Martineau Place
Birmingham's central shopping hub honoring a dynasty of mayors, blending retail buzz with echoes of Unitarian heritage and civic pride.
Nestled in Birmingham's bustling city center, Martineau Place is a vibrant shopping center on Corporation Street offering diverse retail stores, eateries, and everyday conveniences. Named after the influential Martineau family, who shaped Birmingham's civic and industrial history over generations, this modern hub blends contemporary shopping with echoes of the city's Unitarian and Liberal heritage. Open extended hours from early morning, it serves as a practical stop for locals and visitors alike, with over 1,300 photos capturing its lively atmosphere.
A brief summary to Martineau Place
- 44-80 Corporation St, Birmingham, B2 4UW, GB
- +441212361500
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 7 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-7 pm
- Thursday 7 am-7 pm
- Friday 7 am-7 pm
- Saturday 7 am-7 pm
- Sunday 11 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit early morning weekdays for quieter shopping and fresh bakery scents before crowds arrive.
- Explore upper levels for varied fashion outlets, ideal for mixing high-street brands with independent finds.
- Combine with nearby Bullring for a full retail day, using Martineau Place as your convenient midpoint.
- Check store directories for pop-up events, often featuring local designers or seasonal promotions.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
From Birmingham New Street Station, NX bus lines run every 5-10 minutes to Corporation Street stop, 3-5 minutes travel time, £2-£2.50 single fare depending on zones.
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Walking
From Bullring Shopping Centre, 12-15 minute walk along pedestrian-friendly Corporation Street sidewalks, mostly flat with some inclines, suitable for all abilities.
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Tram
West Midlands Metro from Library stop to Bull Street, 2 minutes ride every 8-12 minutes, £1.50-£2 fare, then 4-minute walk; frequent service avoids peak traffic delays.
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Taxi
From city center hotels like The Mailbox, 5-8 minute ride depending on traffic, £6-£9 fare, limited drop-off directly outside due to bus lanes.
Martineau Place location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Martineau Place
Gateway to Birmingham's Retail Heart
Martineau Place stands as a key entry point into Birmingham's dynamic shopping district, located along the lively stretch of Corporation Street. This multi-level center buzzes with activity, housing a variety of stores catering to fashion, electronics, beauty, and daily essentials. Its strategic position in the central business district makes it a natural hub for those exploring the city's retail scene, where glass-fronted facades reflect the urban energy around it. The architecture emphasizes functionality with clean lines and open spaces, allowing natural light to flood escalators and walkways. Shoppers navigate easily between levels, drawn by promotions and seasonal displays that change with the calendar.Legacy of the Martineau Dynasty
The name Martineau Place honors a prominent family whose roots in Birmingham trace back to the early 19th century. Originating from Norwich, the Martineaus relocated in 1828, quickly becoming pillars of industry in textiles, banking, and brewing. Their Unitarian faith fostered marriages into influential families like the Chamberlains and Kenricks, amplifying their impact. Generations served as mayors and lord mayors, a lineage recognized in records for spanning from 1846 to 1994. Robert Martineau, an early mayor in 1846, exemplified their civic dedication, while later figures like Sir Thomas hosted Queen Victoria in 1887 during the opening of the Victoria Law Courts.Unitarian Roots and Civic Influence
Deeply tied to the Church of the Messiah, the Martineaus championed progressive causes, blending business acumen with philanthropy. Family members like Harriet Martineau, a pioneering sociologist and abolitionist born in 1802, brought international renown, though she later embraced atheism unlike her philosopher brother James. Their burials in Key Hill Cemetery underscore enduring ties to Birmingham. Politically, they aligned with Liberal Unionists, aiding projects like the Welsh Water Bill and elevating the city's status as an assizes town. This heritage infuses the place with a sense of historical gravitas amid modern commerce.Daily Rhythm and Visitor Draw
From Monday to Saturday, doors swing open at 7am, extending to 7pm, with Sundays more relaxed from 11am to 5pm. This schedule accommodates early risers grabbing coffee or late-afternoon browsers seeking deals. The center's role in the 1999 Birmingham Alliance regeneration highlights its evolution from urban renewal to a staple retail destination. Eateries provide quick bites, from chains to local flavors, fueling shopping marathons. The site's proximity to other city landmarks encourages seamless transitions between cultural sites and consumer pursuits.Atmosphere of Urban Convenience
Martineau Place captures Birmingham's industrious spirit, where practicality meets variety. Wide corridors and clear signage ease movement, even during peak times. Seasonal events and window displays add flair, turning routine visits into engaging outings. Its naming preserves a thread of local history, reminding passersby of the Martineaus' multifaceted legacy in shaping a forward-thinking Birmingham.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Workers Memorial
0.2 km
A solemn landmark in Birmingham honoring workers lost to workplace tragedy and inspiring the fight for safer labor conditions.
