Rooted in Birmingham
Our early history can be traced back to as early as 1843, with the founding of Birmingham Society of Arts and School of Design. Over time, five individual colleges were brought together to form The City of Birmingham Polytechnic in 1971, later becoming Birmingham City University.
History
Birmingham is recognised as the UK’s second city and is a forward-looking and vibrant place in which to live and study, but its history as a major settlement dates back as early as the 12th century, when it was a thriving market town. Surprisingly, Birmingham has more miles of canal than Venice, and it was the extensive development of this transport network that cemented Birmingham as a key contender in the global export market.
What we're best known for
Our city has a reputation for manufacturing and invention, and was a world-leading pioneer in the jewellery trade. We’re proud to say our School of Jewellery is located in the heart of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, where over 40 per cent of all the UK’s handmade jewellery is still produced.
Birmingham is also the birthplace of world-renowned Cadbury chocolate, which came to be when George and Richard Cadbury opened their chocolate factory in Bournville, during the 19th Century.
Much of the former industrial properties across Digbeth have been converted into some of Birmingham’s most exciting independent food and drink, arts and nightlife venues. Visitors and locals alike are huge fans of our thriving street food scene, and the abundant ways to socialise in the city (think miniature golf and ping-pong!) ensure you never have a dull day out.
See more things that make Birmingham famous.
Birmingham today
As a city, Birmingham is proud to champion its independent businesses and diverse community, which boasts a population of more than one million people from a wide range of different cultures and ethnic groups. Birmingham is a hub for arts and culture, commerce and entertainment, offering the lifestyle benefits of a capital city at a smaller cost.
It is home to the largest financial services and creative sectors outside of London, so it’s no wonder that more young people than ever are choosing to live, work and study in the city. There are more jobs and opportunities than ever before, and Birmingham’s diverse businesses and creative industries have established its reputation as an exciting, ambitious and global city.
