Birmingham, the UK’s second largest city, is becoming one of the top destinations for meetings and events and there are many reasons that explain it: their rich industrial heritage, world-class venues, excellent transport connectivity, and a vibrant cultural scene. Just two hours from London by train, Birmingham offers a cost-effective alternative to the capital while offering world-class venues, rich history, and unique team-building experiences.
Exceptional conference and meeting venues
Birmingham boasts a variety of high-quality conference centers and hotels with outstanding conference and meeting facilities. Here are some top picks:
- The ICC Birmingham (International Convention Centre) - A premier venue in the city centre, offering flexible spaces for conferences and exhibitions with state-of-the-art facilities. It’s also connected by Air-Link monorail directly to Birmingham Airport.
- Crowne Plaza Birmingham City Centre – Located in the heart of the city, this hotel offers modern, fully-equipped conference rooms with flexible layouts. With stunning city views and premium service, it’s a great option for both large conferences and intimate business meetings.
- Hilton Birmingham Metropole – As one of the largest conference hotels in the UK, the Hilton Birmingham Metropole features 31 meeting rooms, a grand ballroom for up to 2,000 attendees. Situated near the NEC and Birmingham Airport, it’s perfect for large-scale corporate events.
- Novotel Birmingham Centre – Positioned on Broad Street, this hotel combines affordability with high-quality meeting spaces. Its versatile conference rooms come with modern AV equipment, making it ideal for business presentations, training sessions, and workshops.
If the myriad of ‘traditional’ event spaces aren’t your thing, Birmingham boasts a variety of venues that cater to different event needs. Some of the most notable include:
- The Library of Birmingham - A stunning architectural landmark and the largest regional library in Europe, providing an extraordinary backdrop for meetings and networking events.
- Aston Hall - A magnificent 17th-century Jacobean mansion, perfect for exclusive and historic-themed events.
- The Custard Factory - A creative and quirky venue in the city's vibrant Digbeth district, ideal for innovative and unconventional gatherings.
- Resorts World Arena - Suitable for large-scale conferences and entertainment events, with excellent on-site dining and leisure facilities.
Hall of Memory, Library of Birmingham and Baskerville house
Aston Hall Birmingham
Birmingham Canal Navigations
Affordable without compromising on quality
One of Birmingham’s key advantages is cost-effectiveness. In addition to more affordable venue hire, expenses for accommodation and dining in Birmingham are generally lower than in London. This affordability allows companies to allocate their budgets more effectively, ensuring a high-quality experience for attendees without incurring the premium costs associated with the capital.
A city with character & unique experiences
Beyond the boardroom, Birmingham offers a rich industrial history and vibrant culture, making it an exciting destination for corporate events. Once known as the “Workshop of the World,” Birmingham’s industrial past is still visible in its stunning architecture and museums. Venues like the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery and the Black Country Living Museum offer excellent opportunities for networking and social events in historic settings.
Birmingham is the birthplace of the Balti curry, a must-try. Originating in the 70s, this dish is cooked in a thin, wok-like steel bowl, giving it a unique taste. A Balti in Birmingham is not just a meal—it’s an experience that reflects the city’s rich multicultural heritage.
Recommended activities for groups
Birmingham provides a diverse and exciting range of group activities, making it an ideal destination for team-building exercises, leisure outings, and unique experiences that cater to all interests. Whether you're looking for adventure, cultural immersion, or culinary delights, Birmingham has something to offer.
- Cooking classes: Learn the secrets of Indian cuisine in one of the many cooking schools, reflecting the city's diverse food culture. Birmingham is the birthplace of the Balti and home to over 100 Balti houses.
- Canal boat tours: With more canals than Venice, a relaxing way to explore the city from a different perspective.
- Sporting activities: Visit Edgbaston Cricket Ground or take part in indoor skiing at the SnowDome.
- Cultural tours: Explore the city's heritage through guided walking tours and museum visits. You could even take in a Peaky Blinders tour - the hit TV show is inspired by the city's real-life 19th-century gang history.
- Cadbury World: Discover the sweet heritage of Birmingham by visiting this iconic chocolate factory, which offers group tours and interactive experiences.
Getting to and around Birmingham
Birmingham’s central location makes it an ideal hub for corporate gatherings. The city is served by Birmingham Airport, offering international connections, and three major train stations providing direct services to London, Manchester, Edinburgh, and beyond.
Birmingham's unique charm lies in its blend of history, innovation, and diversity. From its industrial past to its modern-day status as a thriving cultural and business hub, Birmingham offers an authentic and welcoming experience. The city's culinary scene, multicultural influences, commitment to sustainability, and cost effectiveness make it an attractive destination for event planners seeking something special.
Whether you're planning a small business meeting or a large-scale event, Birmingham's unbeatable combination of venues, transport links, and cultural appeal makes it a city worth considering.