We started our trip to Birmingham with a long overnight flight into London. I thought I’d sleep most of the way, but that didn’t exactly happen. I watched a couple movies, flipped through the in-flight entertainment options way too many times, and ate some snacks to pass the time. Even with the lights dimmed and a travel pillow, I couldn’t really get comfortable. I think it was mostly the excitement – finally going to England after so much planning made my brain feel like it was on overdrive.
Landing at Heathrow felt surreal. It was early, and even though we were all running on little to no sleep, the second I stepped off the plane, I felt this wave of energy. I was finally in the UK! It didn’t matter how tired I was- just being there gave me a second wind.
The airport was packed, but getting through customs did not take long at all . Everyone looked a little dazed, including our group. We eventually made it through and gathered our luggage. Then came the waiting – our bus to Birmingham wasn’t there as soon as we’d hoped, and sitting in the terminal trying to stay awake was a whole challenge on its own. Heathrow is huge, with people coming and going from all over the world, so it felt like we were in the middle of a global highway.
When the bus finally arrived, we piled in and settled down. The ride was about two and a half hours, and for most of it, I dozed off. Every now and then, I’d wake up and see the landscape through the window – green fields, stone houses, and quiet little towns. It was peaceful in a way that felt totally different from home. The countryside was the perfect way to ease into the city without being thrown right into the chaos.
One of the first places we walked to was the Library of Birmingham, and wow, that building is something else. It doesn’t look like a typical library – it’s stacked like giant boxes wrapped in a metal pattern that kind of looks like loops or lace. Even from the outside, it made a strong impression. We didn’t get to go inside, but I’m hoping we’ll circle back later this week. I’m curious to see if the inside is just as interesting as the outside.
Right next to the library is Centenary Square, which is a large open area surrounded by all kinds of buildings – some newer, some historic. The square had fountains shooting up from the ground, families walking around, kids chasing each other, and a street performer playing the guitar. I loved how casual but full of life it felt. It’s the kind of place where you could sit for a while and just people-watch.
Our next stop was the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery. The building itself is pretty stunning – large and full of history. Inside, we walked through rooms filled with artwork, old tools, sculptures, and exhibits about the city’s industrial past. I liked that it didn’t feel overwhelming – it was easy to take your time and really focus on what caught your eye. There’s a cafe inside that feels modern and comfortable, which made for a nice place to rest and regroup before heading back.
Then, we explored the Birmingham canals, which ended up being one of my favorite parts. I had no idea Birmingham has more canals than Venice. That fact alone blew my mind. These canals used to be for transporting goods during the Industrial Revolution, but now they’ve been transformed into walking paths with restaurants and little cafes lining the way.
Of course, no visit to Birmingham would be complete without stopping by the famous bull statue outside the Bullring Shopping Centre. The statue is huge and made of bronze, with a kind of fierce expression that makes it feel like it’s watching everyone walk by. Naturally, we took photos of it. I was really hoping to see it blow smoke like Dr. Marks mentioned it can do sometimes, but no such luck. Still, it was cool to see in person.
By the time we returned to the hotel, I was completely exhausted. Between the flight, the lack of sleep, and all the walking, I felt like I could barely keep my eyes open. But at the same time, I couldn’t stop thinking about everything we saw. Birmingham surprised me – in the best way. It’s a city with so much contrast: modern buildings next to historic ones, busy streets just a few steps from peaceful canals, and a culture that feels both rooted in history and very current at the same time.
I’m already excited to see what the rest of the week brings. If today is any sign of what’s ahead, we’re in for some unforgettable experiences.