Movies and Books Set in Birmingham

Birmingham, a vibrant city in England’s West Midlands region, is not just known for its industrial heritage and innovative architecture, but also for its significant contributions to the world of cinema, literature, and television. Famous films shot in Birmingham, along with numerous TV shows, and novels have made the city a popular destination for cinephiles and bookworms from around the globe. This comprehensive guide will take you on a cinematic journey through Birmingham, unveiling the city’s hidden gems, legendary filming locations, and much more.

Birmingham and the Silver Screen

Birmingham’s diverse cityscape has played a pivotal role in many renowned films that have captured the hearts of viewers worldwide. From action-packed blockbusters to heartwarming romantic dramas, Birmingham’s architectural wonders have served as an ideal canvas for filmmakers.

One such iconic film is Steven Spielberg’s “Ready Player One” (2018), where the city’s Jewellery Quarter and Digbeth area were transformed into a dystopian future landscape. Another notable film is the thrilling spy movie “The Spy Who Loved Me” (1977), part of the James Bond franchise, featuring scenes shot in Birmingham’s Spaghetti Junction.

Here are our top 10 picks of famous films shot in Birmingham:

• “Ready Player One” (2018) – Directed by Steven Spielberg. The film showcases Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter and Digbeth area transformed into a dystopian Columbus, Ohio.
• “The Spy Who Loved Me” (1977) – Directed by Lewis Gilbert. The infamous car chase scene with James Bond was filmed in Birmingham’s Spaghetti Junction.
• “Locke” (2013) – Directed by Steven Knight. This gripping drama unfolds in real-time in a car driving from Birmingham to London.
• “Kingsman: The Golden Circle” (2017) – Directed by Matthew Vaughn. The film features a high-octane taxi chase scene shot in Birmingham City Centre.
• “The Girl with All the Gifts” (2016) – Directed by Colm McCarthy. This post-apocalyptic horror film features numerous scenes shot in Birmingham.
• “Gangsters” (1975) – Directed by Alastair Reid. This British television drama series was filmed in Birmingham, featuring the gritty underworld of the city.
• “Survivors” (1975) – Directed by Pennant Roberts. The post-apocalyptic drama series was filmed in various locations around Birmingham.
• “Hustle” (2004) – Directed by Bharat Nalluri. The British television drama series, about a group of con artists, was filmed extensively in Birmingham.
• “Dancing on the Edge” (2013) – Directed by Stephen Poliakoff. The drama series about a black jazz band in 1930s London was primarily filmed in Birmingham.
• “The Game” (2014) – Directed by Niall MacCormick and Daniel O’Hara. This Cold War spy thriller was filmed in various locations around Birmingham.

Birmingham in Television and Animation

Birmingham’s enchanting cityscape has not only served as an inspiration for filmmakers but also for television shows and animated series. The city’s iconic landmarks and architectural marvels have been beautifully depicted in several popular TV shows and animations.

• “Peaky Blinders” (2013–present) – Created by Steven Knight. This British period crime drama is set in Birmingham, England, in the aftermath of World War I.
• “Line of Duty” (2012–present) – Created by Jed Mercurio. This British police procedural drama has filmed several scenes in Birmingham.
• “Doctors” (2000–present) – Created by Chris Murray. This British medical soap opera is set in the fictional town of Letherbridge, based on Birmingham.
• “Crossroads” (1964–1988) – Created by Hazel Adair and Peter Ling. This long-running British television soap opera was set in a fictional motel in the Midlands, near Birmingham.
• “Dangerfield” (1995–1999) – Created by Nigel McCrery. This British drama series about a small-town doctor and police surgeon was filmed in various locations around Birmingham.

Famous Books Set in Birmingham

Birmingham’s rich history and cultural significance have made it a popular setting for numerous literary works. From classic novels to contemporary literature, the city’s unique charm and character have been beautifully captured.

