Great Western Arcade Birmingham - A large building with a lot of people standing outside of it
1 / 10

Great Western Arcade Birmingham

4.6
·491k reviews·, United Kingdom

A stunning Victorian arcade in Birmingham, brimming with unique independent shops, artisanal food, and captivating architecture.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed shopping

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Great Western Arcade Birmingham - A large building with a lot of people standing outside of it

Great Western Arcade Birmingham

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed shopping

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A stunning Victorian arcade in Birmingham, brimming with unique independent shops, artisanal food, and captivating architecture.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Step into a Victorian gem, a beautiful arcade filled with independent treasures and culinary delights."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the Charm

The arcade's Victorian architecture is incredibly photogenic. Don't forget your camera!

🍣 Sushi Lover's Paradise

Sushi Passion offers a unique dining experience with theatrical presentations. Book ahead!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Architectural Grandeur

Architectural Grandeur

Marvel at the stunning Victorian architecture, featuring checkered floors and elegant glass arches. A truly Instagrammable spot!

Miss Macaroon

Miss Macaroon

Indulge in beautifully crafted macarons that also support a great cause. A sweet treat with a heartwarming mission.

Sushi Passion

Sushi Passion

Experience theatrical sushi presentations and delicious Japanese cuisine in a unique setting.

La MC Vintage

La MC Vintage

Unearth unique vintage fashion and exquisite jewelry in this charming boutique.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Victorian Charm & Independent Spirit

Step back in time in this stunning Victorian arcade, a true architectural gem. Discover unique independent shops and eateries, offering a refreshing alternative to high-street chains. Plan your visit to soak in the timeless atmosphere and support local businesses.

A Culinary & Shopping Delight

From artisanal coffee and delectable brownies to bespoke tailoring and vintage fashion, the Great Western Arcade is a treasure trove. Explore diverse dining options, including highly-rated sushi and plant-based restaurants, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely day out.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed shopping
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light, cozy cafe vibes
Crowd
Medium
When
Saturdays
Why
Bustling atmosphere, vibrant energy
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Most Instagrammable place in Birmingham! 📍 B2 5HU, Great western arcade Have you been to this most beautiful location in Birmingham? Nested in the heart of Birmingham city centre, great western arcade is even more beautiful than London’s Leadenhall Market. #trending #viral #mostwatched #reeloftheday #mostinstaworthyspot #instagrammableplaces #placestovisit #uk #britain #greatbritain #england #visi...
@travelling.tarsals
92 likes • 5.7K views

📸 Capture the Charm

The arcade's Victorian architecture is incredibly photogenic. Don't forget your camera! TikTok

🍣 Sushi Lover's Paradise

Sushi Passion offers a unique dining experience with theatrical presentations. Book ahead! TikTok+1

Trying out Birmingham’s favourite sushi spot! 🍱 Tucked away in Birmingham’s Great Western Arcade you’ll find this restaurant. Dine at normal tables, at the bar or on low tavkes. We opted for low tavkes which was a new, unique experience that I hadn’t seen before at other restaurants. We ordered… Takoyaki- £12 Round battered dough balls with pieces of octopus, served with katsu sauce, mayo and boni...
@forkfuldiaries_
26 likes • 1.2K views
"Why do you love Great Western Arcade so much?" Us... ⬆️ Will you be visiting one of our lovely GWA independents this week? 📹 @alex_tz78 . . . #GreatWesternArcade #ArcadesOfBrum #Architecture #Birmingham #Brum #LoveYourIndependents #ShopIndependent #BirminghamHistory
gwabirmingham
184 likes • 6.5K views

☕ Coffee & Brunch Spots

Morridge Oats & Coffee is a must-visit for great coffee and a cozy atmosphere. TikTok+1

🛍️ Shop Independent

Discover unique boutiques like La MC Vintage for fashion and Peter Forson for hats. TikTokInstagram

We popped into Designer Exchange in Great Western Arcade in #birminghamcitycentre to get fashion inspiration for Autumn/Winter... #fashionstyle #autumnfashion #designerbargains #designerhandbags #guccilover #chanel #shoppinginbirmingham #birmingham
centralbidbirmingham
36 likes • 1.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the Charm

