Birmingham

Birmingham is the UK’s second biggest city, and it has a seriously impressive story to tell. Hundreds of years ago, it became one of the most important industrial cities in the entire world, its factories and workshops producing metal goods that were shipped across the globe. That spirit of hard work and creativity never really left — today Birmingham buzzes with energy, culture, and a real sense of pride in its past and excitement about its future.

The city has some genuinely surprising sides to it. Its network of canals actually stretches further than Venice’s, weaving through the city past colourful narrowboats and historic warehouses that have been transformed into restaurants and bars. You can explore ancient treasures and stunning paintings at its magnificent museum, gawp at a futuristic shopping building that looks like it landed from another planet, or follow the story of one of the world’s most beloved chocolate brands just down the road.

Birmingham is bold, diverse, and endlessly fascinating — a city that rewards every curious explorer who visits.