When the temperature rises, Birmingham has plenty more to offer than the nearest beer garden or shopping centre. Whether you're looking to escape the heat, cool off with a refreshing drink, or try something completely different, there are lots of unique ways to make the most of a sunny day.
At Yuup, we're all about helping you discover experiences that turn an ordinary summer day into something memorable. From underground tours and brewery visits to creative workshops and leisurely afternoons, here are some of the best ways to stay cool in Birmingham this summer.
1. Head underground on Birmingham's Catacombs Tour
When everywhere else is baking in the sunshine, the city's hidden underground spaces stay wonderfully cool.
Discover Birmingham's Catacombs takes you beneath Warstone Lane Cemetery, where you'll explore one of the city's most fascinating hidden landmarks while learning about Birmingham's Victorian history. It's a brilliant way to escape the midday heat while uncovering a side of the city most people never see.
Perfect for: History lovers, visitors to Birmingham and anyone looking for unusual things to do.
2. Cool down with a craft beer tasting
Cold beer and summer go hand in hand.
Swap the crowded pub garden for a guided Craft Beer Tasting and Brewery Tour, where you'll learn how beer is made before sampling a range of locally brewed favourites. Brewery spaces stay comfortably cool, making this an ideal activity when the afternoon sun is at its strongest.
Perfect for: Couples, groups of friends and anyone searching for unique food and drink experiences in Birmingham.
3. Sip while you paint
If it's simply too hot to be outside, why not spend a couple of hours in air-conditioned comfort getting creative?
Cocktails and Canvas combines painting with your favourite drink, giving you the chance to relax, chat and create your own artwork with plenty of creative freedom. No artistic experience is needed, making it an easy summer activity for friends or a special date night.
4. Discover Birmingham on foot
Summer walks don't have to mean battling the midday heat.
Birmingham's guided walking tours are best enjoyed during cooler parts of the day, when the city feels quieter and the golden evening light makes everything look even better.
Choose from experiences including:
- Secret History of Birmingham Streets
- Streets Paved with Gold: Jewellery Quarter Tour
- The Madiba Walk
- Birmingham City Centre Walking Tour
They're a fantastic way to explore hidden stories, architecture and local history while avoiding the hottest hours of the day.
5. Spend an afternoon at a board game café
Sometimes the best way to stay cool is simply slowing down.
Gather a few friends and enjoy An Afternoon at the Board Game Café, where you can settle in for hours of games, great coffee and friendly competition. It's ideal if you're looking for relaxed indoor activities in Birmingham that don't involve staring at another screen.
6. Get creative with a workshop
Creative workshops are one of our favourite ways to spend a warm afternoon.
Instead of wandering around in the heat, learn a new skill in a welcoming indoor space. Birmingham has everything from macaron painting sessions to pottery painting and jewellery making, giving you the chance to leave with both a new skill and something you've made yourself.
Great options include:
7. Treat yourself to afternoon tea
When the weather is warm, lighter lunches and afternoon treats are hard to beat.
An Indian Afternoon Tea offers a refreshing twist on the traditional afternoon tea, combining beautifully prepared savoury dishes and sweet treats with plenty of flavour. It's a relaxed way to spend a hot afternoon without rushing around the city.
Looking for more inspiration?
Browse our full collection of things to do in Birmingham, from creative workshops and food experiences to walking tours and hidden gems you'll only find on Yuup. With new experiences added regularly, there's always something different waiting to be discovered.
