Birmingham: Budget-Friendly Things To Do

Exploring Birmingham doesn’t have to break the bank. Dive into a wealth of culture and beauty with free museum visits, tranquil canal walks, and lush parkland escapes. Birmingham’s affordable gems await, offering enriching experiences that enrich the soul without emptying your wallet.

Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery: Discover History and Culture

Cost: Entry is free; some special exhibitions may charge a fee.

Things to do: Explore art, history, and archaeology across galleries. Marvel at the Pre-Raphaelite paintings, visit the Egyptian mummies, or engage with interactive exhibits.

Local transportation: The nearest metro station is Grand Central. Birmingham New Street Station is also close by, serviced by various bus lines including the X20 and 80, making accessibility convenient.

Location/Address: Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, Chamberlain Square, Birmingham, B3 3DH

Open Days/Hours: Monday to Friday, 10:00 – 17:00 (10 AM – 5 PM); Weekends, 10:30 – 17:00 (10:30 AM – 5 PM)

Brindleyplace Canal Walks: Stroll Along Birmingham’s Waterways

Cost: Free

Things to do: Embark on a serene walk by Brindleyplace canals. Enjoy the picturesque scenery, charming canal boats, and waterside dining options. Ideal for a tranquil escape or a casual photo session.

Local transportation: The nearest metro stop to Brindleyplace is the Library tram stop. Additionally, buses servicing the area include the 1 and 82, making it accessible from various parts of Birmingham.

Location/Address: Brindleyplace, Birmingham, B1 2JF

Open Days/Hours: Accessible throughout the year, from dawn till dusk

Visit the Birmingham Library: A Hub of Knowledge and Culture

Cost: Free entry.

Things to do: Discover a vast collection of books and archives, relax in the serene terraces, and enjoy the panoramic views of the city from the rooftop garden.

Local transportation: The nearest metro station is Library of Birmingham on the West Midlands Metro line. Multiple bus routes service the area, offering convenient access to the library.

Location/Address: Library of Birmingham, Centenary Square, Broad Street, Birmingham, B1 2ND

Open Days/Hours: Monday to Friday, 11:00 – 19:00 (11 AM – 7 PM); Saturday, 11:00 – 17:00 (11 AM – 5 PM); closed on Sundays.

Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter: Discover a Hidden Gem

Cost: Many attractions are free or have a small fee.

Things to do: Delve into Birmingham’s rich crafting heritage. Explore museums, visit art galleries, and watch skilled artisans at work. It’s a treasure trove for those keen on history and craftsmanship.

Local transportation: The Jewellery Quarter metro station serves the area, with plenty of bus routes such as 101, 8A, and 8C providing easy access.

Location/Address: Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham, B18 6DE

Open Days/Hours: Varies by venue, but the area is accessible every day.

Birmingham’s Digbeth Dining Club: Savor the Flavor on a Budget

Cost: Entry is usually very affordable, with dishes priced for a budget-friendly experience.

Things to do: Indulge in a diverse gastronomic adventure with street food from around the globe. Enjoy live music, try unique dishes, and mingle with locals and visitors alike.

Local transportation: The nearest train station is Birmingham New Street, with the club just a short walk away. Various bus routes service the area as well.

Location/Address: The Digbeth Dining Club, Lower Trinity St, Birmingham B9 4AG

Open Days/Hours: Typically open from Thursday to Sunday, 17:00 – 23:00 (5 PM – 11 PM), but times may vary.

Birmingham Botanical Gardens: A Haven of Natural Beauty

Cost: Free entry for a relaxing experience amongst some of the most beautiful natural scenery in Birmingham.

Things to do: Discover a variety of plants in the picturesque Victorian glasshouses, explore the butterfly house, or enjoy the serene surroundings on a bench amidst the colourful flora.

Local transportation: The nearest metro station is Five Ways, located just a 15-minute walk away. Buses 10, 22, 23, 24, and 29 serve nearby stops for convenient access.

Location/Address: Westbourne Road, Birmingham, B15 3TR

Open Days/Hours: Welcomes visitors throughout the year, typically from 10:00 to 17:00 (10 AM – 5 PM), with shorter hours during winter months.

Digbeth: Discover the Vibrant Street Art Scene

Cost: Free

Things to do: Take a visual feast walking around Digbeth. The area is renowned for its dynamic street art and murals. A true open-air gallery, it’s a must-see for art lovers and Instagram enthusiasts alike.

