The second-largest city in Great Britain, Birmingham is a major center of culture, industry, and tourism in England’s West Midlands region, located about 100 miles northwest of London.
This vibrant destination has a plethora of attractions for tourists to explore. But it pays to be prepared. Read this guide to learn what you need to know about visiting Birmingham, and why having travel medical insurance is so important.
Travel Medical Insurance for Travelers visiting Birmingham – FAQs
An international trip can take an unpleasant turn in an instant if you get sick or hurt. Not only will you need to get the issue treated, you’ll also have to find a way to pay for it. Just because the UK can offer healthcare to its residents does not mean you’ll get the same treatment as a visiting tourist. You’ll need travel medical insurance to help you pay for care.
Do I need travel medical insurance for Birmingham?
There isn’t a legal requirement to have travel medical insurance in order to visit the UK, but you’re taking a big financial risk going without it. It’s better to be on the safe side, as injuries and illnesses are impossible to predict.
Why buy travel medical insurance before visiting Birmingham?
Imagine if you needed emergency medical evacuation due to a serious medical condition or an injury in a remote area. This can cost up to $250,000. Can you afford to pay for that or major surgery out of your own pocket? If not, make sure you have travel medical insurance coverage.
Birmingham’s Most Popular Activities
With world-class museums, historical landmarks and scenic canals, Birmingham offers several compelling reasons not to limit your UK trip just to London. Some of the most popular activities include:
Exploring the Canals
Yes, canals exist outside of Venice. In fact, they run all over the UK, with some of the best right in Birmingham. You can charter a ride on a traditional British narrowboat or rent your own and spend the day (or several days) exploring at a leisurely pace. The historical canal locks must be operated by hand, and there are numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants where you can stop, making for a unique experience.
Immersing Yourself in the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery
One of the largest museums in all of the UK, the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery is a treasure trove of artifacts, artwork, and natural history that includes everything from Egyptian mummies to paintings by Picasso and Van Gogh. Even the building it’s located in is historic.
Walking Through Gas Street Basin
Once a gritty industrial area, today Gas Street Basin is a vibrant shopping district that’s full of restaurants, pubs, cafes, and clubs. It’s a great place to stop on a canal trip, or you can just spend the day or evening here popping in and out of businesses and soaking in the atmosphere.
Getting a Taste of Cadbury World
If you’re familiar with Cadbury chocolate, this is a stop you can’t miss. Explore the interactive visitor’s center, take a factory tour, and learn all about the history of the Cadbury brand. Of course, no trip here would be complete with sampling plenty of delicious chocolate and other treats.
Traveling Back to Backs
Birmingham Back to Backs is an open-air museum, but it feels more like a time machine. The museum recreates the living conditions of working-class families in 19th century Birmingham, back when this region was a hub for manufacturing. You can see just how a house would have been furnished and decorated back in the 1840s, and get a glimpse of the lives of these working class heroes from the past.
Key Guidelines for Visitors to Birmingham
Don’t Miss Out On the Food
If you think the UK isn’t a good place for foodies, Birmingham may change your mind. Whether you’re interested in traditional local pub fare or lavish dining at a Michelin starred restaurant, you can find fusions of flavors from all over the world here.
Is Birmingham Safe for Tourists?
Generally yes. Instances of violent crime are quite low in most areas, though pickpocketing and petty theft are possible near the city center. Just take the usual precautions of not walking alone at night, securing all of your valuables, and being aware of your surroundings to stay safe.
Best Time to Visit
Birmingham rarely gets extremely hot or cold, so the best time to visit really depends on your preferences. Summer has the warmest weather obviously, but crowds are the largest as well. Winters are cool but generally dry, with smaller crowds and a festive atmosphere. Spring or fall may be your best bet, as crowds are smaller, yet the weather is pleasant enough to enjoy outdoor activities.
Before You Visit Birmingham – Do This
- Pack waterproof clothing including an umbrella and rain boots. The UK’s reputation for being rainy at times exists for a reason.
- If you enjoy festivals, plan your visit for spring. This is when Birmingham hosts its St Patrick’s Day parade, Food and Drink Festival, and Comedy Festival.
- Protect your health and your finances with travel medical insurance .