10 best things to do in Birmingham for couples who deserve more than just Netflix
Looking for things to do in Birmingham for couples, minus the argument over where to eat? You’re lucky because this city has more romantic options than your partner has unread messages.
Whether you’re into long walks by the canals or getting competitive over mini golf, Birmingham’s got your love life covered. Who says romance has to be candlelit and serious?
You’ll laugh, eat, explore, and maybe even get a new profile pic that doesn’t scream “taken during an awkward phase.” Date night just levelled up in Birmingham style.
1. Take a romantic stroll through Birmingham Botanical Gardens
Media credit: bbgardens
Website: https://birminghambotanicalgardens.org.uk/
Location: Westbourne Rd B15 3TR
Contact: +44 121 454 1860
Hours: Monday to Sunday: 10 AM – 5 PM
Pricing: £
If you’re the type of couple who loves peaceful escapes, the Birmingham Botanical Gardens should top your list. Located in Edgbaston, it spans 15 acres and features four stunning glasshouses: tropical, subtropical, Mediterranean, and arid desert.
On a weekday morning, we found it surprisingly quiet, perfect for slow conversation. There are also seasonal highlights worth catching, such as the cherry blossoms in spring and the dahlia.
Admission costs £7.50 per adult, but discounts are available for students and seniors.
After exploring, we grabbed a coffee from the tearoom overlooking the gardens, which made the experience feel extra cosy. A small gift shop also stocks sustainable, locally made souvenirs. It’s great if you collect travel mementoes together.
Pro Tip:
Time your visit in spring or early summer. The rose garden and blooming wisteria arch are especially romantic for couples seeking great photo opportunities.
2. Dine afloat with Brindleyplace Canal Cruises
Media credit: magdalena.wanio
Website: https://brindleycruises.co.uk/
Location: Narrow Boat Bosworth Lady, The Water’s Edge, Brindley Pl B1 2JB
Contact: +44 7853 226516
Hours: Monday to Sunday: 9 AM – 5 PM
Pricing: £££
Romantic dining doesn’t get much better than on Birmingham’s canals. Away2Dine offers dinner cruises from Brindleyplace aboard narrowboats that glide through the city.
We booked the four-course evening meal, which cost £49.50 per person. We found it surprisingly private, even though we were sharing the boat with other couples. The route passes Gas Street Basin, Mailbox, and old canal tunnels that sparkle with lights at night.
Drinks are paid separately onboard, and there’s a fully licensed bar if you’re celebrating. Most trips last about 2.5 hours, and reservations are essential, especially on weekends.
If you prefer lunch over dinner, they also offer afternoon tea and Sunday roasts. They operate all year round with heated interiors, so you don’t have to worry about the British weather.
Pro Tip:
If you both enjoy puzzles, try the “Murder Mystery” cruise. It’s a quirky way to switch up your usual date night.
3. Enjoy cocktails at Sky Bar & Restaurant
Media credit: sky_barandrestaurant
Website: https://www.resortsworldbirmingham.co.uk/eat-drink/sky-bar-and-restaurant
Location: Pendigo Way, Marston Green B40 1PU
Hours: Monday to Thursday: 6:30 AM – 1 AM | Friday: 6: 30 AM – 2 AM | Saturday: 7 AM – 2 AM | Sunday: 7 AM – 12 AM
Pricing: ££
Set atop Resorts World near the NEC, Sky Bar & Restaurant is a rooftop bar and restaurant with stylish booths and excellent views. It’s ideal if you’re celebrating something or just want a treat-yourself date.
Their cocktail menu features classics and signature options, such as the ‘Garden of Eden’ with elderflower and cucumber. Mains cost around £20–£30, and they also offer decent afternoon tea at £29.95 per person.
We found the rooftop garden pods especially cute, perfect for winter dates or rainy days. Just note you’ll need to book the pods separately and well in advance.
This spot is also part of a larger entertainment complex, allowing you to easily combine it with a spa visit, a trip to the casino, or outlet shopping.
Diners can also park for free.
Pro Tip:
Book one of the igloo-style pods during the festive season. It’s a unique experience with heaters, blankets, and private service.
4. Catch a show at Birmingham Hippodrome
Media credit: checkemoutbooks
Website: https://www.birminghamhippodrome.com/
Location: South Side, Hippodrome Theatre, Hurst St B5 4TB
Contact: +44 121 689 3000
Hours: Monday to Sunday: 10 AM – 8 PM
Pricing: ££
The Birmingham Hippodrome is the city’s iconic venue for musicals, opera, and ballet. It’s also home to the Birmingham Royal Ballet and regularly features West End tours.
We booked seats for a Saturday matinee and found even the upper circle offered clear views. Tickets usually start at £20, but premium seats can go upwards of £60 depending on the show.
Accessible seating and hearing assistance options are also available.
The venue is near Chinatown and Arcadian, so there’s plenty to do pre- or post-performance. Before the show starts, you can also grab a drink at the Hippodrome cafe bar.
Pro Tip:
For cheaper tickets, look out for midweek matinees or sign up for the Hippodrome’s email alerts to catch early booking offers.
5. Relax with a spa day at The Cube
Media credit: yooohoozszz
Website: https://www.thecube.co.uk/
Location: 196 Wharfside St B1 1RN
Contact: +44 121 654 9400
Hours: 3 PM check-in time and 12 PM check-out time
Pricing: ££
If you’re craving a break from sightseeing, The Club and Spa inside The Cube is a luxury spot that caters to couples. Spa day packages typically include a 55-minute treatment, lunch, and access to the pool, steam room, and sauna.
