Westside is Birmingham’s coolest neighborhood—where creativity runs wild and every corner holds a surprise. From indie cafés brewing aromatic coffee to unique boutiques with one-of-a-kind finds, this vibrant district pulses with energy. Wander down narrow streets, taste local flavors, and let the charm of small details steal your heart. Whether you're shopping for gifts or treating yourself, Westside turns every visit into a slow, joyful discovery.

Everything you need to know about The Westside
The Arden Hotel is a top choice in Birmingham's West District, located just a 5-minute walk from Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery and Library of Birmingham. Its modern rooms offer views of Cannon Street, while free Wi-Fi and 24-hour front desk service ensure comfort. Conveniently situated 15 minutes by car from the National Exhibition Centre (NEC), it’s ideal for both business and leisure travelers.
Another excellent option is Malmaison Birmingham, nestled beside the River Rea with scenic waterfront views. It’s only a 10-minute walk to Birmingham New Street Station, providing seamless access to UK rail networks. The hotel blends industrial-chic design with contemporary amenities, including a fine dining restaurant and fitness center—perfect for exploring the vibrant West District.
Visitors should explore the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, home to over 30,000 artworks spanning British and international contemporary pieces. Weekly weekend events include the City Arts Market, featuring local artisans selling handmade jewelry, paintings, and limited-edition fashion designs.
Another must-visit is The Custard Factory, a creative hub housing independent bookshops, cafés, and exhibition spaces. Regularly hosts live music performances and art workshops—guests can join hands-on pottery sessions or engage in conversations with resident artists, offering an authentic glimpse into the district’s dynamic cultural scene.
Yes, several hotels in Birmingham’s West District cater well to families. Malmaison Birmingham offers spacious family suites equipped with baby beds, high chairs, and a dedicated playroom, plus proximity to Birmingham Children’s Hospital and Thinktank Science Museum—ideal for kid-friendly outings.
The Arden Hotel provides interconnected rooms perfect for larger groups, with ample space and modern amenities. On-site laundry facilities and breakfast service help parents manage travel logistics smoothly. Nearby attractions like Soho Square Park and the Jewellery Quarter offer safe, engaging environments for children to explore history and nature, making this area a top pick for family vacations.
To reach major shopping hubs like Bullring Shopping Centre from Birmingham’s West District, take the Cross City Line tram from New Street Station, which takes just 10 minutes. Alight at Birmingham Moor Street and walk 5 minutes to the mall.
Alternatively, use Uber or CityMapper for a private ride—about 8 minutes, costing £6–£10. For a scenic option, walk south along Broad Street (approx. 25 minutes), passing landmarks such as St Nicholas Church and Old Library, where you’ll enjoy Victorian architecture and vibrant street art along the way—a delightful blend of history and urban culture.
For a vibrant night out, visit The Appleton, a renowned jazz bar hosting nightly live performances in a cozy, intimate setting. Its alleyway vibe and local indie acts make it a favorite among music lovers.
Another hotspot is The Star and Garter, located near Brindleyplace, featuring an outdoor terrace and large screens showing live sports—ideal for fans. Weekends bring electronic DJ sets and themed parties.
Also worth checking out is Piano Bar inside The Custard Factory, beloved by young locals for craft beer, cocktails, and spontaneous live performances, offering a true taste of the district’s trendy, creative nightlife scene.
Yes, some hotels provide airport transfers. Malmaison Birmingham and The Arden Hotel partner with Birmingham Airport (BHX) to offer pre-booked luxury shuttle services, costing £25–£35 one-way depending on flight time. Vehicles are premium sedans with professional drivers for safety and comfort.
It’s recommended to book at least 48 hours in advance via the hotel’s official website or front desk. For budget-conscious travelers, National Express buses run directly to the city center every 30 minutes, taking about 30 minutes and costing just £4—but requires a short walk to the hotel.
For travelers exploring Birmingham's Westside, Holiday Inn Birmingham City Centre stands out with its prime location just a 5-minute walk from Birmingham New Street Station. The hotel offers modern rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a fitness centre, along with a delicious traditional English breakfast. Another top choice is Jurys Inn Birmingham, situated close to the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery and vibrant shopping areas like The Bullring. Both properties are praised for their convenient access to public transport and local attractions, making them ideal bases for business or leisure visitors seeking comfort and connectivity in the heart of the city.
Yes, Birmingham’s Westside enjoys excellent transportation links. Major roads such as A4060 and M6 motorway are nearby, while Birmingham New Street Station — one of the UK’s busiest rail hubs — offers frequent services to London, Manchester, Leeds, and other key cities. Local bus routes cover the area extensively, connecting it directly to shopping districts and cultural venues. Additionally, the Midland Metro light rail system has stops within walking distance, providing quick access to attractions like the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, Centenary Square, and the Bullring Shopping Centre. This multi-modal network ensures seamless travel for both tourists and locals, enhancing overall accessibility.
Must-try experiences in Birmingham’s Westside include visiting the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, featuring an impressive collection ranging from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary works. Stroll through Centenary Square (Elizabeth Square) to enjoy modern architecture and public art installations. For evening entertainment, explore lively spots like The Arcadian Bar or The Custard Factory, known for their creative vibe and live music. Don’t miss the annual Birmingham Arts Festival, celebrating local talent and urban creativity. Shopaholics will love The Bullring Shopping Centre, home to international brands, independent boutiques, food courts, and open-air performances — offering a dynamic, immersive city experience.
Yes, many hotels in Birmingham’s Westside are designed with families in mind, offering family-friendly amenities. For example, Holiday Inn Birmingham City Centre provides interconnecting rooms, kids’ meals, and a games room, plus easy access to attractions like Birmingham Zoo and Thinktank Science Museum. Some hotels also offer cribs and childcare services for added convenience. Nearby green spaces such as Edgbaston Park and Baskerville Park provide safe, open areas for children to play. With all hotels centrally located, families can easily walk to shopping centres, restaurants, and entertainment venues, ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable stay for all ages.
See what other travelers say about The Westside

