Birmingham Getting Around

Getting around Birmingham

An efficient public transport system makes getting around fairly straightforward. Most visitors will be happy to explore the central areas on foot, and sights and attractions away from the centre are easily reached by bus, metro or train.

Getting to/from Birmingham airport

Birmingham International Airport is just 8 miles from the city centre. A free Skyrail train connects the airport with Birmingham International train station in just 2 minutes. From here, regular trains run to the very central Birmingham New Street station, which takes 15 minutes. Buses go to the main Digbeth coach station. Black taxis can take 5 passengers.

Walking

A reasonable amount of Birmingham city centre is pedestrianised or partially restricted to traffic. Many sights and attractions are within easy walking distance of each other, and many of the city’s shopping, dining and nightlife areas are very central. Guided themed walks include heritage buildings and canals.

Sightseeing tours

Several companies offer sightseeing tours. Regular buses and open-top buses circulate the city, stopping at the principal sights, landmarks and shopping centres, and passengers can get on and off the bus as they wish throughout the day. This is a good way to see the city's main landmarks in a short time.

Bus

Efficient buses cover the entire city centre and run out to the suburbs and beyond. The main Digbeth bus station is a short walk from the city centre. Convenient one-day passes are available.

Metro

The Metro is of more use to commuters than tourists. The metro will take you to the Jewellery district and some of Birmingham’s markets, and the Midland Metro runs from Snow Hill in Birmingham to Wolverhampton.

Train

Suburban trains are an alternative to buses for excursions outside the city. Central Birmingham stations serve London and major UK destinations.

Car

Birmingham has excellent motorway connections with the rest of the country. If you bring a car, or hire one, there is quite a lot of inner city car parking.

Taxi

Birmingham cabs are traditional black cabs with room for 5 people, plus luggage. They can be hailed in the street or at taxi ranks. Principal ranks include Hurst Street at the central Arcadian Centre, Birmingham International train station, New Street Station, Stephenson Street and Digbeth Coach Station. Taxis are metered, and there are surcharges for luggage, nighttimes, holidays etc.

Canals

The network of canals have an important place in the city’s history. Canal towpaths are popular for walking and cycling, and there are several pleasant canal side cafes and pubs to stop at. Take a look at Gas Street Basin near Brindleyplace, an important junction between the Grand Union, the Worcester and Birmingham and Stratford-upon-Avon canals.