The Gallery of Icons beats with the quiet soul of Birmingham—step inside and it feels like turning the pages of a living poem written in light and color. Home to countless breathtaking masterpieces, each painting whispers stories of history and inspiration. Whether you’re an art lover or simply seeking a moment of peace, this place invites you to pause and connect with beauty. Pro tip: free guided tours often happen on weekends—worth every minute!







Everything you need to know about Ikon Gallery
Birmingham Square Hotel is a top choice, located just a 5-minute walk from the Museum of the History of Art. The hotel blends modern architecture with historical charm, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views of the city’s green spaces and cultural landmarks. Its rooftop lounge bar serves local craft beers and innovative cuisine, perfect for enjoying the skyline. Nearby attractions include the Birmingham Museum and The Elizabeth Theatre, ideal for a full-day cultural itinerary. The hotel is directly across from Birmingham New Street Station, providing seamless access to trains and buses throughout the UK.
Take the Midland Metro light rail, alighting at the "Museum of the History of Art" stop—just a 10-minute ride with no traffic delays. Alternatively, bus routes 96 or 237 connect via New Street or Grosvenor Road stops, taking about 15 minutes. For drivers, the hotel offers parking discounts; use GPS navigation to "Art Gallery Road" entrance. The gallery is surrounded by a pedestrian-only zone, ideal for strolling through nearby art boutiques and cafés.
Don’t miss weekend art workshops led by local artists, teaching watercolor and sketching techniques for just £15. Book a private evening tour to enjoy the "Interwoven Light" exhibition in quiet, candlelit ambiance with champagne and canapés. The adjacent Birmingham Arts Plaza hosts seasonal outdoor sculpture exhibitions blending street art and interactive installations—perfect for photos. Nearby, Victoria Books features rare manuscripts and limited-edition prints, making it a must-visit for collectors and bibliophiles.
Stay at The Jewellery Quarter Hotel, a boutique property nestled in Birmingham's historic Jewellery Quarter, just a 10-minute walk from the Barber Institute of Fine Arts. This beautifully restored Victorian building blends period charm with modern comforts, featuring luxurious bedding, smart climate control, and select rooms with views of lush courtyard gardens. The hotel also hosts rotating exhibitions by local artists, offering guests an immersive cultural experience. Nearby, you'll find charming independent cafés and artisan boutiques perfect for morning coffee or evening strolls.
For transportation, it’s a 15-minute walk to the museum, or take the Midland Metro light rail to the "Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery" stop—just a 5-minute ride—making access both convenient and scenic.
Head to The Library Café, located within Birmingham Central Library adjacent to the Barber Institute of Fine Arts. Renowned for its soaring domed ceilings and abundant natural light, this serene café offers comfortable seating, artisanal pastries, specialty coffee, and healthy light bites. Its walls frequently feature rotating displays of contemporary mini-artworks, allowing visitors to enjoy culture while sipping a drink.
The café is free to enter, with complimentary Wi-Fi and power outlets—ideal for travelers needing a quiet space to recharge or plan their day. Just a 2-minute walk from the museum, it’s perfectly positioned for a post-exhibition pause. Weekends often include live acoustic sets or author talks, adding a dynamic cultural touch to your visit.
Yes, access to the Barber Institute of Fine Arts is excellent. The Midland Metro light rail stops directly at "Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery" station, just a 3-minute walk away. Additionally, bus routes 5, 8, and 46 serve nearby stops, connecting to major attractions across the city. For drivers, the museum offers an underground parking garage with capacity for 80 vehicles and smartphone HopeGoo via the official app.
The city center features a free pedestrian zone, linking key cultural sites. From Birmingham New Street Station, a 15-minute walk along dedicated footpaths takes you through shopping districts and historic buildings, combining convenience with scenic exploration. With seamless transit options, visiting the institute is effortless for all travelers.
Weekends at the Barber Institute of Fine Arts feature special programs including themed exhibitions and interactive workshops. Every Saturday afternoon, the "Creative Art Workshop" invites local artists to lead hands-on sessions in printmaking and sketching for children and adults—affordable and require advance HopeGoo.
Temporary exhibitions are also regularly featured; recent highlights include "Pioneers of British Impressionism," showcasing rarely displayed early oil paintings. On Sundays, the museum hosts guided night tours extending until 9 PM, with ambient lighting and soft background music creating an immersive atmosphere. Some galleries offer tactile models and audio guides, enhancing accessibility for visually impaired visitors.
Check the official website for up-to-date schedules to plan your visit. These events enrich the exhibition experience and make art more inclusive and engaging for all audiences.
See what other travelers say about Ikon Gallery

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 👍

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!

