Your Best Car Parks Near Symphony Hall
Car parking near Birmingham Symphony Hall can be priceless when you’re rushing to a performance or event. Here is our comprehensive guide to the best car parks by distance, price, safety and space available.
1. The Closest
The closest is Cambridge Street Car Park, just a 2 minute-walk from Symphony Hall’s entrance. For visitors, particularly those in a rush or simply requiring a convenient drop-off, it provides easy access. Entrances close to Symphony Hall mean you won’t have to walk far, which is perfect for those dash-in dash-out occasions. During busy periods, like evening shows, you might find spaces are less available – always check ahead.
A little further and yet still easily reached, the Moor St and Five Ways car parks offer alternatives a short walk away. These are especially useful when nearer facilities are full.
2. The Best Value
B4 Parking is the star of the inexpensive bunch, with budget rates for the (money) conscious. Evening tariffs address concert-goers and are economical for late events. Most car parks, including this one, have discounts for pre-booked spaces via app or online.
Another to save cash is to search for cashback schemes on mobile apps. These typically reward drivers for everyday use and can be a great way to save money over time. Pre-booking not only saves you money but secures a space in those peak periods.
3. The Most Secure
For peace of mind, Q-Park Brindleyplace is a top pick, with 24/7 CCTV surveillance, secure entrances and well-lit areas. On the Brindleyplace estate, this safe and secure multi-storey car park combines convenience and safety, just a very short walk from Symphony Hall.
Safety-conscious visitors will welcome things such as staff presence and dedicated zones for extra security of vehicles and belongings. Park Rewards, another handy app for improving security, comes with features like vehicle tracking for extra peace of mind.
4. The Largest Capacity
Broadway Plaza Car Park is the place to go for busy events and hectic weekends. With plenty of spaces and even allocated spots for larger vehicles, it’s a safe bet when it’s busy.
VIP spaces are on offer for premium seekers, though, and its layout means you’re unlikely to spend much time hunting for a space. Large car parks like this ensure they don’t run out during busy times.
A Local’s Take on Parking
Finding parking close to Birmingham’s Symphony Hall is doable with the right approach. Knowing what’s out there – whether that’s on-street parking, local car parks, or pre-booked ones – will save you time and bother. Here’s a comprehensive guide to maximising parking in this exciting citycentre!
On-Street Secrets
For those after convenience, on-street parking near Symphony Hall is a tempting option. Streets such as Cambridge Street and Berkley Street tend to have parking bays a short walk from the venue. These are great for short visits or quick stops, particularly in off-peak periods. There are time limits, with most bays on a pay-and-display basis from 8am to 6pm Monday to Saturday. Prices vary but are usually cheap, from £1 an hour.
Make sure to check local signs for amended rules, as restrictions may vary between streets. Some areas offer free parking later, which could be useful for the nighttime clientele. Street parking fills up quickly for events, so get there early if you want to find a space.
Walking Realities
A few multi-storey car parks a 5-10 minute walk from Symphony Hall are reliable alternatives. You’ll find secure spaces at places such as Brindleyplace and The Mailbox, too, and ideally located to cut down on the walking. If you’re brave enough to venture out, pedestrianised paths like Broad Street and Centenary Square guarantee a nice walk direct to the venue. They are wide, paved and lit, and can be both wheelchair and pram accessible.
Comfortable shoes are advised, particularly if parking further out. Although longer walks may not suit all, they usually include the perk of cheaper parking.
Pre-Booking Wisdom
Pre-booking parking has surged in popularity, thanks to companies such as JustPark making life easier. Reserved spaces ensure they actually exist and are usually cheaper than paying as you drive up. It’s especially useful on weekends or high-profile occasions when everything is in demand. Pre-bookings can be reassuring, offering hassle-free parking for those who are less acquainted with the city’s roads.
Blue Badge Holder Information
Symphony Hall Birmingham provides a range of initiatives to assist Blue Badge holders. Accessible parking information and advance planning are vital for disabled visitors. We’ve put together some information below to make your visit easy and inclusive.
Designated Bays
- There are six Blue Badge bays available next to Symphony Hall, and these should be booked in advance of the concert day.
- Located close to lifts and main entrances, the designated bays give easy access to the venue.
- A valid Blue Badge should be clearly displayed when using these spaces. Visitors may be required to show evidence of their Blue Badge status on request.
- They have wider bays for wheelchair users – giving you extra space for your mobility aids or car modifications.
Drop-Off Points
If you need to be closer to the venue, drop-off areas are another option.
- Drop-off zones are located on Cambridge Street and the front of Town Hall entrances.
- These find places to park as close as possible to your destination, and are ideal for visitors who have reduced mobility.
- This accessibility alleviates pressure on visitors with physical difficulties, getting them to the venue easily and in good time.
- Sensitive to peak footfall, particularly for marquee dates, it’s best to stagger arrival times.
Hall Accessibility
Symphony Hall itself is designed with inclusivity in mind.
- It has level access for wheelchair users, with ramps and lifts helpfully available throughout the building.
- There are accessible toilets, with practical facilities for disabled visitors.
- Assistance dogs are permitted, and companions of Blue Badge holders are frequently offered tickets at a reduced price, or free.
- For bespoke support like priority entry or extra assistance, it’s best to reach out to the venue beforehand.
