Birmingham Canterbury Train

The city of Birmingham, which is located in the West Midlands in England and is the most populous city in Britain outside London. The city is a major international commercial centre and as a result it has excellent transport, retail, events and conference facilities. The city has six universities which makes it the largest centre of higher education in the country outside London.

Birmingham's architecture is largely a product of the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries having only really developed as a city as a result of the Industrial Revolution. Evidence of Birmingham's medieval history can be seen in its oldest churches, particularly the original parish church of St Martin in the Bull Ring, and two public houses - the Lad in the Lane and The Old Crown.

Birmingham's universities are: Aston University, University of Birmingham, Birmingham City University, University College Birmingham, Newman University and a campus of the University of Law and BPP University. The city is also home to the regional base of the Open University.

The city has three main line railway stations: Birmingham New Street, Birmingham Moor Street and Birmingham Snow Hill. Between them they offer passengers many direct services across the United Kingdom. Curzon Street railway station is planned to be the northern terminus for phase 1 of the High Speed 2 rail link from London which is due to open in 2026.

Located in the south east of England in the county of Kent, Canterbury is an historic city with its cathedral being the centre of the world wide Anglican Church. The cathedral, the oldest in England, dominates the city's skyline but there is more to Canterbury than its cathedral. The ancient ruins of St Augustine's Abbey and St martin's Church form Canterbury's UNESCO World Heritage Site. Canterbury is a small city and is best explored on foot. Walking trails or guided walks will help you make the most of your time here and to enjoy the winding lanes and streets, all with their own unique identity. Alternatively you may wish to relax and absorb the wonder of the city with a boat trip along the River Stour where will be able to appreciate Canterbury's finest and historical architecture set against outstanding, scenic views. The crystal clear waters of the Stour offer a home to ducks, swans, fish and other wildlife while the river banks have an array of bending willow trees and wild flowers. North of the city is the award winning Crab and Winkle Way which is mostly a traffic free, seven mile cycling and walking route based on an old railway line running between Canterbury and Whitstable. It's safe for children and provides a perfect place to picnic along the way in the heart of one of England's oldest forests.