Art lovers in Birmingham should pop by Ikon Gallery in glitzy Brindley Place to see what this edgy art space is showcasing at any given moment – it features a changing roster of temporary exhibitions by artists from around the world, be it painting, film, photography or mixed media installations. Housed in what was once a boarding school, the gallery has shown works by leading names like Olafur Eliasson and Julian Opie, while its amusing singing lift – designed by Turner Prize winner Martin Creed – will charm you with its vocals as you make your way around. Pause for refreshments at York Café, and browse for keepsakes at Birmingham’s only independent arts bookstore.