Travel options for Birmingham Mela 2026
More than 50,000 people are expected to attend Sandwell & Birmingham Mela 2026 on Sunday July 26 at Victoria Park in Smethwick. Organisers have stressed that parking is limited and strongly advise using public transport. Extensive road closures will be in place from 6am to 10pm, making driving difficult.
Bus services to the Mela
The following bus routes pass adjacent to the park: 80, 87, 89, 53, 55. These services provide convenient access to the festival site.
Train and tram connections
The nearest train station is Smethwick Rolfe Street, a 10-minute walk from the park. Smethwick Galton Bridge offers additional mainline connections and is a 23-minute walk away. For Metro users, the closest tram stop is Handsworth Booth Street, a 27-minute walk away, or you can take the number 80 bus towards West Bromwich. Check services in advance using the Metro Journey Planner.
Parking information
Limited car parking is available at Victoria Park for £10 per day, but spaces are first-come, first-served. Roadside parking is extremely limited due to road closures. A Sandwell Council spokesman said: "There will be road closures in place around the event so pick ups and drop offs will not be possible near the park. Please use public transport where possible."
Additional advice
Attendees are urged to allow extra time for traffic and to park considerately, avoiding blocking driveways or footpaths. For full details, see the Birmingham Mela Guide covering road closures, timings, and headline acts.
