Birmingham – A Great British City

Birmingham has come a long way in the last ten years, from an industrial heartland to a cosmopolitan city with plenty to offer the visitor to BSAVA Congress.
If you haven’t visited the city recently, you may be surprised to know that Birmingham is one of the world’s leading locations for conferences, exhibitions and events. Not only is it a bustling metropolis, it is also surrounded by some of the most stunning countryside Britain has to offer.

Shopping

Birmingham is a shopper’s paradise. Whether you are looking for contemporary chic or eye-catching value it’s all waiting for you in what has become known as “the bold new shopping capital of Europe”. From superstores like Harvey Nichols and Selfridges, to the revitalised malls and vibrant markets, if you like to shop and have the energy, you are going to find something to tempt you. The world-famous Jewellery Quarter is really worth a visit too, where hand-made craftsmanship can be found at unbelievable prices.

Arts and culture

Birmingham’s decades of investment in the arts is now really paying off. Its music scene couldn’t be more varied, with Symphony Hall regarded as the finest concert hall in Europe and the local bars and clubs catering for all tastes, from pop and rock to folk and jazz. With Birmingham theatres attracting top names and impressive productions, plus its own ballet and symphony companies, the city can compete with anywhere in Europe. There are also plenty of galleries, so you can see the great Masters as well as more provocative contemporary art within walking distance of BSAVA’s conference venues.

Eating out

The city is a heaven for foodies. Many know Birmingham as home of the balti, and certainly nowhere else in Britain will you have such hot temptations as in the famous Balti Triangle – with some 50 balti Indian restaurants condensed around Sparkbrook, Balsall Heath and Moseley. However, there is much more to Birmingham’s culinary offering than curry. Whether you’re looking for Michelin stars or a quick bite, you will find somewhere to satisfy any appetite and suit every pocket.

Accommodation

Thousands of extra visitors’ flood Birmingham during BSAVA Congress, and fortunately the city has the quantity and variety of hotel options to cope. There are the usual chain hotels, quirky quality boutique offerings, budget bedrooms and sophisticated business apartments. An accommodation form will be included in your registration pack, and all this can be dealt with by The Birmingham Convention Bureau – go to www.visitbirmingham.com or visit the travel and accommodation section of this website by clicking here.

Plan your activities during your stay at Congress ...