Twas the night before Christmas and Dave wanted to explore Birmingham. I had already been earlier with Mum and Dad but was happy to go again and show Dave around, not that I had actually seen everything when I had previously ventured there as my visit was mainly to do the German Christmas markets. We sussed out the train times and off we went to see what Birmingham had in store for us.
It was really nice to think that we didn't have to do any last minute Christmas shopping, that we were only walking and exploring and watching everyone else rush around!!!
I first wanted to show Dave the famous Bullring Bull, all dressed as the Gingerbread Bull.
We then carried on walking, while admiring the architecture of all the old buildings, down New Street and then veered up Temple Street to Cathedral Square.
and along Waterloo Street to Victoria Square where The River, also known as the 'Floozie in the Jacuzzi' artwork is located and the Figural pieces by Mistry. These are a pair of enormous beasts, somewhat sphinx like, but perhaps more akin to the Abyssinian figures in the British Museum. They are of stone, and entitled The Guardians.
Floozie in he Jacuzzi....
We then found the Birmingham Library. Apparently there's been a bit of controversy over its external design!!! I thought it looked like a very large tiered cake with a candle on top!!! Alternatively, a ship's funnel or presents stacked. I must say it was quite impressive, inside and out.
Views of Birmingham City and beyond from the top of the library.
After walking for a few hours we popped in to the Brass House by the canal for a bite to eat and a refreshing pint! We both had the traditional pub lunch of scampi and chips... very tasty!
We then wandered along Gas Street Basin, the canal side, and came across The Cube building. Within we found seven life size bronze figurines. A portfolio of exclusive sculptures by contemporary artist, Temper. Showcasing his first works, dedicated to and influenced by 'The Lovely People' of the city he loves. Each piece immortalises a real person who has inspired others and demonstrates a source of pride for the city.
After a lovely few hours wandering around we were feeling a little warn out so we decided to head back to the train station and catch the train home out of the rat race of Birmingham!!!
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