Local transportation: The nearest train station is Birmingham Moor Street. Meanwhile, buses including the 13, 17, 57, 60 and 97 provide easy access to Digbeth.

Location/Address: Digbeth, Birmingham, B5

Open Days/Hours: The street art can be viewed at any time, but daylight hours are best for photos and safety.

Sutton Park: Enjoy a Relaxing Picnic Amongst Natural Beauty

Cost: Free

Things to do: Sutton Park offers a peaceful escape with its vast landscapes. Enjoy a tranquil picnic, explore walking trails, observe local wildlife, or simply unwind by the lakeside amidst lush surroundings.

Local transportation: The nearest metro station is the Sutton Coldfield, linked via numerous bus routes. Taxis and bike-share options are readily available for park access.

Location/Address: Sutton Park, Park Road, Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham, B74 2YT

Open Days/Hours: Daily access, dawn till dusk (specific times can vary with seasons)

Birmingham Bullring & Grand Central: Ideal for Window Shopping

Cost: Free to browse

Things to do: Wander through countless shops in a modern architectural marvel. Admire window displays, discover the latest fashion trends, or rest in one of the public spaces.

Local transportation: Birmingham New Street Station is directly connected to Grand Central. Bus lines, including X1 and X2, also serve the area.

Location/Address: Bullring & Grand Central, Birmingham, B5 4BU

Open Days/Hours: Generally open daily. 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (10 AM – 8 PM), Sundays 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (11 AM – 5 PM).

Birmingham: Discover Aston Hall

Cost: Entry is free, some events and exhibitions may charge a nominal fee.

Things to do: Explore Aston Hall’s stunning Jacobean architecture. Wander through the ornate interiors and beautiful gardens. Learn about its fascinating history dating back to the 17th century.

Local transportation: Aston and Witton train stations are nearby. Buses including the 65, 67, and 7 frequent the area, offering easy access to the hall.

Location/Address: Trinity Rd, Birmingham B6 6JD

Open Days/Hours: Varies seasonally, typically Wednesday to Sunday, 11:00 – 16:00 (11 AM – 4 PM)

Lickey Hills Country Park: Discover Free Wildlife Wonders in Birmingham

Cost: Free admission

Things to do: Explore the diverse habitats and spot local wildlife at Lickey Hills. A haven for nature enthusiasts, follow the walking trails, capture stunning views, and enjoy a tranquil escape from city life.

Local transportation: Longbridge station is the nearest train stop. Several bus routes, including numbers 63, 98, and 144, service the area, getting you close to the park.

Location/Address: Lickey Hills Country Park, Warren Ln, Rednal, Birmingham, B45 8ER

Open Days/Hours: Accessible throughout the year, daylight hours vary (sunrise to sunset)

Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum: Discover Science on Free Entry Days

Cost: Free on select days

Things to do: Explore interactive exhibits and historical collections. Kids enjoy the Science Garden and the Planetarium while adults can delve into Birmingham’s industrial past.

Local transportation: The nearest metro station is Moor Street. Buses 45, 47, and 7 stop nearby, providing easy access to the museum.

Location/Address: Millennium Point, Curzon Street, Birmingham, B4 7XG

Open Days/Hours: Check the website for free entry days. Usual opening times are 10:00 – 17:00 (10 AM – 5 PM).

Birmingham’s Cannon Hill Park: An Urban Oasis

Cost: Free

Things to do: Connect with nature in the heart of the city. Walk through formal gardens, visit the Midlands Arts Centre, enjoy a game of mini-golf, or ride the quaint land train through the park’s expanse.

Local transportation: The nearest rail station is Five Ways, about a 20-minute walk away. Several bus routes, including the 35 and 45, stop nearby.

Location/Address: Cannon Hill Park, Birmingham, B12 9QH

Open Days/Hours: Accessible throughout the year, daylight hours (approx. 07:30 – 18:00 / 7:30 AM – 6 PM)

Birmingham: Discover Creativity at the MAC’s Free Art Workshop

Cost: Free

Things to do: Unlock your artistic potential with a range of free art workshops at the MAC. From painting and pottery to digital art, there’s a medium for every interest.

Local transportation: The nearest metro station is University (West Midlands Metro), which is a short walk from the MAC. Buses such as the 1, 63, X64, and 98 service the area, making it easily reachable.

Location/Address: Midlands Arts Centre (MAC), Cannon Hill Park, Birmingham, B12 9QH

Open Days/Hours: Varies by workshop schedule; typically open daily, 09:00 – 21:00 (9 AM – 9 PM)

Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park: An Intimate Encounter with Nature

Cost: Affordable entrance fee; prices vary for adults and children, with discounts available for families and groups.

Things to do: Explore a diverse collection of animals at the Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park. Delight in seeing a range of species from red pandas to reptiles, all within an engaging and intimate setting suitable for all ages.

Local transportation: The nearest metro station is Cannon Hill Park, complemented by bus routes such as the 45 and 47 providing easy access to visitors.

Location/Address: Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park, Pershore Road, Birmingham, B5 7RL

Open Days/Hours: Typically open daily from 10:00 – 17:00 (10 AM – 5 PM), but times can vary seasonally.

Birmingham: Art Exhibitions at the Ikon Gallery

Cost: Free entry

Things to do: Explore contemporary art in a relaxed environment. Admire innovative artworks, join in on artist talks or participate in hands-on workshops available to all ages.

Local transportation: The nearest metro station is St. Paul’s on the Birmingham tram line. The gallery is also a short walk from several bus stops served by multiple routes.

Location/Address: Ikon Gallery, 1 Oozells Square, Brindleyplace, Birmingham, B1 2HS

Open Days/Hours: Open Tuesday – Sunday, 11:00 – 17:00 (11 AM – 5 PM)

Birmingham History Galleries: Delve into the City’s Rich Past

Cost: Free

Things to do: Explore Birmingham’s history from its medieval beginnings to the modern day at the History Galleries. Discover stories, see artefacts, and gain insight into the city’s industrial heritage.

Local transportation: The nearest metro station is the Birmingham New Street Station. Buses such as the 50, 47, and X20 also service the area, making it easily accessible.

Location/Address: Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, Chamberlain Square, Birmingham, B3 3DH

Open Days/Hours: Open daily, 10:00 – 17:00 (10 AM – 5 PM)

Birmingham Self-Guided City Heritage Trails

Cost: Free

Things to do: Explore Birmingham’s rich history at your own pace. Visit iconic sites, discover architectural gems, and immerse yourself in the city’s industrial heritage while wandering the well-marked trails.

Local transportation: The Birmingham New Street Station is the central hub for trains, with bus services like the X1 and X2 providing easy access to trail starting points.

Location/Address: Various starting points across Birmingham, Trail maps available online.

Open Days/Hours: Accessible 24/7 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week)

Birmingham’s Coffin Works: Discover the City’s Unique Heritage

Cost: A budget-friendly attraction with small entry fees.

Things to do: Tour the restored Newman Brothers factory, where you can step back in time to explore the history of coffin fittings. Engaging tours showcase original machinery and captivating stories of the workers.

Local transportation: The nearest metro station is St. Paul’s on the Birmingham tram line, with local buses also servicing the area making it accessible.

Location/Address: 13-15 Fleet St, Birmingham, B3 1JP

Open Days/Hours: Usually open on select days; it’s best to check the official website for the current schedule.

Birmingham Symphony Hall: Unwind with Live Melodies

Cost: Free admission

Things to do: Treat your ears to delightful symphonies at the renowned Symphony Hall. Enjoy a range of live music events spanning various genres without spending a penny.

Local transportation: The closest metro station is Birmingham New Street, a brief walk away. Buses such as the 9, 120, and X21 service the area frequently.

Location/Address: Symphony Hall, Broad St, Birmingham B1 2EA

Open Days/Hours: Varies per event; visit the official venue website for the most current information. Generally, doors open 1 hour before performances.

Conclusion

For those traversing Birmingham by bus or train and seeking to maximize their visit economically, two standout experiences rise above the rest. Firstly, immerse yourself in the art and grandeur of Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery. Not only is entry free, but you’re also in for a cultural treat with galleries showcasing everything from Egyptian mummies to iconic Pre-Raphaelite paintings. Secondly, embrace tranquility with Brindleyplace Canal Walks. Without spending a penny, you can enjoy the scenic canals, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picturesque photoshoot.

Pro Tip: While exploring these venues, consider using Birmingham’s efficient public transportation. Travelling across attractions like Brindleyplace or the Museum & Art Gallery is convenient, especially if you opt for a day pass, thus offering unlimited travel within the city at an affordable rate. If you’re navigating London by bus or London by train, keep an eye for similar passes that might be available, ensuring a smooth and cost-effective journey.