Southside and Chinatown
Birmingham's Southside and Chinatown: a dynamic urban hub blending modern living with rich Asian culture and cuisine.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed dining
Southside and Chinatown
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed dining
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Birmingham's Southside and Chinatown: a dynamic urban hub blending modern living with rich Asian culture and cuisine.
"Ideal location, but be prepared for basic accommodations and potential weekend noise."
🔑 Key Collection
Be aware you might need to collect keys from a convenience store off a busy roundabout.
🏙️ City Living Noise
Expect potential noise from late-night parties or traffic, especially on weekends.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Modern Apartment Living
Southside
Experience contemporary city living with state-of-the-art amenities like gyms, lounges, and rooftop gardens.
Chinatown's Culinary Scene
Chinatown
Explore a diverse range of Asian cuisines, from traditional Korean to other authentic flavors.
Cultural Hub & Developments
Southside & Chinatown
Discover a district undergoing exciting new developments and a rich cultural tapestry.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Southside & Chinatown
Understanding the Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🔑 Key Collection
Be aware you might need to collect keys from a convenience store off a busy roundabout.
🏙️ City Living Noise
Expect potential noise from late-night parties or traffic, especially on weekends.
🍽️ Spice Levels
Some budget-friendly restaurants might require you to ask for extra spice.
🚶♀️ Walkable Location
Many apartments are minutes from New Street Station and the Bullring. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
🔑 Key Collection
Be aware you might need to collect keys from a convenience store off a busy roundabout.
🏙️ City Living Noise
Expect potential noise from late-night parties or traffic, especially on weekends.
🍽️ Spice Levels
Some budget-friendly restaurants might require you to ask for extra spice.
🚶♀️ Walkable Location
Many apartments are minutes from New Street Station and the Bullring. +1
🏢 Building Age
Some buildings in the area are a bit older, so manage expectations on 'luxury'.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Reviews for Southside and Chinatown are mixed, with many praising the ideal location and vibrant atmosphere. However, some guests have noted that accommodations can be basic rather than luxurious, and cleanliness issues have been raised. Concerns about noise on weekend nights and a less-than-ideal key collection process have also been mentioned.
"Ideal location. Good communication with the host. I personally wouldn’t call it “luxury” as it’s very basic and I wouldn’t say it was overly clean (especially the kitchen) but we were only there for the night to celebrate my 30th so it was convenient.
You also have to pick up the keys before hand from a convenient store which is just off the main horrible roundabout which wasn’t great."
Roxy W
"Extremely Disappointing and Negligent Service
I recently had the unfortunate experience of being trapped in a lift for over an hour, and I must say that the service provided by both the emergency line in the lift and the lift company was nothing short of abysmal.
Despite my repeated attempts to contact the emergency line within the lift, there was no response whatsoever. Frustrated and concerned for my safety, I had no choice but to call the emergency services (999) myself, who then had to contact the concierge. To my dismay, the concierge's presence was completely indifferent to my welfare, showing a complete lack of empathy and concern for my well-being.
What shocked me even more was the complete absence of communication and apology from both the concierge, lift company and the individuals responsible for opening the lift. After enduring such a distressing situation for an hour or so, I expected at least a basic level of customer service and acknowledgment of the inconvenience and potential danger I had been subjected to. Instead, I was left to walk out of the lift without any explanation or support.
Imagine if The this incident had occurred late at night, without my phone, I would have been so distressed, helpless and vulnerable. It is utterly unacceptable that a service provider, especially one responsible for the safety of individuals, would display such negligence and disregard for their customers.
. It is crucial for service providers to prioritize the safety and well-being of their customers, and this experience has shown the service provider and it contracted vendors falls far short of meeting those expectations.
In conclusion, my experience of being stuck in the lift for over an hour without any response, communication, or apology from the emergency line, concierge, or lift company was extremely disappointing and negligent. I hope that my review serves as a warning to others and prompts the managers of the apartment and lift company to improve their services and prioritize customer safety and satisfaction."
Andy Andy
"Apartment site is in a good location.
However it’s a little bit old building."
