Birmingham, with its rich history and vibrant cultural scene, is an excellent destination for families looking to explore the heart of England. On my recent trip to this bustling city, I was keen to find accommodation that not only offered comfort and convenience but also catered to the needs of a family. After careful consideration and research, I chose three different hotels, each with its unique charm and amenities that promised a delightful stay for families.
1. The Grand Hotel Birmingham: A Touch of Elegance
Our first stop was The Grand Hotel Birmingham, a historic gem located right in the city center. The moment we stepped into the beautifully restored building, I knew this was going to be a special stay. The hotel combines Victorian elegance with modern luxury, making it an ideal choice for families who appreciate a touch of class.
Room Experience
We booked a family suite, which turned out to be spacious and thoughtfully designed. The room featured a comfortable king-sized bed for the adults and a sofa bed that our kids quickly claimed as their own. The décor was elegant, with rich fabrics and classic furnishings that gave the space a warm and inviting feel. What I appreciated most was the attention to detail – from the plush pillows to the blackout curtains that ensured a good night’s sleep for everyone.
Family-Friendly Amenities
One of the highlights of our stay was the hotel’s commitment to making families feel welcome. The staff went out of their way to provide us with everything we needed, including a crib for our youngest and extra blankets for the kids. The hotel also offered a children’s menu at their on-site restaurant, which featured a variety of healthy and delicious options that our kids loved.
We also made use of the hotel’s babysitting service one evening, allowing us to enjoy a quiet dinner while knowing our kids were in good hands. This service was easy to arrange through the hotel’s concierge, and it made all the difference in our ability to relax and enjoy our time in Birmingham.
Nearby Attractions
The Grand Hotel’s location made it easy to explore Birmingham’s top family-friendly attractions. We were just a short walk from the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, where the kids enjoyed the interactive exhibits. The nearby Victoria Square was perfect for a leisurely stroll, and we also took advantage of the proximity to the city’s shopping district for some retail therapy.
Booking Tip: The Grand Hotel Birmingham is a popular choice, especially during school holidays and weekends. I recommend booking well in advance through platforms like Booking.com or directly on the hotel’s website to secure the best rates and room availability.
2. Staybridge Suites Birmingham: Comfort and Convenience
Next on our list was Staybridge Suites Birmingham, an all-suite hotel that promised the comforts of home combined with the conveniences of a hotel stay. Located in the city’s bustling business district, Staybridge Suites turned out to be an excellent choice for families seeking a more relaxed and flexible accommodation option.
Room Experience
We stayed in a one-bedroom suite that offered plenty of space for our family. The suite featured a fully equipped kitchen, a cozy living area with a sofa bed, and a separate bedroom with a comfortable queen-sized bed. The kitchen was a real game-changer for us, allowing us to prepare quick meals and snacks for the kids, which is always a bonus when traveling with little ones.
The suite’s design was modern and functional, with a neutral color palette that felt calm and inviting. The bathroom was spacious, with a walk-in shower and plenty of counter space for all our toiletries. The kids appreciated the free Wi-Fi and the flat-screen TV, which helped keep them entertained during downtime.
Family-Friendly Amenities
Staybridge Suites Birmingham offers several amenities that cater specifically to families. The hotel’s complimentary breakfast buffet was a big hit with our kids, offering a wide variety of hot and cold options, including cereals, pastries, eggs, and fresh fruit. The breakfast area was spacious, with plenty of seating for families, and the staff were always on hand to assist with high chairs or special requests.
One of the unique features of Staybridge Suites is their “Pantry” – a small convenience store located in the lobby where you can purchase snacks, drinks, and basic groceries. This was incredibly convenient for those late-night cravings or when we needed a quick snack before heading out for the day.
The hotel also offers a laundry room, which we found very useful during our stay. Traveling with kids often means extra laundry, and having access to on-site washing machines and dryers made our trip that much easier.
Nearby Attractions
Staybridge Suites is located close to several family-friendly attractions, making it easy to explore Birmingham with kids. We were just a short walk from the Thinktank Science Museum, where the interactive exhibits kept the kids engaged for hours. The nearby Bullring Shopping Centre offered plenty of dining options, and we also took a day trip to the nearby Cadbury World, which was a huge hit with our chocolate-loving family.
Booking Tip: Staybridge Suites Birmingham often offers extended stay discounts, which is great for families planning a longer visit. I found that booking through Expedia or the hotel’s official website provided the best deals, especially if you’re a member of their loyalty program.
3. The Belfry Hotel & Resort: A Family Retreat
For the final part of our trip, we wanted to experience something a little different – a family-friendly resort where we could unwind and enjoy some outdoor activities. The Belfry Hotel & Resort, located just outside of Birmingham, offered the perfect escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Room Experience
We opted for a family room at The Belfry, which provided ample space for our family of four. The room was bright and cheerful, with comfortable beds, a large flat-screen TV, and a spacious bathroom with a bathtub that the kids loved. The décor was modern with a touch of countryside charm, reflecting the resort’s tranquil setting.
The room also featured a small sitting area with a table and chairs, which was perfect for family game nights or enjoying a snack. The view from our room overlooked the resort’s beautiful grounds, and waking up to that scenery each morning was a real treat.
Family-Friendly Amenities
The Belfry Hotel & Resort is well-known for its family-friendly amenities, and our experience there certainly lived up to its reputation. The resort offers a variety of activities designed for kids, including a mini-golf course, a large outdoor playground, and even a dedicated kids’ club where the little ones can participate in supervised activities and games.
One of the highlights for our family was the swimming pool. The Belfry has a large indoor pool that’s perfect for families, with a shallow area for younger children and plenty of seating for parents to relax while keeping an eye on the kids. We spent several afternoons splashing around, and the kids loved every minute of it.
The resort also has several dining options that cater to families. We enjoyed a delicious meal at The Ryder Grill, where the kids’ menu offered a range of options, from classic fish and chips to healthier choices like grilled chicken and vegetables. The staff were incredibly accommodating, providing crayons and coloring sheets to keep the kids entertained while we waited for our food.
Nearby Attractions
While The Belfry is located a bit outside of Birmingham, its location makes it a great base for exploring the surrounding countryside. We took a short drive to the nearby Drayton Manor Theme Park, which was a highlight of our trip. The park offers a variety of rides and attractions for all ages, and we spent a full day enjoying everything from roller coasters to the zoo.
For a more relaxed day out, we visited the nearby Sutton Park, one of the largest urban parks in Europe. The park offers beautiful walking trails, picnic areas, and plenty of open space for the kids to run around and explore. It was the perfect way to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Booking Tip: The Belfry Hotel & Resort often offers family packages that include accommodation, breakfast, and access to the resort’s activities. I recommend booking directly through the resort’s website to take advantage of these special offers and to ensure you get the best rate.
Birmingham proved to be a fantastic destination for our family vacation, offering a wide range of activities and experiences that kept everyone entertained. Each hotel we stayed at provided something unique, from the elegance of The Grand Hotel to the homey comfort of Staybridge Suites and the resort-style amenities of The Belfry.
When planning a family trip to Birmingham, it’s essential to consider the needs of all family members, from comfortable accommodations to convenient amenities and easy access to local attractions. Each of the hotels we chose met these criteria and contributed to a memorable and enjoyable stay.
Whether you’re planning a short city break or an extended family holiday, Birmingham has something for everyone. I recommend booking your accommodation in advance through platforms like Booking.com or directly on the hotel’s websites to ensure you get the best deals and availability.
Our time in Birmingham was filled with laughter, exploration, and quality family time, and I’m already looking forward to our next visit to this vibrant and welcoming city.