Planning Ahead
- Blue Badge parking is available 90 minutes before performances – arriving early is essential.
- Availability can be patchy so do book a space in advance.
- Get in touch with the venue to confirm parking arrangements, for an even easier visit.
Paying for Your Space
Parking close to Symphony Hall Birmingham includes a range of payment methods based on your needs. Whether you’re going to a concert, visiting the area, or commuting on a regular basis, knowing these tricks can save you a lot of time and money.
Contactless & App
Contactless payments, or even app-based ones, have gained currency for their swiftness. Most car parks in the Symphony Hall area accept mobile payment (Apple Pay or Google Pay) at pay stations. Contactless card payments are accepted too, meaning drivers can dodge having to faff with cash.
Apps such as Park Rewards add hassle-free functionality, allowing speedy payments and loyalty rewards. These apps almost always allow you to search for spaces near you, see what’s free and pay from a distance. Digital modes help sidestep queues, which can be especially helpful during busy times or ahead of events.
Pre-Pay Options
Pre-paying for spaces is a great way to save money and ensure availability. JustPark, for instance, offers pre-booking of spaces, making parking during peak times or for time-sensitive events much less of a hassle. This option is particularly handy for gig-goers, as local car parks can fill up fast.
Pre-payment frequently has the added bonus of cheaper rates for extended bookings or loyalty schemes, so it’s not a bad option if you drive a lot. Most platforms offer cancellation policies, including free changes up to 24 hours before arrival, helping when plans do change.
Evening Tariffs
- Night rates are prevalent among car parks near Symphony Hall, too – you can get a discount for a late stay.
- These are great options for theatre-goers or those going out to eat nearby.
- Most car parks lengthen their hours for those late-night escapes.
- For up-to-date pricing, consult tariffs on car park websites or apps.
Payment Methods Table
| Payment Method | Availability |
|---|---|
| Contactless Card | Most car parks |
| Mobile Payments | Widely supported |
| App-Based Payments | Apps like Park Rewards |
| Cash | Limited availability |
Arriving Without the Car
For those who would prefer to forgo the hassle of parking in Birmingham city centre, public transport provides a more convenient and less stressful option. With numerous transport modes on offer, getting to Symphony Hall is quick and green.
By Train
The nearest stations are Birmingham New Street and Snow Hill, both within walking distance of Symphony Hall. New Street, being the city’s main station, has regular trains from cities including London, Manchester and Bristol. Likewise, Moor Street and Five Ways stations, albeit a little farther, remain within walking distance, giving passengers more rail alternatives.
For stress-free planning, the National Rail website is a fantastic tool, providing real-time updates and live information on train times. International guests arriving at Birmingham International Airport can take the neighbouring railway station straight to New Street, making the trek to the city centre easy.
By Tram
The West Midlands Metro is a great little alternative for short and easy journeys inside Birmingham. Stops such as Library and Town Hall are especially near Symphony Hall, with the Library stop being the most convenient for visitors. We have a good Metro network that links all sorts of city parts, Wolverhampton included.
For up to date tram times and delays, the Metro app is a great tool to have. Its intuitive interface means wayfarers can book their trips with ease, and not stare at the clock for no reason.
By Bus
Birmingham’s comprehensive bus network works great for Symphony Hall and thereabouts. Key routes call in at Broad Street and Centenary Square, both of which are within a short walk from the venue. Services are not just frequent – they’re some of the cheapest transport in the city for both residents and tourists.
My advice would be to get the Network West Midlands journey planner hotline number to find out buses and times. Cambridge Street, a 2-minutes walk from Symphony Hall, is a practical drop-off point for taxis and buses.
Additional Notes
Cyclists can use secure bike racks in Centenary Square. Electric vehicle users can find charging points across Birmingham, making it easier to make sustainable travel choices.
Navigating to the Hall
Centrally located, Symphony Hall in Birmingham is easy to reach by multiple modes of transport. To help you navigate smoothly, here’s how to get to the Hall.
- First, of course, you have to know where your starting point is and what the most direct route is. If you’re driving, major routes including the A4540 (Birmingham’s ring road) and Broad Street are key to getting into the area. Broad Street flows right into Centenary Square, and you’ll be no more than a 2-minute walk from Symphony Hall.
- Use navigation services such as What3Words to find your way precisely. Symphony Hall main entrance What3Words address: ///later.human.safely Handy for busy city streets and finding the nearest drop-off point on Cambridge Street (only a 2-minute walk away from the hall).
- Plan for your trip in advance to avoid delays from traffic, especially in rush hour! Journey planners such as those from West Midlands Metro or Network West Midlands can help you decide the best route, be it behind the wheel, on two wheels or via public transport.
For train arrivals, Birmingham New Street, Snow Hill, Moor Street and Five Ways stations are within walking distance of Symphony Hall. New Street, the main station, is only a 10-minute walk away, with a simple route through the city centre. Or cycle in – there are bike racks in Centenary Square.
If you’re already travelling further afield, Birmingham International Airport links to the city centre by frequent trains, making it a convenient option for those beyond the region. Once there, Brindleyplace car park is a conveniently located parking option only an 8 minute walk from the hall. Weaman Street is a little farther, around 15-18 minutes walk.