Is Birmingham Expensive?

Birmingham Budget Guide: What to Expect and How to Save Money

Welcome to Birmingham: Located in the heart of the United Kingdom and boasting the title of England's second-biggest city. This thriving and diverse city offers a rich culture, industrial heritage, and iconic landmarks. The combination of history, world-class shopping, and a delicious culinary scene attracts visitors to Birmingham.

The city's popularity has bumped up prices for accommodation, travel, entertainment, and restaurants. However, those on a budget can follow our breakdown on how to explore this exciting city without having to break the bank.

A Breakdown of Average Travel Costs in Birmingham

How Much Do Things Cost in Birmingham

Where to Stay in Birmingham on a Budget

Hostels:

Hostels are an excellent way to connect with other travellers as well as save some pennies. Birmingham has several hostels offering dormitory-style rooms with shared facilities such as bathrooms and kitchens.

Budget Chain Hotels:

Familiar chains and local establishments such as Travelodge, Premier Inn and ibis Budget often have properties in and around Birmingham city centre. They offer competitive rates for rooms that are pleasant and provide basic amenities.

Guesthouses and B&Bs:

Birmingham provides numerous guesthouses and B&Bs that offer a cosy and homey environment at affordable prices. The intimate environment allows guests to experience a more authentic touch and local experience. There are several options for guesthouses and B&Bs on EnjoyTravel.com.

The Best Options for Finding Affordable Accommodation in Birmingham

Digbeth:

Known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, Digbeth is brimming with hostels, budget hotels, and rental options that won't be too hard on your wallet. Its proximity to the city centre makes it an excellent choice for those wishing to be close enough to the hustle and bustle without having to pay city centre prices.

Jewellery Quarter:

While the fancy name could have you thinking this is an expensive location, the Jewellery Quarter offers affordable guesthouses and serviced apartments. The area is within walking distance from the centre, saving on transport. The accommodation options are also surrounded by historic buildings adding an enchanting vibe to the area.

Selly Oak:

This is an excellent choice for those hunting for accommodation near the University of Birmingham or the Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Selly Oak provides a wide range of guesthouses, B&Bs, and budget hotels that are sure to be within your price range.

What to Expect from Staying in Birmingham and How to Book a Cheap Room

Book in advance:

Don’t rely on last-minute deals. Book at least 60 days in advance to access the best deals.

Consider location:

Determine the proximity of the hotel to the attractions or areas you plan to visit, ensuring convenience during your stay. This also saves money on commuting.

Be flexible with your dates:

Birmingham is particularly busy during the summer months. However, autumn and winter see smaller crowds, cooler temperatures, and better hotel deals.

How to Get Around Birmingham Easily and Cheaply

Walking:

The centre is an exciting place to explore which is why walking may be the best option to make sure you get the most out of your time and not miss hidden gems and small details.

Bicycle Rentals:

Birmingham has dedicated cycling lanes and bike-sharing schemes such as Brompton Bike Hire and West Midlands Cycle Hire. These lanes allow for a convenient and eco-friendly mode of transport, also giving you access to the city's narrow alleyways and hidden gems.

Public Buses:

Birmingham hosts an extensive bus network operated by National Express West Midlands. Travellers can purchase day passes or weekly passes that offer unlimited travel within certain time zones, providing a cost-efficient method of exploring the city.

Train:

There are several train stations in Birmingham including New Street, Moor Street, and Snow Hill. The extensive train network connects visitors to other parts of the city as well as other UK towns and cities.

Car:

Fancy embarking on an English road trip? Hiring a car is easy in Birmingham, with a wide range of car hire suppliers and vehicles to choose from. The city is served by several motorways, so getting to your destination is straightforward.

How to Eat Well in Birmingham Without Spending a Fortune

Street Food:

Birmingham boasts numerous street food markets and vendors that offer delicious and affordable dishes. Head over to places such as Digbeth Dining Club to tuck into a world of diverse cuisines at affordable rates.

Classic Pub Grub:

Traditional British Pubs often serve cheap and cheerful meals that are hearty and filling. Tuck into a classic British Fish and Chips, pies or Sunday roast where one can feel full and satisfied without having to worry about how much has been spent!

Lunch Deals and Early Bird Specials:

Keep your eyes peeled for the restaurants in Birmingham offering lunch specials or set menus at reduced prices. It's common to find discounted meals during off-peak hours.

Food Halls and Markets:

Visiting food halls and indoor markets is an excellent way of keeping your tummy full without breaking the bank. Make sure to check out places such as the Bullring Shopping Centre markets and the Great Western Arcade, where you'll find a wide range of food at affordable rates.

Our Top Picks for Free and Cheap Activities in Birmingham

Birmingham has its fair share of museums, and most of them are free. Here are our top picks:

Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery (BMAG):

Located in the heart of the city centre, BMAG is one of the most popular cultural attractions in Birmingham. The museum features work from renowned artists such as Edward Burne-Jones and the Pre-Raphaelites, as well as an extensive collection of artefacts, historical objects, archelogy and much more.

Ikon Gallery:

Housed in a former Victorian School building, this contemporary art gallery is known for its innovative exhibitions and installations. The gallery showcases works by both emerging and established artists across various mediums.

Here’s what to do in Birmingham for £5 or less:

Visit Museums: Some museums in Birmingham offer free admission whereas those that charge ask for a low-cost entry fee.

Parks and Gardens: Exploring the numerous parks and gardens dotted around Birmingham is an excellent way of escaping the hustle and bustle of the city without having to spend a penny. Enjoy a stroll or a picnic in areas such as Cannon Hill Park and Licky Hills Country Park.

Street Art Tour: Dive into Birmingham's vibrant street art scene with areas such as Digbeth, where visitors can explore for free.

How to Enjoy the Nightlife and Culture in Birmingham on a Budget

Live Music Venues: Due to Birmingham's thriving live music scene, many venues host gigs and performances throughout the week.

Happy Hours: Many bars and clubs offer happy hour specials where you can enjoy discounted drinks. Take advantage of these specific hours to make a saving during your evenings out.

DIY Pub Crawl: Why not save the pennies by creating your own pub crawl instead of paying for an organised one? Do a quick search on Birmingham's best pubs and bars, then put together a plan that works for your budget and allows you to explore the city's nightlife.

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