While much of Birmingham city centre shopping has changed beyond recognition over the years, Great Western Arcade retains a timeless charm. With its pretty frontages and wrought iron, the shopping mall opposite Snow Hill train station maintains a traditional Victorian look, faithfully replicated after Second World War bombings.
When you step inside most shops, you are often greeted by the owners themselves—passionate Brummies striving to make it work in a difficult economic climate alongside chain favourites.
Currently, work is underway at Great Western Arcade, meaning some units are empty, but those still serving the city and making ends meet are well worth visiting. The arcade houses around 40 units, including shops, restaurants, and a pub.
During the World Cup season, they lay down astroturf, set up table football, and encourage Pint and Play action. Here is a quick run-down of what you can find, though popping in to see for yourself is best.
Where to Eat and Drink at Great Western Arcade
Michelin Guide restaurant Land is among the city’s most highly rated, with an ever-evolving menu executed with care and skill by the chefs, according to top inspectors.
For grab-and-go options, Habanero’s offers brilliant burritos and bowls, Anderson and Hill serves some of the best sandwiches in the city along with deli bits, Baguettes.com provides baguettes, and there is even a branch of Greggs—arguably the poshest one in Birmingham. Morridge is a beautiful retro-style cafe for coffee and excellent breakfasts. Kuula Poke offers fresh poke bowls, Mi Banh Mi serves Vietnamese sandwiches, Samo provides relaxed sit-down bistro dining, and Sushi Passion offers some of the city’s best sushi.
The Good Intent is the pub at the centre of the mall, with a traditional feel that fits in well. While there, pick up beautiful wine to go from Loki Wines, indulge in a tipple from The Whisky Shop, and fill bags of traditional sweeties at Mr Simms.
Where to Shop at Great Western Arcade
Fewer traditional shops remain than in the past, but the ones that do are wonderful. Peter Forson offers a range of beautiful hats, Daisy Florist provides delightful fresh blooms, and Indespoke sells soaps, hand creams, and gifts. The old tobacconist John Hollingsworth and Son was taken over by cigar specialists Havana House in 2020, which has been around since 1843. If Queen Victoria’s husband Prince Albert shopped for tobacco from a Hollingsworth (founder Thomas supplied the royal consort), it is worth a peek. For modern consumers, Tablites is also in the arcade.
Beloved Brummie gift shop Bentley’s is still going strong in a new unit, selling gifts, greeting cards, and special treasures. For bigger treasures, The Designer Exchange offers bags, accessories, and more from world-renowned fashion houses. Willpower Gym Store caters to fitness enthusiasts, while Game HQ provides trading card game products, sharing a shop unit with former Oasis Market neighbour Ignite Records. Owner Rich Perri is a certified Birmingham legend, and his record collection will blow your mind. Pop in, say hi, and leave with a sonic treasure or a tip for your new favourite band. Timpson offers shoe repairs and key cutting.
Health and Beauty Shops at Great Western Arcade
Ikon Barbers provides classic and contemporary cuts, and Goodlife Barbers also has a home there. Cora Hair and Beauty offers haircuts and treatments, and the brilliant Dolly Rockers—piercing experts formerly in the old Oasis—have a permanent home there. Cambridge Spectacles has wonderful frames, though the optician is temporarily closed, so keep your eyes peeled, especially if you have broken glasses.
There are two entrances to Great Western Arcade, but the easiest to find is directly opposite Snow Hill Station on Colmore Row.
