Jewellery Quarter Exploration

I had a day off yesterday and decided to go and explore the Jewellery Quarter in Birmingham. I've lived in the Jewellery Quarter for almost a year and a half, but have never actually ventured into the main area before.

There were reams and reams of jewellery stores and it would be shopper's heaven if you were looking for an engagement ring or wedding bands. As I was wrapping up my explorations, I spotted the Pen Room. I remember reading about it in first year when we wanted cheap things to do during the weekends, so I decided to pop in. I know this wouldn't be the first place of choice for most people (my flatmates in first year laughed at me when I suggested going there...), but I actually find history interesting and I'm glad I went in. I was told about the history of the pen trade, which was big in Birmingham in the 1800s and shown the machines that they would have used by Patrick, one of the volunteers. He even let me have a go and I got to make a pen nib. And then another volunteer, Keith, taught me about braille and even spelt out my name for me, which was really cool. Then I went through to the other room and was shown the displays by Linda.

Yesterday was something a bit different from just going into town for a mooch around the shops or just slobbing around in my pyjamas on my days off and I had a lovely time. I'd definitely recommend popping in if you're ever in the Jewellery Quarter. I just thought I'd share a few photos with you:

I'm definitely going to try to go to more museums and exhibitions from now on. I'm gutted that I won't be able to see the Chanel Little Black Jacket exhibition at the Saatchi Gallery, as I think it finishes tomorrow. Does anyone have any recommendations for things to do/see in either London or Birmingham?

Thanks for reading. xoxo, Joy