A Business Travel Guide to Birmingham

Staying in Birmingham, England 

Birmingham is the UK's second-most populous city and is a thriving hub of business and culture. Known for its impressive canals, industrial heritage and vibrant arts scene, Birmingham offers a range of activities for business travellers visiting the area. This historic manufacturing city is situated at the heart of the UK, in the West Midlands, making it well-connected to other major cities including London, Manchester, and Liverpool. 

If you are planning a business trip to Birmingham read on to discover all you need to know about this energetic city. 

Visiting Birmingham, England Key Information

Weather in Birmingham

Birmingham experiences a temperate maritime climate. Summers (June to August) are mild with temperatures around 18°C, while winters can be cold and drop to 2°C. Rain is frequent, so packing a coat and umbrella is advisable whatever the season, it is also worth checking the weather forecast before and during your trip to gage the weather conditions.  

Currency in Birmingham

Currency (GBP)

The currency in Birmingham is Pound Sterling (GBP). Cashless payments are common, and you'll find most places accept VISA and MasterCard. If cash is required, there are many ATMs throughout the city. For international travellers, digital banking apps like Monzo or Revolut can be useful and help minimize transaction fees. 

Health & Well-being in Birmingham

Business travellers staying in Birmingham can enjoy access to numerous parks and green spaces, ideal for a jog, walk, or bike ride. You can visit Cannon Hill Park with its picturesque lake or explore the scenic canals paths running through the city. The historic Birmingham Botanical Gardens are a lovely place to wander and spend a few hours relaxing amongst the flora and forna. There are also a great range of activities and sights perfect for all the family such as Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, the National Sea Life Centre and a firm favourite for chocolate fans: Cadbury World. The city also boasts a wide selection of gyms, swimming pools, and fitness classes to help you stay active during your business trip to Birmingham.

Data in Birmingham

You’ll want to be connected while out and about on your business trip to Birmingham. The leading networks in Birmingham are EE, O2, Vodafone and Three and sims for these networks are widely available in the town centre phone shops and supermarkets. You can also buy plans online on their respective websites. 
 

Plug Type: Type G, 3-pronged plug 

Emergency Contacts in Birmingham 

999 for emergencies (police, fire, ambulance) 

101 for non-urgent police inquiries. 

111 for non-urgent medical inquiries.  

Cuisine in Birmingham

Birmingham raves its colourful food scene. Try local favourites like the city’s very own Balti curry or indulge in a traditional English breakfast. If you enjoy fine dining Birmingham has the greatest number of Michelin-starred restaurants outside of London; Simpsons has held a Michelin star since 1999 and is a favourite fine dining destination for many in Birmingham, but make sure to book well in advance.  

For a more vibrant evening Brindley place is a lively canalside area with a range of restaurants and bars, and you’ll find a good selection of international chain restaurants catering to all tastes at the Mailbox. Birmingham also offers a range of takeaway outlets many of which will deliver to your serviced apartment. Uber Eats, Deliveroo and Just Eat can be used to order take-away meals with delivery services. 

Speaking the Language in Birmingham, England

Nearly everyone in Birmingham speaks English, but you may find some people have strong regional accents. The city also has its own distinctive dialect, often referred to as the "Brummie" accent, which is part of the wider West Midlands dialect. While the accent may be unique, the slang and expressions used by locals can sometimes be quite different from what you might expect in other parts of the UK. Here are a few examples of Brummie slang that could come in handy on your business trip: 

Ayup = Hello (a friendly greeting) 

Bostin' = Great / Excellent (often used to describe something that’s really good, like "That was a bostin' meal!") 

Ginnel = Narrow alley or passage (similar to a "lane" or "walk") 

Cob = A bread roll (you might ask for a "cob" instead of a sandwich!) 

Innit = Isn't it? (a tag question, like "It's cold today, innit?") 

Mardy = Grumpy / Moody (someone who is acting a bit sulky) 

Understanding these expressions will help you feel more connected with the locals during your business trip to Birmingham! 

Transport in Birmingham - Getting Around Birmingham, England

Birmingham is well-connected by trains, buses, and trams. The city centre is walkable, but public transport is also a convenient option for business travellers staying in Birmingham. West Midlands Metro provide trams that link key areas of the city. The trams use a zone-based ticketing system, and ticket prices are cheaper during peak times, making the trams a great option for your Birmingham commute, for more information visit West Midlands Metro. 
For journeys further afield, Birmingham New Street Train Station is a key transport hub in the centre of Birmingham and provides direct trains to Manchester and London. The city is also home to Birmingham Airport, which offers global connectivity.  

Birmingham Map

Now you should be prepared for your corporate trip to Birmingham. If you are looking to book accommodation in the city browse our range of serviced apartments in Birmingham here. Our friendly team are also on hand to discuss any specific requirements or questions you may have, contact us here.