Birmingham — Brindley Place

I’m sure Birmingham is studied by city planners the world over for its revitalized city center. The canal network that carried coal and iron during the Industrial Revolution made it England’s second city. However, these canals were made obsolete in the mid-20th century, and Birmingham was left with abandoned factories, warehouses, towpaths, and waterways that cut right through the heart of the city. In the 70s and 80s the city revitalized it all by building public spaces that drew people back to the canal paths — theaters, a symphony hall, an arena, an aquarium, amusement parks, shopping centers, restaurants, and boutiques. And it seems to have worked quite well. The canals are a vital part of the city’s pedestrian pathways. My favorite part is close to my apartment where the canal system goes above the city streets and boats cross bridges over the traffic below. Another highlight was the Black Sabbath Bridge where they have a camera set up for you to capture a photo on the bench next to Ozzy and the band (all famous Brummies). I also spent some time canal-side at a bakery cafe and later found the best Neapolitan pizza in the UK. I spoke to an Italian bloke there who gave me the sad news that Italians in England do not make “pizza gain” for Easter, so I won’t be having my favorite Easter pie this year. The good news is that Cadbury World is here in Birmingham farther down along the canal where the company began in 1824. I’ll be going there on Easter Monday. Chocolate is a great revitalizing force.Read more