Things to do in Birmingham with kids

What to do in Birmingham with kids

Birmingham is a great destination for kids. This buzzing city is home to a range of exciting sights and attractions, from aquariums to science museums, and suit kids of all ages. Some attractions, like Cadbury World and the Black Country Living Museum provide an insight into a particular history, heritage or theme, meaning that the visit is as educational as it is fun. That said, there’s plenty of play parks for kids to run wild in, as well as hair-rising rollercoaster rides and zip lining options. You get to choose your own pace in Birmingham, whether it’s a stroll through tranquil gardens or deep dives.

  1. Cadbury World
  2. National SEALIFE Centre
  3. Drayton Manor Theme Park
  4. Black Country Living Museum
  5. Twycross Zoo
  6. Martineau Gardens
  7. The Bear Grylls Adventure
  8. Thinktank - Birmingham Science Museum

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1. Cadbury World

Kids (and adults!) will love Cadbury World, where they’ll find out all about the manufacturing process through interactive displays, take a wander through an ‘Aztec Jungle’ where the cocoa bean originated, and watch the purple-clad chocolate-making team hard at work; don’t miss the free samples!

Best for: Sweet stuff.

While you’re there: Have fun posing for photos in the Green Screen area, while kids can go wild in the African Adventure Play Area.

2. National SEALIFE Centre

Explore the deep sea from the safety of dry land at the National SEALIFE Centre another great attraction in Birmingham if the kids are in tow. There are piranhas and jellyfish, otters and penguins to take in, as well as 2000 other creatures and a 360 ocean tunnel!

Best for: Sea life.

While you’re there: There’s a 4D Cinema.

3. Drayton Manor Theme Park

Scream if you wanna go faster (or higher) at Drayton Manor Theme Park, located in nearby Staffordshire. All ages will enjoy this theme park, with terrifying rides to choose from, as well as the Thomas the Tank Engine-themed Thomas Land, perfect for younger years. And for those who want to keep both feet planted firmly on the ground, there’s a zoo on-site, where over 100 animals (from birds and primates to reptiles and kangaroo) reside.

Best for: Adrenaline junkies.

While you’re there: Make the most of your visit by staying at their on-site hotel.

4. Black Country Living Museum

Travel back in time to the Black Country Living Museum, where kids and adults alike will enjoy learning about a bygone era. It’s literally like stepping back in time, with recreated streets and enthusiastic actors to bring 300 years of history to life. There’s the chance to try out old-fashioned street games, visit a traditional sweet shop and even take part in a school lesson, 1912-style.

Best for: History.

While you’re there: Take a ride on one of the heritage vehicles.

5. Twycross Zoo

Set in over 80 acres of land, Twycross Zoo allows visitors to get up close and personal with over 900 animals, where there’s the likes of a Penguin Lagoon, lemur walk-through and even a Nature Reserve. Plus, with the restaurant overlooking the snow leopard enclosure, it’s a great place to spend the day, and is one of the best things to do in Birmingham with kids.

Best for: Local and rare wildlife.

While you’re there: Check out the fine art in the Twycross Gallery.

6. Martineau Gardens

Embrace the natural beauty of wildlife in Martineau Gardens, where these landscaped gardens are a great way for kids to learn more about nature and wildlife. This community garden is a tranquil oasis spanning just over two acres, and includes a children’s play area. Among the things to do and see here are nature trails, hothouses, wildflower meadows, beehives and bird hides

Best for: Free things to do.

While you’re there: See if you can spot a badger in the woodland home.

7. The Bear Grylls Adventure

Challenge yourself with the Bear Grylls Adventure, where you’ll be climbing, diving, flying and scrambling through a series of experiences (think climbing walls, archery ranges and escape rooms). There’s loads of different activities on offer that suit a range of ages, so it’s guaranteed family fun for all. Enthusiasm is the only necessity! Holiday packages to Birmingham really give you bang for your buck – there’s so much to choose from, from landscaped gardens and multi-levelled museums to chocolate tasting and more!

Best for: Kids aged 8 and over.

While you’re there: If in doubt, just think ‘what would Bear Grylls do’..

8. Thinktank - Birmingham Science Museum

Learn your steam engines from your chocolate wrapping machines at Thinktank - Birmingham Science Museum, where over 200 displays provide an educational yet entertaining insight into the world of science and technology. Spitfire planes hang from the ceiling, there’s a fascinating Planetarium and there’s more on display in the Science Garden. This is a great way to find out about science and technology throughout time, as well as looking forward to the future!

Best for: Educational but entertaining days out.

While you’re there: See displays of sea monsters in the Marine Worlds Gallery.

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