Birmingham is proudly the city of canals, creativity, and curry, and you can indulge in all it has to offer without breaking the bank! If you need some ideas on cheap things to do in Birmingham, here are some budget-friendly things to do in Birmingham, UK.
Digbeth Street Art1. Discover Street Art in Digbeth
Digbeth, Birmingham’s creative quarter, is known for its stunning street art. Walking around this district is like visiting an open-air gallery. The artwork changes frequently, so there’s always something new to see. Digbeth is also home to some fantastic independent shops, bars, and restaurants, many offering reasonably priced fare.
2. Visit the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery
The Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery (BMAG) is a treasure trove of fine art, ceramics, metalwork, and archaeological findings. Its collections of Pre-Raphaelite artworks are world-renowned, and the entry is free. The Birmingham museum and gallery also offers an insight into the city’s history through its ‘Birmingham: its people, its history’ exhibition. (Currently closed for refurbishment – it will reopen in 2024)
3. Relish the Flavours at the Bullring Markets
The Bullring Markets consist of the Open Market, the Rag Market, and the Indoor Market, each offering different types of products. From fresh local produce, seafood, and meat to clothes, textiles, and homeware, you can find almost anything here. Even if you’re not in the mood to shop, it’s an experience just to explore the markets and soak up the lively atmosphere.
4. Immerse in Nature at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens
Although there’s a small fee to enter, the Birmingham Botanical Gardens are well worth a visit. Covering 15 acres and boasting four stunning glasshouses, the Gardens offer a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Wander through beautiful landscapes showcasing plants from different climates and regions, including a tropical rainforest and a desert environment.
5. Wander around the Jewellery Quarter
Home to Europe’s largest concentration of businesses involved in the jewellery trade, the Jewellery Quarter is a must-visit. It’s not just about shopping; there’s plenty of history and heritage to discover here.
6. Spend Time at the Library of Birmingham
The Library of Birmingham is not just a library; it’s a spectacle. This architectural masterpiece is one of the largest public libraries in Europe, and its rooftop terraces offer some of the best views over the city. Inside, you’ll find a world of literature, including the impressive Shakespeare Memorial Room. Entry to the library is free, but the wealth of knowledge inside is priceless.
7. Explore the Canals
Birmingham has more miles of canal than Venice – a fact locals will tell you with pride. A stroll around the city’s waterways won’t cost you a penny and is an excellent way to appreciate the city’s heritage. The Canal Old Line, starting from the city centre and running to the Worcester and Birmingham Canal, is a popular route, offering picturesque views and charming waterside pubs.
8. Experience Arts and Culture at the MAC in Cannon Hill Park
Located in the scenic Cannon Hill Park, the Midlands Arts Centre (MAC) is a cultural hub offering a diverse array of affordable events, workshops, and exhibitions. Known for its rich assortment of arts and entertainment, including theatre, music, and visual arts, the MAC provides a wealth of experiences for all ages. Paired with the free-to-explore park and affordable café, a visit to the MAC offers a budget-friendly, culturally enriching day out in Birmingham.
9. Take a Historic Journey at Aston Hall
Aston Hall, a beautifully preserved Jacobean-style mansion, offers a budget-friendly exploration of Birmingham’s history through period rooms and interactive exhibits. Nestled within a Grade II* listed public park and historic garden, Aston Hall provides an idyllic setting for picnics and walks. With a modest entry fee for the mansion and free access to the surrounding parkland, Aston Hall presents an excellent value day out for families and history enthusiasts alike.
Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, a foodie, or a nature lover, Birmingham has something for everyone. The city is full of affordable adventures waiting to be discovered. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore Birmingham on a budget!
10. Explore The Parks
Birmingham is a very green city with plenty of parks to explore. Birmingham is often touted as one of the greenest cities in the UK, especially in terms of public parkland. Birmingham has over 8,000 acres (around 3,237 hectares) of public open space, which is more than any other European city. This includes parks, nature reserves, and woodlands.
An outing to one of Birmingham parks is free! So here are some Birmingham parks we recommend:
- Cannon Hill Park – A large and popular park with boating lakes, tennis courts, and the Midlands Arts Centre (MAC).
- Sutton Park – One of the largest urban parks in Europe, this National Nature Reserve boasts lakes, woodlands, and heathlands.
- Lickey Hills Country Park – Known for its stunning views and varied landscape, this park offers woodland walks and an opportunity to explore the Lickey Hills.
- Aston Park – Located next to the historic Aston Hall, this park has wide open spaces and beautiful landscaped areas.
- Highbury Park – This park offers woodlands, ponds, and open spaces, as well as historical connections to the Chamberlain family.
Experience the best of Birmingham without breaking the bank.