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Great Western Arcade isn’t just a shopping passageway—it’s a living museum of Victorian charm! Arched glass ceilings bathe the space in golden light, while intricate storefronts line both sides, making every step feel like stepping into a period film. Whether hunting for a unique trinket or sipping coffee in a cozy nook, this place wraps you in timeless warmth.
This hotel boasts a prime central location, directly connected to the International Convention Centre and Symphony Hall. Explore nearby museums, shopping hotspots, and family-friendly attractions like Broad Street and Bullring Shopping Centre, just 10 minutes by train from the airport and exhibition centre. Rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows with city or canal views, luxurious marble bathrooms, and 24-hour room service. Unwind at the Amala Spa with a 16m indoor pool, gym, and Turkish bath. With diverse dining options at the restaurant and bar, it’s perfect for both business and leisure!
Everything you need to know about Great Western Arcade
The Bull Hotel is a top choice, located just a 5-minute walk from Great Western Arcade. This historic boutique hotel blends Victorian-era architecture with modern comforts, offering elegant rooms and free Wi-Fi. Its central location makes it ideal for exploring the arcade's shops, local cafés, and nearby attractions like St Philip’s Church and Birmingham Square. The hotel also provides personalized service and curated local experience guides for visitors seeking authentic urban charm.
Yes, Great Western Arcade is exceptionally well-connected. It’s within a 10-minute walk of Birmingham New Street Station, the UK’s busiest railway hub, providing direct trains across the country. Additionally, the Birmingham City Centre Metro Station is just a short stroll away, serving the West Midlands Metro light rail system. Whether arriving by train, tram, or bus, access to the arcade is seamless, making it convenient for both tourists and locals alike.
The arcade itself is a living museum of industrial heritage, now housing art exhibitions, craft markets, and independent design studios. Visitors can attend weekend artisan fairs featuring handmade goods from local creators. Nearby, Birmingham Art Gallery hosts rotating exhibitions on contemporary and historical British art. The area also features street art installations and pop-up performances, reflecting Birmingham’s vibrant creative scene. Don’t miss a traditional afternoon tea at a heritage café inside the arcade—perfect for soaking in local culture.
Great Western Arcade is a photographer’s dream, with its cast-iron dome, arched glass roof, and intricate Victorian detailing. Capture stunning shots during golden hour when sunlight streams through the skylights. Nearby Birmingham Square offers a fountain and sculpture garden ideal for urban portraits. The façade of St Philip’s Church, with its ornate stonework, complements the arcade’s architectural style. Wear a classic British hat or long coat and pose in the arcade’s central courtyard for timeless, story-rich images.
Start your day at Great Western Arcade, exploring its historic interiors and artisan stalls. Enjoy lunch at The Old Market Café inside the arcade. In the afternoon, visit the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery to discover the city’s rich history and artistic evolution. Head to Birmingham Square in the evening to see the arcade illuminated at night. End your day with a drink at The Bull Hotel’s rooftop terrace. If time allows, take a quick tram ride to the Ice Factory for winter fun—perfect for combining culture, history, and leisure.
Yes, The Bull Hotel offers complimentary city guidebooks and optional historical walking tours led by local experts, revealing the hidden stories behind the arcade’s industrial past. They also partner with the Birmingham Cultural Society to host monthly events like ‘Arcade Nights’, featuring live music, vintage photo exhibitions, and tea gatherings. Some room packages include a discount card for exclusive shopping at local boutiques within the arcade, enhancing your cultural immersion and travel value.
The Grand Hotel Birmingham is a top choice just a 3-minute walk from Great Western Arcade. This elegant hotel blends Victorian architecture with modern comforts, offering rooms with soundproof windows and complimentary Wi-Fi. Guests enjoy access to an on-site Spa Lounge for rejuvenating treatments after exploring the arcade’s historic shops and cafés. The hotel also provides local guided tours and is within 500 meters of Birmingham New Street Station, making it ideal for travelers seeking both convenience and charm. Its central location ensures easy access to museums, theatres, and the vibrant city centre.
Near Great Western Arcade, families will love visiting the Birmingham Museum of Science, featuring interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and hands-on science labs perfect for children. Just a 5-minute walk away is Birmingham City Park, offering playgrounds, scenic lakeside paths, and summer outdoor performances—ideal for relaxed family outings. Weekends often host artisan markets and workshops led by local creators, such as pottery-making and fabric painting, providing authentic cultural engagement. The arcade itself also hosts themed events like vintage markets and live jazz nights, adding lively charm to your visit.
