Christmas Shopping in Birmingham
From traditional German markets to historic arcades and vibrant shopping streets, Birmingham has something for every Christmas shopper. Below, we’ve rounded up eight of the city’s best festive shopping spots to help you plan your seasonal spree.
Bullring & Grand Central
Location: Bullring, Birmingham, West Midlands B5 4BU
Bullring & Grand Central is Birmingham’s largest shopping destination and a must-visit for Christmas. With over 200 stores ranging from high-end brands like Calvin Klein and Ted Baker to high-street favourites such as Zara, H&M and River Island, it is the perfect place to tick off every gift on your Christmas list. The entire complex is beautifully decorated with sparkling lights, giant festive displays and the iconic Bull statue dressed for the season, making the shopping experience feel extra magical. Extended opening hours during December mean you can enjoy late-night browsing, festive dining, and plenty of time to find those perfect Christmas presents.
Best for: A complete Christmas shopping day out with everything under one roof.
Selfridges Birmingham
Location: Bullring, Birmingham, West Midlands B5 4BP
Selfridges Birmingham is one of the city’s most iconic shopping landmarks and transforms into a festive wonderland at Christmas. Inside its shimmering disc-covered building, you’ll find luxury fashion, designer accessories, gourmet food, and exclusive beauty collections perfect for gifting. From the Christmas Shop packed with baubles and decorations to the Foodhall’s indulgent hampers and chocolates, there are endless festive treasures waiting to be discovered. With live music, Santa appearances, and even a confetti cannon spectacle, Christmas shopping here is as magical as it is stylish.
Best for: Luxury gifts, festive experiences and indulgent Christmas treats.
World's Biggest Primark
Location: 38 High Street, Birmingham, West Midlands B4 7SL
The World’s Biggest Primark on Birmingham’s High Street is an unmissable stop for Christmas shopping. Spanning five floors and 160,000 sq ft, this record-breaking store offers everything from festive fashion and homeware to exclusive collections like Harry Potter and Disney. At Christmas, it becomes even more magical, with family jumpers, baby outfits and the fun Grinch Christmas Collection adding seasonal cheer. With in-store beauty studios, themed cafés and personalised gifts, it’s a one-of-a-kind destination where shopping, dining and festive fun all come together.
Best for: Affordable Christmas fashion, family collections, and festive fun under one roof.
Mailbox Birmingham
Location: 7 Commercial Street, Birmingham, West Midlands B1 1RS
Mailbox Birmingham is the city’s go-to destination for luxury Christmas shopping. From designer labels like Hugo Boss and Paul Smith to the world-class Harvey Nichols department store, it is the perfect place to find premium gifts for someone special. The canalside setting, fine dining restaurants and boutique cinema make it ideal for a festive day out beyond shopping alone. With exclusive brands, beauty treatments and even a charity giving tree, the Mailbox combines Christmas spirit with indulgence in style.
Best for: Designer gifts, luxury shopping and a festive day of dining and leisure.
Great Western Arcade
Location: Great Western Arcade, Birmingham, West Midlands B2 5HU
Great Western Arcade is one of Birmingham’s most charming Christmas shopping destinations, filled with Victorian character and unique independent boutiques. From gourmet treats and fine wines to handmade crafts, candles and quirky gifts, it’s the perfect place to find something truly original for loved ones. At Christmas, the arcade sparkles with festive decorations, live performances and a warm atmosphere that makes browsing its shops a delight. Nestled in the heart of Colmore Row, it’s a hidden gem that adds plenty of character to your festive shopping trip.
Best for: Independent shops, one-of-a-kind Christmas gifts and a cosy festive atmosphere.
Piccadilly Arcade
Location: New Street, Birmingham, West Midlands B2 4EU
Piccadilly Arcade, located just opposite New Street Station, is a hidden treasure for Christmas shopping in Birmingham. Filled with independent gift shops, jewellers and fashion boutiques, it’s the perfect spot to pick up thoughtful presents you won’t find on the high street. The beautiful building itself, complete with hand-painted ceilings and elegant shopfronts, adds to the festive charm of browsing here. Whether you’re looking for unique jewellery, quirky fashion or simply want to enjoy the arcade’s historic ambience, this is a must-visit in December.
Best for: Independent jewellery, boutique fashion and charming one-of-a-kind Christmas finds.
Jewellery Quarter
Location: Golden Square, Vyse Street, Birmingham, West Midlands B18 6NF
Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter is the city’s most dazzling Christmas shopping destination, home to over 100 independent jewellers and craftspeople. Whether you’re looking for engagement rings, bespoke bracelets or unique gold and silver pieces, this historic district offers treasures you won’t find on the high street. At Christmas, the area shines even brighter with jewellery-themed lights, giant illuminated displays and festive windows adding extra sparkle. With centuries of heritage and unbeatable craftsmanship, it’s the perfect place to find meaningful gifts that truly last a lifetime.
Best for: Handcrafted jewellery, bespoke gifts and sparkling festive shopping.
Birmingham's Frankfurt Christmas Market
Location: Victoria Square and New Street, Birmingham, West Midlands B1 1BB
Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market is the city’s most famous festive attraction and the largest authentic German Christmas market outside of Germany or Austria. Stretching across Victoria Square and New Street, it’s home to over a hundred stalls selling handcrafted gifts such as wooden toys, glass baubles, leatherwork and crystal lamps. The atmosphere is magical, with live music, twinkling lights, and the delicious aroma of bratwurst, roasted almonds and mulled wine filling the air. Perfect for both shopping and soaking up the festive cheer, it’s a Christmas tradition that draws visitors from across the UK and beyond.
Best for: Traditional festive gifts, German food and drink and soaking up Birmingham’s Christmas spirit.
To know more about Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas market location, opening times, top things to do and more, check out our exclusive guide page - Birmingham Christmas Market