Birmingham was fine! We stayed in this inn that claims it was originally built in 1358 which is doubtful but there is really solid evidence that it was used as an inn in the 16th c and all this to say that it was dim and a little cold and we liked it. Birmingham is like a real city where it seems like people have jobs as opposed to all the little villages we had been frequenting. We also got dinner in the greasiest restaurant I have ever been too– still can’t get the smell out of my coat. The only request I had for this trip was to go to Shakespeare’s Birthplace in Stratford-Upon-Avon so being there was a dream! Meg was very patient as I ranted and raved about my favorite author. The village was a fun little town filled with people obsessed with Shakespeare. Would return! I would love to come back and see a show.