We've stayed here before and absolutely loved it, so we booked again—completely worth the repeat! The experience was just as fantastic as our first visit. From the moment we arrived, the staff were warm and attentive, and the room was spotless, comfortable, and beautifully designed. The location is ideal—walking distance to the city center, great transport links, and surrounded by cafes and shops. Everything about this hotel feels premium without the premium price tag. If you're looking for a reliable, stylish, and welcoming place to stay in Birmingham, this is it. Definitely coming back!

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.

The stay was absolutely fantastic—truly amazing from start to finish. Located just minutes away from QE, it's incredibly convenient for both business and leisure travelers. The studio is well-equipped with everything you'd need: a cozy bed, functional workspace, kitchenette, and excellent Wi-Fi. The location is quiet yet close to public transport and local amenities. Clean, modern, and thoughtfully designed—this place feels like home. I’ve already planned my next visit and will definitely book again. Highly recommend this hidden gem!

The digital keybox in our first room was damaged, so we were moved to another room. Unfortunately, the second room was directly above the boiler room, and the constant humming noise from the machinery made it nearly impossible to sleep well. We tried to adjust, but the low-level vibration and sound disrupted our rest throughout the night. While the staff were helpful and accommodating, the ongoing noise issue significantly affected our stay. For travelers sensitive to background noise or looking for a peaceful night’s sleep, this might not be the best choice. The overall experience was underwhelming despite the effort made by the team.

The stay was absolutely fantastic overall! The apartment was spotless, well-maintained, and very easy to access. The only minor downside was not being able to use the balcony despite the beautiful weather—management mentioned it’s due to safety regulations, but they’ll be providing a key soon, so that should resolve it. Everything else was perfect: comfort, cleanliness, location, and service were all top-notch. I’d definitely book again and recommend this place to anyone visiting Birmingham.

The hotel is spotless, well-maintained, and perfect for solo travelers. Its location is unbeatable—just a short walk from the train station and right in the heart of Birmingham city center. I appreciated how quiet and secure the rooms felt, even with all the city activity nearby. The staff were friendly and helpful, and the breakfast options were simple but satisfying. Whether you're here for business or just exploring, this place offers great value and convenience without compromising on comfort.

Staying at Westbourne Lodge in Birmingham was an absolute highlight of my trip. From the moment I arrived, Norma made me feel right at home—her warmth and attention to detail truly set this place apart. The room itself is spacious, spotlessly clean, and incredibly comfortable, with a cozy bed and just the right amount of heating. Every morning, breakfast was thoughtfully laid out for me—such a personal and welcoming touch. The location is peaceful, quiet, and perfectly situated for easy access to City Hospital. Having stayed at other hotels in the area, I can confidently say this one offers a far superior experience in both service and comfort. I’d have no hesitation returning and would highly recommend Westbourne Lodge to anyone visiting Birmingham.

Staying at Kunda House Coventry Road was a pleasant surprise! The location is convenient—just a short subway ride from the city center, and there are plenty of restaurants and convenience stores nearby. The room isn’t large, but it’s spotless, well-maintained, and the bed was incredibly comfortable, making for a restful night’s sleep. What really stood out was the price—excellent value for money without compromising on quality. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly yet reliable stay in Birmingham, this place is a must-try. I’ll definitely be coming back next time I visit!
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