The fastest way is taking the Midland Metro tram, which stops directly at "Great Western Arcade" station—just a 10-minute ride from the city centre. The stop is located right outside the arcade entrance, allowing instant access. Alternatively, bus routes 20 or 47 serve nearby stops like "New Street Station" or "Victoria Square," followed by an 8-minute walk. For eco-friendly travel, electric bike-sharing stations are available across the city centre. Use the Birmingham Travel App to check real-time schedules and optimize your route for maximum efficiency.
Built in 1893 as a commercial branch of the Great Western Railway, the arcade once stood as Birmingham’s most bustling retail hub. Its ornate cast-iron dome and marble colonnades remain intact, showcasing Victorian engineering artistry. In the 1960s, it faced demolition, but public outcry led to its preservation as one of the UK’s first protected historic arcades under heritage law. Today, it houses several century-old shops, including Birmingham Cake Shop, whose recipe dates back to 1880. Each autumn, the Arcade Light Festival uses projection mapping to recreate 19th-century street scenes, offering visitors a vivid journey through time.
See what other travelers say about Great Western Arcade
Staying here for two nights was a perfect choice! The location is unbeatable—just a 10-minute walk to the train station, and everything else you’d want is within easy reach. I loved strolling along the riverside bar street in the evenings—it’s lively but not overwhelming, with great vibes and plenty of dining options nearby. The city center is only a 5-minute walk away, making it ideal for business travelers or anyone wanting to explore the heart of Birmingham. The rooms were clean, comfortable, and well-maintained, and the staff went above and beyond to make us feel welcome. It’s rare to find such a convenient, stylish, and welcoming hotel in the middle of it all. Highly recommend this stay for both leisure and work trips!
My stay at Hotel at Conference Aston in Birmingham was excellent overall. The location is incredibly convenient—just a short walk from the city center and easily accessible by metro. There are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops nearby, making it easy to explore without needing a car. The hotel itself feels safe and well-maintained, with attentive security staff at the entrance and throughout the building. I felt secure from arrival to departure. The room was spacious, clean, and very comfortable, with a great bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. Noise insulation is impressive—no disturbances from neighboring rooms. Common areas are thoughtfully designed, featuring a cozy lounge area, complimentary coffee and tea, and even a small reading nook with books. It's a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and quiet atmosphere. Great value for money, especially for business travelers or those looking for a peaceful retreat in the heart of Birmingham. I’d definitely book again.
We recently stayed at the Crowne Plaza Birmingham City Centre and were thoroughly impressed from arrival to checkout ⭐. The location is unbeatable 📍—right in the heart of the city, just a short walk from New Street Station, the Bullring shopping centre, The Mailbox, and a wide range of restaurants and bars. Getting around Birmingham was effortless, which meant we could focus on enjoying our time instead of worrying about transport 🚆🛍️. Our room was spotless 🧼 and well-maintained, with everything we needed for a relaxing stay. The bed was incredibly comfortable 🛏️, the modern décor added a touch of elegance, and the in-room amenities—including tea and coffee ☕, a safe, and quality toiletries—were thoughtfully chosen. Little details made the space feel welcoming and practical for both business and leisure travellers. The hotel’s facilities were excellent. We spent some time in the bar and lounge area 🍹, where the atmosphere was relaxed and the staff friendly. Breakfast was a highlight 🍳🥐—fresh, abundant, and delicious, with a great mix of hot and cold options to suit every taste. Even during peak hours, everything was well-stocked, and the team remained attentive without being intrusive 😊. Overall, our stay was seamless, comfortable, and enjoyable. With its prime location, clean and stylish rooms, top-notch amenities, and outstanding breakfast, this hotel stands out as a fantastic choice for visiting Birmingham 🌆. We’d happily return and would confidently recommend it to anyone planning a trip to the city 👍
We had a fantastic two-day stay at Aloft Birmingham Eastside with the family to catch an Aston Villa match. The stadium was just a 5-minute Uber ride away, and getting to the train station was equally convenient. We skipped breakfast but enjoyed a great cup of coffee in the morning—perfect for starting the day. The hotel bar has a relaxed, chill vibe that’s ideal for unwinding after a busy day out. The rooms are spacious, and the beds were incredibly comfortable—great for a good night’s sleep. Overall, it’s a top choice for both sports fans and travelers looking for a modern, well-located stay in Birmingham.
Staying at the Holiday Inn Birmingham M6, Jct. 7 was an absolutely wonderful experience. The free goodies for the kids—coloring books and a snack voucher—were a delightful surprise and kept my little ones entertained throughout the visit. The room was spotlessly clean, with a comfortable bed that made for a restful night's sleep. Breakfast was outstanding: fresh, delicious, and well-rounded with plenty of options. I especially loved the warm pancakes and locally sourced ham. The pool and jacuzzi were perfect for unwinding—clean, inviting, and just the right temperature. The staff went above and beyond with their kindness, respect, and genuine hospitality. They made us feel welcome from the moment we arrived. This hotel truly delivers on comfort, service, and value. I’d definitely stay here again—highly recommend!
