Sometimes you get into a bit of rut with ideas on what to do in Birmingham as a couple. Whether it a first date, or a fun day out with your partner, it’s nice to do something fun, and maybe a bit different.
As much as we love going for coffee or getting dinner with our other half, it can be more interesting to do a cool activity or outing. Whether you are looking for romance or simply a change of scenery we have pulled together a list of cool things to do in Birmingham for couples.
Cool things to do in Birmingham for couples
1. Canal Boat Tour
Take a relaxing canal boat tour through Birmingham’s historic waterways, offering a unique perspective of the city’s industrial heritage and vibrant art scenes. There’s definitely some romance to slowing down and taking a boat along the canal. There are mini boat tours or meals to be had on one of the many canals of Birmingham. (Read more on how to explore Birmingham’s canals)
2. Electric Cinema
Catch a movie at the UK’s oldest working cinema – The Electric Cinema features plush sofas and a fully stocked bar, perfect for a cosy date night.
Electric Cinema, Station Street, Birmingham, B5 4DY
3. Birmingham Botanical Gardens
Stroll hand-in-hand through the picturesque Birmingham Botanical Gardens, home to over 7,000 different plants, a butterfly house, and tranquil water features.
Birmingham Botanical Gardens, Westbourne Rd, Birmingham B15 3TR
4. Thinktank Science Museum
Explore the interactive exhibits at this innovative museum, perfect for couples who love to learn and engage with science and technology. A day out at the Thinktank museum is interactive and certainly something fun to talk about afterwards.
Thinktank, Birmingham Science Museum, Millennium Point, Birmingham, B4 7XG
Birmingham Symphony Hall5. Symphony Hall
Enjoy a romantic evening of live music at this world-famous renowned music venue. The Birmingham Symphony Hall hosts a range of performances from classical to jazz and world music. You can have a truly special evening of music with your loved one at this cool venue.
Broad St, Birmingham, B1 2EA
6. Wine Tasting Experience
Sample a selection of fine wines at a local wine tasting event at Loki Wines to learn about the winemaking process and indulge in some quality time together while discovering new flavours. Loki Wines has branches in the city centre at Great Western Arcade, in Edgbaston, and Knowle. As Birmingham’s most awarded wine shop as well as fine wines sold by the glass, you are sure to find something to enjoy. This really is a cool thing to do in Birmingham as a couple.
36 Great Western Arcade, Birmingham B2 5HU or 10 Greenfield Cres, Birmingham B15 3AU or 20-22 Station Rd, Knowle, Solihull B93 0HT
7. Ikon Gallery
Another cool thing to do in Birmingham is to go together to admire contemporary art exhibitions in this stunning neo-gothic gallery. The Ikon Gallery features works by both local and international artists. The gallery is free to visit so ideal if you want something cool to do in Birmingham that is also on the cheap. Plus there’s a York’s Cafe on the site so grab a fancy coffee and some cake after viewing the latest exhibition.
1 Brindley Pl, Oozells Sq, Birmingham, B1 2HS
8. The Old Joint Stock Theatre
Experience an intimate and captivating live performance at this small but charming theatre, offering a variety of plays, musicals, and comedy shows in a romantic setting. The Old Joint Stock looks like it’s just a pub, and it does make for a good pint in a stunning grand interior. But there is also this intimate theatre at the back which is super cool and ideal for something a little different to enjoy in Birmingham.
4 Temple Row W, Birmingham, B2 5NY
9. Jewellery Quarter
Discover the city’s rich jewellery heritage and browse through the numerous boutique shops and galleries in this unique district. Head to the Jewellery Quarter to spend an afternoon window shopping in the both the new and antique jewellery shops. Stop off at any of other numerous independent shops and cafes along the way.
10. Coffin Works Museum
The Coffin Works Museum is an ideal place to go if you want try something about different for your next outing as a couple. A truly unique experience for those interested in the city’s industrial past, visit this restored Victorian factory and learn about the history of the Newman Brothers’ coffin fittings. There are guided tours available as well as the self-guided option.
13-15 Fleet St, Birmingham, B3 1JP
11. Sarehole Mill
This one is for the fantasy fans! Visit this historic watermill and the surrounding countryside, said to be an inspiration for J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. Sarehole Mill in Moseley is a fun and unique date idea. Take a walk around the mill and then stop for pizza on site!
Cole Bank Rd, Birmingham, B13 0BD
Mockingbird Cinema Digbeth12. The Mockingbird Cinema
Watch a film while enjoying a delicious meal at this independent cinema, offering a unique dining experience. The Mockingbird Cinema in the Custard Factory in Digbeth is great for being an intimate cinema experience whilst showing both the latest movies as well as lots of classic films.
The Custard Factory, Gibb St, Deritend, Birmingham, B9 4AA
13. Balti Triangle
The Balti Triangle is unique to Birmingham. Sample authentic and delicious Indian cuisine at one of the many restaurants in this area, known for its iconic Balti dishes. Grab a delicious curry and naan at one of the balti houses in the area around Ladypool Road, Stratford Road, and Stoney Lane.