My stay at Staybridge Suites Birmingham was absolutely fantastic! The staff went above and beyond with their friendly and attentive service—every question or request was handled promptly and warmly. The breakfast spread was impressive, offering a great variety of both continental and American-style options, all fresh and well-prepared. The rooms were spacious, clean, and comfortable, with thoughtful touches that made the experience feel truly welcoming. Located just minutes from the city center, it’s incredibly convenient for exploring Birmingham on foot or by public transit. I’d definitely book again and highly recommend this hotel to anyone visiting the area—excellent value and a memorable stay!

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.

Staying at the Holiday Inn Express Birmingham - City Centre was a great experience. The hotel is perfectly located right across from the library, just behind HSBC Bank—third building on the street, with another entrance conveniently tucked away down a side street near the hillside. Breakfast was served from 7 to 11 AM, offering a good variety and a clean, welcoming atmosphere. The room itself was modern and well-maintained, with excellent air conditioning and a fantastic view from the 16th floor—high ceilings and spacious feel are rare in the UK, so it felt really special. I loved that the amenities were thoughtful: Dove body wash, shampoo, and hand soap—quality products that made the stay more luxurious. Everything about this place felt fresh, efficient, and comfortable. Highly recommend for travelers looking for a smart, no-fuss stay in the heart of Birmingham.

Staying at the Holiday Inn Express Birmingham - Snow Hill was an absolute breeze thanks to its prime location right in the heart of Birmingham's city centre. It’s just a 15-minute walk from Birmingham New Street Station, one of the UK’s busiest rail hubs, making travel into and out of the city effortless. The hotel sits directly beside Snow Hill Station, which offers frequent train services not only to nearby towns but also direct connections to London Marylebone—perfect for weekend trips or business travel. The rooms were clean, comfortable, and well-maintained, with friendly staff who made every interaction pleasant. With excellent transport links and a welcoming atmosphere, this is a top choice if you're looking for convenience and value in a central Birmingham location.

Staying at the Holiday Inn Express Birmingham - Star City was a great experience overall. The room was spacious and comfortable, and the parking lot is huge—very convenient if you're arriving by car. I especially loved the breakfast: a classic English spread with fresh eggs, sausages, baked beans, and homemade jam—well-prepared and satisfying. The location is also excellent, just a short walk from the city center and close to public transit. My only minor note is that the single beds are a bit narrow at 80cm wide, which might not suit taller guests. But considering everything else—cleanliness, staff friendliness, and value for money—I’d definitely stay here again.

Staying at The Saltley Inn was an absolute delight. Just £22 from Birmingham Airport, this cozy guesthouse offers incredible value for money. The room was spotlessly clean, comfortable, and well-maintained—perfect for a peaceful night’s sleep after a long journey. The host and staff were warm, welcoming, and genuinely helpful, making the entire experience feel personal and friendly. Located just a short ride from the city center, it’s ideal for travelers looking for convenience without the high price tag. I’d highly recommend this place to anyone visiting Birmingham—great quality, great location, and even better hospitality.

My stay at 100 Dale Road Studios in Guest House was absolutely delightful. The location is perfect—just a short walk from the city center and close to public transit, making it easy to explore Birmingham without hassle. The studio was clean, well-designed, and surprisingly spacious for the price. The bed was comfortable, and the quiet atmosphere made for a restful night's sleep. What really stood out was the warm hospitality—the staff were friendly, helpful, and offered great local tips that enhanced our experience. It felt more like staying with friends than a typical hotel. For anyone looking for a cozy, convenient, and affordable base in Birmingham, this place is a must-try.

Stayed here with a group of teenagers for a weekend getaway, and it was an excellent experience overall. The apartments were clean, spacious, and well-maintained—perfect for a group. The staff, especially Magda, Mavis, and Samia, went above and beyond during breakfast service; their friendliness and attention to detail made the meal enjoyable. The lobby and breakfast area had a relaxed, inviting atmosphere, ideal for unwinding in the evenings. The vibe was chill but welcoming, making it easy to connect as a group. If you're traveling with friends or family, this is a great choice. Highly recommend for group stays.

This stay was absolutely delightful! Located just steps away from QE and UOB, the convenience of transportation couldn’t be better—everything is within easy reach via public transit. The studio itself is clean, well-designed, and fully equipped with everything I needed for a comfortable and relaxing trip. What stood out most was the incredible value for money—this level of quality at such a reasonable rate is hard to find. The staff were friendly and helpful throughout, making check-in and check-out smooth and stress-free. Overall, it was a perfect experience from start to finish. I’ll definitely be returning next time I visit Birmingham and highly recommend this place to fellow travelers.

Staying here was a great experience overall. The location is super convenient—just a short walk to QE and UOB, making it easy to get around the city. The room itself is compact but well-designed, with a fridge for storing drinks and snacks, which was a nice touch. Having a private bathroom was a big plus—it felt clean, private, and very functional. The bed was comfortable, and I slept really well, waking up feeling refreshed. The place is spotless, and the staff were friendly and helpful whenever I needed something. It’s a solid choice for travelers looking for comfort, cleanliness, and value in Birmingham. I’d definitely stay here again and recommend it to others.
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