

24 hidden gems in Birmingham & beyond to discover - from hidden catacombs to Buddhist monuments
Whether you are new to Birmingham or are an old-timer, you are likely to find something new in this list that you can add to your weekend plans
Birmingham is a massive city with an area of 267.8 sq km, and even someone born here is unlikely to have seen all of it. However, there are some unique places hidden around the city. If you consider yourself an urban explorer, this list will help you.
Whether you are new to Birmingham or are an old-timer, you are likely to find something new in this list that you can add to your weekend plans. You can rediscover your city thanks to the massive number of places to explore it has to offer.
From nature reserves to old homes and museums, Birmingham and its surrounding areas has much to offer to visitors and residents. Every old city has layers and layers of stories within itself that can be unpeeled - and there would still be more to know.
Here are 24 hidden gems that will take you away from the usual shopping centres, and into interesting corners that have a unique story behind it:
From nature reserves to old homes and museums, Birmingham and its surrounding areas has much to offer to visitors and residents. Every old city has layers and layers of stories within itself that can be unpeeled - and there would still be more to know.

9. Austin Village, Birmingham
This is a First World War housing estate made of prefabs and it lies between Longbridge and Northfield, Birmingham. It was created in 1917 to house workers at the Austin Motor Company - which became involved in making tanks and aircraft. (Photo - Wikimedia Commons/ Oosoom)

10. Land Rover Experience Centre, Solihull
Jaguar Land Rover’s Solihull manufacturing plant has an experience centre - which was visited by Prince William and Princess Kate Middleton as well. (Photo by Paul Ellis - WPA Pool /Getty Images)

11. Roof garden at the Library of Birmingham
The Library has two outdoor terraces on level 3 and level 7, and both are accessible by the public. There is a garden on the roof that is open to public as well. (Photo by Christopher Furlong/Getty Images)

12. Knowle Parish Church in Solihull
Knowle is a large village in Solihull and the parish church is a Grade I listed church in the Church of England. It dates back to the 15th century. (Photo - Google Streetview)