When asked to think of something associated with Birmingham, most people’s first response will probably be â€Spaghetti Junction’, otherwise known as Junction 6 of the M6 motorway. Whilst no city would particularly want a busy road interchange as its most famous landmark, it probably says more about the Birmingham of 20 or 30 years ago than it does of the city today. Indeed, as Britain’s second most populated city, Birmingham has often been referred to by its nickname - â€the second city’. Dating as far back as the 6th century, Birmingham has a long history of settlements, starting as an Anglo-Saxon farming hamlet on the banks of the River Rea. It grew rapidly over the centuries and was given city status in 1889 by Queen Victoria, eventually going on to establish its own university in 1900. Today, Birmingham is a busy, bustling, culturally diverse city that is growing in popularity as a tourist attraction all the time. It boasts a number of excellent museums and galleries, including the Barber Institute of Fine Arts and the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery (BMAG), with the current highlight being the â€In Touch’ exhibition, an excellent interactive gallery where visitors can experience a variety of works through touch, sound and light. Perhaps one of Birmingham’s most famous exports is Cadbury’s chocolate, which was first sold in drink form by John Cadbury in the 1830s. Nowadays, Birmingham is home to â€Cadbury World’ †a museum where adults and children can learn about the various stages of chocolate production as well as the story of John Cadbury and his world-famous confectionary. For those who enjoy the great outdoors, Birmingham doesn’t disappoint either. With more than 8000 acres of open parkland, there is plenty of tranquil and scenic space available to help you get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Birmingham is also famous for hosting various music and performing arts festivals throughout the summer months. Downtown Birmingham is home to the 20th annual City Stages music festival, taking place over three days. Internationally renowned artists help create a proper festival experience in a city setting, which is perfect for those who love festivals but could do without camping in a muddy field over a weekend. With so much going on in Britain’s â€second city’, hotels in Birmingham are always going to be in great demand. From art museums and music festivals, to chocolate emporiums and lush green spaces, there is bound to be something to appeal to everyone who visits the city of Birmingham.
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