The Bullring is one of the largest shopping districts in the UK and occupies a large part of Birmingham city centre.
A cluster of large shopping centres, including Selfridges, with its famous futuristic building, is located around the historic 'The Bull Ring', which has been the site of markets since the Middle Ages.
The Bullring is currently the most visited shopping centre in Britain.
From the Corn Market to the Modern Quarter
As early as the 12th century, corn markets were held on the site of what is now St Martin's Church. The site gradually became a major trading centre for the whole of the West Midlands.
It was at its most glorious during the 17th to 18th centuries, when bull slaughters were held here, preceded by a bloody entertainment known as a bull-baiting.
In this 'sport', the bull was pitted against a number of dogs, which were designed to kill it before the actual slaughter.
Although this cruel and controversial pastime was abandoned during the 19th century, it still has a place in Birmingham's history.
Today, however, bulls have an opposite and quite privileged position in Birmingham's symbolism and are viewed positively and with respect.
Bullring today
The shopping district grew up around the historic market square, which is now the site of the 1855 St Martin's Anglican Church.
Today, the Bullring is also effectively combined with the shopping centre at New Street railway station into one large complex, the Bullring & Grand Central.
In total, there are over 150 shops of various kinds and over 40 restaurants in several food courts.
For a full list of all the shops and restaurants, visit the official website at bullring.co.uk/shop.
Hotels near the Bullring
Many travellers head to Birmingham primarily for shopping, in which case it will be strategically convenient to stay right in the Bullring area.
For example, the following hotels can be found within a 3-minute walk of the shopping centres:
What to see around
Discover all the places to see in Birmingham.
