Birmingham

About

Established around the 6th century, Birmingham was one of the poorest settlements in the region until it was allowed to hold a market in the 12th century. After this, it became a major trade center, and experienced explosive growth during the Industrial Revolution. Today, Birmingham is the second largest city in the UK, with the culture to match. Stroll along the formerly-seedy canals, which are now lined with shops and restaurants, before heading to the Jewellery Quarter to be dazzled by its glittering goods. The ‘Bull Ring’ has been the commercial heart of the city since it hosted Birmingham’s first market in the Middle Ages, and is now the busiest shopping center in the UK, thanks in large part to the metal-plated Selfridges building. The city also offers a variety of museums, ranging from the National Trusts’ ‘Back to Back’ workingman’s museum, to the quirky Coffin Works. For fans of 'Peaky Blinders', there's even a walking tour that sheds light on the darker side of the city's history.