The Selfridges Building
0.4 km
A shimmering silver landmark in Birmingham’s Bullring, where shopping meets futuristic architecture and luxury retail in a sculptural masterpiece.
The River
0.4 km
Iconic bronze fountain sculpture in Birmingham’s Victoria Square, blending art, poetry, and urban life since 1994.
The Best of Birmingham Trail
0.6 km
Explore Birmingham’s rich heritage through 20 iconic sites on this free, immersive city centre trail blending history, art, and urban renewal.
Chamberlain Memorial
0.6 km
A striking neo-Gothic monument in Birmingham’s Chamberlain Square honoring Joseph Chamberlain’s legacy of public service and city transformation.
The Floodgate
0.9 km
Discover The Floodgate in Birmingham for a unique blend of drinks, indoor sports, and a lively atmosphere perfect for tourists.
Boulton, Watt and Murdoch
0.9 km
Explore Birmingham's Boulton, Watt and Murdoch sculpture—an inspiring tribute to the city's industrial heritage and innovation.
St Paul's Square
0.9 km
Discover the charm of St Paul's Square in Birmingham, where history meets modern culture in a picturesque setting.
The Cube
1.0 km
Discover The Cube in Birmingham – a unique blend of leisure, dining, and entertainment that creates unforgettable experiences for every visitor.
Custard Factory
1.0 km
Explore the Custard Factory - Birmingham's creative hub of art, culture, and unique shopping experiences.
Digbeth Art Space
1.0 km
Discover the vibrant creativity at Digbeth Art Space, Birmingham's premier art gallery showcasing local talent and innovative exhibitions.
Factory Works
1.0 km
Discover Birmingham's Factory Works, a vibrant events venue in the historic Custard Factory, showcasing the best of local art and culture.
New hall Hill - Historical Signature!
1.0 km
Explore New Hall Hill, a historical treasure in Birmingham, where captivating architecture and rich cultural history come together for an unforgettable experience.
Birmingham Walk of Stars
1.1 km
Explore the Birmingham Walk of Stars, an outdoor tribute celebrating the city's iconic figures from music, film, and sports along the vibrant Broad Street.
Newhall Hill
1.1 km
Experience breathtaking views and historical charm at Newhall Hill, a serene oasis in the heart of Birmingham for every traveler.
Unmissable attractions to see
House of Fraser
0.1 km
Discover Birmingham’s iconic House of Fraser on Corporation Street, a historic department store offering diverse fashion, beauty, and homewares across six floors.
The Square Shopping Centre
0.2 km
Compact, sheltered city-centre shopping with practical high-street and independent stalls, ideal for quick stops and everyday needs near Birmingham’s retail core.
Great Western Arcade
0.2 km
Discover Birmingham’s elegant Victorian shopping arcade blending historic charm with boutique shops, fine foods, and cozy bars.
New Street & Burlington Arcade
0.2 km
A vibrant crossroads in Birmingham city centre blending historic elegance and dynamic shopping at New Street and Burlington Arcade.
Birmingham Cathedral
0.2 km
Discover Birmingham Cathedral, a stunning Baroque masterpiece and vibrant community hub in the heart of Birmingham, rich in history and artistry.
