Destination Spotlight: Birmingham
Introduction
Welcome to Birmingham - a city set in the very heart of England.
Built on bold ideas, connection and creativity, Birmingham is perfect for business events that are looking to leave a lasting impression.
From grand historic buildings and striking Victorian landmarks to cutting edge contemporary architecture and flexible modern venues, Birmingham offers spaces that truly tell a lasting story. Its diverse neighbourhoods, thriving cultural scene and world-class transport links make it an easy, inspiring choice for delegates from across the UK and beyond.
Take a whirlwind tour of Birmingham to discover the venues, experiences and hidden gems that make this dynamic city the perfect stage for unforgettable business events.
Venues
Library of Birmingham
At the centre of the city sits the Library of Birmingham, one of the largest public libraries in Europe and a true architectural statement. Step inside and you’re met with a dramatic entrance that carries you into a literary wonderland. Home to the second-largest Shakespeare collection in the world, the Library also hides a secret rooftop garden, offering sweeping views of the city, making it an unforgettable setting for private events, drinks receptions and dinners – for calm above the buzz.
ICC Birmingham
Just across the way is the ICC. First opened in 1991, this remarkable convention centre replaced the historic Bingley Hall - the world’s first purpose-built exhibition space - cementing Birmingham’s long-standing reputation as a city built for business events. Today, the ICC is a large-scale conference venue, welcoming up to 3,000 delegates, with a range of flexible rooms designed to suit events of all sizes.
Symphony Hall
Opposite the ICC, Symphony Hall brings a sense of drama and impact.
Inspired by the acoustics of the Royal Albert Hall and home to a magnificent organ famously delivered via Birmingham’s historic canals, it’s a striking setting for large-scale conferences by day and gala dinners by night. With built‑in AV, an expert in‑house tech team, and seamless access from the ICC, the venue is fully equipped to welcome delegates and support smooth transitions from daytime events to evening celebrations.
thestudio
At thestudio, Birmingham’s innovation continues. Once home to mobile phone giant, Orange, it’s now Birmingham’s only venue with a dedicated ‘Business Playground’, designed to spark creativity during breakout sessions. With 19 vibrant rooms, roof terraces, gardens, and relaxed communal spaces, it adapts effortlessly for whatever your event needs may be.
Brindleyplace
Step outside and discover the city for yourself. Along the canals and through Brindleyplace, Birmingham’s creative energy is unmistakable. From the Black Sabbath Bench - a tribute to the band’s Brummie roots - to striking murals celebrating iconic films, artists and stories born in the city, inspiration can be found around every corner.
Birmingham Town Hall
Why not host a dinner at the venue where Charles Dickens first read A Christmas Carol aloud?
Delivering pure grandeur and with space for over 1000 delegates, Birmingham Town Hall provides a historic backdrop for any event. Complete with its original organ dating back to 1834, adaptable seating, and its newly opened timeline bar, it’s a breath-taking venue steeped in history and guaranteed to leave a lasting impression!
IET Birmingham: Austin Court
For quirky conference spaces, IET Birmingham delivers. With its 150-seat Kingston Theatre, ideal for panel sessions, to sleek meeting and breakout spaces with varying capacity, it’s a fun, stylish events space with a distinct Birmingham twist.
Digbeth
Just a short stroll away is Birmingham’s creative quarter of Digbeth, home to beautifully restored venues such as:
Fazeley Studios
Formerly a 19th-century Unitarian chapel and Sunday school dating back to 1876, Fazeley Studios has been restored and creatively repurposed as a stylish event venue blending historic character with contemporary style.
The Bond
Just over the road, The Bond sits beside the Grand Union Canal. Comprising of five historic structures, all beautifully converted, it’s ideal for networking dinners with a twist and a classic Birmingham backdrop.
Custard Factory
Nearby, the Custard Factory tells a story of reinvention. Once home to Bird’s Custard, the century-old Custard Factory has now been transformed into a group of flexible spaces with conference and meeting rooms, communal areas, independent cafes and restaurants. It’s a venue with history woven into every stone.
And tucked away, you might even spot find the mighty Digbeth Tree Man!
Upcoming events
And if you’re wondering what’s on the horizon for Birmingham, here are just a few of the exciting events coming up!
Birmingham Airport has its most ambitious international expansion in over a decade due, with plans underway to reinstate direct flights to the United States, a major boost for business travellers worldwide.
Birmingham City has unveiled its new 62,000-capacity stadium, the centrepiece of a multi-billion pound redevelopment in the city. Owned by Tom Brady, you can find out more here.
The Caledonian Sleeper inaugurated direct services from Birmingham International to Scotland in January 2026, marking its first new stop in over 30 years. This service links the West Midlands directly to the Scottish Highlands, enhancing tourism and business travel with options for en-suite rooms and seated coaches.
So, to recap, why Birmingham?
- A bold, connected city at the heart of England, built on ideas, innovation and creativity
- Characterful venues ranging from architectural icons and world‑class conference centres to restored chapels, industrial spaces and historic halls
- Canal‑side settings, creative quarters and vibrant neighbourhoods that turn the city itself into part of the delegate experience
- Unique incentives inspired by Birmingham’s music, culture, heritage and modern makers
- Flexibly designed meeting spaces supported by expert teams, cuttingedge tech and effortless national connectivity
Birmingham doesn’t just host events—it elevates them. Confident, creative and full of character, the city blends iconic architecture, worldclass venues and unexpected cultural moments to spark connection and imagination. From iconic architecture to creative quarters, historic halls to playful modern spaces, Birmingham is a city of experiences. It knows how to welcome, innovate and deliver the unexpected. Bring your next event to Birmingham and discover why it’s a standout destination.
Get in touch with the Birmingham & West Midlands Convention Bureau team for expert advice.