Birmingham and the surrounding area are becoming quite the haven for geeks, with lots of options for geeky days out, spaces to hang out and choices for shopping. Check out some of Birmingham’s best geek credentials.
Explore Lord Of The Rings locations
Beloved fantasy author, JRR Tolkien lived in Birmingham for several years and was inspired by several Brummie landmarks and local sites for his most famous series, Lord Of The Rings. Shire Country Park, named for the books, covers several of these spots which you can visit for yourself. Check out Sarehole Mill, which inspired the Shire or Moseley Bog, the inspiration for Fangorn forest, both of which are within the park.
Get your game on
More into indoor pursuits? Birmingham has lots of options for social gaming of all kinds. In the city centre, hit Tilt for craft beers and classic pinball machines, or visit Kong’s for old school arcade games. If more modern machines are more your thing, visit House of Gamers on the Bristol Road for console gaming and e-sports. Looking for table-top or board games? Get yourself to Digbeth to Wayland’s Forge, or Geek Retreat on Priory Queensway.
Shop ‘til you drop
If you’re in search of comics, games or topping up your collection of Funko Pop figures, you’re in luck. Birmingham town is home to lots of shopping options. If you’re looking for movie merchandise, check out Forbidden Planet on Bull Street. Just around the corner, your anime needs are taken care of at Tokyo Toys. If comics are your scene, visit Nostalgia and Comics on Smallbrook Queensway. The store has recently had a major makeover, but you’ll still find back issues and top-notch advice on what to read.
Not so conventional
Like conventions? Birmingham hosts many comic and film conventions of all sizes. Visit the twice yearly MCM Comic Con at the NEC, or Collectormania Film and Comic Con for large scale events. If you’re looking for something smaller, try International Comics Expo for all your comics collecting needs, or the independent Not Another Comic Con, which returns for a second event this August.
In Birmingham, geek is definitely chic.
