Best Shopping Malls Around Birmingham Airport
On my last trip through the UK, I had a 6-hour layover at Birmingham Airport, and instead of sitting around the terminal, I decided to explore the nearby shopping scene, with my Pocket WiFi device keeping me online at full speed, finding transport and checking mall reviews was a easy.
I was genuinely surprised by how many solid shopping spots are just a short drive or train ride away, If you’re into premium outlets, high street fashion, or just need a place to chill with coffee and free WiFi, Birmingham has it all.
1. Resorts World Birmingham
Just five minutes from the airport, Resorts World was one my first stop, and honestly, it felt more like a mini city than just a mall, i started by grabbing an Uber straight from the arrivals area, and within minutes, I was walking through outlets like Nike, Levi’s, and GAP, all offering serious discounts, thanks to my Pocket WiFi, I was even comparing prices online while I shopped (yes, I’m that guy).
Beyond shopping, the place has restaurants, a cinema, a VR gaming zone, and even a casino. I had lunch at Las Iguanas, enjoyed the lakeside view, and streamed a podcast while relaxing outside. It’s the perfect spot if you’ve got a layover and want more than just duty free shopping. Fast, convenient, and WiFi-friendly, Resorts World really kicks off your Birmingham experience in style.
2. Bullring & Grand Central
No trip through Birmingham is complete without a stop at Bullring & Grand Central, i hopped on a direct train from Birmingham International, just 15 minutes and landed right in the heart of the city. The place is massive and buzzing with energy. I spent a good chunk of the afternoon here browsing Selfridges, Zara, and the Apple Store.
I grabbed a bite at Wagamama, posted some Insta stories of the iconic Selfridges building (those silver disks are wild up close), and even booked my return ticket to the airport online while sipping a flat white. Whether you’re into fashion, tech, or food, Bullring gives you that big city shopping feel just minutes from the airport.
3. Touchwood Solihull
After grabbing a quick coffee, I took a 15-minute taxi ride from Birmingham Airport to Touchwood Solihull, and honestly, it felt like stepping into a boutique shopping district. The place is sleek, modern, and full of higher end shops like John Lewis, Apple Reseller, and Mango. I’m not usually big on malls, but this one had a calm, polished vibe that made browsing actually enjoyable.
With my Pocket WiFi keeping me connected the whole time, i FaceTimed my partner while checking out some gifts and even placed an online order for airport pickup right there in the mall, again i had lunch at Carluccio’s, streamed a few videos while eating, and used Google Maps to find a nearby park for a walk after. It’s ideal if you want somewhere a little classier but still low-key close to the airport.
4. Mell Square Shopping Centre
Later in the day, i wandered over to Mell Square, which is also in Solihull, just a few blocks from Touchwood. It’s more of an open air plaza than a typical mall, but I liked the laid back atmosphere. There’s a TK Maxx, WHSmith, and a few cool indie shops that sell everything from books to quirky British souvenirs.
I sat outside with a pastry from a local café, used my Pocket WiFi to upload some photos to my travel blog right from the square. If you’re looking for a casual, no pressure shopping stop without the usual mall crowd, Mell Square is a chill option worth checking out.
5. The Fort Shopping Park
I had some extra time before heading back to the airport, so I decided to check out The Fort Shopping Park, about a 20-minute drive from BHX. It’s not a fancy mall, but if you’re into big name brands at affordable prices, this place delivers at lot. I stocked up at Primark, grabbed some trainers at JD Sports, and browsed New Look for a few fashion finds I probably didn’t need.
Thanks to my Pocket WiFi, I was able to check product reviews and confirm sizes while shopping, it’s super helpful when you’re trying to get the most out of a quick visit. There’s also plenty of free parking, and I had lunch at McDonald’s while catching up on the latest Premier League highlights, if you’re after casual, budget friendly shopping, The Fort is a solid detour.
Smaller Centers & Outlets At Birmingham
I also stumbled upon a few smaller spots that are great if you’re short on time. Martineau Place, right in the city centre, is good for quick essentials, there’s a Boots, Greggs, and some grab-and-go food options. With my Pocket WiFi running, I even squeezed in a quick video call while waiting for my train.
Gracechurch Shopping Centre in Sutton Coldfield is a bit farther out, but I went there on another day and liked the quiet, local vibe, it’s got all the basics and a few hidden items if you’re willing to explore beyond the mainstream malls.
Conclusion
Looking back, I’m glad I didn’t just kill time at the airport, exploring the shopping malls around Birmingham Airport gave me a great mix of local culture, big name brands, and some seriously good food. Whether you’ve got an hour or half a day, there’s something nearby to make your layover feel more like a mini city break. My Pocket WiFi kept me connected every step of the way, navigating, streaming, uploading, even shopping smarter. Honestly, with fast internet and a bit of curiosity, Birmingham turned out to be way more than just a stopover.