Birmingham Days Out | Chamberlain Square, city centre | Free
Housed in a grand Grade II* listed building that has watched over Chamberlain and Victoria Squares since 1885, Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery is one of the best free things to do in the city. After a major refurbishment, its galleries are open again. Here are five reasons to visit.
1. The Staffordshire Hoard
See the largest hoard of Anglo-Saxon gold ever found: over 3,500 pieces of gold and silver metalwork, unearthed in 2009 by a metal detectorist and dating back to the 7th century. The detail on the tiny pieces is astonishing, and it’s a great talking point for history-loving kids.
2. A world-famous Pre-Raphaelite collection
The museum holds the largest public collection of Pre-Raphaelite art in the world, with richly coloured paintings by artists like Burne-Jones and Rossetti. Even if art isn’t usually your thing, these galleries are beautiful to wander through.
3. Wild City, a new family gallery
Wild City is a new family gallery exploring nature in the city, designed with younger visitors in mind. Look out for weekly creative workshops and half-term family activities too.
4. Birmingham’s story
The Birmingham History Galleries and the Industrial Gallery, with its “Made in Birmingham” display, explore what makes the city tick, from its industrial heritage to the people who shaped it. It’s a great way to get your bearings at the start of a trip.
5. Tea in the Edwardian Tearooms
Take a break in the museum’s tearooms, a lovely spot for cake and a cuppa. Entry is free, with donations welcome, and no booking is needed. It’s open daily during school holidays, making it an easy add-on to a city centre day.
Plan your visit
Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery
Chamberlain Square, Birmingham B3 3DH
Free entry | Some exhibitions charge
Open Tuesday – Sunday, 10am – 5pm, and daily during school holidays
Nearest station: Birmingham New Street