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Birmingham Overview

The Charm of the Midlands

First-time visitors are always pleasantly surprised by the wealth of great restaurants, fashionable pubs and trendy shops that dot the areas in and around the city. In fact, England’s second-largest city has come a long way since its heyday as one of the first industrialized towns in the world. Now renowned for its burgeoning arts scene, it is home to a host of innovative galleries and museums. Over the past two decades, Brum, as the locals call it, has succeeded in reinventing itself as a hip, cultural centre.

As an industrial city, Birmingham has very few noteworthy historic sites; however, it does have a wealth of great cultural attractions to offer. At Chamberlain Square, the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, whose holdings include the world's largest collection of pre-Raphaelite paintings, is a must. The museum also offers a wonderful interactive exhibit.

The Ikon Gallery, strategically located on Oozells Square, stands out as one of the most important contemporary-art galleries in Europe. Works by British as well as international artists are on view here. You'll also find a Spanish-style café on the premises.

Those with an appreciation for all manner of jewellery shouldn't miss the historic Jewellery Quarter. Here, some 100 of the most renowned jewellers in Britain, who produce more than a third of the United Kingdom's regalia, can be seen at work. To admire the most beautiful pieces and learn about the district's history, head to the Museum of the Jewellery Quarter. The museum also houses a shop that offers a great selection of locally made creations.

In Handsworth, the elegant Soho House, the former home of industrialist Matthew Boulton, is open to the public. Inhabited by Boulton from 1766 to 1809, the place features beautiful rooms as well as a garden.

Chocoholics will undoubtedly make a stop at Cadbury World so as to learn about the history of cocoa, observe the chocolate-making process and enjoy free samples. For the admission fee, visitors also receive a few chocolate bars.