The arcade's Victorian architecture is incredibly photogenic. Don't forget your camera! TikTok

🍣 Sushi Lover's Paradise

Sushi Passion offers a unique dining experience with theatrical presentations. Book ahead! TikTok+1

☕ Coffee & Brunch Spots

Morridge Oats & Coffee is a must-visit for great coffee and a cozy atmosphere. TikTok+1

🛍️ Shop Independent

Discover unique boutiques like La MC Vintage for fashion and Peter Forson for hats. TikTokInstagram

🍰 Sweet Treats Galore

Love Lane Brownies offers irresistible treats. Check their pop-up schedules! TikTokInstagram

📍 Easy to Find

Located in the heart of Birmingham city centre, easily accessible from Grand Central. TikTok

🌱 Vegan Delights

LAND restaurant offers a stunning plant-based dining experience. TikTok

✨ Anderson & Hill Deli

Don't miss this deli for amazing sandwiches and European cheeses. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Great Western Arcade's stunning Victorian architecture and its vibrant collection of independent shops and eateries. It's celebrated as a beautiful, charming destination offering unique finds and delicious food, though some note that prices can be on the higher side due to the nature of independent and luxury retailers.

What People Like

Beautiful Victorian architecture
Unique independent shops
Delicious food and coffee options

What People Dislike

Can be pricey

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Great Western Arcade is conveniently located in Birmingham city centre. It's a short walk from Birmingham Grand Central train station.TikTok You can also reach it easily by bus or taxi. Parking is available nearby, though it can be pricey.

Yes, it's very well-connected. Birmingham New Street station is right next door, making it ideal for train travelers. Numerous bus routes also serve the city centre.

There are several car parks within walking distance, including the one at Birmingham Grand Central. Be aware that city centre parking can be expensive.

The arcade is generally accessible, with flat flooring throughout. However, some individual shops might have small steps, so it's always best to check if you have specific accessibility needs.

While there are no dedicated bike racks directly inside the arcade, you can find cycle parking facilities in the surrounding city centre areas. Remember to secure your bike properly.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to the Great Western Arcade itself is free. You only pay for purchases made within the shops and restaurants.

Opening hours can vary slightly between individual shops and restaurants. Generally, most businesses are open from around 10 AM to 6 PM on weekdays and Saturdays, with some offering later hours or Sunday trading. It's best to check the specific hours for the shops you wish to visit.

There are no admission fees to walk through and enjoy the architecture of the Great Western Arcade. It's a public thoroughfare.

Yes, for popular spots like Sushi Passion TikTok+1 and LAND,TikTok booking a table in advance is highly recommended, especially for evenings and weekends.

Weekday mornings tend to be the quietest, allowing for a more relaxed browsing experience. Evenings and Saturdays can get quite busy.

🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining

The arcade is home to a variety of independent retailers, including fashion boutiques like La MC Vintage,TikTok bespoke tailors like King & Allen,Instagram hat shops like Peter Forson,Instagram and specialty food stores like Anderson & Hill.Reddit There are also unique gift shops and a designer exchange.Instagram

Morridge Oats & Coffee is a popular choice for excellent coffee and brunch.TikTok+1 The Coffee Bar Brum, located just outside, is also highly recommended.Instagram

Yes, LAND is a highly-rated plant-based restaurant offering an 8-course tasting menu.TikTok You'll also find other eateries with vegetarian options.

Love Lane Brownies frequently has pop-ups in the arcade, offering delicious brownies, blondies, and cookies.TikTokInstagram+2 Miss Macaroon also sells delightful macarons.TikTok+1

Absolutely! The independent shops offer a curated selection of unique items, from vintage fashion and jewelry to bespoke hats and artisanal food products, making it a great place for gift shopping.

📸 📸 Photography & Atmosphere

Yes, it's considered one of the most Instagrammable spots in Birmingham.TikTok The Victorian architecture, checkered floors, and glass ceiling create a beautiful backdrop for photos.TikTokInstagram

It offers a timeless charm and a sophisticated atmosphere, blending historical architecture with the buzz of independent businesses. It's often described as a Victorian gem.TikTok

Weekday mornings offer fewer crowds for unobstructed shots. Late afternoons can provide beautiful lighting through the glass ceiling.