The Old Joint Stock Pub & Theatre, Birmingham
0.3 km
Historic Victorian pub and vibrant studio theatre in Birmingham’s city centre, blending rich heritage with live entertainment and refined British dining.
Ozzy the Bull
0.3 km
A towering mechanical bull named after Ozzy Osbourne, symbolizing Birmingham’s industrial might and musical heritage at New Street Station Forecourt.
Grand Central Shopping Centre
0.3 km
A stunning, modern shopping centre integrated with Birmingham’s New Street Station, offering diverse retail and dining in a light-filled, accessible space.
Bullring & Grand Central
0.3 km
Experience Birmingham’s iconic shopping and dining destination blending modern design, diverse retail, and vibrant social life.
Bullring Shopping Centre Bullring
0.3 km
Iconic Birmingham shopping destination blending historic roots with modern retail and vibrant dining experiences.
Selfridges Birmingham
0.3 km
Discover Selfridges Birmingham, an architectural marvel and luxury shopping destination at the heart of the Bullring.
The Grand Central Bull
0.3 km
Experience Birmingham's vibrant culture and rich history at The Grand Central Bull, a must-see tourist attraction in the heart of the city.
Horatio Nelson Statue
0.3 km
Historic bronze statue honoring Admiral Horatio Nelson’s naval victories, located in Birmingham’s Bull Ring since 1809.
St. Martin in the Bull Ring
0.4 km
Historic Neo-Gothic church and spiritual sanctuary at Birmingham’s vibrant Bull Ring, blending medieval heritage with modern city life.
Frankfurt Christmas Market Birmingham
0.4 km
Experience the largest authentic German Christmas market outside Germany, alive with festive food, crafts, and music in Birmingham’s Victoria Square.
Essential places to dine
Riva Blu Italian Restaurant & Bar, Birmingham
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant taste and style of Southern Italy in the heart of Birmingham with Riva Blu’s authentic cuisine and chic atmosphere.
Land Restaurant
0.2 km
Innovative vegan fine dining in Birmingham’s historic arcade, blending global flavors with seasonal British produce.
The Oyster Club
0.2 km
A sophisticated oyster bar and seafood restaurant in Birmingham offering fresh oysters, creative cocktails, and seasonal dishes in a relaxed setting.
The Ivy Temple Row
0.2 km
A stylish British brasserie in Birmingham blending art deco elegance with classic dishes and impeccable service.
Las Iguanas - Birmingham - Temple Street
0.2 km
Vibrant Latin American dining with carnival energy, fresh cocktails, and shareable feasts in Birmingham's city centre.
San Carlo - Birmingham
0.2 km
Classic Italian elegance and seafood delights in Birmingham’s stylish city centre dining destination.
Fumo by San Carlo - Birmingham Waterloo St
0.2 km
Chic Italian dining in Birmingham serving Venetian cicchetti, creative cocktails, and authentic flavors in a stylish modern setting.
The Botanist Birmingham
0.3 km
A vibrant botanical oasis in Birmingham city centre, blending fresh seasonal dining, inventive cocktails, and live music by the canal.
Gusto Italian
0.3 km
Stylish Italian dining beneath Birmingham’s Grand Hotel, blending classic flavors with a lively city centre atmosphere.
Tattu Birmingham
0.3 km
Ancient philosophy meets modern cuisine in Birmingham's most architecturally audacious Chinese restaurant.
Gaucho Birmingham
0.3 km
Experience authentic Argentinian steakhouse luxury with premium cuts and elegant ambiance in Birmingham’s vibrant city centre.
The Lost & Found Birmingham
0.3 km
A whimsical Victorian botanical hideaway in Birmingham offering inventive British cuisine and a unique cocktail experience in a lively, vintage setting.
TAPAS REVOLUTION (Birmingham)
0.3 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas with fresh flavors and lively vibes at Birmingham’s bustling Grand Central station.