Hasret
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Southside and Chinatown are centrally located in Birmingham. You can easily reach them via New Street Station, which is a major transport hub. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available. +1
Yes, the area is well-served by public transport, with New Street Station nearby offering national rail connections. Local buses also frequent the area. Future metro connectivity is also planned.
Absolutely! The area is very walkable, with many attractions, restaurants, and shops within easy reach of each other. +1
There are several car parks available in the city centre, including those near the Bullring and Grand Central, which are a short walk from Southside and Chinatown.
Yes, it's very straightforward. The areas are adjacent to the main shopping districts and easily accessible from major landmarks like New Street Station.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Southside and Chinatown are public areas and do not require tickets for general access. Entry to specific attractions or restaurants may have associated costs.
Chinatown's restaurants and shops generally have varied opening hours, with many open late into the evening, especially on weekends. It's best to check individual establishment times.
Entry to the common areas of apartment buildings in Southside is typically restricted to residents and their guests. Visitors may need to be buzzed in.
While there aren't official 'tickets' for the areas, you might find guided walking tours focusing on food or history. It's worth searching for local tour operators.
Apartments in Southside can be booked through various property rental platforms or directly with developers and letting agents. +1
🎫 🏙️ Onsite Experience
Southside is known for its modern residential developments and amenities, while Chinatown offers a vibrant culinary scene with numerous Asian restaurants and shops.
Chinatown offers a wide array of Asian cuisines, including Chinese, Korean, Japanese, and more. You can find everything from budget-friendly eateries to more upscale dining experiences.
Yes, the adjacent areas like the Bullring offer extensive shopping. Chinatown itself has specialty stores selling Asian goods.
Many Southside apartments boast luxury amenities such as concierge services, gyms, private cinemas, rooftop gardens, and co-working spaces. +1
While generally safe, like any urban area, it's advisable to be aware of your surroundings, especially late at night. Some residents have reported noise disturbances on weekend nights.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the modern architecture of Southside's apartment buildings and the vibrant street life and signage of Chinatown. Rooftop views can also be spectacular.
Most restaurants are welcoming to photos of food, but it's always polite to ask permission before taking extensive shots of the interior or other diners.
Generally, photography is permitted in public areas of Southside. However, be mindful of private residences and avoid intrusive photography.
Late afternoon into the evening offers great opportunities with the neon signs and streetlights illuminating Chinatown.
A versatile lens, such as a 24-70mm, is great for capturing both street scenes and architectural details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for interiors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For dining, Chinatown offers a world of flavors that can appeal to adventurous young eaters. Look for restaurants with varied menus that can accommodate different preferences.
Be mindful that some areas can be busy, so keeping a close eye on children is recommended. The convenience of being close to transport links like New Street Station is also a plus for families traveling with little ones. 💰 Budget Travelers
Chinatown is a goldmine for affordable and delicious food. Many restaurants offer set menus or lunch deals that are excellent value for money.
Walking is the most economical way to get around, and the area is very pedestrian-friendly, saving on transportation costs. 💑 Couples
For a more modern experience, consider booking an apartment in Southside that offers amenities like a sky cinema or rooftop garden for a special evening. Take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant streets, perhaps catching a movie or enjoying the city's nightlife. The central location makes it easy to explore other parts of Birmingham, combining a cultural culinary experience with the buzz of city living.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Living in Southside: Modern Urbanity
The appeal of Southside lies in its blend of convenience and luxury. Its proximity to the city center, including New Street Station and the Bullring, makes it ideal for commuters and those who enjoy city life.
For investors and first-time buyers, Southside presents opportunities with new builds and bespoke developments.
Chinatown's Culinary Delights
It's a place where you can find everything from quick, budget-friendly meals to more elaborate dining experiences. While many restaurants offer a fantastic taste of Asia, some travelers note that certain budget-friendly spots might require a specific request for spicier options to suit varied palates.
Beyond the food, Chinatown is a cultural hub. Exploring its streets reveals specialty shops selling unique Asian groceries, gifts, and ingredients, adding another layer to the immersive experience.
It's a testament to the city's multicultural fabric, offering a distinct flavor and character that complements the modern developments of the adjacent Southside. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit