The History

England’s second-largest city, Birmingham, in the West Midlands, has evolved significantly from its humble beginnings as an Anglo-Saxon village.

The earliest recorded history of Birmingham dates back to the Domesday Book of 1086 when it was described as a small village with a population of around 100. The medieval period saw the village develop into a market town, with its first market charter granted in 1166. Due to its strategic location, the city attracted merchants and craftsmen and started to build a reputation for its skilled workers. The city’s summer fair brought buyers and sellers from all over the Midlands. By the late 14th century, it was known for its wool industry, leatherworking and metalworking.

Birmingham’s real transformation began in the late 18th century during the Industrial Revolution The city’s abundance of natural resources, such as coal and iron ore, combined with its skilled workforce, led to rapid industry growth. So much so, that the city picked up nicknames including the Toyshop of Europe, the City of a Thousand Trades and the Engine Room of the UK.

The development of canals, most notably the Birmingham Canal Navigations network, connected Birmingham to other major cities and facilitated the transportation of goods. During this time, the city was home to engineers, entrepreneurs and inventors, such as James Watt (inventor of the steam engine), Matthew Boulton and William Murdoch (pioneers in steam engine development), who contributed significantly to its industrial success.

As Birmingham’s industry grew, so did its influence on society and politics. The city played a prominent role in the Chartist movement, advocating for political and social reform. The first-ever meeting of the National Union of Women’s Suffrage Societies, led by Millicent Fawcett, took place in Birmingham in 1895, making a significant step in the fight for women’s suffrage.

The 19th century is when Birmingham grew rapidly to well over half a million and became the second largest population centre in England.

From the summer of 1940 to the spring of 1943, Birmingham was bombed heavily by the German Luftwaffe, in what is famously referred to as the Birmingham Blitz. The extensive destruction caused to the city's infrastructure, along with a deliberate strategy of demolition and new building by planners, paved the way for significant urban regeneration in the decades that followed.

During the 20th century, Birmingham continued to evolve, diversifying its industries and becoming a centre for car manufactures including Herbert Austin and William Richard Morris. Additionally, Birmingham’s engineering process contributed to the development of the Spitfire fighter aircraft during World War II.

In recent decades, Birmingham has undergone significant redevelopment and regeneration, transforming itself into a modern and vibrant city. Iconic buildings such as the Bullring shopping centre and the Library of Birmingham have reshaped the city’s skyline. Birmingham has also become a cultural hub, hosting major events such as the International Convention Centre and the Symphony Hall.

Today, Birmingham continues to thrive as a centre for commerce, education and culture. With its rich history and ongoing transformation, Birmingham is a testament to the power of industry and innovation and the resilience of its people.

The Tourism

PHUSE Events attract individuals from across the globe, which is why we want you to make the best out of your stay – continue reading for our pockets of inspiration.

Walking Distance from the ICC:

4 Minutes:

A must-visit when in Birmingham is the Ikon Gallery, an internationally acclaimed contemporary art venue. Housed in a magnificent neo-gothic school building, the gallery showcases some of the world’s best visual artists and is set up to encourage the public to engage in contemporary art. You can enjoy a relaxed lunch, afternoon tea or dinner as part of your visit, as it is home to Birmingham’s only independent arts bookshop and café.

5 Minutes:

For a fun day out, head to the National SEALIFE Centre, which contains the UK’s only 360° ocean tunnel. Uncover the wonders of the sea, from sharks, rays, a giant turtle and hundreds of tropical fish. The centre welcomed the UK’s first sea otters in their Marine Mammal facility back in 2020, in a scheme to help save and protect the endangered species. Visit the Penguin Ice Adventure to come face to face with gentoo penguins, which are naturally found in Antarctica!

6 Minutes:

Explore the city from a different perspective at Roundhouse Birmingham, which offers tours for canal kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, walking, cycling and running. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city by water and discover the beautiful canals and hidden green spaces. The guided cycling tours are a fantastic way to learn all about the city’s heritage, and by foot, get a taste of the local history and stop at the city’s best spots. You can even pick up a free self-guided audio tour and go on your own adventure.

Public Transport:

20 Minutes:

Located in Birmingham city centre is the award-winning Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum. Soak up over 200 hands-on science and technology displays, and the spitfire, wildlife world and climate change galleries. You’ll also get to delve into the city’s industrial past and see the oldest working steam engine in the world: the Smethwick Engine. A unique and memorable experience within the museum is the Planetarium. Designed as a theatre under a dome, you’ll be taken on an immersive journey through the solar system. As well as being able to explore astronomy, there are fascinating shows where you can travel through the human body!

45 Minutes:

If you’re a chocolate lover, then you’re in for a treat! Bournville in Birmingham is home to Cadbury World, a fun, self-guided exhibition tour visited by over 500,000 people each year. Discover the history of chocolate right from the origins of the cocoa bean and learn about the Cadbury business. If all of this has made you hungry, you'll be pleased to know you can enjoy an afternoon tea in the Cadbury Café.

Further Afield:

Visit Shakespeare’s Birthplace, a museum and popular visitor attraction in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon. You’ll be able to download room-by-room video guides narrating tales of William Shakespeare’s childhood and the memories attached to his home. Step into 16th century family life and discover the traditional Tudor-era parlour, period domestic furnishings, his father’s glove making workshop and more.

In addition to the many attractions it offers, Birmingham is also a fantastic destination for enjoying delicious food! The city is ranked in the top 10 foodie cities, with 21 Michelin-recognised restaurants and plenty of excellent local breweries, food tours, and farmers markets.

For a shopping day out, head to the Bullring & Grand Central Shopping Centre just 15 minutes walking distance from the ICC, which has over 240 shops.

See the Visit Birmingham site to explore the full list of things to see and do.