Overview

Birmingham is a major city in the West Midlands county of England. Home to a population of just over a million people, Birmingham is the United Kingdom's second largest city by population, after London. With a long and distinguished history, the city has developed from a largely industrial city, with a key role in the industrial revolution, to a major commercial centre, with several large financial institutions, corporations and a multitude of other organisations basing themselves and/or operating from the West Midlands city. In fact, it was recently named as the second-best place in the United Kingdom to locate a business, and is second only to London with regard to the UK's leading commercial hubs.

Birmingham's local economy is strongly supported by its designation as a national hub for conferences, retail and events, with several large conference and events centres, such as the NEC and NIA) located in the city. The city plays host to a number of pioneering research and development institutes, supported by its three Universities. Tourism also plays an instrumental role in the city's economy, with Birmingham placing fourth as the most visited city by foreign visitors in the UK.

Historic Highlights

Birmingham has a long and distinguished history, playing an instrumental role in the development of British Society, Commerce, and Culture. The city's most notable Historical points include the pivotal role it played in the Industrial Revolution, where, from the mid-18th century onwards, Birmingham grew rapidly into a major industrial centre and the town flourished. Birmingham’s population ballooned almost five-fold a century later and the city thrived on a number of new industries which arose. Much of the city centre was destroyed during the Second World War, but extensive rebuilding and refurbishment has transformed it into a contemporary city. The City is home to some of England's finest writers and cultural pioneers, such as JRR Tolkien.

Attractions

Birmingham is a popular tourist destination, with several splendid tourist attractions, a multitude of exemplary restaurants and bars, fantastic shopping opportunities in the city's Bullring Centre, and frequent live events and shows at the NIA and NEC. Some of the city's top attractions include:

• Aston Hall
• Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery
• Cadbury World
• Soho House, and
• Think Thank

Please see our 'Things to Do' page for more information.

Transport

Birmingham's central location means that it has developed into a transport hub, bringing together long-distance flights, trains, buses, as well as a comprehensive internal public transportation system.

Please see the 'Getting Here' page for more information.