19 April 2011

Birmingham?

So we are off to Birmingham next weekend and this time I would actually like to see something rather than simply go to the convention.
Last time, I asked the shuttle driver what he would suggest, and he couldn't give me anything that he felt I should, as a tourist, visit. Which I thought was very sad. So we had a great meal at a gastropub recommended by a friend.
This time however, I would really like to see something cultural or architectural: anyone have any ideas?

4 comments:

Frau Dietz said...

Hello :) I've only ever been to the Mailbox and the Bullring as I've only ever visited Birmingham for work, but I just asked a friend who lives there, and he says...

Stratford Upon Avon, Warwick, Cadbury World, Millenium Point, Sealife Centre, Black Country Museum, take a barge trip to Lapworth, Bullring for shopping.

And if you want a tour of pubs, I can point you in his direction!

Fiona said...

I really want to give you an amazing suggestion, but my only memories of great things in Birmingham are the convention center events and a fabulous curry!
Sorry - I am sure there are others who will be more help.

G in Berlin said...

Frau Dietz and Fiona: Thanks.
One of the German's co-workers also recommended Cadbury World, so I may try that. But shopping is not my thing and we are at a convention out by the NEC, so I was hoping to find a few things to take a look at in the city center, so I could take the shuttle in, explore a bit, and go back out. But we will visit the same gastro pub we did last time (made reservations today), as we are foodies, rather than drinkers:-).
Stratford and Warwick are neat (I've been), but I don't know how much time I want to take away from the con and on Easter weekend I can't imagine the bus and train service is tremendously helpful(we won't be renting a car)!

Frau Dietz said...

Ah, well now I REALLY wish I could help - food is my specialist subject :) Excellent news you have a good gastropub to go to; in Birmingham you should also definitely have a curry. Unfortunately, the only place I've eaten at - which was fantastic - has closed down, but the Balti Triangle is the place to find a good curry (cultural tip as well as culinary!), which is around Ladypool Road, Stoney Lane and Stratford Road, south of the city centre. The restaurants are allegedly all good, but I suppose it's probably a bit hit and miss so might be worth a good google ahead of time. There's also a Balti Triangle website: www.baltitriangle.com. Can't wait to hear how your trip goes :)