Mowgli Street Food Birmingham
0.3 km
Whimsical Indian street food in a fairy-lit jungle setting, perfect for sharing bold flavours in the heart of Birmingham’s Grand Central.
Tiger Bites Pig
0.4 km
Experience Birmingham’s vibrant Taiwanese bao culture with fresh, flavorful buns and rice bowls in a cozy, lively city centre spot.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
La MC Vintage
0.1 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures in Birmingham’s charming North Western Arcade at La MC Vintage.
Funkybits4u Fair Trade - Birmingham
0.1 km
Discover ethically crafted gifts and inspiring interiors at Funkybits4u Fair Trade, a vibrant hub of sustainable artistry in Birmingham.
Simply Gifted
0.1 km
Explore Simply Gifted in Birmingham for unique gifts and local treasures that reflect the vibrant spirit of the city.
Obsidian
0.2 km
Discover mystical treasures and spiritual gifts at Obsidian, Birmingham’s premier metaphysical shop on vibrant Corporation Street.
The Oasis fashion store
0.2 km
A vibrant hub for alternative fashion, vintage finds, and creative lifestyle services in the heart of Birmingham.
The Alice Boutique
0.2 km
Discover timeless vintage-inspired fashion in a charming boutique nestled within Birmingham’s historic Great Western Arcade.
Community Gift Shop
0.2 km
Discover unique products and support diverse entrepreneurs at Birmingham’s Black Pounds Project Community Gift Shop in the historic Great Western Arcade.
Urban Outfitters
0.2 km
Discover stylish apparel, unique homewares, and a vibrant shopping vibe at Urban Outfitters Birmingham in the city centre.
Primark
0.2 km
A huge, multi‑level flagship on Birmingham High Street offering fast, affordable fashion, homewares and themed in‑store concepts under one roof.
The Works
0.2 km
Discover affordable arts, crafts, books, and stationery in the heart of Birmingham’s vibrant New Street shopping district.
Designer Exchange
0.2 km
Discover authenticated preloved luxury fashion in Birmingham’s elegant Victorian Great Western Arcade.
Wornwell Vintage Clothing
0.2 km
Discover authentic vintage fashion and quality streetwear at Wornwell Vintage Clothing, a unique shop nestled inside Primark on Birmingham's High Street.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.3 km
Discover quirky, affordable Scandinavian gifts and everyday essentials that bring joy and creativity to Birmingham’s city center.
Menkind
0.3 km
Quirky gadgets and geeky gifts await at Menkind Bullring—unique finds for him, from Star Wars merch to tech toys in Birmingham's premier shopping hub.
Miniso
0.4 km
Bright, affordable design and collectable character goods — a family-friendly stop for pocket-money treats in Grand Central.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Tilt
0.1 km
Pinball paradise meets craft pours in Birmingham's City Arcade – Tilt's retro magic blended games, beers, and beats until its 2025 farewell.
The Head of Steam Birmingham
0.2 km
A vibrant city-centre pub with craft beers, over 50% vegan menu, shuffleboard, live music, and private event spaces near New Street Station.
The Cocktail Club - Birmingham
0.2 km
Three floors of cocktail theatre, bottomless brunches, and Birmingham nightlife magic—where sexy sips meet wild vibes until 2am.
Revolución de Cuba Birmingham
0.2 km
Experience authentic Cuban vibes, vibrant cocktails, and lively salsa music in the heart of Birmingham’s city centre.
The Trocadero
0.3 km
Lively city-centre pub with great food, live sports, and a welcoming atmosphere in Birmingham’s Temple Street.
Flight Club Birmingham
0.3 km
Experience social darts like never before in Birmingham’s vibrant Victorian circus-themed bar with cocktails, brunch, and interactive games.
Bacchus Bar
0.3 km
Discover Birmingham’s medieval-inspired basement pub, where historic charm meets lively atmosphere and quality British ales.
The Alchemist Colmore Row
0.3 km
Experience Birmingham’s iconic Grand building transformed into a theatrical cocktail haven blending molecular magic with vibrant city nightlife.
