Birmingham Hotels - Smooth Hound Hotel Directory

Birmingham, in West Midlands, was once the heart of the Industrial Revolution in the UK. Much wealth was spawned in the city, leading to the development of an expansive canal network. Ultimately, the city had more miles of canals constructed than even Venice. During World War II, a large portion of the city was destroyed. Many of the buildings have since been replaced and the canals have become walkways. There are numerous parks, art galleries and museums throughout the city of Birmingham today, many of which can be easily reached on foot due to the fact that part of the city centre has been pedestrianised.

Birmingham, in the heart of the West Midlands, is Britain's second largest city with a population of just under a million people. It has been a settlement since at least the sixth century and was mentioned in the Domesday Book. Birmingham grew in importance during the Industrial Revolution and this led to the construction of the canals that weave their way throughout the city.

Shopaholics will love Birmingham. There are many different shopping areas including the massive recently developed Brindleyplace, which covers seventeen acres, overlooks the canal and has a wide variety of shops, bars and restaurants. It is also home to the National Sea Life Centre and the Ikon Gallery. Other shopping centres in the city include the Bullring and The Mailbox, another canalside development with plenty of designer stores to keep you occupied.

Birmingham has had a long association with science and invention. The science museum houses a number of steam engines and the inventor of the steam engine, James Watt, was born in the city. The city has kept up with the times and Birmingham University is one of the UK's premier nanotechnology research centres.

There is plenty of nightlife to enjoy in Birmingham, whether you want to explore Birmingham's long association with the brewing trade or sample one of the many restaurants in the city. There are also plenty of concerts and other events that you can attend, including those held at the vast National Indoor Arena, which seats up to thirteen thousand spectators.

There is a wide range of accommodation in the city and you should be able to find somewhere that is close to your intended destination and also fits your budget. If you are staying in Birmingham during one of its many festivals, be sure to book ahead to guarantee your room.