This city loves Christmas. Not only have we got one of the biggest and best festive markets in the country, but everywhere from the streets to the storefronts embraces the holidays. There are beautiful decorations and fairy lights all over Birmingham, making the often arduous task of Christmas shopping into a magical adventure. You’ll be able to pick up anything from handmade toys and stocking filler treats to designer clothes and sparkling jewellery in Birmingham.
1. Birmingham Christmas Market
Where else do you start Christmas shopping in Birmingham other than at the legendary Frankfurt Market? There are over a hundred stalls on New Street and Victoria Square up until Christmas Eve selling a huge range of traditional gifts. Grab handcrafted wooden decorations, delicate glass baubles, crystal lamps, leatherwork, toys, jewellery and so much more, while tucking into everything from weissbier to bratwurst. Get yourself in the Christmas spirit quickly by following this reindeer trail around the city centre too.
Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market, Victoria Square and New Street, Birmingham, West Midlands B1 1BB
2. Bullring & Grand Central
It’s where you’d normally go shopping in Birmingham, so of course it’s got to be one of your first stops at Christmas. Birmingham’s largest shopping centre, Bullring & Grand Central is home to all your favourite fashion brands, electronic shops and everything in between. It’s been transformed with huge Christmas trees and festive decorations too, making this a truly magical trip.
The iconic Selfridges store will specifically be getting very Christmassy these holidays. It’s got everything from confetti cannons in the atrium to Santa and his elves hiding out in the shop. Plus, the entire mall has extended opening hours over the Christmas period (some days as late as 10pm), which means there’s always time to squeeze in a spot of extra shopping.
Bullring & Grand Central, Birmingham, West Midlands B5 4BU
3. Jewellery Quarter
Christmas in the Jewellery Quarter is always a magical experience. The streets are filled with hundreds of jewellery-themed Christmas lights, while over 25 stores have become WAY more inviting with their seasonal window displays. But what about shopping? Well, this where to come for something special this Christmas – engagement ring, anyone?
See, an estimated 40% of British jewellery is made in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter. And with over 100 independent specialist retailers and craftspeople, you’ll find something truly unique you won’t find on your average high street. Whether it’s Jewellery by Lora Leedham, which has appeared in Vogue and Grazia, or Quarter Jewellery for vintage items, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for.
4. The Mailbox
Looking for something flashy to buy? Look no further than the Mailbox. Birmingham’s other shopping centre is a little more on the premium side of things. Harvey Nichols holds over 200 desirable brands in womenswear, menswear, beauty, food and wine, many of which are exclusive to Birmingham.
If you’d like to do some Christmas shopping that passes the festive feeling forward this Christmas in Birmingham, the local children’s charity, Young at Heart has installed a giving tree at Mailbox. Collecting gifts for children with heart conditions in hospital this Christmas, visit the WSP reception on level 2 of Mailbox to take a tag, buy a gift and place it unwrapped under the tree with the tag attached. You have until December 18 to do so.
Mailbox Birmingham, 7 Commercial Street, Birmingham, West Midlands B1 1RS
5. Great Western Arcade
It’s a fair bit smaller than any other Christmas shopping spot, but this Victorian arcade shouldn’t be overlooked. Crammed full of independent retail shops and restaurants whether you’re after wine and whisky for the in-laws, sweets for the little ones, gifts by unique Carricean creators, or a present as simple as candles or cigars, there’s something for everyone at Great Western Arcade. Alongside intricately crafted archways and ornate chandeliers, it’s always full of Christmas charm this time.
It’s not the only “arcade” worth checking out this Christmas in the city centre. Burlington Arcade is home to a small but select range of stylish retailers, as well as the city centre’s best-kept secret, Bacchus Bar. Meanwhile, Piccadilly Arcade is full of independent gift shops, fashion boutiques and jewellers. Plus, there’s the City Arcade too. Expect all to be dressed for the holidays!
Great Western Arcade, Colmore Row, Birmingham B2 5HU
Burlington Arcade, New Street, Birmingham B2 4JQ
Piccadilly Arcade, New Street, Birmingham B2 4EU
City Arcade, 25 Union Street, Birmingham West Midlands B2 4TX
6. Digbeth
If you’re after alternative Christmas shopping options, then Digbeth is your best bet. It’s probably not going to be as “Christmassy” as other areas of Birmingham, but you’ll still spot plenty of decorations and lights strung around town. Pop into Red Brick Market for a treasure trove of independent sellers, so you know you’re money is going to local Birmingham businesses – hit it up for vintage clothing, handmade jewellery, antique furniture and quirky gifts. Also, check out The Custard Factory and surrounding areas for more.
Red Brick Market Birmingham, 119 Floodgate Street, Deritend, B5 5SU
The Custard Factory, Gibb Street, Digbeth, Birmingham, West Midlands B9 4AA
7. Merry Hill
Just outside of Birmingham, this Dudley shopping centre is legendary and will be extending its opening hours as we build up to Christmas. There are more than 250 brands across Merry Hill, with a mix of big names and independents. But what truly sets Merry Hill apart is the Christmas House – essentially, a huge festive megastore for decorations, lights, jumpers, stockings and whatever else you can imagine.
Merry Hill, Pedmore Rd, Brierley Hill DY5 1QX
8. Edgbaston
You’ll find a selection of independent shops in Edgbaston, but you really want to come for the Christmas feels. The whole ‘village’ is lit up this time of year. Meanwhile, the Christmas Artisan Market takes place on Saturday, December 14 (10am to 4pm) with over 70 stalls to explore.
Edgbaston Village, 5 Greenfield Cres, Birmingham B15
Additionally, if you want to steer away from the same old presents and gift your loved ones a unique musical experience, the festive Candlelight Holiday series is bringing popular Christmas melodies to gorgeous venues across Birmingham.