St George's Hall

You'll struggle to find a more dramatic entrance anywhere in the city than walking up those imposing steps into this colossal neo-classical temple. The Great Hall's sheer scale hits you immediately – that incredible tunnel-vaulted ceiling soaring overhead, Minton tiles stretching endlessly beneath your feet in geometric perfection. The heritage centre does justice to the building's fascinating past, from its dual role as concert hall and crown court to its wartime secrets. Don't miss the original Victorian prison cells in the basement – they're genuinely atmospheric rather than gimmicky. The Small Concert Hall upstairs is an acoustic marvel, while the café makes a decent pit stop between exploring the ornate rooms and catching whatever's on in the events programme.