Birmingham is one of the major cities in the UK when it comes to huge concerts as well as intimate venues. The pulsing live music scene attracts not only world-class stars, but also creates an atmosphere for supporting local newcomers. The city in the Midlands is heavily influenced by its industrial heritage.
Check out the venue and festival guide below to get our best tips for accomodation, day activities as well as bars and restaurants before and after the gig.
80,000 annual Rock fans cannot be wrong: Download Festival is the most popular British Rock and Heavy Metal festival. Always hosting the real big names in music scene. About 40 miles away, at Donington Park.
For the really big gigs, Arena Birmingham is the right place. Also located very nice in the canalside area with loads of restaurant and bar options around.
If you are heading for a major artist’s gig, you may probably have tickets for O2 Academy. Hosting concerts nearly every night, this one is all about live music.
Independent music scene comes alive in the The Sunflower Lounge. DJs and live bands alike will promise best entertainment for tonight.
The Glee Birmingham is mostly about comedy performances, but also hosts live music shows on a regular basis, from Indie to Rock, and Pop music.
South of the inner city is The Hare and Hounds where UB40 once played a legendary concert. Now one of the most influential music venues in town.
Fancy some live music? The Actress & Bishop is probably a good choice on virtually every night. Also strongly supporting local acts from Birmingham and around.
One of the best options in Brum for vibrant live music atmosphere: The Asylum Venue. Always on the list are Punk, Rock, Heavy Metal, Grunge, or Indie.
The Digbeth Institute was originally built as a methodist congregational chapel at the turn of the 1900s. From 1955 on, it was used as a civic hall. It later became a music venue and has become an essential part of the Birmingham live music and club scene. Over the last 30 years this legendary venue has hosted numerous renowned bands.
