7 Best Family Things to Do in Birmingham

What kid wouldn't be over the moon about a visit to a world devoted to chocolate? The various themed zones at Cadbury World will transport you and your family through its sweet history, from the rainforests of the Mayans to the creation of the first Cadbury's chocolate factory. You'll also see how chocolate is made, take a 4D cinema ride into molten chocolate, and of course there's plenty to taste as well.

For those planning a visit, it's worth bearing in mind that Cadbury World is about 5.5 miles from the city centre. It's easily accessible for those travelling by car and there's plenty of public transport that will get you there, too. It might also be worth checking out the hotels in the area, that way you won't have to worry about the morning traffic to get there. Our detailed map will make it easy for you to select the perfect hotel based on its location.

Thinktank is a science museum that combines learning with interesting hands-on exhibits. You’ll find a planetarium, several rooms devoted to natural history and exhibits of engineering feats from Birmingham’s proud industrial heritage. Located at Millennium Point, you can walk to Thinktank from New Street station in the city centre. 

All in all, there are over 200 exhibits to discover. A few highlights include a section devoted to the steam engine, which was first deployed in the Midlands and is a source of pride to locals. The exhibit has a replica of the original design that allows you to use steam to power a piston.

West Midlands Safari Park is home to over 150 exotic species, including lions, tigers, giraffes and plenty of mischievous monkeys. The 200-acre park allows visitors to drive their own car through several distinct sections and habitats, named African Plains, Wild Asia, Carnivores, and Elephant Valley.

Along with the safari park, you can visit an animatronic dinosaur exhibit and a small theme park with some thrilling rides and rollercoasters. West Midlands Safari Park is a 30-minute drive out of the city, so it’s best to have your own transport.

Cannon Hill Park hosts a fantastic range of things to see and do, no matter the season. Toddlers will enjoy playing in the Fun Park or riding on the miniature train, while all ages can enjoy a game of tennis or get a cultural fix at MAC Birmingham gallery and exhibition space. A 36-hole mini golf course is challenging enough for the whole family.

Birmingham Botanical Gardens feature 15 acres of lush greenery and carefully manicured parkland. You should enter from Westbourne Road, just south of the city centre, and explore the glasshouses. The range of plants and flowers spans the globe. We particularly enjoy the many species of cactus in the Arid section.

Children will most enjoy the Kingdom of Green Man section of the gardens. There’s a playground and a discovery garden aimed at little ones. If you get hungry, there’s a tea room that serves light meals throughout the day and a variety of lunch options. Accommodation wise, there's a few hotels near the gardens, if you'd like to stay nearby.

Older kids – especially those with a taste for speed – will love pressing the pedal down at a go-kart track. Battle for family bragging rights and live out Formula 1 fantasies on winding tracks, as you jostle to be first to the chequered flag.

There are 2 popular go-kart tracks in central Birmingham. Teamsport Go Karting Birmingham is a state-of-the art indoor track spread out over 2 floors. The other big track in Birmingham is Grand Prix Karting Birmingham. It’s an outdoor track with floodlights.

The Hippodrome has a diverse range of live performances taking to the stage, many of which are suitable for families. There are regular matinee performances on weekends. Popular shows on at Birmingham Hippodrome have included Matilda The Musical and Kinky Boots. Around the festive period, the Hippodrome hosts many Christmas pantomimes, which are great fun for kids of all ages. Located on Hurst Street, it’s walking distance from New Street station.