Another city in the United Kingdom that is just as popular as London, is Birmingham. Amazing attractions and stunning culture among other things await your embrace. There are great places to stay as well, including business hotels and affordable Airbnb vacation rentals. While in the city, make a stop at Cadbury World. A fan of chocolate or not, you can have fun enjoying interactive displays about how chocolate is made. Birmingham Back to Back is an interesting place to learn about the changes in life between 1840 and 1977 through four historic houses. These attractions are best to be visited with travel buddies. What if you want to explore the city all by yourself? Read on to learn more about the best things to do alone in Birmingham, England.
1. Watch a concert at Symphony Hall
Hosting approximately 270 events all year round, Symphony Hall is definitely a place for you to enjoy a splendid concert alone, in Birmingham. The very first thing you will notice about this concert hall is its magnificent architecture and spacious seating area. Various performances or concerts take place every day. It is best to check out the website to see what is on and book your ticket in advance.
Symphony Hall
Address: Broad St, Birmingham B1 2EA, UK
Website: Symphony Hall
Price: 13 GBP (17 USD)
2. Stroll through the Moseley Bog
One of the places to visit in Birmingham for free, Moseley Bog is perhaps the most beautiful local nature reserve in the city. Enjoy a leisurely stroll any time of the day and observe the vegetation all around you. When visiting here alone, you will give yourself a chance to reconnect with nature and appreciate its beauty even more. It’s an ideal place to unwind before going back to your aparthotel or vacation rental.
Moseley Bog
Address: Yardley Wood Rd, Moseley, Birmingham B13 9JX, UK
Website: Moseley Bog
Opening hours: 24 hours
Price: free
3. See the motorcycles at The National Motorcycle Museum
Do you enjoy a collection of motorcycles? If yes, you should be headed to The National Motorcycle Museum which boasts its largest collection of British motorcycles in the world. There are more than 170 different marques and over 1,000 machines on display throughout the five massive halls. A great activity for adults in Birmingham, visiting this attraction by yourself allows you to admire the exhibits at your own pace.
The National Motorcycle Museum
Address: Coventry Road, Bickenhill, Solihull B92 0EJ, United Kingdom
Website: The National Motorcycle Museum
Opening hours: 8.30am - 5.30pm (daily)
Price: 10 GBP (13 USD)
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4. Check out the book collections at Library of Birmingham
Nestled at Centenary Square, Library of Birmingham is a public library in the city featuring numerous book collections. Indulge in your favorite book while absorbing the tranquil atmosphere from your favorite spot, be it a bench or a stool. If you prefer to read outside, the library features rooftop areas with gardens that boast plant-filled terraces. Don’t forget to drop by the Shakespeare Memorial Room that houses an extensive work collection of the English most famous playwright.
Library of Birmingham
Address: The ICC, Broad St, Birmingham B1 2EA, UK
Website: Library of Birmingham
Opening hours: Mon - Tue: 11am - 7pm; Wed - Sat: 11am - 5pm (closed on Sun)
5. Go shopping at the Bullring & Grand Central
Situated in the heart of Birmingham, Bullring & Grand Central is the perfect place for you to shop. What can you expect to find here? More than 240 stores and restaurants. Whatever it is you need, you can find it here. Shopaholics cannot miss this premium shopping and dining destination. Before leaving the shopping mall, make sure to find your way to the bull statue and take a picture with it.
Bullring & Grand Central
Address: Moor Street Queensway, Birmingham B5 4BU, UK
Website: Bullring & Grand Central
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 8pm; Sat: 9am - 8pm; Sun: 11am - 5pm
6. Tour Birmingham’s Winterbourne House
Sometimes crowded Birmingham may be overwhelming and you may want to take a break from the bustling atmosphere. Among the best places to go alone in Birmingham is Winterbourne House. A visit here means delving into a secluded oasis in the heart of the city. Marvel at the Edwardian-style property and have a pleasant stroll at the seven idyllic cultivated gardens.
