BIRMINGHAM BOULEVARD

Most people know Birmingham as the land of Peaky Blinders, cricket, and anglicised curry. But there's so much more to this West Midlands city in the heart of England. NIVEDITA JAYARAM PAWAR gives a quick primer.

- NIVEDITA JAYARAM PAWAR

A FASCINATING CITY CAN sometimes get overshadowed when it’s near other tourist favourites. Birmingham is just an hour and a half by train from London. Not wanting to blend in, Birmingham’s attractions definitely stand out from the rest of UK. Here’s how to make the most of your time in Britain’s second city.

EXPLORE CANALS AND PUBS

One of the finest ways to experience Birmingham is by cruising the city’s canals that sparked the Industrial Revolution more than 200 years ago. Though they lack the romantic Italian charm of Venice, the lively waterside bars, bistros, and tranquility more than make up for it. Fans of Peaky Blinders will get a chance to witness the old coal factories and cobbled streets that once brought the city alive with blazing fires, smoke and noise as seen in the hit TV series. But first hop on to one of the self-driven boats (no boating experience needed) for a fun cruise. You can reward yourself for your efforts later with incredible coffee and cake from Medicine Bakery (medicinebakery.co.uk). Reserve some time for a trip to Sea Life Centre (visitsealife.com/birmingham), which includes a 4D cinema and a 360° ocean tunnel home to sharks, rays, giant sea turtles, and cute penguins.

SCOUT JEWELLERY QUARTER