When you are visiting Birmingham, you must check out the local shopping options. There is something here for everyone from large department stores to one of a kind upscale boutiques to handmade markets to world famous jewelry shops.
Shopping Centers
If you are visiting any area of the UK, it is always worth a trip to Bullring, which can take well over a day to explore fully. Additional Birmingham shopping centers with lots of top names include Mailbox and Pavilions. For those who are in the mood for a more eclectic mix of stores, head to Pallasades, Great Western Arcade, or Piccadilly Arcade. Other shopping center options in Birmingham include Burlington Arcade, City Plaza, and Martineau Place.
Markets
Birmingham hosts a selection of both indoor and outdoor markets. Top picks include Bull Ring markets, the Jewelry Quarter’s 24 Carrots Farmers Market, New Street Farmers Market, The Oasis Alternative Fashion Store, and Handmade Birmingham Arts & Craft Market. Check web sites or local listings for current locations and schedules. For those who are visiting in the winter, add the Frankfurt Christmas Market to your agenda.
Lively Shopping Streets
When you’re ready to escape the crowds of the shopping centers, pop over to one of Birmingham’s main shopping streets. In addition to shopping, New Street features the newly refurbished Council House and Town Hall, a movie theater, and a handful of cafes. Corporation Street has some of the best high end shopping in the city. You don’t want to skip House of Fraser. Finally, High Street is the link between several major department stores and hosts its own selection of shopping including Boots, Waterstones, M&S, H&M, and Levi.
One of a Kind Shops
In addition to the previously mentioned Handmade Market, one of the best places in Birmingham for unique shopping is the Sara Priesler Gallery. Located in Birmingham’s media and arts quarter, The Custard Factory, this gallery features more than seventy contemporary designers from the UK. Their collection includes ceramics, textiles, metalwork, silverware, glass, and recycled pieces.
Jewelry Stores
Over 40% of the UK’s jewelry is manufactured in Birmingham’s jewelry quarter. Anyone who is in the market for a top notch engagement ring, wedding ring, or one of a kind jewelry fashion statement has to make the trip to the jewelry quarter.