities and some of the glamping properties around are becoming more and more modern and enclosed. However, here at Apple Wood you can be assured that you will receive the full camping treatment. This is an amazing place for families, hen-do’s and even stag do’s, you can cook your own breakfast on the BBQ provided, light fires right outside your tent, and play cards maybe with a glass of wine or a beer and just relax, unwind and maybe do a spot of star gazing. Large towels, candle lights, comfortable beds, extra blankets and a cooking stove is provided with a few more luxuries in each facility.

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