The Best of Birmingham: Where to Eat, Drink, and Explore

Escape the brick and asphalt for fifteen acres of lush, historic greenery in leafy Edgbaston. In summer, the rose gardens are in full, fragrant bloom, and the lawn in front of the Victorian glasshouses is the ultimate spot to sit back with a book.

Birmingham famously has more miles of canal than Venice, and they truly shine on a bright summer day. Rent a skippered narrowboat from Sherborne Wharf or simply stroll the historic brick towpaths, watching the colorful barges drift past the converted red-brick warehouses.

Tucked into a railway arch in the creative heart of Digbeth, Kilder is the place to be when the sun starts to dip. Find a spot on the outdoor terrace to sample their exceptionally curated list of natural wines and British craft beers.

Start your morning beneath the spectacular Victorian plasterwork and glass dome of this former society of artists gallery. The sourdough pastries here are legendary—grab a salted caramel cruffin and a flat white, then head out to explore.

This leafy sanctuary on New Street is housed in a grand, high-ceilinged Victorian space that once served as the Royal Society of Artists. Skip the heavy fry-ups and order their excellent sourdough with poached eggs, surrounded by thriving houseplants and curated local art.

Start your morning with a swim in one of Britain's most remarkable heritage pools. Swimming a few quiet lengths under the dramatic Edwardian gothic arches of Pool of Memories feels less like a workout and more like a meditative step back in time.

Aktar Islam’s Michelin-starred temple of progressive Indian cuisine is a masterclass in culinary storytelling. The summer tasting menu feels light yet incredibly complex, showcasing hyper-seasonal British ingredients through a modern, spice-forward lens.

End your night at this laid-back, award-winning cocktail bar in the iconic Custard Factory. The menu changes weekly based on what’s fresh, delivering world-class mixology in a space that feels like a house party hosted by your most stylish friend.

Descend into this sleek canal-side haven for an afternoon of serious thermal recovery. The salt room, bio-sauna, and deep-tissue massages here are highly professional, offering a quiet, dimly lit space to completely unplug from the city above.

Finish your day with a peaceful stroll through this beautifully preserved Edwardian villa and its botanical gardens. Tucked away near Edgbaston, the woodland walks and quiet glasshouses offer a serene, green final note to a day of decompression.