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The RI City Guide: Birmingham

We're back with yet another city guide and this time, we're taking on Birmingham. It's no surprise that Britain's second-largest city boasts a plethora of things to do, see, drink and eat, but in case you needed inspiration, we've teamed up with DesignMyNight to bring you an easy itinerary for your trip. The only thing missing: a trip to our River Island store in The Fort Shopping Park; because you always have to come home with a little holiday treat, right?

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Somewhere to Eat: Gaucho

Located in the heart of Birmingham's city centre, Guacho makes for the perfect pitstop on your great city trek. Fuel up on their impeccable selection of Argentinian steaks and Latin American plates whilst you rest your feet and enjoy their luxurious interiors (which are inspired by Argentina’s forests, btw). If you're in need of something a little stronger (city breaks are hard work), take your big from their menu of fine wines and signature cocktails.

Somewhere to Drink: Tonight Josephine

A firm favourite of Londoners, Tonight Josephine has *finally* arrived in Birmingham. Known for its outrageous interiors of glittering walls, empowering neon signs and mirrored ceilings, this is bar is the epitome of "more is more". The same goes for their Instagram-worthy drinks, our favourites being: the purple-coloured Violet Femme to the fiery Pisco Inferno which is served in your very own disco ball. Whether you're on the hunt for a hen do celebration or a girly night out, Tonight Josephine is the ultimate after-dark hang out.

Something to Do: The Big Birmingham Bake

Fans of the GBBO, gather 'round: the unbeatable baking experience has landed in Birmingham. It's time to ready your mixers, pop on your oven mitts and prepare for an afternoon of whisking, rolling and drizzling your way towards a winning bake at The Big Birmingham Bake. Take it as your opportunity to let your competitive streak run wild as you challenge your friends to a bake off, Whether you create a masterpiece or a right old mess, we can guarantee that this'll be an afternoon that goes down in the books. P.S., it's perfect for that hen do you're planning.

Somewhere to Shop: River Island, The Fort Shopping Park

Every holiday or day trip needs a souvenir, right? Make yours a fashion-forward one by popping into our River Island store at The Fort Shopping Park. Filled with trending styles that are even better in person (believe it or not) you'll be spoilt for choice. Our top recommendation: check out the styles from our #ITSINOURJEANS denim campaign IRL. They're everyone's favourite jeans for a reason, and soon they'll be yours too.