Birmingham Hippodrome - a building that has a lot of lights on it
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Birmingham Hippodrome

4.7
·10k reviews·, United Kingdom

A grand Victorian theatre hosting spectacular musicals, ballet, opera, and the legendary Birmingham pantomime.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Christmas Season

Panto magic awaits!

CrowdHigh
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Birmingham Hippodrome - a building that has a lot of lights on it

Birmingham Hippodrome

Best Time

Christmas Season

Panto magic awaits!

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A grand Victorian theatre hosting spectacular musicals, ballet, opera, and the legendary Birmingham pantomime.

4.7
(10k reviews)

"One of the best theatres we have ever been too, staff are friendly and welcoming."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Panto Early!

Birmingham's panto is a huge hit. Secure your tickets months in advance, especially for popular dates!

👟 Comfy Shoes Recommended

While seating is generally good, some find seats a bit cramped. Comfortable attire helps for a long show.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Rating

4.7 · 10,663 reviews

Type

Performing Arts Theater

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking🚻 Accessible restroom

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Annual Pantomime

Annual Pantomime

Main Auditorium

Birmingham's legendary pantomime, often starring local favourites like Matt Slack and Alison Hammond. A festive spectacle for all ages!

West End Musicals

West End Musicals

Main Auditorium

Catch acclaimed touring productions of blockbuster musicals like 'Mary Poppins', 'The Lion King', and 'Wicked'.

Ballet and Opera

Ballet and Opera

Main Auditorium

Home to Birmingham Royal Ballet, experience breathtaking performances of classics like 'The Nutcracker' and innovative new works.

Black Sabbath: The Ballet

Black Sabbath: The Ballet

Main Auditorium

A unique fusion of heavy metal music, dance, and the iconic story of Black Sabbath. A must-see for music and theatre fans.

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Planning Your Visit

Book in Advance for Popular Shows

Birmingham Hippodrome hosts major touring productions and pantomimes. For sought-after shows like 'The Lion King' or the annual panto, booking tickets well in advance is crucial to secure good seats and avoid disappointment. Check the 'what's on' schedule early! TikTok

Consider Pre-Theatre Dining Options

While drinks can be pricey, many visitors look for pre-theatre dining. Chinatown restaurants opposite the Hippodrome are known for fast service, and some Greek options like Mythos offer pre-theatre menus. Planning your meal can enhance your overall experience. Reddit

Best Times

When
Christmas Season
Why
Panto magic awaits!
Crowd
High
When
Spring/Autumn Evenings
Why
West End shows arrive.
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday Afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, good for ballet.
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Happy Pride Birmingham 🎉 The Hippodrome are proud to be part of @BirminghamPride today 🏳️‍🌈🫶 #birmingham #pride #birminghampride #lovehasnolimits #theatre
@brumhippodrome
352 likes • 15.9K views

🎯 Book Panto Early!

Birmingham's panto is a huge hit. Secure your tickets months in advance, especially for popular dates! TikTok+1

👟 Comfy Shoes Recommended

While seating is generally good, some find seats a bit cramped. Comfortable attire helps for a long show. Reddit

Matt Slack is back! At Birmingham Hippodrome in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. And the show gets a full 5 stars from us! It is brilliant. I really enjoyed it. #MattSlack #josephandtheamazingtechnicolordreamcoat #theatre #theatrereview #brumhippodrome #birmingham
@smallhousebigtrips
232 likes • 8.9K views
The Sugar Plum Fairies are getting ready for The Nutcracker at Birmingham Hippodrome...🧚✨ Watch this video to see BRB First Soloist Yu Kurihara prepare for the role. Watch our full mini-documentary on YouTube - link in bio 🤩! (@yuuyuu_1005) #BRB #BRBTheNutcracker #SugarPlum #SugarPlumFairy #Ballet #BalletInspo #ClassicalBallet #Dance #BalletDancer #Classical #Theatre #Birmingham #Festive
bhamroyalballet
2.4K likes • 46.3K views

📱 Check 'What's On' Online

The Hippodrome hosts a diverse range of shows. Visit their website for the latest listings and booking info. TikTok

💰 Drinks Can Be Pricey

Be prepared for higher prices on refreshments. Consider pre-ordering interval drinks to save time. Reddit

✨ What a fantastic day at the Birmingham Hippodrome! 🎭 Performing at @chance2danceuk was another amazing experience. Thank you for welcoming us back! Next stop: O2! 🎉 I am so proud of our kids! Each of our child’s dance journey is special. Some faced fears and became more confident. These experiences help shape who they are and prepare them for future challenges.They danced their hearts out and ...
just_perform
66 likes • 7.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Panto Early!

