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The Waters Edge is Birmingham’s poetic heartbeat—where riverside paths wind beneath sky and skyline, ducks glide in morning mist, and golden sunsets paint the water in fiery hues. It’s perfect for a peaceful stroll, a romantic moment, or snapping that Instagram-worthy shot. One thing’s certain: this is where city life meets natural serenity.
Everything you need to know about The waters edge
Holiday Inn Birmingham City Centre is a top choice just steps from The Waters Edge, offering easy access to the Birmingham Canal Navigation and the vibrant city core. The hotel features modern rooms, a rooftop pool, and free Wi-Fi, with direct connections via MetroBus and Cross City Line trains to major attractions like Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery and Library of Birmingham. Guests can also enjoy scenic riverside walks along the waterway, blending urban convenience with peaceful natural surroundings. Its prime location makes it ideal for travelers seeking both city access and serene riverside views.
Near The Waters Edge, visitors can enjoy renting single or tandem paddle boats to explore the historic Birmingham Canal Network, gliding past heritage buildings and lush green banks. Guided evening paddle tours with illuminated cityscapes and ambient lighting create a magical experience. Additionally, the annual Canal Festival features street markets, live music, and hands-on workshops, celebrating local culture and community spirit. All activities are within walking distance, making them easily accessible from the waterfront area. This blend of adventure and tradition offers a distinctive way to connect with Birmingham’s industrial heritage and natural beauty.
The easiest way from Birmingham city center is to take MetroBus 150 or transfer at New Street Station to Midland Metro Line 2, alighting at the Waters Edge stop—a journey of about 15 minutes. Alternatively, rent a Santander Cycle and ride along the Birmingham Canal Trail, passing parks and historic bridges for a relaxed, scenic commute. For drivers, use the Park & Ride system at Bordesley Park & Ride, then catch a shuttle bus into the area, avoiding congestion in the city core. Real-time transport details are available on the Transport for West Midlands website, ensuring smooth and efficient travel.
Near The Waters Edge, dining enthusiasts should try The Boathouse Restaurant, featuring an open-air terrace where guests can savor fresh seafood platters and British steaks while enjoying panoramic canal views. Another highlight is Riverfront Bistro, known for its seasonal chef’s menus crafted with locally sourced ingredients. For a taste of local life, visit The Wharf Market, a weekend pop-up market offering artisanal street food, craft drinks, and handmade desserts. All these venues are within a 5-minute walk, combining culinary excellence with scenic ambiance—perfect for experiencing authentic Birmingham hospitality and urban charm.
Jurys Inn Birmingham City Centre is a top choice located just a 5-minute walk from The Waters Edge, offering easy access to the scenic Aire Riverfront. The hotel features modern, spacious rooms with free Wi-Fi, 24-hour front desk service, and a prime location for exploring both urban attractions and natural landscapes. Conveniently situated near the Birmingham Supertram, guests can quickly reach major destinations like the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery and Bullring Shopping Centre. At night, the illuminated riverside promenade provides a peaceful atmosphere perfect for evening strolls, blending city life with tranquil waterside views.
The easiest way to reach The Waters Edge from central Birmingham is via the Birmingham Supertram, alighting at Soho Station or Five Ways Station, then walking about 10 minutes. For drivers, take the M6 or M5 motorways into the city and follow navigation signs to The Waters Edge car park, which offers ample public parking spaces and electric vehicle charging stations. Alternatively, local bike-sharing services are available, ideal for short trips along the scenic Aire River trail, allowing visitors to enjoy lush greenery and sustainable urban exploration.
Near The Waters Edge, visitors can enjoy guided river ecology walks, outdoor art installations, and weekend events like live waterfront concerts and local craft markets, showcasing Birmingham’s vibrant cultural scene. Photography enthusiasts can join riverfront photography workshops to capture morning mist reflections and golden hour lighting. Outdoor lovers also enjoy kayaking tours and well-maintained running trails along the Aire River. Family-friendly amenities include interactive play zones and open green lawns perfect for picnics. The area seamlessly blends nature, public art, and community energy, offering an authentic taste of British urban life.
See what other travelers say about The waters edge
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.
Staying at this penthouse suite in Birmingham was an absolute delight. The location is perfect—just a short walk from the city center and surrounded by great restaurants and shops. The private parking was a huge plus, especially if you're driving. The room itself is spacious and beautifully designed, with a lovely balcony offering a quiet retreat after a long day. The only minor issue was the shower water pressure, which could be stronger, but it didn’t ruin the overall experience. Everything else—from the comfortable bed to the modern amenities—was top-notch. I’d definitely stay here again and highly recommend it for anyone visiting Birmingham.
