The Travelling Wee

Birmingham, the vibrant heart of the West Midlands, offers a diverse range of accommodations for travellers. Whether you’re visiting for business or leisure, here are some neighbourhoods and hotels to consider:

City Centre

• Pros: Fine dining, impressive places of worship, and proximity to the famous Bullring shopping center.
• Cons: Busy and bustling.
• Personal Anecdote: Start your morning with a pleasant stroll through the pedestrianized streets, taking in iconic landmarks like the International Convention Centre and the Bull Ring.
• Hotels:
  • Delta Hotels Birmingham (previously Marriott Hotel Birmingham): Located at 12 Hagley Road, Five Ways, Birmingham B16 8SJ. A family-friendly 4-star hotel with fully renovated rooms and an on-site gym.
  • The Cube Hotel (previously Indigo Hotel Birmingham): Situated on Levels 23 and 24 of The Cube, offering boutique rooms with panoramic views of the city skyline.
  • Radisson Blu Hotel: Stylish and modern, this 4-star hotel is close to Birmingham New Street Rail Station and the Bullring shopping centre. Enjoy free Wi-Fi and a well-equipped gym.

Birmingham Shopping District

• Pros: Perfect for shopaholics – explore the high-end Mailbox, the vast Bullring, and the Grand Central shopping center.
• Cons: Can get crowded during peak hours.
• Personal Anecdote: After a day of shopping, unwind at one of the Cube’s rooftop restaurants, enjoying panoramic views of the city.
• Hotels:
  • Holiday Inn Birmingham City Centre: Located at Smallbrook, Queensway, Birmingham B5 4EW. Steps from Birmingham New Street station and the theatre district.
  • Staybridge Suites Birmingham: Offering spacious suites, this hotel is perfect for extended stays. Enjoy the fitness centre and free Wi-Fi in the heart of Birmingham.

Convention Quarter

• Pros: Plenty to see and do in this major commercial area.
• Cons: May be less charming than other neighborhoods.
• Personal Anecdote: Attend a conference at the cutting-edge Birmingham Conference & Events Centre, right next door.

Westside

• Pros: Ideal for nightlife enthusiasts – explore bars, clubs, and live shows.
• Cons: Can be noisy at night.
• Personal Anecdote: Catch a live performance at the nearby O2 Academy.
• Hotels:
  • Malmaison Birmingham: Located at The Mailbox, Wharfside Street, Birmingham B1 1XL. A stylish boutique hotel with a trendy bar and restaurant.

Digbeth

• Pros: Coolest neighborhood with a vibrant arts scene.
• Cons: Less traditional, more alternative.
• Personal Anecdote: Explore Digbeth’s street art, independent galleries, and quirky cafes.

Jewellery Quarter

• Pros: Sparkling weekend break – visit jewelry shops and artisan studios.
• Cons: Quieter evenings.
• Personal Anecdote: Discover the history of jewellery-making in this charming district.
• Hotels:
  • Hampton by Hilton Birmingham Jewellery Quarter: This hotel is close to St. Paul’s Tram Station and a short walk from the city centre. Fitness centre available.

Edgbaston

• Pros: Quiet, relaxed evenings and easy access to the city.
• Cons: Fewer dining options.
• Personal Anecdote: Take a leisurely walk to Edgbaston Cricket Ground or Birmingham City Hospital.

Remember, Birmingham offers a diverse mix of neighbourhoods, so choose the one that suits your preferences and enjoy your stay!