Here are three classic and three contemporary famous books set in Birmingham:

Classic:

• “The Rotters’ Club” by Jonathan Coe – A coming-of-age novel set in 1970s Birmingham.
• “Man and Boy” by Tony Parsons – A touching novel about a man raising his son alone in Birmingham.
• “The Mill on the Floss” by George Eliot – A classic novel set in a fictional town near Birmingham.

Contemporary:

• “What Was Lost” by Catherine O’Flynn – A contemporary mystery novel set in a shopping centre in Birmingham.
• “The Atlas of Us” by Tracy Buchanan – A gripping novel about a woman from Birmingham searching for her missing mother.
• “Turning for Home” by Barney Norris – A touching novel about a family gathering in Birmingham.

Exploring Birmingham’s Filming Locations – Where to Go

To fully immerse yourself in Birmingham’s cinematic history, there are several key filming locations worth visiting. Start your journey at the iconic Victoria Square, the heart of the city, which has been featured in numerous films and TV shows. From there, make your way to the Jewellery Quarter, a historic area with a rich cinematic history.

Here are ten must-visit filming locations in Birmingham:

1. Victoria Square – Featured in “Ready Player One”.
2. Jewellery Quarter – Featured in “Ready Player One” and “The Game”.
3. Spaghetti Junction – Featured in “The Spy Who Loved Me”.
4. Digbeth – Featured in “Ready Player One” and “Line of Duty”.
5. Birmingham City Centre – Featured in “Kingsman: The Golden Circle”.
6. Edgbaston – Featured in “Doctors”.
7. Aston – Featured in “Peaky Blinders”.
8. Sutton Park – Featured in “Survivors”.
9. Gas Street Basin – Featured in “Hustle”.
10. St. Andrew’s Stadium – Featured in “Dangerfield”.

Where to Sleep in Birmingham

When it comes to accommodation, Birmingham offers a range of options to suit every budget and preference. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels, you’re sure to find a place that feels like home.

Budget options:

• Hatters Birmingham Hostel – A friendly, budget-friendly hostel located in the heart of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter.
• Ibis Budget Birmingham Centre – An affordable hotel offering clean and comfortable rooms in the city centre.
• Birmingham Central Backpackers – A budget-friendly hostel offering dormitory-style rooms and a relaxed atmosphere.

Luxury options:

• The Edgbaston – A boutique hotel offering luxurious rooms and a stylish cocktail lounge.
• Hyatt Regency Birmingham – A luxury hotel offering upscale rooms, a spa, and stunning city views.
• Malmaison Birmingham – A chic hotel located in the iconic Mailbox complex, offering luxurious rooms and a sophisticated bar.

Where to Eat in Birmingham

Birmingham’s culinary scene is as diverse as its cinematic landscape. From traditional British cuisine to international flavours, the city offers a plethora of dining options.

Budget options:

• The Indian Streatery – Known for its delicious and affordable Indian street food.
• Bodega Cantina – A lively restaurant serving budget-friendly South American dishes.
• The Warehouse Cafe – A vegetarian and vegan-friendly cafe offering a range of affordable dishes.

Luxury options:

• Purnell’s – A Michelin-starred restaurant offering innovative British cuisine.
• Adam’s – Another Michelin-starred restaurant known for its modern and refined dishes.
• Simpsons – A luxury restaurant offering exquisite British cuisine in a sophisticated setting.

Detailed Itinerary: Day by Day

To make the most of your film-themed trip to Birmingham, follow this comprehensive three-day itinerary that covers the city’s most iconic filming locations.

Day 1: Central Birmingham

• Start your day at Victoria Square, the heart of Birmingham and a location featured in numerous films.
• Visit the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, located on Victoria Square.
• After lunch, head to the Jewellery Quarter, a historic area with a rich cinematic history.
• End your day with dinner at The Indian Streatery, known for its delicious and affordable Indian street food.

Day 2: The Outskirts of Birmingham

• Begin your day with a visit to Spaghetti Junction, an iconic filming location.
• After lunch, head to Sutton Park, a filming location for the TV series “Survivors”.
• End your day with a visit to the Aston district, the setting for the “Peaky Blinders” series.

