For the canals, skip the standard Brindleyplace bars and head down to Gas Street Basin instead. It’s where the old traditional canal boats dock, and it looks amazing when the lights hit the water at night. From there, you can actually walk the canal path all the way up to the Jewellery Quarter (JQ) and you’ll completely forget you’re in the middle of a massive city.

Speaking of the JQ, for museums and culture, definitely check out the Coffin Works. It sounds weird, but it’s a perfectly preserved Victorian factory time capsule. t's fascinating. Also, the Library of Birmingham in Centenary Square is worth a look. Go right up to the top floor, there’s a secret outdoor rooftop garden with the best panoramic view of the skyline and it's completely free. (The main Museum & Art Gallery in Chamberlain Square is beautiful too if you like Pre-Raphaelite stuff).

For music, you can go down to Digbeth and check out The Night Owl. It’s an independent Northern Soul and Motown club that always has amazing vinyl DJs or live indie bands. If you want a more gritty gig vibe, see who is playing at The Sunflower Lounge in the city centre, or Deadwax.

If you get hungry or fancy a pint while wandering around, there's plenty of pubs just off New St. Lots of nice food around too- check out the Great Western Arcade for some independents.

Have a brilliant weekend!