| BIRMINGHAM |
PUBLISHING DATE: 2009-11-30 | COUNTRY CODE: GB
Contents: The City, Do & See, Eating, Cafés, Bars & Nightlife, Shopping,
Sleeping, Essential Information, Maps |
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| BIRMINGHAM |
| Birmingham is a real gem! Excellent restaurants, good shopping, exciting nightlife and an architectural icon have transformed perceptions of the city. Last but not least – the landscape which inspired JRR Tolkien to write The Lord of the Rings. |
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| THE CITY |
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| Like many other cities, Birmingham has a link with the Roman Empire. The city was mentioned as far back as 1086 in the Doomsday Book, and developed into an important trade centre from the 12th century onwards. |
| During the 17th century, a large weapons industry grew up. Amongst others, Birmingham provided Oliver Cromwell’s army with weapons, and later on they supplied Napoleon. |
| During the golden age of the Industrial Revolution, the city grew rapidly thanks to its supplies of iron, coal and labour. Birmingham subsequently became an important hub in England’s canal and train networks, and these days the city has a network of over 60 km of canals and other waterways, which is more than Venice. |
| During the Second World War, large areas of the city were destroyed, and a relatively unlovely city centre was rebuilt. In recent years, however, an architectural renaissance has occurred and old squares, streets and waterways have been restored and renovated. |
| Many typical British brands, frequently world famous brands, have been created here, including Bakelite, Cadbury’s, Brylcreem, HP Sauce and Typhoo Tea. The city’s inhabitants include J. R. R. Tolkien and Ozzy Osbourne. |
| contrast with the futuristic facade of the Bullring shopping centre is extreme, but this does not diminish the value of the church, either visually, historically, or as a meeting place. |
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| WHAT TO DO |
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| Selfridges At The Bullring |
| This might be a department store, but Future System’s shimmering and organically billowing design for Selfridges has nevertheless become an architectural landmark. |
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| Chamberlain Square |
| The square is bounded on one side by John Madin’s – in most people’s opinion - ugly library building. At the other end stands the beautiful Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery. |
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| ESSENTIAL INFORMATION |
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| Airport |
Birmingham International Airport (BHX) is the fifth largest airport in the United Kingdom and is situated 13 kilometres east of Birmingham. The adjacent train station is reached via a short trip on the free Air-Rail Link bus. Trains then depart for Birmingham every 5-20 minutes all day long. Tickets can be purchased at the station and cost GBP 2.70 for the 12 minute long journey to New Street Station. Local bus 900 leaves from bus stop K outside the terminal every 20-30 minutes. The journey to Moor Street Station takes about 35 minutes and costs GBP 1.10. For
more information, |
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| Public Transport |
| In Birmingham, public transport consists ofan extensive bus network and the inner suburbs are linked by local trains and trams. There are several different types oftravel passes from which to choose,including a one-day rover pass. |
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| Taxi |
| It is easiest to hail a taxi on the street, especially in the centre of the city or at the airport and train stations. Taxis can also be ordered from companies |