Day 3: Modern Birmingham

• Start your day at Birmingham City Centre, featured in “Kingsman: The Golden Circle”.
• From there, go to Digbeth, an area featured in “Ready Player One”.
• After lunch, visit Edgbaston, a filming location for the TV show “Doctors”.
• End your day with a visit to the Gas Street Basin, a filming location for the TV show “Hustle”.

Local Legends and Curiosities

Birmingham’s film industry is steeped in fascinating legends and curiosities. One such legend is the story of the “Peaky Blinders”, a gang that ruled the streets of Birmingham in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The gang’s story has been immortalised in the TV series of the same name. Another local legend is the “Birmingham Bull”, a giant bronze statue located in the Bullring Shopping Centre. The bull has made several appearances in local films and TV shows and is considered a symbol of the city’s strength and resilience.

Hidden Gems in Birmingham

While the iconic landmarks of Birmingham often steal the spotlight, the city is also home to several lesser-known filming locations that are worth exploring.

• The Electric Cinema: This is the oldest working cinema in the UK and has been featured in various films and TV shows.
• The Old Joint Stock: This is one of the highest-rated pubs in Birmingham and has been used as a filming location for various TV shows due to its beautiful Victorian architecture.
• The Library of Birmingham: This modern, architecturally interesting building has been used as a backdrop in several films.

What to Pack for a Trip to Birmingham

When packing for your film-themed trip to Birmingham, consider the weather and the activities you plan to engage in. Birmingham has a temperate maritime climate, so pack a mix of lightweight clothing for mild temperatures and layers for cooler evenings. Don’t forget to bring comfortable shoes for walking, as you’ll likely be exploring various filming locations throughout the city.

Spring (March to May):

• Light jackets or sweaters for the typically cool weather.
• Comfortable walking shoes as you’ll be exploring filming locations on foot.
• Umbrella or raincoat as spring can have occasional showers.
• Camera and extra batteries to capture Birmingham’s beautiful spring bloom at the filming locations.

Summer (June to August):

• Light clothing like t-shirts and shorts for the warm days.
• A good hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect from the sun.
• A water bottle to stay hydrated.
• A portable fan can also be handy on particularly hot days.

Autumn (September to November):

• Warm clothing like sweaters and jackets as the temperature starts to drop.
• Scarves, gloves and hats for the colder days in late autumn.
• An umbrella or raincoat for the rainy days.
• Birmingham is beautiful in fall, so don’t forget your camera!

Winter (December to February):

• Heavy winter clothing including thermal wear, heavy jackets, and waterproof boots.
• Gloves, scarves, and hats are essential to protect from the cold.
• Moisturizer and lip balm to prevent skin dryness in the cold weather.
• A thermos for hot drinks can be helpful to stay warm during your explorations.

In all seasons, don’t forget to pack a map of Birmingham, a portable charger, travel documents, and a translation app or English dictionary.

Transportation Tips

Getting around Birmingham’s filming locations is relatively easy thanks to the city’s extensive public transportation network.

• Metro: The Midland Metro tram system is a convenient way to get around the city.
• Bus: Birmingham has an extensive bus network that covers the entire city and its outskirts.
• Taxi: For convenience, taxis or ride-hailing apps like Uber are available.
• Walking: Many famous filming locations in Birmingham are located close to each other, especially in the city centre.
• Bicycle: Birmingham offers bike rental services like Brompton Bike Hire. This could be a fun and eco-friendly way to travel between close-by locations in good weather conditions.

Remember, Birmingham is a large city with heavy traffic at times, so always account for travel time between locations.

Conclusion

Birmingham, with its rich cinematic heritage and literary history, offers a unique blend of culture and entertainment. Whether you’re a fan of classic films, animated favourites, or engrossing TV shows, Birmingham’s vibrant metropolis provides a truly immersive experience. So grab your camera, pack your bags, and get ready to embark on a cinematic journey through Birmingham.