Barber Institute of Fine Arts is situated a few miles from Birmingham City Centre, in the district of Edgbaston, this small art gallery is run by the University of Birmingham.

It was founded in 1932 by Lady Barber, who was married to a wealthy Birmingham businessman.

The building was built between 1935 and 1939 by leading British architect Robert Atkinson. And it is considered by many to be one of the best examples of 1930s architecture.

As well as for the architecture, it is well worth visiting the Barber Institute for its paintings. For although small, the collection includes some excellent pieces by big names such as Gainsborough, Rubens, Monet, Turner, Renoir and van Gogh.

The Barber Institute of Fine Arts is open daily from 10am to 5pm Mondays to Saturdays and from 2pm to 5pm on Sundays.