Birmingham is situated in the West Midlands and is a major city. It is the second largest city within the UK following on from London. Birmingham is a little over one hundred miles from London but has the advantage of its own airport, the aptly named Birmingham Airport as well as a large main rail station ~ Birmingham New Street Station ~ with several other smaller train stations nearby. It has a large population and is affectionately known as Brum or the Black Country due to the thick smoke that historically came from the ironworks and coal seams, with the people from the city often called ‘Brummies’.
Birmingham has centuries of interesting history although it wasn't granted city status until 1889. In medieval times it was known for its wool trade, then metal work and leather goods and remained a relatively small market town. By the 18th century, it was flourishing with industry and was fast becoming one of the country's biggest and more important regions. By the 19th century, metal was still big business as was glass, bicycles, train carriage manufacture and coal. Then at the end of that century, the cocoa and chocolate industry was introduced at Bourneville which many people are aware of!
With a natural decline in the more traditional manufacturing, Birmingham soon started to embrace many different and diverse industries. Key sectors now include advanced manufacturing, business, professional and financial, energy, creative and digital technology, health care and life sciences, transport and logistics, education and tourism. Birmingham has one of the fastest growing economies in the UK and has seen the biggest wage growth over the past five years and the West Midlands is one of four regions outside of London expected to match or beat GVA growth across the forthcoming two years.
Many major developments are underway in the city and beyond, to make Birmingham an even better place in which to live, visit and work. Hugely ambitious regeneration plans aim to fully transform Birmingham by 2040, with emphasis on making the city much greener and healthier.
Birmingham has a strong identity with a history steeped in innovation and resilience and this is evident when you meet the strong willed and proud locals.
Birmingham is home to several popular and well regarded universities which include the University of Birmingham, Aston University, Newman University, University College Birmingham and Birmingham City University - all contributing significantly to the city’s educational and research landscape and playing vital roles in the city’s cultural and academic vibrancy.
The popular series Peaky Blinders was partly filmed in the fascinating Black Country Living Museum. Visit Cadbury World to see the world famous chocolate being made in the factory then stroll around the quintessential chocolate box village of Bourneville. Explore Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery or delve into the history of the people that once lived and worked here at the carefully restored Birmingham Back to Backs. As there is so much to see and do ~ far too much to list ~ a good idea would be to book one of the many guided tours that are readily available.
Birmingham is a multicultural and diverse city with a great variety of experiences which include shopping, fine dining, theatre and music. There is also an interesting network of canals which is one of the most intricate in the world. Several peaceful and picturesque villages surround the area and Birmingham itself has more than 8000 award winning acres of green spaces and parks which is more than any other city in Europe. Birmingham has also made a substantial contribution towards cleaner air within the city due to its Clean Air Zone which is in operation twenty four hours a day.
Birmingham’s appeal as a great place to live and work lies in its unique blend of cultural richness, economic opportunities and quality of life. The diverse community ensures a rich tapestry of cultures and experiences. The city’s thriving economy offers abundant job opportunities and career growth while the abundant green spaces, world class education and a vibrant arts and culinary scene compliment the city. Its central location in the UK, ensures easy access to other towns and cities, making it an ideal business hub. All these factors combine to create a dynamic and fulfilling lifestyle in a city environment providing an ideal destination for those seeking a balanced and rewarding life.
Are you looking for a Career in Birmingham? You are invited to attend our Birmingham Careers Fair held in The Leonardo Hotel on Friday 6th October, between the times of 10:00am-2pm. Don't miss out and secure your ticket today!