We went for their Twilight Spa, which costs £65 per person. We loved the calming ambience, especially the rooftop vitality pool overlooking the city. The changing rooms are clean and well-equipped.
The spa also partners with the Marco Pierre White Steakhouse, offering a perfect way to end the day with a romantic dinner. It’s ideal for birthdays or low-key anniversaries.
Located in the Mailbox area, it’s easily accessible on foot or by taxi. Spa days need to be booked online in advance, though.
Pro Tip:
Try the midweek spa deals. They’re often 15–20% cheaper and much less crowded than weekends.
6. Take a chocolate masterclass at Cadbury World
Media credit: cadburyworlduk
Website: https://www.cadburyworld.co.uk/
Location: 69 Linden Rd, B30 1JR
Contact: [email protected]
Hours: Monday to Friday: 10 AM – 3 PM | Saturday and Sunday: 10 AM – 4 PM
Pricing: £££
Chocolate lovers, this one’s a classic. Cadbury World in Bournville isn’t just for kids; it offers interactive exhibits, factory fun, and delicious samples for adults too.
We signed up for the “Chocolatier Experience” (£49 per person), which teaches you how to mould, temper, and decorate your creations. Regular entrance starts at £19.95 if you wish to take the tour.
While it’s a bit outside the city centre (around 20 minutes by train), the station is just a few minutes walk away. The heritage-rich village of Bournville is also worth exploring.
Also, be sure to book in advance, as weekends and school holidays sell out quickly. On select evenings, they also offer couples and adult-only events.
Pro Tip:
Look for the “Couples Chocolate and Wine Pairing” evenings. They’re rare but worth it for a more adult experience.
7. Visit Ikon Gallery
Media credit: ikongallery
Website: https://www.ikon-gallery.org/
Location: 1 Brindley Pl, Oozells Sq, B1 2HS
Contact: +44 121 248 0708
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 11 AM – 5 PM
Pricing: Free
Ikon is a free contemporary art gallery in Brindleyplace, with regularly changing exhibitions. It’s housed in a beautiful neo-Gothic building and includes work from UK and international artists.
The gallery itself is small enough to explore in under an hour. We liked how peaceful it felt, especially on weekday afternoons.
There’s a gift shop and a cafe, Yorks, right downstairs, with great coffee and cakes. If you’re into photography or installations, you’ll likely find something thought-provoking here.
They also offer free guided tours if you ask in advance. Also, check the website for upcoming workshops or couple-friendly evening events.
Pro Tip:
Ask for the “Ikon Slow Looking” brochure. This gives helpful questions for each exhibit, so you get more out of the visit.
8. Sip wine at Loki Wine
Media credit: rachel_white_photography
Website: https://www.lokiwine.co.uk/
Location: 36 Great Western Arcade, B2 5HU
Contact: +44 121 212 9440
Hours: Monday and Wednesday: 10 AM – 9 PM | Thursday to Saturday: 10 AM – 11 PM
Pricing: ££
Loki Wine in the Great Western Arcade is a boutique wine merchant with a twist, offering self-service wine machines. You can try wines by the glass in 25ml, 125ml, or 175ml sizes, making tasting affordable.
We topped up a card with £20 and tasted wines we wouldn’t normally order, from French Burgundy to Chilean Syrah. Cheese and charcuterie are also on offer, so you can snack while sipping.
The vibe is relaxed and social, not snooty at all. It’s open late most nights, and you can book a table online for weekends.
If you’re into spirits, they also have a gin bar upstairs with small-batch brands. Staff are knowledgeable and happy to offer suggestions.
Pro Tip:
If you’re on a budget, consider ordering their small plate and tasting flight combo early. It’s a better value than ordering à la carte.
9. Discover the secret garden at Winterbourne House
Media credit: winterbournehg
Website: https://www.winterbourne.org.uk/
Location: 58 Edgbaston Park Rd, B15 2RT
Contact: +44 121 414 3003
Hours: Monday to Sunday: 10:30 AM – 5 PM
Pricing: £
Located near the University of Birmingham, Winterbourne House is a hidden spot, ideal for relaxing and romantic afternoons. Entry is £8.00 per adult and includes access to both the Edwardian house and the botanical gardens.
Inside the house, you’ll find exhibitions on Edwardian life, arts and crafts furniture, and vintage kitchen setups. It’s an easy way to blend nature and culture in one visit.
We were surprised by how tranquil it felt despite being close to the city centre. The garden paths lead to lakes, bridges, and greenhouses. It’s perfect for couples who enjoy slower, scenic strolls.
There’s also a tea room on-site, which serves generous portions of cake. And the good news is that it’s open daily.
Pro Tip:
Visit during bluebell season (late April to early May). They bloom in clusters, making for a lovely surprise along the woodland trail.
10. Watch a film at The Electric Cinema
Media credit: rosie.millard
Website: https://www.electriccinema.co.uk/
Location: 191 Portobello Rd, London W11 2ED
Hours: Monday to Sunday: 9 AM – 10 PM
Pricing: £
The Electric is the UK’s oldest working cinema, offering a unique date night experience with plush seating and table service. During the film, you can order drinks and snacks to be delivered to your seat.
Standard tickets start at £10, and sofa seats can be upgraded for £15. We watched an indie film with prosecco in hand, and it felt like a movie night and a cosy lounge hangout.
Their schedule includes a mix of new releases, cult classics, and themed screenings. However, don’t expect loud blockbusters; this place is artsy and curated.
It’s located near New Street Station, so it’s easy to reach on foot or by train.
Pro Tip:
If you’re after a quiet, cocooned cinema experience, avoid peak Friday/Saturday night viewings. Opt instead for weekday matinees or early evening screenings (usually before 6 PM on Monday to Wednesday).