The iconic Utilita Arena Birmingham is one of the largest and most well-known venues in the UK for live events. Bringing in over a million people each year, the arena hosts concerts, sporting events, and comedy acts from UK-famous to international stars, having seen performances from the likes of Beyoncé, Elton John, Kendrick Lamar, and many more.
While your visit to the Utilita Arena (formerly known as the Barclaycard Arena and the National Indoor Arena) will definitely be a memorable visit, making sure that you have parking sorted before you arrive can help make it even better. The last thing you want is to show up, possibly late from traffic on a busy event night, and be stuck on the surrounding streets searching for parking with no luck resulting in you missing out the start of the event.
We’ve put together these tips to help you find the best parking options near the Utilita Arena Birmingham, so you can arrive without a worry, save money, and fully enjoy the experience.
Park on a neighbouring drive or reserve a nearby space ahead of time
A great way to cut down on parking costs is to use a neighbour’s driveway through apps like JustPark. Many locals rent out their driveways during busy event nights to earn extra income, which benefits both the local community and drivers alike since these parking rates are often much cheaper than official event parking.
With rates starting as low as £3 per hour, this offers a cheaper and more convenient answer, just a short walk from the venue. This approach can also help you avoid crowded car parks and make your visit to the Utilita Arena more enjoyable by removing unnecessary stress. Plus, if there’s an encore or you get caught up in crowds leaving the venue, you can extend your booking through the app to avoid any parking fines.
Official arena parking is an option if you can find a space and don't mind waiting
The arena does offer official parking, located just a short walk from the venue. These car parks are managed by the arena itself and are often secure, but parking onsite can be expensive, averaging around £17.50 per car.
Some events offer pre-booked parking as an option. However, keep in mind that leaving these car parks after an event can be time-consuming due to heavy traffic. Plan your commute back accordingly to accommodate for this.
Cut down your driving time by taking the train
Choosing public transport can be a convenient way to reach the Utilita Arena Birmingham. Birmingham New Street Station is only about a 15-minute walk from the arena, providing easy access from various parts of the UK.
For those coming from outside Birmingham, many train stations offer connections to the city’s comprehensive public transport network. Stations like London Euston, Manchester Piccadilly, and Glasgow Central connect directly to Birmingham New Street, making it easy to navigate through.
These are the closest rail stations to the arena, but depending on your journey you may want to park further away and train in for the final distance of your journey:
- Birmingham New Street Station:
- Distance: Approximately 0.7 miles from the arena.
- It is the main railway hub in Birmingham and offers extensive connections to various destinations across the UK.
- Hourly parking rates: Starting at £3.
- Birmingham Snow Hill Station:
- Distance: Approximately 0.6 miles from the arena.
- It serves trains to and from the West Midlands and further afield.
- Hourly parking rates: Starting at £2.
- Birmingham Moor Street Station:
- Distance: Approximately 1 mile from the arena.
- This station provides services primarily to destinations in the West Midlands and London Marylebone.
- Hourly parking rates: Starting at £2.
On-street parking can be limited — even more so on event days
While on-street parking near the Utilita Arena is available, it is often limited and subject to strict regulations, especially during major events. To avoid parking fines, we recommend reserving a space in advance.
Controlled Parking Zones (CPZs)
Birmingham has several Controlled Parking Zones, which have specific restrictions:
- City Centre Controlled Parking Zone:
- Hours of Operation: Typically from 8 am to 6 pm, Monday to Saturday.
- Parking Charges: Apply during operational hours. Pay-and-display machines or mobile payment options are available.
- Resident and Business Permits: Available for eligible residents and businesses within the zone.
- Residential Controlled Parking Zones:
- Hours of Operation: Vary by area but often include restrictions during the daytime from Monday to Saturday.
- Resident Permits: Required for on-street parking during restricted hours.
- Visitor Permits: Available for purchase by residents for their guests.
General On-Street Parking Restrictions
- Single Yellow Lines:
- Restrictions: Parking is generally prohibited during specified hours, which are usually displayed on nearby signs. Common restricted times are from 8 am to 6 pm, Monday to Saturday.
- Double Yellow Lines:
- Restrictions: No parking at any time, unless stated otherwise by signage.
- Pay-and-Display Bays:
- Hours of Operation: Restrictions typically apply from 8 am to 6 pm, Monday to Saturday.
- Charges: Fees must be paid during operational hours. Payment can be made at nearby machines or via mobile payment.
- Disabled Parking Bays:
- Restrictions: Only vehicles displaying a valid Blue Badge may park in these bays.
- Loading Bays:
- Restrictions: Only for loading and unloading during specified hours. Parking is not allowed outside these times.
- Resident Permit Bays:
- Restrictions: Only vehicles displaying a valid resident permit may park in these bays during restricted hours.
Enforcement
Parking restrictions are enforced by Birmingham City Council, and violations can result in penalty charge notices (PCNs) being issued. It's important to always check the specific signage in the area where you intend to park, as restrictions and enforcement times can vary.
Temporary Restrictions
Temporary parking restrictions may be in place due to events, roadworks, or other temporary changes. Always check for any temporary signs or notices indicating such restrictions. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it’s advisable to check Birmingham City Council’s website or contact their parking services directly.
Final tips for a smooth journey
- Pre-book your parking: Whether choosing private parking through JustPark or the arena’s official options, booking in advance can save you money and guarantee a parking space.
- Check transport schedules: If opting for public transport, check the bus and train schedules ahead of time to ensure a seamless journey.
- Plan for extra time: Allow extra time for potential delays, whether due to traffic, busy car parks, or public transport schedules.
By following these tips, you can ensure a stress-free start and end to your event at the Utilita Arena Birmingham, letting you focus on enjoying the show. Have a great time!
