I tried a colossal half metre bratwurst at Birmingham’s German Christmas Market to see if it was worth £8

Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market is the largest and most popular of its kind outside of Germany and Austria. Every year, millions of visitors flock to New Street and Victoria Square to enjoy a festive wonderland of authentic delights, from handcrafted gifts to mouth watering delicacies. But there is one attraction that stands out from the rest: the colossal half-metre (500cm)  bratwurst.  

A product of traditional craftsmanship, made from superior ingredients, featuring prime meat cuts and a proprietary spice mix. The sausage is grilled over charcoal and served in a long bun. It is a sight to behold, and a challenge to eat. But is this giant sausage worth the £8 price tag? I tried one myself and asked some of the market-goers what they thought. 

I bought one from a stall at New Street. The vendor was friendly and helpful, and handed me the bratwurst wrapped in foil. It was hot and heavy, and smelled delicious. I took a bite and was impressed by the flavour and texture of the meat. It was juicy, tender, and well-seasoned, with a natural casing that gently snapped. The bun was fluffy and fresh, and the mustard added a zingy punch.

It was a satisfying and filling meal, as I felt stuffed after a few bites. However, it was a bit pricey for one person, so I recommend splitting it with a friend or a relative.

What do the other Birmingham German Christmas Market customers think of the bratwurst?

"I think it's a bit expensive, but it's very filling,” said Anna, a tourist from Spain. “I like the smoky flavour and it’s also a good meal choice to walk around the market with"  

"A bargain, considering the size and the quality,”  said Emily, a teacher from Manchester “It's much better than the sausages you get in the supermarkets. It's a must-try when you come to the market,"  

"It's a rip-off, to be honest. It's just a big sausage in a bun, nothing special and too dry for my taste. I prefer the other food options at the market, like the pretzels, or the crepes," said Mat, a bartender from Birmingham. 

Overall, many people have different views, but most agree that the bratwurst is a special and fun treat that adds charm and authenticity to the market. 

But there is more to the Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market than the bratwurst, of course. You can also enjoy other activities, like the big wheel and ice rink, the live music show, the craft workshops, and the festive mood. If you like sausages, you can also taste other kinds, like the bockwurst, frankfurter, and käsekrainer.

And don’t forget to wash it down with a stein of German beer, such as weissbier, pilsner, or dunkel.

The Birmingham German Christmas Market is open until December 24, from 10am to 9pm (or 9.30pm on Fridays and Saturdays). It is a great place to feel the festive spirit, and to try some of the best German food and drink in the UK.  

Whether you choose the 1/2 meter bratwurst or something else, you are sure to have a good time. Just make sure to bring your appetite and your wallet, as the prices are not cheap. But hey, it’s Christmas, right?