A Gamer’s Travel Guide to Brum (Birmingham, UK)
The first city that springs to mind when you think of gaming hotspots in the UK might not be Birmingham, but this West Midlands gem, Brum, as the locals call it, has quietly built a vibrant gaming scene that deserves your attention.
What makes it special? Firstly, the city sits right near big game-making companies like Codemasters, which means you might bump into game developers or get to try new games before they hit the shelves. Plus, Birmingham’s city centre is nice and compact, so you can walk from retro gaming arcades to modern gaming lounges without needing a taxi or bus. This concentration of venues within proximity creates a ‘gaming district’ feel that is not as common in other cities in the UK.
However, not all gamers are into console-based games. Some gamers just want to stay indoors and enjoy online casino games or catch a quick slots game while in transit. For gamers who prefer their action online, particularly on the move or from the comfort of their hotel room, UK casinos not on gamstop are an increasingly popular option. They offer more flexibility and fewer restrictions than traditional UK-licensed sites. This makes them ideal for players looking to enjoy slots or casino games without the usual limits.
Retro Gaming Havens
Birmingham’s retro gaming scene is thriving, perfect for those who appreciate the classics. NQ64, an underground drinking den filled with retro arcade cabinets and vintage consoles, will transport you straight back to your childhood. With everything from Pac-Man to Street Fighter, plus gaming-themed cocktails, it’s the perfect spot to kick off your Brum gaming adventure.
For serious collectors, Nostalgia & Comics (now part of Forbidden Planet) is worth a visit. While primarily known for comics, they stock classic games and gaming memorabilia that you’ll love to have in your collection.
Modern Gaming Experiences
If you prefer cutting-edge gaming, Brum won’t disappoint. The Merkur Slots Gaming Centre offers a great gaming experience with the latest machines and tech. For a more social experience, try Roxy Ball Room, which combines gaming with food and drinks, think ping pong, pool, and arcade games with craft beer.
You will also find Belong Gaming Arena in the Bullring shopping centre, where you can book top-notch gaming PCS and consoles. With regular tournaments and events, it’s also a great way to meet fellow gamers while visiting the city.
Birmingham’s Gaming Events
If you want to attend any one of Birmingham’s gaming events, timing your trip right is important. Insomnia Gaming Festival, the UK’s largest gaming event, takes place at the NEC several times a year. It’s a must-visit with its mix of tournaments, meet-and-greets with gaming celebrities, indie showcases, and merchandise stalls. The festival’s organisers recently overhauled the network system to accommodate the high demand for reliable connectivity. Imagine over 3000 computers connecting to a single network, each demanding a high-speed connection. According to a case study report by FS, the company responsible for the network upgrade, the upgrade was done in one weekend and achieved a 93% user satisfaction.
EGX Birmingham, previously known as Eurogamer Expo, is another major event worth visiting. It features previews of upcoming games, developer talks, and competitive tournaments. Check their schedules before planning your trip. These events make for an unforgettable gaming experience.
Where to Stay
For the ultimate gaming getaway, book yourself into one of Birmingham’s more tech-friendly hotels. The Birmingham Central Backpackers is located in the centre of the city, making it a very accessible location for visiting other places. It offers modern rooms, free WiFi, free breakfast, nightly buffets, and a game room where you can play games and meet fellow gamers.
Budget-conscious gamers should check out the Selina Birmingham. With its cool communal spaces and regular social events, it’s ideal for meeting fellow travellers, and its robust WiFi can handle your gaming needs without breaking the bank.
Best Places to Eat for Gamers
What’s a vacation without good food? For a proper gaming-themed meal, head to Kongs, where arcade games sit alongside craft beers and loaded burgers. It’s the perfect place to debate which game you’re tackling next while restoring your energy levels.
Another place gamers love is Chance & Counters. Here, with over 600 games to pick from, stacked burgers, wings, loaded fries, coffee, and tea, the energy is 100%. It’s advisable to book a seat, especially on weekends, because it can fill up fast.
How to Get Around Birmingham
With the way Birmingham is set, most gaming venues are within walking distance of each other. For venturing further afield, the city’s tram system is efficient and relatively affordable.
If you plan to visit multiple places, consider getting a Swift card, Birmingham’s answer to London’s Oyster. It’ll save you money and the hassle of buying individual tickets every time.
Things to Do When Not Gaming
When you need a break from the screen, as you should from time to time, there are so many other cool things you can do in Birmingham. The Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery houses a fascinating collection that includes the largest pre-Raphaelite collection in the world.
For something completely different, visit Cadbury World in Bournville. What gamer doesn’t need a chocolate fix now and then?
Tips for Gamers
Birmingham’s gaming scene is growing fast, so check venue websites before visiting, as special events or tournaments might affect opening hours. If you just want to watch the action for a while and not play, most gaming venues welcome spectators as well as players.
Like any city, some gaming spots get busy on weekends, so book ahead where possible or be prepared to wait for your turn on popular machines.
Birmingham may not be loud about its gaming credentials like some cities, but rest assured that you’ll find a vibrant scene catering to every type of gamer.
Not affiliated with GamStop; gamble responsibly