11 Instagrammable Places in Birmingham

The Birmingham Botanical Gardens' vibrant greenery is reminiscent of a Victorian public park, as all the shrubbery is intricately landscaped to enhance the aesthetic. Multiple species of flora can be found here, and it's not all native to the UK. You'll find 4 greenhouses in total, and each can be used to convey a different kind of feeling in your images. You can opt for a tropical vibe or go for something subtropical instead. You'll also find Mediterranean plants and even a house for arid plants. Check it out for yourself on the east side of Chad Valley.

Moseley Bog is a nature reserve with numerous dry paths and boardwalks that make its Tolkien-esque old forest scenery easily accessible. The similarities to the old forest found in Tolkien's work is no accident, as the writer frequented the bog as a child. In addition to the natural wonders, you'll also find historical sights, including 2 burnt mounds from the Bronze Age and a few Scheduled Ancient Monuments. Grab some impressive nature shots at the bog a few miles south of the city centre.

St Martin's Church, also known as St Martin in the Bull Ring, is a striking Victorian church in Birmingham. Established in 1855, it’s built on the site of an original structure that was first documented in 1263. Today, this centuries-old building makes for a striking landmark across the street from the ultra-modern Bullring & Grand Central shopping centre.

The church is open to visitors throughout the week, so you can head inside and admire its soaring stained-glass windows. The church organ and bells ring true throughout the neo-Gothic edifice. Along with a regular line-up of workshops and exhibitions, there’s also a charming tea lounge serving snacks and refreshments.

Edgbaston Reservoir is a popular spot for water sports and exploring the surrounding nature, making it perfect for capturing photos showcasing natural beauty and timeless fun. Popular activities in the area include sailing, kayaking and canoeing, but you'll also see some windsurfers around occasionally. The natural wonders of the reservoir are extensive, as you'll find vibrant greenery and varied wildlife. Numerous bird species make their home here along with several different newts and bats. See it all for yourself just south of Summerfield Park.

Brindleyplace is one of the most popular destinations in town and features old buildings being merged with new construction all along a scenic canal that's perfect for photos. The area is quite large and is home to many office buildings that can also make for compelling photos, thanks to their architecture. Most of the best spots in the area will be by the central canal, especially when boats are making their way through. For a different angle, you can even take a boat tour yourself and get a new perspective. You'll find this area in Westside by the Birmingham Canal Old Line.

The Council House is a Grade II listed building that sports stunning 19th-century architecture and is home to the local seat of government for the city. The building is easily recognisable, thanks to its towering columns and intricate designs carved above the main entrance that includes a depiction of Britannia. This building is also home to Big Brum, Birmingham's iconic clock tower. It makes a stunning backdrop to photos of the building and the square, so be sure to capture it during your trip. You'll find it all on the north side of Victoria Square.

The Cube is a mixed-use development that takes the shape of a massive cube, with square designs along its sides and a glass crown with an accessible interior. From outside, The Cube looks like a futuristic structure that makes for compelling shots in its own right, but the interior is equally appealing. Inside, you'll find sleek lines similar to the exterior, though there's a major open area that allows you to look down into its depths from a vantage point on the upper floors. Keep in mind that much of development is made of flats, so you can't visit everywhere. You'll find The Cube right by where the Birmingham Canal Old Line turns at Gas Street Basin.

The Custard Factory is a district full of restored Victorian factories that have been transformed into a variety of different cafes, shops, offices and cinemas. One of the most iconic aspects of this area is the colour of the buildings. You'll find bright blue, yellow and pink among their exterior colours. While the area has been largely modernised, you can still capture some historical flair as well. The Old Library, for example, dates back to the mid-19th century, and you can see Victorian Gothic splendour there. See it for yourself on the eastern edge of Dibeth by the canal.

Singers Hill Synagogue is a 19th-century structure that's officially a Grade II listed building that features a yellow and red brick design. The architecture is a masterpiece of Yeoville Thomason and combines neo-classical, Romanesque and Italianate design traditions. The architectural style is complemented by a classical basilica plan inside with a Bimah that historic synagogues are known for. You can visit this synagogue for yourself a few steps southeast from The Mailbox shopping mall, on the east side of Gas Street Basin.

Selly Manor is a timber-framed house that dates back to the late 15th century and features the Laurence Cadbury furniture collection. If you're looking to capture the past, there's no better place than this house, as even the objects inside date back centuries. The exterior of this manor is perfect for photos, as the timber construction and white and brown colourings contrast well with the vibrant greenery of the well-kept lawn. Check it out for yourself a short walk northeast from Bournville Park.

The Mailbox is a high-end neighbourhood in the city centre where you'll find shopping opportunities, restaurants and impressive urban architecture. The Mailbox is one of the best places in town to capture the urban lifestyle, with modernist buildings and architecture in all directions. You'll find The Mailbox right next to the canal, so you can get some shots of the water as well. You may even want to venture out on a boat for some new angles of The Mailbox. You'll find it all right next to The Cube.