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 this property was a perfect blend of city convenience and quiet comfort. Just a 5-minute walk from bustling restaurants and lively bars, yet the room remained remarkably peaceful—definitely surprising for such a central location. The modern amenities and thoughtful touches made it feel like home, and I’d happily return without hesitation.
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 ibis Birmingham New Street Station was an excellent choice for my trip to the city. Located right in the heart of Birmingham, it's just a short walk from the train station—perfect for quick commutes. Check-in was smooth and friendly, with staff who were helpful and efficient. The room was clean, spacious, and had a window that let in natural light, making it feel airy and welcoming. I especially appreciated the breakfast selection—it offered a good variety of options, from fresh pastries and fruit to hot dishes, all served with great taste. Everything felt well-organized and thoughtfully done. This hotel delivers on comfort, convenience, and value. I’d definitely stay here again and recommend it to any traveler visiting Birmingham.
Staying at the Hampton by Hilton Birmingham Jewellery Quarter was a fantastic experience. The room was spotless, modern, and well-equipped with everything I needed. Even though it’s a bit outside the city center, the tram stop is literally right behind the hotel—just four stops to get into town, making it super convenient. I especially appreciated the quiet surroundings; it’s a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city, and even early morning cleaning staff were respectful of quiet hours—no noise at all. Unfortunately, I missed breakfast because I slept in, but that just shows how restful the sleep was! The price was excellent for what you get, and the overall value is unbeatable. I’d definitely come back again.
The staff were absolutely fantastic—friendly, helpful, and always smiling. The location is perfect for getting to the Utilita Arena; it's just a 5-minute walk away, which made everything so convenient. Breakfast offered a great variety, and free hot drinks throughout the day was a nice touch. My only minor issue (which I didn’t report) was that my room had a slightly musty smell—nothing pleasant—but since I wasn’t spending much time inside, I decided not to mention it. Otherwise, the room was clean and well-maintained. Overall, an excellent stay with a great balance of comfort, convenience, and value. Definitely would recommend and return.
Staying at The Moseley Arms was an absolutely delightful experience. From the moment I arrived, I was greeted with warm hospitality and a welcoming atmosphere. The location is excellent—just a short walk from Birmingham's city center and close to public transit, making it easy to explore the area. My room was clean, cozy, and well-appointed, with a comfortable bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. The staff went above and beyond to ensure everything was perfect, always smiling and ready to help. What stood out most was the genuine charm and local character of the place—feels more like staying with friends than in a hotel. It’s rare to find such a great balance between comfort, convenience, and authenticity. Highly recommend this gem for anyone visiting Birmingham.
We recently stayed at the Premier Inn Birmingham (Great Barr/M6 J7) for a family celebration and couldn’t be happier with our experience. The hotel was spotless, well-maintained, and perfectly located for our needs—easy access to the M6 and just minutes from local attractions. The rooms were simple but clean and cozy, with exceptionally comfortable beds that made for a restful night’s sleep. The staff went above and beyond—friendly, professional, and always willing to help. A special thanks to Lisa, who served us a delicious hot breakfast and made the whole morning feel extra special. Her warmth and attention to detail truly made our stay memorable. Overall, this was excellent value for money, and we’ll definitely be returning soon.
Staying at BLOC Apartment was a great experience overall. The place was incredibly clean and the room, while compact, felt cozy and well-maintained. I stayed in a windowless room, but it didn’t bother me at all—comfort was still top-notch. Everything in the room felt fresh and brand new, from the bedding to the furnishings. The only downside was the wet-room bathroom design—showering tends to splash water all over the sink, toilet, and even the floor, making it tricky to keep things dry. It’s definitely something to be mindful of if you’re not used to this setup. That said, the pros far outweigh the cons: excellent cleanliness, modern vibe, and super convenient location near public transit. I’d happily return and would recommend this place for travelers looking for a stylish, budget-friendly stay in Birmingham.
Staying at B&B Hotel Birmingham Centre was a fantastic experience. The location is incredibly convenient—just an 8-minute walk from Birmingham New Street Station, making it easy to reach Victoria Square and Bullring Shopping Centre without hassle. The room was spotless, comfortable, and well-maintained, with everything you’d expect from a clean, modern hotel. Breakfast was outstanding—especially the fish and chips, which were fresh, crispy, and full of flavor. It felt like a real value for money deal. For such a central, well-kept property with great amenities and friendly service, this place deserves every single point. I’d definitely book here again on my next visit to Birmingham.
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