Birmingham blooms this month with a series of horticultural highlights to brighten up the city and hopefully win an award or two.
At the University of Birmingham's Winterbourne Botanic Garden, new geographically themed plant beds are launched on July 3, with a central ship exhibition area at the heart of the new display.
A leaflet on the gardens is available from 0121 414 3832; the gardens are at 58 Edgbaston Park Road, Edgbaston. Opening times 11am-4pm weekdays, plus weekend events and Sunday afternoons in June and July. Admission is £2, children under 16 get in free.
Across town the final preparations are being made for Birmingham's entry for Britain in Bloom 2004.
Businesses around the Jewellery Quarter have been particularly busy following last year's triumph when St Paul's In Bloom won the Silver Gilt prize and Royal Worcester Spode trophy for outstanding merit.
To boost the city's bid, a floral path of 'flower towers' has been laid, linking areas of mixed use regeneration from The Mailbox to St Paul's Square.
To find out more about the route - and Birmingham itself - there are special hour-long Blue Badge Guide walks each Sunday in July along a section of the route; tickets are £3 from tourist information centres or by calling 0121 202 5099.
A free leaflet is also available if you prefer to take a self-guided walk.
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With over 550 city centre stores, each categorised by location and specialty, our shopping directory will help you make the most of your trip into the city.
We also have all the details of the latest offers and events at your favourite city stores.