Photo by Kyle DeSantis on Unsplash
Birmingham feels like a playground if you love sports. Everywhere you turn, there’s something going on: football matches filling up stadiums, cricket games that bring people together on warm afternoons, and sports bars that feel more like home on a matchday. Whether you’re new in town or you’ve lived here all your life, 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year to be a sports fan.
1. Watch Different Sports at World-Class Venues
Watching an Aston Villa match live would be cool, right? Well, in Birmingham, you can walk into Villa Park on a Saturday afternoon and feel that real matchday energy in the air. The same goes for Edgbaston when cricket season rolls around or when athletics take over the Alexander Stadium during the summer.
Some attendees enjoy placing a bet or two to make live games even more exciting. While most UK betting platforms are tied to strict Gamstop rules, some sports betting not on Gamstop options are available for fans who want a bit more freedom. They’re not on Gamstop simply because they operate outside the UK’s regulatory network, giving users more flexibility and fewer restrictions. These offshore betting sites are licensed in places like Malta and Curacao, but can be accessible in Birmingham and around the UK.
So whether it’s Premier League football, international cricket, or live athletics, Birmingham has the perfect spot for you to cheer, shout, and maybe even win a little something on the side.
2. Tour Famous Stadiums and Sports Centres
Birmingham offers the chance to go behind the scenes of some of its most iconic sports venues. Villa Park and St Andrew’s are two must-visit spots if you’re a football fan. You’ll get to explore the dressing rooms, walk through the players’ tunnel, and sit in the stands where so many incredible moments have happened.
If cricket’s more your thing, a tour of Edgbaston is an absolute treat. This historic ground has been home to some of the most thrilling matches in England’s cricketing history. Learning about the city’s cricketing legacy and seeing the memorabilia that celebrates past victories makes these tours a fantastic way to get even closer to the sports you love.
3. Enjoy Live Sports at Birmingham’s Best Bars and Lounges
Perhaps you don’t want to sit in a stadium, but you still want to catch the game in style. Well, Birmingham has numerous spots where the atmosphere on matchday is alive and buzzing. Box Brindleyplace is the perfect example. This lively sports bar has screens on every wall, plus it’s a great place to grab a drink and a bite to eat while you watch.
If you’re looking for a more classic pub vibe, head over to The Button Factory in the Jewellery Quarter. It’s got all the charm of a traditional pub, but with big screens showing all your favourite sports. And if you’re after something a bit more unique, the Birmingham Bierkeller gives a fun Bavarian twist to sports viewing. The energy is contagious, and you might just end up making new friends while cheering for your team.
4. Experience Women’s Football
There’s a shift happening in women’s football, and Birmingham is at the heart of it. Birmingham City Women have been making waves, and they’re on the brink of returning to the Women’s Super League. Their home games are full of energy, offering a thrilling and affordable way to experience top-tier football. The games aren’t just for die-hard fans; they’re also family-friendly. So, grab your friends or bring the kids, there’s nothing like seeing elite football up close and personal.
5. Join in on The Local Rugby Scene
Rugby is huge in the UK, and Birmingham doesn’t fall short of exciting opportunities for rugby fans. In 2024, the Rugby Football Union (RFU) reported that the industry generated £175.2 million in revenues and £58.2 million in profits. Cities like Birmingham help drive the industry forward. The Birmingham Moseley Rugby Club is one of the city’s most celebrated teams, and watching them play is a fantastic way to experience local rugby talent. Their matches are fast-paced, with plenty of action, and the atmosphere is always charged.
You can also check out the Worcester Warriors if you’re willing to take a short drive. While it’s technically just outside Birmingham, it’s home to top-tier rugby and a loyal fanbase. Experiencing a rugby game in the Midlands is a whole different vibe. Get ready for some fast action and unforgettable moments.
6. Take a Cycling Tour of the City
If you love sports and want to see the city from a different perspective, a cycling tour might just be what you’re looking for. Birmingham has some fantastic cycling routes, and with the rise of cycle lanes and bike-friendly spaces, it’s easier than ever to get around the city on two wheels. Whether you’re cycling along the canal or riding through one of the many parks, it’s a great way to stay active while also getting a closer look at the city’s sights.
Plus, cycling is a perfect way to check out areas like Cannon Hill Park or Sutton Park. These spots are ideal for sports lovers who like to combine fitness with outdoor adventure. You can make it a solo journey or even join a guided cycling tour to learn more about Birmingham’s history, all while getting in some great exercise.
Birmingham is a hidden gem for sports lovers in 2025. Whether you’re watching thrilling matches, exploring iconic stadiums, enjoying a pint at a buzzing sports bar, or even cycling through the city, there’s no shortage of ways to immerse yourself in the action. The city has something for every kind of fan, making it the perfect place to experience the excitement of live sports.