The Jewellery Quarter is a lively area of Birmingham in the West Midlands, England. Located just south of the city centre, it is home to the largest concentration of jewellery businesses in Europe. The area produces just under half of all the jewellery made in Great Britain. Close to chic bars, gastro pubs, shops and museums it’s the ideal place to stay in or explore during a trip to Birmingham.
A good place to begin an exploration of this area is at Museum of the Jewellery Quarter. Visitors can head to the old jewellery factory to explore the original equipment, materials and early designs. Two self-guided trails traverse the neighbourhood, while interested travellers can see pavement decoration, significant buildings and illuminated sculptures. On the edge of the quarter stands St. Philip’s Cathedral. Designed and built in 18th century Baroque style, it is the third smallest cathedral in England. Highlights include the chancel with its beautiful stained glass window, the western tower dome and wooden galleries. Alternatively, St. Paul’s church is flanked by an attractive Georgian Square containing fine restaurants, galleries and bars. A short walk from the Jewellery Quarter, visitors will be able to shop until their heart’s content. The famous Bullring Shopping Centre houses all the popular high street stores, chic eateries and fast food outlets. Those willing to walk a little further will discover the bustling entertainment areas of Broad Street, a canal side location with some of the best Asian Fusion restaurants in the country.
Birmingham City Centre and its Jewellery Quarter are easy to access on foot. Most of the trails are designed for walking and cycling, so it’s a good way not to miss out. If arriving via Midland Metro, Jewellery Quarter railway station ensures visitors disembark into the heart of the action. Local buses operate along Vittoria Street and throughout the quarter. Taxis and Uber operate throughout the city.
Dating back over 250 years, the Jewellery Quarter is still home to over 500 jewellery businesses. The area has more than 200 listed buildings and has been classified as a national treasure. Visitors enjoy strolling around the area steeped in history. Its architecture, museum, churches and parks ripe for exploration, it is one of the most popular neighbourhoods of the West Midlands.