Discovering you live in the officially crowned best neighbourhood in your city can come as quite a shock. For one resident of Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, that exact revelation arrived in January 2026, when the area topped Muddy Stilettos' prestigious des res guide.
From Industrial Heart to Premier Postcode
The writer, a self-proclaimed 'kid from Wolverhampton', has called the Jewellery Quarter (JQ) home for six years. They humourously note that their accidental 'posh' status is shared with roughly 20,000 other residents. While the accolade was a surprise, the evolution of the area over recent years makes it a deserving winner.
Reflecting on visits back in 2017, the quarter was quieter and less self-assured, despite its inherent historic charm. The transformation since has been significant. Old factories have been sensitively converted into one and two-bedroom flats, bringing in more residents without stripping away the district's unique character.
A Foodie Destination with Village Vibes
The culinary scene is a major pillar of the JQ's appeal. It boasts what the resident describes as a 'holy trinity' of convenience: Tesco, Greggs, and Subway. Yet it's the independent offerings that truly shine.
From sensational pizza at Otto's to the stylish Trentina, the options are impressive. The recent openings of St Paul's Market and the Indian Brewery Taproom side-by-side have further cemented its foodie credentials. And presiding over it all is Opheem, a two-Michelin-starred fine-dining Indian restaurant, sitting casually on the edge of the quarter.
On sunny days, St Paul's Square transforms. Hundreds gather for picnics, creating a atmosphere more akin to a seaside town than inner-city Birmingham, albeit with confident seagulls in attendance. The area has become a destination for celebrations, dates, and catch-ups, generating a palpable buzz.
Charm, Convenience, and a Few Quibbles
Beyond food and atmosphere, the Jewellery Quarter offers practical perks. It has a very handy train station, cosy pubs serving excellent Sunday roasts, and even a Banksy artwork. The community spirit is evident in touches like the genuinely lovely Christmas lights.
However, the resident is quick to note it's not utopia. They wish for less car crime and a decent local gym, lamenting the trek to one in Hockley. A top-quality fish and chip shop, with the traditional Friday night queue, is also on their wishlist.
Despite these minor grumbles, the overwhelming feeling is that the Jewellery Quarter is still on an upward trajectory. With new cafés and restaurants constantly opening, the sense of momentum is undeniable. For the resident, moving there six years ago turned out to be an accidentally brilliant decision. The secret is well and truly out: the JQ is not just a place to live, but a place to experience.
