The Library of Birmingham is a must-visit for all. (We think it’s easily among the best things to do in Birmingham.) It’s the largest public library in the United Kingdom if not Europe. Across ten levels, you’ll find a massive collection of archives, photography and rare books. Laid end-to-end, it’s believed the book collection would stretch from Birmingham to Edinburgh!
That’s not all you’ll find here either. Facilities also include a gallery space, studio theatre, an outdoor amphitheatre and spaces for children and teenagers. Of course, if you didn’t know about any of this, where have you been? The Library of Birmingham has been open for 10 years (since April 2013) and receives around 2 million visits a year.
It still surprises us how few know about The Library of Birmingham’s Secret Garden. You’ll need to head to the seventh level to find it (either by lift or stairs) and you won’t be disappointed. To see unbeatable views of the city, for free at least, there’s nowhere better. So if you’re not much of a bookworm, this should still put the library at the very top of your Birmingham bucket list.
It’s not all about the sights from the roof either, but on the roof too. Beautiful bushes, flowers and grasses live and thrive up here. While surrounding modern architecture and winding pathways are also easy on the eye. You might also be surprised to learn (and you’ll have to head up yourself to believe us) that the Secret Garden is rarely busy. Next time you’re rushing around Birmingham City Centre looking for peace and quiet, pop into The Library of Birmingham.
As most Brummies know, finding green space in the city centre ain’t easy, so this Secret Garden is a godsend. Just borrow a book and settle down in the sunshine! To learn more about The Library of Birmingham head here.