I always stay here whenever I visit Birmingham—it's become my go-to hotel for a reason. The room is spacious and immaculately clean, with modern decor that feels fresh and inviting. Breakfast is outstanding—huge variety, great quality, and more than enough to fuel a full day of exploring. It’s absolutely worth every penny, and the overall experience justifies the top rating. I’ll definitely be back on my next trip to the city.
Our stay at Macdonald Burlington Hotel was absolutely delightful. The moment we walked in, we were greeted by the elegant and inviting decor that sets the tone for a truly comfortable experience. The room was spacious, clean, and beautifully designed with attention to detail—especially the plush bedding, which made for a restful night's sleep. Located just minutes from the city center, it’s incredibly convenient for exploring Birmingham on foot or via public transport. The staff went above and beyond to make us feel welcome, and their professionalism stood out throughout our visit. With its perfect blend of style, comfort, and location, this hotel is a real gem. We’ll definitely be back—and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Birmingham.
Staying at the Hilton Garden Inn Birmingham Brindleyplace was a fantastic experience. The location is unbeatable—right in the heart of the city, just a short walk from shopping centres, restaurants, and entertainment spots. The hotel itself is modern and well-maintained, with clean, comfortable rooms and excellent amenities. I especially appreciated the friendly and attentive staff—Prajyot stood out with his warm welcome and helpfulness throughout my stay. He made me feel truly welcomed and took extra care to ensure everything was perfect. It’s rare to find such genuine hospitality. I’d definitely book here again when visiting Birmingham. Highly recommend for anyone looking for comfort, convenience, and great service.
Staying at Hotel du Vin Birmingham was a real highlight of my trip to the city. The hotel exudes charm and character, with a cozy, well-designed atmosphere that makes you feel right at home. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, especially the bathrooms—large and thoughtfully laid out with high-quality fixtures. The location is fantastic; just a short walk from the city center and surrounded by great restaurants and cafes, perfect for evening strolls. One of the biggest perks? The wine selection in the bar is absolutely outstanding—rich, bold, and perfectly paired with the hotel’s elegant vibe. I couldn’t resist a few glasses after dinner! That said, there were a couple of minor issues. The room temperature was quite high throughout the night, and unfortunately, there was no way to turn off the heating system—something that could definitely be improved. Also, breakfast service felt a bit sluggish. While the food options were decent, the execution wasn’t up to par—some dishes seemed undercooked or lukewarm, as if the kitchen was having an off day. A little more attention to consistency would go a long way. Despite those small hiccups, the overall experience was exceptional. The staff were warm and attentive, and the unique blend of style and comfort made this stay truly memorable. I’d happily return and recommend it to fellow travelers looking for something special.
Another outstanding stay at Holiday Inn Birmingham City Centre—once again, the staff went above and beyond to make us feel welcome. We were traveling with my partner who was on crutches, so we requested a slightly larger room, and they not only accommodated us but even reassigned the same room we stayed in before—such thoughtful service! The entire property is spotless, and from the moment we walked in, we felt safe, comfortable, and genuinely happy. The bed and pillows were incredibly cozy, the bathroom offered a luxurious shower and soaking tub, and the wall-mounted toiletries had a refreshing, pleasant scent. Everything about this hotel feels well cared for. We’re already planning our return visit this Thursday—this place truly hits all the right notes.
This charming hotel truly stands out with its unique character and impressive architecture. The moment you step in, you're greeted by elegant decor and a historic blue plaque near the entrance—adds such a nice touch of authenticity. The well-maintained gardens offer a peaceful retreat, and having on-site parking is a major plus. Easy access from Birmingham city centre via bus or tram makes it convenient for travelers. The front desk staff were incredibly helpful and friendly throughout our stay. Breakfast was cooked to order—fresh, delicious, and offered a great variety to choose from. Our room was spacious, cozy, and warmly decorated, creating a relaxing atmosphere. Every detail felt thoughtfully considered. It's rare to find such a welcoming, well-run hotel with such a personal touch. I’d definitely recommend it and will be returning.
Located a short walk from the city center, Hampton by Hilton Birmingham Broad Street offers a quiet yet convenient stay. The public parking is spacious and very easy to use—just pay £15 per day at reception, and you can come and go freely until noon the next day. I was greeted by a gentleman from Hong Kong during check-in—he spoke fluent Mandarin with a clear accent and provided exceptionally warm, attentive service. The room size is just right for a comfortable night’s rest, though the air conditioning could be better; it tends to run a bit too cold at times. That said, the overall experience was excellent—great value, friendly staff, and hassle-free parking make this a top choice for travelers looking for reliability and comfort in Birmingham.
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