Birmingham’s big names nominate their top city attractions.
MOBO award-winning singer Laura Mvula, Homeland actor David Harewood and Michelin-starred chef Glynn Purnell are among the famous faces appearing in a summer showcase by Visit Birmingham, the city’s official leisure tourism programme.
Familiar Faces’ Favourite Places also sees the likes of comedian Jasper Carrott, model Danielle O’Hara and TV presenter Nick Owen choose their favourite things to do in the city.
The series of short films forms part of This Is Birmingham, Visit Birmingham’s campaign – supported by travel partner London Midland – to highlight the many ideas on offer for a summer break in the region, from the likes of visitor attraction Cadbury World, popular theatre Birmingham Hippodrome and nitenite cityhotels.
Singer Laura Mvula, who studied at Birmingham Conservatoire, recommends Town Hall Birmingham, the “killer food, good vibe” of Carib Grill Restaurant in Moseley and the peace and tranquility of St Philip’s Cathedral in her top five.
Glynn Purnell, owner of Michelin-starred Purnell’s Restaurant, lists his beloved Birmingham City, the Balti Triangle, Bullring and the markets among his highlights.
He added: “I love dropping into the Hippodrome – I often take the kids to see shows and the panto is a massive highlight; I think it’s the best in the country.”
Emma Gray, Director of Marketing Services at Visit Birmingham, said: “With plenty to do in Birmingham and the region this summer, it’s great to get endorsements from some of the city’s best-known figures who clearly love the same as all of our visitors – fantastic food, superb shopping and award-winning attractions. The city’s popularity as a leisure destination continues to grow, with a record 34 million people coming to discover all that Birmingham had to offer last year – and a 32 per cent rise in international visitors, higher than any other UK city.”
Other familiar faces recruited by Visit Birmingham include film director Steven Knight and footballers from Aston Villa and Birmingham City. There are also visitor recommendations from Birmingham Hippodrome’s Head of Customer Services and one of Cadbury World’s leading chocolatiers.
Diane Mitchell, marketing manager at Cadbury World, said: “Cadbury World is constantly evolving as a visitor attraction to ensure an unforgettable experience for all of our guests. Our recently-launched 4D Chocolate Adventure gives people of all ages an exciting, new experience by bringing the famous Cadbury brands to life. With a number of special events planned – including our colourful Character Weekend, The Sooty Show and Aztec Weekend – there’s lots to keep our visitors entertained across the summer.”
All of the summer suggestions can be seen at visitbirmingham.com/what-to-do/top-5-films/