Recently named as the UK’s best hidden gem by TripAdvisor. This distinctive attraction stands as a meticulously preserved 19th-century residential court—the very last surviving court of back-to-back houses in the city. Known as the Birmingham Back to Backs, or simply Court 15, these houses were constructed around communal courtyards—a common architectural feature in Britain’s bustling industrial towns during the 19th and 20th centuries. They offer a fascinating glimpse into the lives of working-class residents from that era. Book a tour onlineplaceholder image
Recently named as the UK’s best hidden gem by TripAdvisor. This distinctive attraction stands as a meticulously preserved 19th-century residential court—the very last surviving court of back-to-back houses in the city. Known as the Birmingham Back to Backs, or simply Court 15, these houses were constructed around communal courtyards—a common architectural feature in Britain’s bustling industrial towns during the 19th and 20th centuries. They offer a fascinating glimpse into the lives of working-class residents from that era. Book a tour online | Google

'Come to Birmingham, it's brilliant here' - We share our top 27 city tourist spots as visitor numbers plunge

Emma Walker
By Emma Walker

Editor

Published 1st Mar 2025, 01:45 GMT

Explore the best of Birmingham with our guide to the top 27 tourist spots, amidst a decline in visitor numbers to the Midlands region.

Despite concerns from campaigners about a potential drop in visitor numbers, the Midlands remains a must-visit destination, packed with incredible experiences.

According to Insider Media, the region's tourism sector could face a £600m loss this year, with forecasts predicting over three million fewer visitors. The Back British Holidays campaign warns that overnight stays in the Midlands may decline by 2.78 million compared to 2022, hitting rural areas the hardest.

Read more: Midlands tourism faces £600m blow as visitor numbers plummet, say campaigners

But the Midlands has so much to offer—from world-class attractions and historic landmarks to vibrant cities and stunning countryside. Now more than ever, it's time to explore, support local businesses, and experience everything that makes this region unforgettable.

Stay tuned as we bring you the best reasons to visit! Let us know if we’ve missed any spots from our list.

A restored Victorian factory, now a hub for creatives and independent businesses. Alfred Bird invented custard powder in Birmingham in 1837, but these days, the old Custard Factory is a studio complex at the heart of Birmingham’s creative community. It’s home to many artists and is full of galleries, independent shops, cafés, restaurants, bars and the Mockingbird Cinema. With its graffiti-strewn walls and regular arts events, it is worth a visit.

13. Custard Factory, Digbeth, Birmingham

A restored Victorian factory, now a hub for creatives and independent businesses. Alfred Bird invented custard powder in Birmingham in 1837, but these days, the old Custard Factory is a studio complex at the heart of Birmingham’s creative community. It’s home to many artists and is full of galleries, independent shops, cafés, restaurants, bars and the Mockingbird Cinema. With its graffiti-strewn walls and regular arts events, it is worth a visit. | Local TV

Known for its vibrant street art and creative spaces, Digbeth High Street is a hub for artists and musicians. The area is also home to some of the city’s best nightlife and food spots

14. Digbeth High Street

Known for its vibrant street art and creative spaces, Digbeth High Street is a hub for artists and musicians. The area is also home to some of the city’s best nightlife and food spots | Birmingham city council

J.R.R. Tolkien Connection: This nature reserve inspired the “Old Forest” in Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings.” Wander through bluebell-filled glades and ancient woodlands.

15. Moseley Bog and Joy’s Wood, Moseley

J.R.R. Tolkien Connection: This nature reserve inspired the “Old Forest” in Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings.” Wander through bluebell-filled glades and ancient woodlands. | Flickr

Opheem is just one of the city's Michelin-starred restaurants, many others come recommended by food critics and locals alike.

16. Birmingham's fancy dining scene

Opheem is just one of the city's Michelin-starred restaurants, many others come recommended by food critics and locals alike. | Opheem

Previous
4 / 7
Next Page
Related topics:BirminghamHolidaysTourist information centres
Follow us
© 2026 Iconic Media Group Ltd. All rights reserved.Cookie SettingsTerms and ConditionsPrivacy notice