The 5 Best Things To Do In The West Midlands This Summer

Birmingham is the UK’s second largest city and easily accessible from anywhere in the UK by car or coach hire. It’s a vibrant city with an abundance of interesting days out and cultural attractions. Here are just a few of the top events and places to visit this summer. 

Birmingham Weekender in Southside, August 26 & 27

The Birmingham Weekender is a free event that takes place over the bank holiday weekend in and around the city centre. It’s a free family-friendly festival and The Bullring, Hippodrome and Grand Central will be alive with colourful art installations and interactive experiences. 

There will be a display of airbourne daring and agility from the All or Nothing Theatre, who will perform feats of athleticism on a giant swing set in Central Street. After the dizzying display, the swings will be available for the public to use. 

Elsewhere, there will be an array of pop-up performances and workshops to enjoy, where you will find everything from yoga to flash dances and silent discos. There is also a chance to catch the highly successful dance performance WILD at the Hippodrome.

Summer Nights at Drayton Manor

Drayton Manor is one of the UK’s most popular theme parks with a range of thrilling rides to enjoy. Throughout the summer months, the whole park will stay open until 9pm with extra entertainment laid on. Enjoy the special atmosphere with live music playing classic party tunes, or brave the ShockWAVE stand-up rollercoaster experience!

West Midlands Safari Park

A new Lion Ridge has opened this summer at West Midlands Safari Park, offering the chance to enjoy the sight of these majestic animals close up and on foot. This is the first opportunity to do this in the whole 50 year history of the park. 

There is also the Lion Lodge which is available to book for overnight accommodation, offering a unique close-up encounter with these fascinating and beautiful big cats. The lodges provide comfortable accommodation for up to six people and have panoramic views of the new lion habitat. 

Alton Towers

A short drive away from Birmingham in the Staffordshire countryside is Alton Towers, another hugely popular family theme park. As well as all the usual favourite attractions such as the Dungeon, the CBeebies land, and the waterpark, new this year is The Curse at Alton Manor. 

This is the ultimate hair raising experience taking you on a ride through a haunted house. Make a day trip or treat yourself and the family to a few days at the Alton Towers Resort. There are three themed hotels, Stargazing pods, and an enchanted village to choose from. 

Magic Shows at Cadbury World

Cadbury World remains one of the most loved days out in the UK. This really needs no explanation, with the chance to sample expertly made chocolate and even try your hand at making your own confections. This summer, there is the extra attraction of Magician Freddo who will be making a series of stage performances.