KidsVentura Logo
Family Travel/Birmingham

Birmingham Kids Travel Guide

Discover the City of Canals. Plan a perfect kid-friendly family adventure with local tips and curated day-by-day itineraries.

🗓️

Best Time

May to September

⚠️

Avoid

December (cold, short days)

✈️

Arrival

Birmingham Airport (BHX)

🚕

Transport

West Midlands Metro tram, buses, and walking

⭐

Rating

9.5 / 10

ASK A LOCAL

Travel Insights

Select Date:
Expected Weather (August)
14°C - 23°C
Warm, occasional rain
Expected Crowds (August)
High
Carry umbrellas & raincoats! ☂️

Choose Your Duration

Pick how long you plan to stay in Birmingham using the selector below.👇

Aesthetic Summary

Perfect for Families who love hands-on science and scenic walks

DAY 1

Day 1: Canals & Science Discovery

🗺️ Today's Route
Canal Walk from Brindleyplace to Gas Street Basin
9:00 AM - 10:30 AM

Stroll along the picturesque Birmingham canals, starting at Brindleyplace. Admire colorful narrowboats, historic warehouses, and the iconic 'Roundhouse' building. Continue to Gas Street Basin, the heart of the canal network.

Kid-proof

Flat, easy walk; kids can spot ducks, boats, and even a floating church. Keep an eye on little ones near the water's edge.

Pro Tip

Start at Brindleyplace (near the Sealife Centre) and head south. Grab a coffee from one of the many cafes along the way. Restrooms available at the Sea Life Centre and at the National Sea Life Centre entrance.

Free; open 24/7. Walking distance approx. 1.5 km, about 30-45 minutes at a leisurely pace.
🎒 Pack for this:
Sturdy strollerSnacksWater bottle
Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum
10:30 AM - 1:00 PM

Explore four floors of interactive science exhibits, including the Planetarium, the 'Science Garden' with outdoor play areas, and the impressive collection of steam engines and vintage vehicles. Kids can experiment with light, sound, and forces.

Kid-proof

Hands-on exhibits are perfect for curious kids. The Planetarium shows are short and engaging. The 'Mini Brum' area is designed for under-5s.

Pro Tip

Buy tickets online to skip queues. Check Planetarium showtimes on arrival. The café is reasonably priced; you can also bring your own picnic to eat in the designated picnic area.

Adults £12.50, children (3-15) £9.50, under 3 free. Family ticket (2+2) £39. Open daily 10am-5pm.
🎒 Pack for this:
Comfortable shoesCameraLight jacket (air conditioning)
Picnic at Cannon Hill Park
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Head to Cannon Hill Park, a large Victorian park with a playground, mini railway, and paddling pools (in summer). Enjoy a family picnic on the lawns or use the on-site café.

Kid-proof

Plenty of space for kids to run around. The playground has equipment for all ages. The mini railway is a hit with younger children.

Pro Tip

Cannon Hill Park is a short drive or bus ride from Thinktank. If the weather is poor, consider eating at the Thinktank café instead. Pack a picnic blanket and sun protection.

Free entry; parking charges apply. Mini railway rides cost £2 per person.
🎒 Pack for this:
Picnic blanketSunscreenFrisbee or ball
Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park (Nature Centre)
2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

Visit the city's nature centre, home to over 130 species including red pandas, lemurs, and owls. Walk through walkthrough enclosures and get close to friendly goats and sheep.

Kid-proof

Children love the interactive animal encounters and the chance to feed the goats. The park is compact and easy to navigate with a stroller.

Pro Tip

Located adjacent to Cannon Hill Park. Check feeding times for red pandas and lemurs – typically 2:30pm. Wear comfortable shoes; paths are mostly flat.

Adults £7.50, children (3+) £4.50, under 3 free. Open daily 10am-4pm (last entry 3:30pm).
🎒 Pack for this:
Comfortable shoesCameraHand sanitizer
Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery
3:30 PM - 5:30 PM

Explore the city's premier art museum, featuring the famous Pre-Raphaelite paintings, the Staffordshire Hoard, and interactive displays for kids. The Edwardian Tea Room offers a traditional afternoon tea experience.

Kid-proof

The museum has a 'Kids Trail' activity sheet. The 'Staffordshire Hoard' exhibit is fascinating for older kids. The Tea Room is elegant but child-friendly.

Pro Tip

Free entry (special exhibitions may charge). It's a short walk from the canal. The Tea Room can get busy in the afternoon; consider booking ahead. Strollers are allowed but some galleries are tight.

Free; donations welcome. Open daily 10am-5pm. The Edwardian Tea Room serves lunch and afternoon tea.
🎒 Pack for this:
Activity bookSmall toy for quiet timeWater bottle
Dinner at The Old Crown, Digbeth
5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

Enjoy a family-friendly dinner at one of Birmingham's oldest pubs, dating back to 1368. The menu includes classic British dishes and a dedicated children's menu.

Kid-proof

Kids menu with favorites like fish & chips and burgers. The pub has a relaxed atmosphere and a beer garden. High chairs available.

Pro Tip

Located in Digbeth, a short tram or bus ride from the city centre. Book a table in advance on weekends. The pub is known for its historic charm and friendly staff.

Mains £10-£15, kids meals £6.95. Open until 11pm.
🎒 Pack for this:
No special items needed
Evening Canal Cruise (optional)
7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

If energy allows, take a relaxing evening canal cruise from Brindleyplace. Enjoy the illuminated city skyline and learn about Birmingham's industrial history from an entertaining guide.

Kid-proof

Boats are covered and comfortable. Kids enjoy the gentle motion and spotting wildlife along the towpath. Commentary is engaging for all ages.

Pro Tip

Check times and availability – cruises run seasonally. Book tickets in advance. If not available, take a short walk along the canal to see the lights.

Prices vary; approx. £8 for adults, £5 for children. Duration about 1 hour.
🎒 Pack for this:
Warm layers for eveningCamera

💡 Daily Pro Tips

  • •Purchase a West Midlands Metro day pass for unlimited tram travel.
  • •Wear layers; Birmingham weather can change quickly.
  • •Most attractions are stroller-friendly.
  • •Use the 'Birmingham Highlights' family ticket for discounts at major attractions.

Frequently Asked Questions about Birmingham

What is the best time to visit Birmingham with kids?▼

The best time to visit Birmingham with children is May to September. Avoid travelling during December (cold, short days).

How do I get around Birmingham with children?▼

In Birmingham, families typically use West Midlands Metro tram, buses, and walking. Always confirm child-seat availability in advance.

What airport serves Birmingham?▼

Birmingham Airport (BHX)

What languages are spoken in Birmingham?▼

The primary languages in Birmingham are English. English is generally understood in tourist areas.

Is Birmingham safe for family travel?▼

Birmingham is generally safe for families. KidsVentura itineraries are designed with child safety in mind — we recommend kid-friendly attractions, restaurants with high chairs, and comfortable transit routes.

Explore More Family Destinations

BengaluruChennaiHyderabadThiruvananthapuram