Birmingham, England’s second-largest city, has over several years or so begun to shed its reputation as an unappealing place to live. Often the butt of jokes, Birmingham is today one of the coolest places to live and has emerged as a cultural hotspot, in part thanks to its hosting of the 2022 Commonwealth Games, a famous television series which capitulated it to the top of the col charts and of course its many attractions, such as scenic canals, lush suburbs, an array of events, five Michelin-starred restaurants, lively bars and breweries, and a burgeoning bohemian scene.
If you are looking to relocate to the Midlands, cash house buyers like We Buy Any Home can get you the cash for your home quickly so that you can reinvest in a Birmingham property. Birmingham contains several neighbourhoods with diverse atmospheres and vibes. Here are some of our favourites.
Edgbaston
Edgbaston is one of the most affluent areas in Birmingham, home to the lovely Birmingham Botanical Gardens. It has stunning Georgian architecture throughout the area, and the train to Birmingham New Street station only takes 7 minutes, ideal if you need to commute. Sports enthusiasts can catch a test match at Edgbaston Cricket Ground or play 18 holes at Edgbaston Golf Course, and for a fine dining experience, Michelin-starred Simpsons is the go-to restaurant.
Edgbaston Village is also a must-visit destination, with its wide selection of quality pubs, such as The Highfield and The Physician, and a variety of shops and cafes. With property selling for on average £304,000, it is certainly at the top end of the affordability list.
Sutton Coldfield
Known as The Royal Town of Sutton Coldfield – a title that does wonders for property prices seeing as the average here is just over £313,000 – this suburban area often boasts the most expensive property in Birmingham. But that’s not all Sutton Coldfield has to offer, it is also home to plenty of affordable properties that make it ideal for investors and those looking to get on the property ladder.
The main attraction of Sutton Coldfield and Four Oaks is its stunning park, which spans a massive 2,400 acres and serves as a nature reserve. The park is equipped with bike paths and a serene lake, providing a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of Birmingham’s centre and an opportunity to revel in lush greenery.
Digbeth
Looking for a vibrant and youthful neighbourhood in Birmingham without the high price tag of Edgbaston? Look no further than Digbeth, the bohemian heart of the city located southeast of the city centre with prices averaging £180,000. Known for its hipster hangouts and kooky creative venues, this area attracts a young population who enjoy brunch spots, converted warehouses, street art, and cool events.
At the centre of Digbeth lies the iconic Custard Factory, which has transformed from a factory producing sweet syrupy sauce to a top cultural venue hosting digital startups, eateries, bars, and events. Other popular venues in the area include Mama Roux’s, Night Owl, and Old Crown, one of the oldest pubs in Britain.
If you venture just west of Digbeth, you’ll discover two other exciting neighbourhoods: the Chinese Quarter, offering an eclectic mix of Asian restaurants and markets, and the Gay Village, known for its performances and inclusive atmosphere.
With one of the youngest populations in Europe, Digbeth is a great place to live for young people. However, if you prefer a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere, this neighbourhood may not be the best fit as it is a buzzing area full of life you’d expect in one of England’s biggest cities.
Bournville
Bournville is a picturesque area in the south of Birmingham that has a strong connection to the Cadbury family, who established the Cadbury chocolate factory in the 19th century. The Cadbury family was renowned for their philanthropy, and they built Bournville as a model village for their factory workers, providing housing, healthcare, and education for their employees.
The legacy of the Cadbury family is evident in Bournville today, with many of the original buildings and green spaces still intact. The area has a traditional feel, with one of the main draws of Bournville being its excellent schools. The area has a range of primary and secondary schools, both state and private, that consistently rank highly in league tables. As a result and unsurprisingly housing in Bournville is also highly sought after with prices averaging £300,000. Many of the houses were originally built for factory workers, and as such, they have a unique character and charm.
Bournville is also well-connected to Birmingham city centre. The area has its own train station, with regular services to Birmingham New Street, making it an ideal location for commuters.
Brindleyplace
Along Birmingham’s charming canal network, you’ll find Brindleyplace – a destination that has swiftly become one of the most desirable in the city. With bars, restaurants and Instagram-worthy waterfront apartment views, it’s easy to see why Brindleyplace is considered one of the best places to live in Birmingham, as well as the most expensive.
In recent years, Brindleyplace has undergone extensive regeneration and has been a key player in the city’s Big City Plan, solidifying its reputation as one of the most affluent postcodes in Birmingham. With its growing collection of international businesses, leisure hotspots, and residential developments, Brindleyplace is quickly becoming a unique destination for living, socializing, and working.
This district is especially popular in the summer months when the canal comes to life and is perfect for evening strolls. Top professionals in Birmingham flock to Brindleyplace and it is even starting to attract interest from elsewhere in the UK and overseas investors.
City Centre
For those who thrive in the hustle and bustle of city life, the city centre is the perfect fit. It boasts landmarks such as the renowned Bullring shopping centre, Grand Central, and Victoria Square, and is packed with exciting things to do. The city is always buzzing with activity night and day, and you’re bound to come across something interesting that tickles your fancy.
The vibrant nature of the city centre makes it a popular choice for working professionals who prefer a fast-paced lifestyle. It’s especially suitable for those working in Colmore Row, the city’s booming business district. With average prices sitting at £237,000, it is surprisingly affordable when you consider its central location.
Birmingham is a fantastic option if you are looking to relocate or invest in a new city. At we Buy Any Home we can help you to sell house fast and free up deposit for a new property in as little as 7 days, so with ongoing developments and regeneration projects, the future looks bright for Birmingham, and we expect it to cement its reputation as one of the best places to live in the UK, so now is the time to get in on the action!