BOOMING BIRMINGHAM

A dynamic destination that delivers

For any event to be a success it needs to pack out the room, generate infectious word of mouth and have everyone wanting to return before they’ve left. And we understand that it’s not just the venue that draws the crowds, but the host city too. Luckily for us, we’re smack bang in the middle of Birmingham, a city full of confidence, ambition and entrepreneurial spirit.   

Retail and financial powerhouses, award-winning architecture, advanced engineering and culinary excellence. It’s fair to say Birmingham continues to be a city that never rests on its laurels – always leading the way, setting new standards and pushing forwards to show the world that it’s one of the most dynamic, diverse and ambitious cities in Europe.

It’s also the home of more start-up companies than any UK destination outside of London, and has become a base for financial giants such as Deutsche Bank, Deloitte and HSBC. Of course, it’s not just the serious business community that’s attracting people and putting the city firmly on the world stage. It’s the seriously vibrant culture and lifestyle offering that awaits the moment you arrive.

FOOD

Birmingham’s always had a reputation for food. And with good reason. You’ll find 4 Michelin-starred restaurants for starters. Then there’s the world-famous Balti Triangle, the ever-popular Digbeth Dining Club and too many gin parlours and cocktail bars to list. And of course, Birmingham also has its very own chocolate factory.

PLAN YOUR WINING AND DINING
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CULTURE

Iconic Symphony Hall. Check. The country’s premier touring ballet company. Check. The UK’s oldest working cinema. Check. It’s fair to say in terms of culture, Birmingham’s got you covered. A thriving music scene, world-class art collections and vibrant theatres can all be found just minutes from the ICC.

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FESTIVALS

When it comes to putting on year-round festivities, few cities are better hosts than Birmingham. From music and dance, to theatre, film, food and drink, Birmingham has a year-round calendar of festivals with unique and world-class performances, pushing boundaries and entertaining crowds. Diversity is key when it comes to the city’s festival programme with everything from Flatpack Film Festival, to Birmingham Pride, International Dance Festival Birmingham and who could forget the Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market!

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ATTRACTIONS

While we can never ignore Cadbury’s World, the home of Cadbury chocolate, there is so much more to see and do in the city. No matter what you’re in the mood for, there’ll be something to entertain you, from the tranquil 15-acre Botanical Gardens, to the internationally-renowned Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, the exciting National SeaLife Centre. Or of course, see the city from a different angle and take walking tour, discovering the historic Jewellery Quarter, Balti Triangle and see how the city’s industrial past merges seamlessly with its modern present.

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SHOPPING

We’re always impressed by how much retail therapy our visitors manage to squeeze in when visiting the ICC. Of course, with five department stores and three shopping centres in the city centre alone I guess we shouldn’t be too surprised. The ever-popular Bullring and Mailbox have recently been joined by Grand Central at New Street Station and Resorts World Birmingham on the NEC campus. And don’t forget the delightful independents and arcades that bring that extra something different.

SHOP IN STYLE
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HERITAGE

While Birmingham has seen unprecedented levels of investment and development over the past few years, it remains a city proud of its heritage and industrial roots. After all, this was the city where Lloyds Bank and the world’s first building society, Ketley’s, were founded. It’s where the industrial steam engine was born and where J.R.R Tolkien took inspiration for Middle Earth. And where the finest jewellery has been forged for over 250 years.

EXPLORE BIRMINGHAM’S HISTORY
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Booming Birmingham

A dynamic destination that delivers

HotelFinder

With 6,500+ bedrooms on our doorstep, finding somewhere to sleep couldn’t be simpler. And yet, with HotelFinder it’s easier still.

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City Developments

There’s a reason that Birmingham’s city motto is ‘Forward’. We’re always looking ahead to the next exciting challenge and development.

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Further afield

As much as we love Birmingham, it can’t be ignored that there are so many other incredible places to visit in the surrounding area.

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