Tonight Josephine - Birmingham
0.3 km
Experience Birmingham’s boldest pink cocktail bar with creative drinks, vibrant events, and a party spirit inspired by Empress Joséphine.
Madeleine
0.3 km
An elegant, salon‑style cocktail bar in The Grand Hotel — famed for refined afternoon tea and meticulous cocktails in a dramatic, over‑sized parlour.
Dirty Martini - Birmingham
0.3 km
Trendy cocktail bar in Birmingham’s city center, known for stylish decor, expertly crafted drinks, and a lively party atmosphere.
Be At One - Birmingham
0.3 km
Lively cocktail bar in Birmingham city centre with 100+ drinks, expert bartenders, and a vibrant party atmosphere.
All Bar One New Street Station
0.4 km
A stylish and sociable wine bar in Birmingham’s New Street Station, perfect for cocktails, casual dining, and lively gatherings.
Purecraft Bar & Kitchen
0.4 km
A vibrant gastropub in Birmingham blending craft beer culture with modern British cuisine in a spacious, welcoming setting.
Fox and Chance
0.4 km
An award-winning independent cocktail bar in Birmingham, blending creative drinks with a cozy, sophisticated atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
What do you mean
0.3 km
Dive into Birmingham’s vibrant nightlife at What Do You Mean, a premier nightclub known for electrifying music, creative cocktails, and an unforgettable party vibe.
King of clubs
0.5 km
Compact late‑night Birmingham club for high‑energy R&B, hip‑hop and DJ nights, pulsing into the small hours with neon, bass and bar-driven parties.
suki10c
0.5 km
Quirky Digbeth nightclub with local art, sustainable vibes, and eclectic beats in an intimate 180-capacity space powered by wind energy.
Bambu Nightclub
0.6 km
Experience Birmingham’s chic nightlife hotspot with stylish vibes, eclectic music, and late-night dancing at Bambu Nightclub.
Sobar
0.6 km
Dive into Birmingham's electric nightlife at Sobar, where R&B beats, masterful cocktails, and inclusive vibes fuel unforgettable weekend revelry in the heart of the Arcadian.
101 Night Club
0.6 km
Unleash your nightlife spirit at 101 Night Club, Birmingham's vibrant center for music, dancing, and unforgettable experiences.
Tunnel Club Birmingham
0.7 km
Dive under Birmingham's arches into Tunnel Club's seven-room warehouse wonderland, where house, techno, and hip-hop fuel all-night dances amid pounding bass and vivid lights.
Sector 57
0.8 km
Experience Birmingham’s vibrant nightlife at Sector 57, where eclectic music and electric vibes create unforgettable nights in Deritend.
Mango Night Club
0.9 km
A high‑energy Bristol Street nightclub serving Afrobeats, hip‑hop and R&B for late‑night dancers and party crowds in central Birmingham.
Reflex - Birmingham
1.0 km
Spin into 80s-00s nostalgia at Reflex Birmingham: revolving dance floor, karaoke booths, neon vibes, and epic sing-alongs on Broad Street's party strip.
Next Door & Spotlight
1.1 km
Two adjoining Digbeth nightspots — a pulse-driven DJ room and an intimate bar space with street-food pop-ups and a raw, industrial vibe.
Quantum Vnues
1.1 km
Dive into Digbeth's beating heart: Quantum Venues delivers electrifying nights of music, lights, and unbridled energy in Birmingham's creative core.
Rosies - Birmingham
1.1 km
Birmingham's ultimate super club: five themed rooms, killer cocktails, and non-stop beats on Broad Street for epic nights out.
The Night Owl
1.1 km
A cozy Digbeth venue where soulful retro beats and friendly vibes create unforgettable nights for all music lovers.
VOID Nightclub
1.1 km
Dive into Digbeth's underground heartbeat at VOID Nightclub, where marathon raves and thunderous bass fuel Birmingham's rawest nightlife from dusk till dawn.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Skyline
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
