From world record breaking sports events to more intimate music showcases, the Arena Birmingham has something for everyone. When the National Indoor Arena (NIA) was opened by the athlete Linford Christie in 1991, it took the title of largest indoor arena in the UK. After a full renovation in 2014 costing £26 million, the venue was renamed. It may no longer top the tables in terms of size, but it’s still up there when it comes to the biggest and best shows. Owned by the same group that runs the National Exhibition Centre (NEC), the Arena has hosted such major events as the World’s Biggest Panto, the 1998 Eurovision Song Contest and all manner of sports championships.
Arena Birmingham
Arena Birmingham
Arena Birmingham
Essential Information
Facilities
Holding up to 15,800 fans at one time, the Arena Birmingham is a fantastically flexible space.
Layout
Whether it’s a sporting event in the side-seated arena or a more intimate concert, the venue can be adapted to have the perfect layout. Want to know what the venue will look like for your event? Check out the event’s page on the Arena Birmingham website.
Accessibility
From the dedicated ticket hotlines to free parking for blue badge holders, the Arena has full disabled access. If you let the venue know about your special requirements at the time of booking, they’ll arrange everything so you don’t have to worry and can fully enjoy the event.
Eating and Drinking
The fun doesn’t have to wait for the curtain to come up. There’s lots to keep you busy at the Arena.
If you want to arrive early and beat the crowds, there are plenty of places inside the Arena to grab a bite and enjoy the pre-show buzz. For a canalside view, head to the boardwalk for a choice of diners and cafés.
Located right next to the Arena, Brindleyplace is the perfect spot to start or finish your evening. With its canalside terraces and tree-lined squares, you’ll find a whole host of restaurants, cafés and bars to enjoy.
Getting to the Arena
Situated smack-bang in the centre of Birmingham, you’ll have no trouble getting to the Arena Birmingham. If you're jetting in, Birmingham International Station offers frequent trains to New Street Station. If you’re in the mood for a slightly different journey, why not take to the water? The beautiful canalside location means you can beat the traffic and arrive at the Arena by barge.
By car
With 2,000 on-site car parking spaces, driving to the Arena is no trouble. It can get busy so leave plenty of time for your journey.
By bus
With a choice of routes running right past the Arena, you’ll be able to hop on a bus and get on your way whatever the time of day.
By train
Jump on a train to Birmingham New Street, Moor Street, Snow Hill or Five Ways stations and you’ll only have a short walk to the Arena.