Enjoy the view from the secret garden

The Library of Birmingham, which is proud to be the biggest regional library in Europe, boasts stunning views of the city's skyline from its "hidden" garden. On a sunny day, take the escalator up and take in the second-largest city in the UK, from its historic structures to its modern structures and ongoing construction.

Finding a position to view Birmingham from above is worthwhile since curvy curiosities like the Bullring and the Rotunda give Birmingham one of the UK's more distinctive skylines. The best viewing area in the city is modestly situated on the seventh story of the Library of Birmingham in Centenary Square, not in a tower.

The Secret Garden at the library more than makes up for its lack of towering height with genuinely panoramic views of the outside, plenty of space to meander, and a lovely elevated green place for summertime relaxation above the clamor of the city.