Birmingham with sceptical teen

[squareabout]

Short city-break - teen not seen Brum before but isn't convinced anyone would want to go there . Used to live there 30 years ago and I know the centre is really pretty impressive just to wander around. Would like to see something orchestral at Symphony Hall (they would like that) but unfortunately nothing on in the window we can go in - there is some jazz though on the 'Symphony Hall Stage' - does that mean the rest of the auditorium will be closed off - it would be really annoying if so. Will do a quick hop on the train to show them the UoB campus. Any good ideas for other things and eats?

With a teen I’d check out what live music is happening and age restrictions. the botanical gardens and cannon hill used to be quite good starting point for open air events.

One of the things I miss most about Birmingham is their ‘what’s on’ guide. Have a Google and see what’s going on over the summer.

Oh and I’d take them for lunch along the canal, either the back of symphony hall, brindly place or the mailbox.

Or have a wander round the Chinese quarter into digbeth and let them choose a place to try.

The library is amazing well worth checking out.

For music you could also try the CBSO centre and Birmingham Conservatoire

If you both like Middle Eastern food, there is a small chain of cafes in Birmingham - Damascena. The decor is lovely and the food reasonably priced.

The Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery is also recommended.

Sorry, I’m living vicariously through you now

there’s loads on if you Google birmingham theatre august and the botanical gardens looks like it’s got a fair but planned for the summer if it coincides with the dates you’ve planned

www.birminghambotanicalgardens.org.uk/whatson/

how about an evening meal at Fumo and a ghost walk by the cathedral?

Brindley Place for food.

City centre will probably have changed a bit in the last 30 years! Last time we were there earlier this year, it was looking a bit scruffy and worse for wear. It might have been smartened up for the Commonwealth Games though 😂

Thanks, it's the trouble with coming in August, never the best time unfortunately. Nothing on at CBSO, Town Hall, Conservatoire, Botanical Gardens etc. Damascena looks good and yes, will have to give the Library a go.

Oh right. In August, I second what other posters are saying - check the what's on listings as there's often a lot of outside events and festivals. It's a great city. My OH was dubious too but he loved it when he visited for the first time!

OP will you be visiting during the Commonwealth Games? That will obviously be dominating the local events schedule until Aug 15th.

no, after then

Did you go to uni there? I did 30 years ago and went back a few years ago. I barely recognised it!

Did you go to uni there? I did 30 years ago and went back a few years ago. I barely recognised it!

Yes me too! I felt almost like a ghost
walking around Brum and didn't enjoy it -sorry.

Yes, but I have been back in the last 7 years so I don't think it's changed that much in that time? Was only a flying visit though and was by myself.