Just like every awesome city, there are countless things to do in Birmingham, but there are some experiences that stand out for being truly extra special. Small moments that capture the essence of the city in a simple, memorable way.
As part of Secret Media Network’s Global List of the Best Micro-Experiences of 2026, our local editors have curated a selection of small but unforgettable local gems in Birmingham that form part of this global list, alongside standout experiences from cities across our worldwide network.
Spend the day exploring the legendary Custard Factory, visiting bars, shops and a brand-new food hall
We have Alfred Bird’s wife (and her egg allergy) to thank for The Custard Factory. He made the iconic, instant and eggless Bird’s Custard for her, and before it closed in 1967, the building was said to have employed up to 12,000 people. But today, it’s the beating heart of Birmingham’s coolest neighbourhood—full of not only office spaces and art studios, but the city’s most exciting independents.
Providing the ultimate mates date spot in Birmingham, compete with retro arcade games at NQ64, extra crazy golf at Golf Fang, and hundreds of board games at Chance & Counters. After, swing by the independent Mockingbird cinema for a film, some vintage shopping at the nearby Red Brick Market, or just explore the area’s incredible graffiti.
If you’re hungry, Birmingham’s one-stop shop even boasts its own fine dining restaurant, 670 Grams. But to satisfy everyone’s needs, and a taste of Birmingham’s incredible street food scene, a brand-new food hall has just opened at the Custard Factory, Alfred Works, serving everything from viral birria ramen to authentic Palestinian flavours. The Custard Factory is truly a micro-experience that ticks all the boxes.
📍The Custard Factory, Gibb Street, Digbeth, Birmingham, B9 4AA
Take a boat trip down the historic Gas Street Basin and see Birmingham’s many famous canals
The saying goes that Birmingham has more canals than Venice. But the truth is that Birmingham only has more miles of canals. 35 compared to the Italian city’s 26-mile system. The best way to see and learn more about the city is by exploring the iconic Gas Street Basin with a guided boat tour (Brindley Cruises is a good place to start).
You can also choose to explore the scenic canal network on foot, with everything from the contemporary Ikon Gallery to the upmarket Mailbox shopping centre, the Sea Life Centre and the Crescent Theatre. Plus, countless canalside bars and restaurants—like The Botanist, Canalside Bar, The Brasshouse, Malt House—around the waterways.
📍 Brindley Cruises, Brindleyplace, Birmingham, B1 2JB