Where to find Birmingham’s independent stores

Birmingham is a shopper’s haven.

With three shopping centres and 5 department stores, there’s plenty of shops to put the saying ‘shop until you drop’ to the test!

However, amongst all the high street stores, our city centre has over 100 independent stores & eateries that make up our fantastic city centre offering. From freshly roasted coffee and homemade bakes to unique one of a kind clothing pieces and gifts.

So, this Independence Day, we’ve put together a guide on where to find our hidden gems in the city so you can go out and discover them.

Piccadilly Arcade

Located opposite New Street Station, Piccadilly Arcade is home to an eclectic mix of independent stores. If you’re after a unique gift, Smithsonia is a well-loved gift store in Birmingham that offers something for him & her, ranging from hand-crafted jewellery and cuff links to artwork and ornaments. Head next door to the newest addition to the arcade, Shepherds to receive the best shave you’ll ever have. Find out what else is on offer in the arcade here

Great Western Arcade

Known for its picturesque Victorian charm, Great Western Arcade houses a wide variety of independent retailers such as Loki Wine, Miss Macaroon, Honest Skincare and Goodlife Barbershop. There’s something for everyone in the arcade – those who have a sweet-tooth to the skincare fanatics, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Take a look who else is in the arcade here

City Arcade

One of the smallest arcades in the city centre but certainly not one to be missed. Down there, you’ll find tasty vegan food at Fressh, lots of craft beer & pinball machines at Tilt, protein and fitness products from Will Power plus beauty salon, Riley & Carruthers.

Ethel Street

Just up from Stephenson Street, you will find a mix of independent stores and eateries including men’s designer wear store Autograph, stylish kidswear boutique Cloud Kids, family-run Italian restaurant La Galleria, U’R Nails and Twist.

Bennetts Hill

If you’re looking for delicious grub in the city centre, take a stroll to Bennetts Hill, also coined as the new ‘dining quarter’. Here you will find a variety of cuisines to enjoy from Indian (The Indian Streatery) and Spanish (Amantia) to Mexican (Bodega) and American (Buffalo & Rye) or if you’re just after some post-work drinks, there is Sun on the Hill and The Briar Rose serving up classic ales, beers and cocktails.

Stephenson Street

Just right outside New Street Station, you will find yourself on Stephenson Street. You can grab some authentic Greek delicacies at All Greek, stop for some brunch & coffee with friends at York’s or sharpen up your look with cut at HUSH or Ikon Barbers.

John Bright Street

Becoming quite the hospitality hub, John Bright Street is home to cafe & bar, Cherry Reds, African grill, Nakira and well-praised fried chicken eatery, Bonehead. These places are perfect for pre-theatre dinner with the New Alexandra Theatre just a couple minutes walk away!

You can also find other independents on side streets such as lifestyle menswear brand, No.50 on Pinfold Street, unique handmade fashionwear boutique, Disorder on Needless Alley and many more. See our independent directory to discover all the hidden gems.

If you want to make the most out of our independents, you can get yourself a IB card which gives you exclusive discounts and offers from some of the independents in the city. To find out more, visit http://www.independent-birmingham.co.uk/