One of the most up and coming neighbourhoods in Birmingham, Stirchley (less than 15 minutes out of the city centre) has quickly become a haven for independent businesses. From breweries to bakeries, there’s plenty on offer to make a visit to the area worth your while…
Here's our guide to 10 reasons to visit Stirchley
1) Brunch and baked goods
On the high street you'll find Loaf - a local bakery and cookery school all about wholesome food and community spirit (a running theme in Stirchley). And not far away, you can grab one of the best brunches in the city at Caneat Cafe. Their menu is constantly changing but always boasting seriously tasty grub and amazing homemade cakes.
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2) Beer
Stirchley is now so infamous for beer establishments that is has it's very own beer mile - a tour of eight fantastic bars and breweries between Bournville and Kings Norton stations. You'll find a total of three craft breweries along the way - Birmingham Brewing Company, Attic Brew Co. and Glasshouse.
Other pitstops en route are The British Oak and Cork & Cage as well as bottle shop Stirchley Wines.
3) Street-food-style independent restaurants
Feeling peckish? You'll be spoilt for choice on Stirchley high street. From artisan pizza at Alicia’s Micro Bakehouse to umami-packed traditional Vietnamese food at Eat Vietnam, there's a range of cuisines on offer. And don't miss the newest member of the Stirchley food scene, Soi 1268 by Buddha Belly.
4) Chippy tea
Just a 5 minute drive from the high street and widely regarded as the best chip shop in Birmingham, Dad's Lane Fish Bar is both takeaway and sit-in restaurant!
5) Award winning bars
Couch has recently been named as the 37th best cocktail bar in the UK, making it a must-visit venue with a menu inspired by iconic movies. Other quirky bars that are definitely worth a visit include Stir Stores - which you won't miss for it's neon lights and gorilla emblem, and Artefect - which doubles up as an art gallery!
6) Curry
After all that bouncing around, you're bound to have worked up an appetite and by now you'll know that Stirchley isn't short of good food. With more than a dozen curry houses in the vicinity of Stirchley, we reckon it's a contender for one of the best areas in the city to get a good balti. Kolkata Lounge recently had a full refurb making it one of the trendiest venues around to enjoy an evening with friends.
7) Cotteridge Park
This 22 acres of Victorian park is perfect for when you’re in need of a little fresh air. If you fancy something a little more active, join their community Tai Chi classes, SwingFit or Couch to 5k.
8) Sustainable shopping
If you're interested in ethical products, look no further than Hedge. This part floristry studio, part concept fancy goods and gift store has sustainability at its core. And while we're on the subject of cute independent shops, make sure you drop by Sweetmeat who make some of the tastiest fudge in the Midlands.
9) Get active
If you’re after a high, head to Rush UK Trampoline Park to blow off some steam. Check out their ‘after dark’ sessions and student nights at discounted rates.
10) And chill...
After all that shopping, eating and drinking, take some time to re-set at Yoga Borne - a purpose built yoga studio running in-person and online classes for all levels.
