Family days out in Birmingham

Birmingham is a brilliant city for families, with museums, parks, animals, chocolate and plenty of hands-on fun. Whether you are looking for a rainy day activity or a sunny afternoon outdoors, here are some of the best family days out in the city.

Cadbury World

For many children, a trip to Cadbury World in Bournville is the highlight of any visit to Birmingham. The attraction tells the story of chocolate and of the Cadbury company, with interactive zones, a 4D cinema and plenty of free samples. Booking in advance is recommended.

Thinktank Science Museum

At Millennium Point, Thinktank is packed with hands-on exhibits about science, technology and nature. Children can explore how the body works, see a Spitfire and visit the planetarium. It is ideal for a rainy day.

National Sea Life Centre

At Brindleyplace, beside the canal, the National Sea Life Centre is home to thousands of sea creatures, including sharks, turtles, otters and penguins. Its underwater tunnel is a favourite with children.

LEGOLAND Discovery Centre

At Broadway Plaza, the LEGOLAND Discovery Centre has rides, a 4D cinema, play areas and a miniature Birmingham built from millions of Lego bricks. It is aimed at younger children.

Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park

Near Cannon Hill Park, this small zoo is home to red pandas, meerkats, lemurs and other animals, many of them part of conservation programmes. It is a great size for young children.

Birmingham Botanical Gardens

With glasshouses full of tropical plants, an adventure playground, birds and lots of space to run around, the Botanical Gardens in Edgbaston make for a relaxed family day out.

Parks and play

Cannon Hill Park has a boating lake, play areas and the MAC arts centre, which often has family activities. Sutton Park offers space for long walks, bike rides and picnics, and the Lickey Hills are great for young explorers.

Canal boat trips

A trip along the canals from Gas Street Basin or Brindleyplace is a fun and gentle way to see the city, and children love watching the locks and the boats.

Historic houses

Aston Hall, Blakesley Hall and Sarehole Mill often run family activities and events, especially in school holidays, bringing history to life for children.

Theatre

The Birmingham Hippodrome's Christmas pantomime is a much-loved family tradition, and the city's theatres stage children's shows throughout the year.

Top tips

Many of the city's museums and parks are free, which helps keep costs down. Attractions such as Cadbury World, the Sea Life Centre and LEGOLAND Discovery Centre can be busy in school holidays, so book ahead and look out for combined tickets. Check opening times before travelling, as they vary through the year.

With so much to see and do, Birmingham is a city families can come back to again and again.