The Birmingham Christmas Markets are well-known for their popularity on social media. When my university friend and I decided to meet up, Birmingham was chosen as a central location between my hometown of Manchester and her hometown of Cardiff. To my surprise, Birmingham turned out to be even busier and rainier than Manchester, which is known for its bustling and rainy weather.
The train journey to Birmingham was crowded, with people almost sitting on top of each other in the aisles. The constant rain made it challenging to enjoy browsing the market stalls, and the city itself was incredibly packed, reminiscent of London’s bustling atmosphere.
The market stalls were beautifully decorated and created a festive ambiance, but the overcrowding made it difficult to find respite from the rain. Trying a Bratwurst for the first time left me unimpressed, and the search for a lunch spot was a struggle due to the overwhelming crowds.
The day was marked by constant rain, leaving me feeling like a drowned rat with frizzy hair. Walking through puddles caused the dye from my shoes to leak onto my socks, adding to the unpleasant experience of the weather.
Despite the challenges, spending time with my friend made the day enjoyable. However, the chaotic traffic and delays in leaving Birmingham city center highlighted the drawbacks of the busy city. A hot shower at home was a welcome relief from the damp and cold weather.
The experience has led me to consider visiting Birmingham when the Christmas markets are not in full swing to avoid the crowds and inclement weather.