Birmingham Christmas: A Day at Cadbury World and the Christmas Market

When a Christmas day trip was organized by Cardiff University to Birmingham for only 15 pounds, I immediately signed up.

Birmingham Christmas: A Day at Cadbury World and the Christmas Market

Getting to Birmingham

Birmingham is about 117.6 miles from Cardiff and its takes approximately 2 hours to cover the distance via Highway No. M5. Birmingham is about 125.8 miles from London via Highway No. M40. Buses are easily available from the Victoria Coach Station and cost around 10 pounds if you plan your travel at least ten days in advance. If you book after that, it may cost a bit more.

Cadbury World

I chose to visit Cadbury World because Cadbury was my favorite chocolate brand as a child–and continues to be today, too. I recommend pre-booking your tickets for guaranteed entry here.

Mariska Hargitay said, “Chocolate is the first luxury. It has so many things wrapped up in it: Deliciousness in the moment, childhood memories, and that grin-inducing feeling of getting a reward for being good.”

At the factory, I learned that the Cadbury Chocolate Bar dates back to the 1800’s when John Cadbury first created the brand’s amazing recipe. He is also responsible for developing an emulsification process in order to make solid chocolates. I have no doubt that Mr. John Cadbury is residing in heaven now.

Birmingham Christmas: A Day at Cadbury World and the Christmas Market

The Cadbury World experience was amazing. So many children hope to visit a chocolate factory at some point in his/her life. My wish was granted, too, though a little late, and I uncovered the world of chocolate delights and learned about chocolate’s history,  manufacturing and packaging.

I ended the tour with a visit to the World’s Biggest Cadbury Shop. A treat for both the eyes and the mouth the shop offered plenty of special offers that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. Stock up on whatever Cadbury sweet you love most of all: Cadbury Dairy Milk, Buttons, Flake, or Jelly Babies.

Frankfurt Christmas Market & Craft Fair

Birmingham Christmas: A Day at Cadbury World and the Christmas Market

Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market & Craft Fair has run for over a decade now. It has become a favourite of both locals and visitors from all over the world. With around 180 stalls, it is the largest Christmas Market in the Britain.

Pretzels, schnitzels, bratwurts, knoblauchbrot  and pancakes will tempt your taste buds, as will the large variety of beer and cider, including Gluhwein, Weissbeer, and tasty hot chocolate. If you’re looking for presents for your loved ones or yourself, check out the crystal lamps, hand-crafted leather work, rugs and much more.

The Frankfurt Market can be found in Victoria Square in front of the Council House and stretches down to the Rotunda. The Craft Market is in Chamberlain Square, in front of the Birmingham Museum and the Art Gallery and continues through Centenary Square, home to Library of Birmingham.

While there, be sure to drink a hot mulled wine, feast on chocolate crepes, sing Christmas carols, and get into the festive atmosphere!

 

Photo credits for Birmingham Christmas: A Day at Cadbury World and the Christmas Market by Rani Singh.