The people, family firms and independent businesses that make Birmingham tick: founder stories, local shops, homes, gardens and community.
Saved by volunteers in 1997, Martineau Gardens in Edgbaston offers free entry, therapeutic horticulture and school visits, and is now raising funds for a new eco community building.
Sixth-generation family business Thomas Fattorini has been crafting medals, badges and trophies in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter for more than a century, with a story stretching back to 1827.
Founded by George Cadbury in 1900, Bournville Village Trust marked its 125th anniversary with a Museum of Us exhibition, heritage days and a new future for the much-loved Rest House.
Started with 12 stalls in 2000, Moseley Farmers' Market now brings up to 60 independent producers to the village every month and puts its surplus back into local good causes.
Birmingham youth homelessness charity St Basils, which has supported young people since 1972, holds its 36th Big Sleepout at Alexander Stadium on 13 November 2026.
Built for the family firm behind Bird's Custard, Digbeth's Custard Factory was reborn from the 1990s as a home for studios, start-ups and media businesses.
From its Selly Oak hospice to its Black Country base in Walsall, Acorns supports babies, children and young people with life-limiting conditions and their families.
Closed as a swimming pool in 1986, Stirchley's Edwardian baths reopened as a community hub in 2016 and in 2026 celebrate a decade of clubs, cinema, heritage tours and neighbourly spirit.
From the first police whistle to whistles carried aboard Titanic, Jewellery Quarter firm J. Hudson and Co. has been making Acme whistles in Birmingham since 1870.
Saved from housing by the Save Our Bog campaign, Moseley Bog and Joy's Wood is now a cherished nature reserve with Bronze Age remains and a link to The Lord of the Rings.