Tea and Cake at Winterbourne14. Winterbourne House and Garden
Explore this beautiful Edwardian Arts and Crafts property, featuring a stunning garden and a fascinating history. Winterbourne House is a lovely way to spend an afternoon. Enjoy a cup of tea and scone on the terrace looking out over the gardens. Climb over the stepping stones, and get lost amongst the giant leaves on the gunnera plants. Located in Edgabaston, Winterbourne is another interesting place to spend time together as a couple.
58 Edgbaston Park Rd, Birmingham, B15 2RT
Cadbury World Building Bournville15. Cadbury World
Cadbury World in Bournville is a fab place to indulge your sweet tooth and learn about the history of chocolate at this famous attraction, complete with a 4D cinema and chocolate-making demonstrations. Chocolate is not just for kids!
69 Linden Rd, Bournville, Birmingham B30 1JR
16. Lickey Hills Country Park
Take a leisurely hike through the scenic Lickey Hills Country Park and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the hilltops. It would be super romantic to enjoy a sunset Picnic at Lickey Hills. Prepare a delicious picnic and head to the Lickey Hills just before sunset to enjoy stunning views over the city as the sun goes down, creating a magical and romantic atmosphere.
Warren Ln, Rednal, Birmingham, B45 8ER
17. Bear Grylls Adventure
A fun thing to do as a couple is test your limits at this indoor adventure park inspired by the famous survival expert. The Bear Grylls Adventure centre just outside the city and near the NEC features activities such as indoor skydiving, high ropes, archery, and a thrilling escape room. Getting adventurous is another thing to add to cool things to do in Birmingham for couples.
National Exhibition Centre, Marston Green, B40 1NT
18. Ackers Adventure
Get your adrenaline pumping with outdoor activities like zip-lining, archery, climbing, and canoeing at this adventure centre. The Ackers Adventure centre as loads of activities to choose from and is certainly a different kind of date idea.
Ackers Adventure, Golden Hillock Rd, Birmingham, B11 2PY
19. Go Ape
Just a short drive from Birmingham, this treetop adventure park offers a thrilling day out. Go Ape has centres in Cannock, Coventry, and Kidderminster, so just a short drive from Birmingham. This fun adventure park has zip lines, Tarzan swings, and high rope courses set amidst a beautiful forest.
Coombe Country Park, Brinklow Road, Brinklow, Coventry, CV3 2AB
20. Escape Rooms
Challenge yourselves and work together to solve puzzles and riddles in one of Birmingham’s thrilling escape room experiences. Escape rooms are quite popular these days and there are a few to choose from in Birmingham including Escape Hunt, Keyhunter, Escape Now, and Clue HQ. Doing an escape room for a date is memorable, active, and the chance to make fun memories.
21. Bike Tour
Rent bicycles and explore the city on two wheels, discovering hidden gems and picturesque cycling routes that showcase Birmingham’s diverse neighbourhoods and natural beauty. The canal tow paths can be fun for cycling. And make a day of it stopping at canalside pubs, cafes, or restaurants. Or pack a picnic to enjoy in one of Birmingham’s lovely parks.
22. Star Gazing
Pack a blanket and some warm drinks, then head to Clent Hills or Barr Beacon on a clear night to gaze at the stars together and enjoy each other’s company in the peaceful surroundings. Don’t forget to make a wish when see a shooting star.
Barr Beacon – Walsall WS9 0RG
Clent Hills – Stourbridge DY9 9RU
The Belfry Hotel and Resort Spa23. Couples Spa Day
Treat yourselves to a luxurious day of relaxation and pampering at a spa, indulging in massages, facials, and other rejuvenating treatments. We recommend The Belfry spa for a gorgeous day of chilling out.
The Bellfry Hotel and Resort, Lichfield Rd, The Royal Town of Sutton Coldfield B76 9PR
24. Bowling and Shuffleboard
You can’t go wrong with a game of bowling. It’s active, fun, and everyone loves chucking a ball down the lane. Try Lane 7 for bowling, shuffleboard, and if you’re feeling brave a spot of karaoke.
The Cube, Lane7 Level 6, Wharfside St, Birmingham, B1 1RN
Chance and Counters25. Board Games
Enjoy a board game or two at Chance and Counters, our favourite-pun based venue in Birmingham. They have hundreds of board games to choose from, perfect for whiling away a few hours in the evening or weekend. We also recommend the chicken burgers and loaded fries. This is definitely our idea of a cool thing to do in Birmingham for couples.
Courtyard Studio 8 Scott House Custard Factory, Birmingham, B9 4AA
That’s our list of 25 cool things to do in Birmingham for couples. Have a great time!
You might also like this guide on where to get brunch in Birmingham City Centre.