With Birmingham proudly hosting the Commonwealth Games in 2022, this offers a fantastic opportunity to showcase all of the exciting things to see and do in the city to make the most of your visit.
A multi-sport event established in 1930 for members of the Commonwealth, today the Games feature 6,600 sports men and women from across 71 nations and territories.
Birmingham is a fantastic city to host the games. With more canals than Venice, a buzzing cafe and nightlife scene, plus an abundance of shops, museums and theatres, we’ve picked our six favourite reasons to extend your trip following the Commonwealth Games.
1. Celebrate at the CultureFest
In a month-long celebration as part of the Commonwealth Games, the Warwick District Culture Festival aims to showcase and celebrate the incredible arts and heritage venues, artists, and creatives in the area. The CultureFest will take place across Royal Leamington Spa, Warwick, Kenilworth, and Whitnash from Saturday 16 July to Sunday 21 August 2022, with events and activities starting as early as March.
Adding real value to the Commonwealth Games, the CultureFest will provide visitors with a lasting memory of Warwick’s District and inspire them to discover new experiences and emerging talent.
2. Soak up the history and heritage
Known as the ‘City of a Thousand Trades’, Birmingham exudes a rich working heritage.
Immerse yourself in the fascinating history of the city by exploring the brilliant Black Country Living Museum, get a taste for 19th-century neighbourhoods in the National Trust’s atmospheric Back to Backs, or enjoy a leisurely browse around the modern-day Jewellery Quarter. Boasting various independent retailers, the Jewellery Quarter is one of the most unique locations in the UK. To really step back in time, why not visit the moving war memorial at Birmingham’s Hall of Memory? Dedicated to those who sacrificed their lives in the First and Second World Wars.
3. Explore the City’s arts and culture
Looking to expand your knowledge on a trip to Birmingham for the Commonwealth Games? The city of culture is home to a wide variety of attractions such as the award-winning science museum ThinkTank, and the unusual but equally interesting Coffin Works museum.
For an arty afternoon, head to the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery located in the heart of the city, or explore a stunning range of contemporary and fine art masterpieces at the Ikon Gallery and The Barber Institute of Fine Arts. If reading is your muse, then satisfy your literary cravings with a walk around the impressive Library of Birmingham, the largest public library in the UK.
4. Enjoy Shopping and Nightlife
No trip to Birmingham would be complete without a visit to the city’s iconic Bullring Shopping Centre. Here you’ll find all of your favourite high street and designer shops under one roof, making it the perfect day out. If you’re looking for something a little more quirky, take a walk to Birmingham’s Rag Market, home to an extensive range of eccentric stalls, from home and textiles to fashion and stationery.
To experience Birmingham’s nightlife, head to Broad Street where you’ll be greeted with an eclectic mix of bars, pubs and lively nightclubs. There’s also the Birmingham REP Theatre, Symphony Hall, or the Hippodrome to experience an evening of marvellous musical, theatrical, dancing and comedic performances in the city.
5. Make the most of family adventures
The Commonwealth Games provide a great opportunity to spend time together as a family. Birmingham is home to some of the most wonderful experiences, so why not extend your day?
For a sweet day out as a family, head to Cadbury World, the perfect destination for chocolate lovers. Discover the tale of Cadbury’s chocolate from the very beginning and enjoy a cocoa bean ride through the chocolate river, guaranteed to leave a smile on every child’s face.
To witness one of the UK’s only 360° ocean tunnels, a trip to The National Sea Life Centre is a must. Offering hours of fun for all the family, the Sea Life Centre is home to more than 2,000 creatures, from penguins and turtles to octopuses and sharks. Or explore the city together by boat cruising down one of Birmingham’s many scenic canals this Summer.
6. Retreat to timeless luxury
However you choose to enjoy your trip in the city of Birmingham, you’ll need somewhere to retreat to after all that exploring. Our beautiful range of hotels located in the surrounding areas of Birmingham all exude timeless luxury, making them the perfect destination for your visit.
A countryside escape to Mallory Court Hotel and Spa
The beautiful country manor house of Mallory Court Hotel and Spa, located just a 40-minute drive from Birmingham City, is the perfect combination of traditional and contemporary. During a stay with us you can get ready for the busy day ahead with a delicious breakfast in our award-winning restaurant, or unwind from all the excitement afterwards in our sublime Elan Spa where pampering is the priority.
To experience a truly relaxing stay, call us on 01926 330214 or book online.
A beautiful boutique staycation at The Arden Hotel
Just shy of an hour away, a quintessential stay at The Arden Hotel will allow you to escape from the hustle and bustle of Birmingham City and retreat to the peaceful town of Stratford-upon-Avon. The elegant boutique hotel is encapsulated by history and boasts a stunning all-weather terrace, cosy bedrooms and award-winning dining in No. 44 Brasserie. After the enjoyment of the Commonwealth Games, wander around the cobbled lanes of Stratford-upon-Avon and uncover the hidden gems of this Shakespearean town.
Extend your stay in style at The Arden Hotel and call us on 01789 298682 or book online.
A picturesque retreat to Brockencote Hall Hotel
Situated in the scenic countryside of Worcestershire, Brockencote Hall Hotel stands tall within 70 acres of glorious grounds with a beautiful lake. Only a 50-minute drive away from Birmingham, this Victorian manor house has everything for a blissful getaway. Indulge in a splendid Afternoon Tea or indulge with a taste of fine dining in the Chaddesley Restaurant where you can enjoy panoramic rural views. Enjoy all this and more before another busy day ahead celebrating the Commonwealth Games.
Make the most of your stay in Birmingham in this idyllic setting and call us on 01562 777876 or book online.
We hope you’re just as excited as we are to celebrate the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham 2022! Be sure to extend your stay by booking a night away in one of our beautiful hotels, located in the surrounding areas.