Generally, personal photography is allowed and encouraged. However, for commercial or professional shoots, it's advisable to contact the arcade management beforehand.

Its stunning Victorian design, featuring intricate tile work, ornate ironwork, and a magnificent glass roof, sets it apart. It's a beautifully preserved piece of Birmingham's history.Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Great Western Arcade offers a pleasant outing for families, with its visually stimulating architecture and a variety of treats. Miss Macaroon TikTok+1 and Love Lane Brownies TikTokInstagram are perfect stops for a sweet indulgence that kids will love. While it's not a playground, the arcade's contained environment makes it easy to keep an eye on children as you explore the unique shops. The Anderson & Hill deli Reddit also offers delicious sandwiches that can be a convenient option for a family snack.

🛍️ Shoppers Seeking Unique Finds

For those who love discovering one-of-a-kind items, the Great Western Arcade is a must-visit. Explore La MC Vintage for distinctive clothing and accessories,TikTok or browse the curated selection at the Designer Exchange for pre-loved luxury brands.Instagram Peter Forson Hat Shop offers bespoke headwear,Instagram and King & Allen provides custom tailoring services.Instagram The arcade champions independent retailers, ensuring a shopping experience filled with character and quality.

🍽️ Foodies & Coffee Connoisseurs

The arcade is a culinary hotspot with diverse options. Foodies can delight in the theatrical sushi at Sushi Passion TikTok+1 or explore the innovative plant-based menu at LAND.TikTok For coffee lovers, Morridge Oats & Coffee is a top pick for quality brews and brunch,TikTok+1 and The Coffee Bar Brum nearby is also highly recommended.Instagram Don't forget the sweet treats from Love Lane Brownies TikTokInstagram and Miss Macaroon.TikTok+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Victorian Architectural Gem

The Great Western Arcade is a testament to Victorian engineering and design, completed in 1876. Its most striking feature is the magnificent glass roof, which floods the interior with natural light, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The ornate ironwork and intricate tile patterns on the floor add to its historical charm, making it a photographer's dream.TikTok+1 Wandering through the arcade feels like stepping back in time, offering a unique visual experience that sets it apart from modern shopping centers.

This architectural beauty is more than just a pretty space; it's a carefully preserved piece of Birmingham's heritage. The checkered flooring and grand arches are consistently highlighted by visitors as key aesthetic elements.Instagram It’s a place where the past and present seamlessly blend, providing a delightful backdrop for both shopping and exploration. The arcade's design not only enhances its visual appeal but also creates a comfortable and pleasant environment for visitors to explore its diverse offerings.

Many visitors are captivated by the arcade's aesthetic, often comparing it favorably to other historic arcades. The timeless charm and elegant ambiance are frequently mentioned in reviews and social media posts.Instagram It’s a destination that appeals to architecture enthusiasts, shoppers looking for unique finds, and anyone who appreciates a beautiful and historic setting.

The Independent Business Hub

The Great Western Arcade prides itself on hosting a vibrant collection of independent businesses, offering a curated selection of goods and services that you won't find on the high street. From bespoke tailoring at King & Allen Instagram to unique vintage fashion at La MC Vintage TikTok and exquisite hats at Peter Forson,Instagram the arcade is a haven for those seeking something special. This focus on independent retailers creates a unique shopping experience, fostering a sense of community and supporting local entrepreneurs.

Food and drink are also a significant draw, with establishments like Sushi Passion offering a theatrical dining experience,TikTok+1 LAND providing innovative plant-based cuisine,TikTok and Morridge Oats & Coffee serving up excellent coffee and brunch.TikTok+1 The presence of these diverse eateries adds to the arcade's appeal as a destination for a leisurely day out, where visitors can enjoy a meal or a coffee break amidst the charming surroundings.

Visitors often praise the arcade for its commitment to independent businesses, highlighting the quality and uniqueness of the offerings. The #ShopIndependent movement is strongly represented here,Instagram making it a conscious choice for shoppers who want to support local talent and discover hidden gems. The Designer Exchange Instagram also offers a more high-end shopping experience with pre-loved designer goods.

You may also like

1 of 2