Encircled by the A4540, Birmingham is easy to navigate thanks to well-maintained roads, helpful signage and logical layouts.

As in Ireland, you’ll use the left-hand side of the road, overtake on the right and all passengers must wear a seatbelt.

Take Suffolk Street Queensway to access some of the city’s best things to do, including the Bullring, Electric Cinema and Hippodrome Theatre.

If you’re heading for the National Sea Life Centre, Arena Birmingham or Symphony Hall, drive along Broad Street and peel off towards your end destination.

Cadbury World is one of the area’s finest attractions – simply follow the A441 out of the city centre and turn onto Raddlebarn Road. Within 20 minutes you’ll find yourself in chocolate heaven, where you can learn all about the history of this famous brand, as well as sample some of its best known treats.

As a major transport hub, Birmingham has great access to a number of major motorways. Drive north on the M6 and two of the north’s best cities are within easy reach – Liverpool and Manchester.

Uncover the intriguing history of Liverpool’s docklands before heading inland to shop up a storm in Manchester.

The M5 connects Birmingham to the south-east, perfect if you’re looking for a day trip. While Cheltenham oozes historic charm, Bristol dazzles with its natural beauty and independent spirit.

Once you’ve ticked off some of the UK’s best cities off your to-do list, venture down the M42 to enjoy a dose of rural air. The Cotswolds are just over an hour away, worth the drive to experience the charming chocolate box villages and rolling countryside.

Shopaholic, music fan, history and heritage connoisseur or thrill seeker - you’ll find something for every taste in this vivacious and colourful city.

Major investment and regeneration over recent years has breathed new life into Birmingham, cementing its place on the national map as one of the best urban destinations in the UK.

Retail therapy

Birmingham is a magnet for shoppers. Here, extravagant couture and designer wear meets chic high-street brands. Add in plenty of independent boutiques and mouth-watering food markets and you’ve got the perfect recipe for a day or two of indulgence.

In the heart of the city you’ll find shopping paradise when you step into the Bullring & Grand Central. With more than 200 shops to choose from, there are plenty of places to get your retail fix.

Stroll over to The Mailbox for designer goodies, with Emporio Armani, Tommy Hilfiger and Harvey Nichols among the luxury brands under the contemporary roof.

If you’ve worked up an appetite, make your way to Digbeth Dining Club. This street food extravaganza takes place from Thursday – Saturday, celebrating the many diverse cuisines found in the city.

Heavenly aromas waft from every stall - the hardest choice is picking out just one place to eat. From slow-cooked beef massaman curry to epic chicken satay burgers, feast on a wealth of delicious street food.

Birmingham’s sweet centre

Although the city is heading in a futuristic direction, its history can still be traced in the centre. Visit Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, housed inside a grand Grade II listed building, and wander the intriguing exhibitions.

Pass collections of Anglo-Saxon gold, Egyptian pottery and artefacts from 18^th century Birmingham, before heading to the Edwardian Tearooms. After a morning of exploring, you can refuel with a plump scone, served with fresh strawberry jam and a dollop of clotted cream.

Further evidence of Birmingham’s industrial past can be found at Cadbury World in the pretty village of Bournville. Munch on your favourite chocolate bars from the famous cocoa brand as you tour around its historic exhibition.

Once you’ve brushed up on Cadbury’s history, head into the factory to have a go at creating your own chocolate.  

Discover Shakespeare country

The quaint market town of Stratford-upon-Avon is on Birmingham’s doorstep, ideal for a history-packed day trip. Nestled next to the River Avon, this quintessentially English destination is most famous for being William Shakespeare’s birthplace.

In the well-preserved Tudor centre you’ll find sights that tell the tale of the Bard of Avon. Make a beeline for the playwright’s childhood home to hear stories of his family life, then head on to Anne Hathaway’s Cottage to amble around the romantic gardens of the thatched farmhouse.   

From the M5, turn off at the Malvern Hills. This area of outstanding natural beauty is just the place to let daily life melt away. Set off for a ramble around the lush landscape and enjoy views of the surrounding secluded countryside as you go.

Whether you’re travelling as a family, for business, day tripping or planning something a little longer, car hire in Birmingham gives you the freedom and convenience to get from A to B.

Busy yourself with all that this city has to offer or pack up your hire car and head off to explore more of the UK.