Birmingham is not only birthplace of once entirely new music genres such as Heavy Metal or New Romantic, but also home for globally renowned bands like Black Sabbath, Judas Priest, or Duran Duran. Find out how the city’s industrial history laid foundation for genres and artists and follow their traces beyond the common sightseeing spots. Brum also offers a vibrant live music scene. As one of the major cities in the UK when it comes to huge concerts as well as intimate venues, it attracts not only world-class stars, but also creates an atmosphere for supporting local newcomers.
For detailed music related sightseeing tips and venue information, check out our Birmingham city page. Also featuring several subTOURS for exploring Rock music history.
Fancy a real luxury stay in Birmingham? Then Hyatt Regency is your best choice for the night. Situated at the scenic Gas Street Basin and just some steps away from Arena Birmingham and O2 Academy as well as various pubs, restaurants, and bars. You will also be bedded on historical ground as the Hyatt has been erected exactly where once was the famous Rum Runner.
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With a history dating back well over half a century, The Diskery is really worth a visit if you are a music enthusiast. CDs, DVDs, or vinyl - they even have cassetes to offer. You’ll mostly find older stuff including Classical, Swing, and Jazz but that gives the store its unique atmosphere.
Swordfish Records is a favourite haunt for those who love proper music from Indie and Alternative to Punk and Metal. They stock new and used vinyl and CD’s with classic collectibles. In-store appearances have included The Kooks, Razorlight, Mark Ronson, Duran Duran, and Lenny Kravitz. Some well-known customers over the years have reportedly been John Peel, Dave Grohl & The Foo Fighters, Robert Plant, John Taylor, Franz Ferdinand, Mud Honey, Neil Diamond, or Primal Scream.
The Broad Street Walk of Stars is a walk of fame-like installation on Broad Street’s pedestrian pavement. It honours people from Birmingham or with significant connections with the city who have made significant contributions in terms of music, television, film, radio, theatre, sport, business, and literacy. Among them of course Black Sabbath’s Ozzy Osbourne and Tony Iommi.
The historical city of Aachen, close to the border to Belgium and the Netherlands is also called Aix-la-Chapelle in French. It developed from a Roman settlement to the preferred medieval imperial residence of Charlemagne and was the place where 31 Holy Roman Emperors were crowned as Kings of the Germans.
Ghent is located in the Flemish part of Belgium, with a medieval architecture that is remarkably well preserved and restored. The historical city features beautiful riversides to stroll along.
Bruges is one of the most well-preserved medieval towns in Europe featuring notable architecture. The historic centre of the Belgian city has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000.
Canterbury is UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Kent city lies on the River Stour and is home to a beautiful cathedral. Still today, the impressive building is focus of pilgrimage and seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury who is primate of the Church of England.
The city of Oxford is globally known as home of the University of Oxford, which is the oldest university in the English-speaking world. Numerous historical university and college buildings boast with marvellous architecture. Everything surrounded by green parks and lush nature walks.
Stratford-upon-Avon situated on the River Avon is a welcoming market town with more than 800 years of history. It is worldwide known as the birthplace of English playwright and poet William Shakespeare.
Cologne is not only worth a visit due to its famous Cologne Cathedral. Moreover, it is a major cultural centre for the region, with numerous museums and galleries as well as art exhibitions and live music venues.
Birmingham (Photo by Bachmeier / Ramsthaler)
