Birmingham’s High Street links the famous Bullring shopping complex with the landmark Marks & Spencer facility. Shop in the stores of brands including H&M, Waterstones and Levi. Enjoy performances of street entertainers who add character to this lively area.
High Street is the gateway to Pavilions, a popular shopping and dining complex. The center is filled with well-known shops like France-based skincare brand L’Occitane and British brand Laura Ashley. Shop for exotic loose leaf teas in Char Wallah or pick up a gift of personalized chocolates at Thorntons.
Head to the Pavilions for the Food Loft, which features cuisines ranging from British favorites like steak and kidney pie to lighter vegetarian options. Enjoy people-watching over the mall below while having a meal.
Don’t miss the Bullring, one of Europe’s largest city-center retail areas, which links High Street to New Street. Originally the site of a meat and cattle market, it was later used as a bull baiting arena in the 16th century, with dogs set upon tethered bulls. The modern Bullring has left its bloody past behind. It is now divided into two glass-covered malls, where you’ll find more than 160 brands and retailers as well as 40 restaurants.
Admire the striking curved architecture of the Bullring’s Selfridges department store, which is covered with aluminum disks inspired by a Paco Rabanne sequined dress. Selfridges overlooks the center’s Spiceal Street dining area. Here, enjoy casual fare to fine dining ranging from Thai foods to free-range beef.
The High Street area almost always buzzes with shoppers and street performers. The atmosphere is particularly lively during the annual Birmingham Pride celebration in May. After the Pride Parade kicks off at nearby Victoria Square, watch floats and walkers make their way along New Street to High Street before continuing to the festival grounds off Hurst Street.
Reach Birmingham High Street with a short walk from New Street Station, Moor Street Station or Snow Hill. You’ll find a bus terminal next to the Pavilions and plenty of parking areas around the Bullring.