7. Explore science at Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum
Whether you are into science or not, you need to make a stop at Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum whose collections will blow your mind away. Expect to be amazed by the steam engines, historical artifacts, emotional robots, and modern interactive displays, among others. Make sure to also visit the Planetarium that boasts a brand-new 4K system.
Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum
Address: Millennium Point, Curzon St, Birmingham B4 7XG, United Kingdom
Website: Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum
Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 9 GBP (12 USD)
8. Catch a show at Birmingham Hippodrome
Do you want to be entertained by a comedy act, a pantomime, an opera, or a ballet performance? Find your way to Birmingham Hippodrome, one of the things Birmingham is famous for. You will have a night you will never forget for a very long time. Go to its website to see what is on and book a ticket to your favorite show. If you are interested in something free, Birmingham Hippodrome also regularly hosts free events and festivals.
Birmingham Hippodrome
Address: Hurst St, Southside, Birmingham B5 4TB, UK
Website: Birmingham Hippodrome
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 8pm
Price: free or depending on the show
9. Admire the English Baroque architecture of St Philip’s Cathedral
Last but not least, the English Baroque architecture of St Philip’s Cathedral will leave you speechless. Designed by Thomas Archer, the cathedral is among the smallest cathedrals in the country. You are welcome to come inside and take a self-guided tour around the cathedral. Pay attention to the set of stained-glass windows that are too remarkable to be ignored.
St Philip’s Cathedral
Address: Colmore Row, Birmingham B3 2QB, UK
Website: St Philip’s Cathedral
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 7.30am - 6.30pm; Sat - Sun: 8.30am - 5pm
Price: free
10. Be amazed by the artworks at Ikon Gallery
Located in Birmingham, Ikon Gallery is a renowned contemporary art gallery that showcases thought-provoking and innovative artworks. With its diverse collection of paintings, sculptures, installations, and multimedia exhibits, Ikon Gallery offers a captivating experience for art enthusiasts.
The gallery features local and international artists, providing a platform for emerging talents and established names. Visitors can immerse themselves in contemporary art’s vibrant and ever-evolving world, exploring unique perspectives and engaging with the creative process. The Ikon Gallery hosts regular events, including artist talks, workshops, and performances, fostering a dynamic and interactive environment.
Ikon Gallery
Address: 1 Brindley Pl, Oozells Sq, Birmingham B1 2HS, United Kingdom
Website: Ikon Gallery
Opening hours: Wed - Sun: 11am - 5pm (closed on Mon & Tue)
11. See the thrills at Victoria Square
Birmingham’s Victoria Square is a testament to this metropolis’s rich history and contemporary charm. The square is surrounded by magnificent architectural landmarks, including the iconic Birmingham Town Hall and the impressive Council House, with its distinctive clock tower.
Victoria Square serves as a gathering place for locals and visitors alike, offering a variety of activities and attractions. The bronze statue of Queen Victoria stands proudly at the center, a symbol of the city’s historical significance. The square has beautiful gardens, fountains, and seating areas, providing a tranquil oasis amidst the urban buzz.
The square also has numerous events and festivals annually, showcasing Birmingham’s cultural diversity and creative spirit. From live performances to art exhibitions and markets, there is always something happening in Victoria Square.
12. Visit Pen Museum (from USD 6.0)
Interested in knowing more about Birmingham’s industrial past? There is no place better than the Pen Museum that will give you some insights into the industrial past as you explore the former factory space. Understand more about the city’s relationship with the written word, through a collection of 5,000 items.
Skip the Line: The Pen Museum Admission Ticket
Duration 1 to 2 hours
Birmingham: for solo-travelers or group visitors
It does not matter whether you are traveling to Birmingham alone or with travel partners. The city has a lot of attractions to offer, including karaoke bars and fancy restaurants. Make sure to embark on most of these solo things to do in Birmingham to create the most unforgettable memories.