Birmingham's panto is a huge hit. Secure your tickets months in advance, especially for popular dates! TikTok+1

👟 Comfy Shoes Recommended

While seating is generally good, some find seats a bit cramped. Comfortable attire helps for a long show. Reddit

📱 Check 'What's On' Online

The Hippodrome hosts a diverse range of shows. Visit their website for the latest listings and booking info. TikTok

💰 Drinks Can Be Pricey

Be prepared for higher prices on refreshments. Consider pre-ordering interval drinks to save time. Reddit

♿ Accessibility Info

The venue is accommodating for wheelchair users. Contact them in advance to discuss specific needs. TikTokReddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(10k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Birmingham Hippodrome for its grand atmosphere, friendly staff, and excellent selection of shows, from pantomimes to ballet. The spacious foyer and efficient bar service are often highlighted. However, some find the seating cramped with limited legroom and note that drinks can be expensive.

"Really great theatre.
Plenty of toilets, so queues move quickly.
Lots of space front of house while waiting to go in.
Comfy seating, and leg room not too bad.
Had an incredible view from row B of the circle.
Very expensive though compared to other non-London theatres."

Catherine Simpson

"We watched The Nutcracker and later the Cinderella ballet here. It is a well maintained, organised venue. The cast was fantastic both times! We were very impressed with the performance and the decor each time. Definitely going back for other shows in the future."

Muazzez Dogan Gulcur

"Ive been going here since I was little (in the 80's!). It is one of the best theatres we have ever been too. Staff ate friendly, welcoming and accommodating. The lobby is nicely laid out and easy to navigate. Ordering and getting pre-theatre and interval drinks is straightforward.

I am a wheelchair user so had to make contact in advance of my booking to check various details. Staff were always very helpful accommodating.

The only downside I would add, is that in the auditorium the material on the seats in a bit rough (especially on bare legs or tights), and the seats are too tightly packed in, so there isn't any leg room (less than an aeroplane!). So it feels very cramped in. Not enough to put me off, but I really do hope they can do something about it at some point soon."

Beckey Barton

What People Like

Friendly and helpful staff
Great show selection
Spacious foyer

What People Dislike

Cramped seating
Expensive drinks

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Birmingham Hippodrome is centrally located on Hurst Street, Birmingham. It's easily accessible by public transport, with Birmingham New Street station a short walk away. Numerous bus routes also serve the city centre. TikTok+1

Yes, there are several car parks near the Birmingham Hippodrome. The Arcadian Centre car park is very close, and others like the Pagoda car park are also within walking distance. Check 'birmingham hippodrome parking' for specific locations. TikTokReddit

Birmingham New Street station is the main hub for trains and is about a 10-15 minute walk. Many bus routes stop in the city centre, close to the theatre. TikTok

Yes, there is a drop-off point on Hurst Street directly outside the main entrance, which is convenient for those with mobility issues. TikTok

The Hippodrome is a prominent landmark in the city centre, near the Bullring and the Arcadian. Follow signs for the theatre district. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets can be purchased directly from the official Birmingham Hippodrome website, by phone, or in person at the box office. Booking in advance is highly recommended for popular shows. TikTok+1

The box office hours typically vary, but it's usually open during the day on weekdays and Saturdays. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information on 'birmingham hippodrome contact number'. TikTok

Discounts may be available for certain performances, such as group bookings or concessions for students, seniors, or children. Check the specific show's page for details on 'birmingham hippodrome tickets'. TikTok

For some shows, tickets may be available on the door, but for major productions and pantomimes, it's very unlikely. It's always safer to book 'tickets for hippodrome birmingham' in advance. TikTok

Refund and exchange policies vary by show and are at the discretion of the promoter. It's advisable to check the terms and conditions at the time of booking your 'birmingham hipp tickets'. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The theatre offers a range of seating options. While generally comfortable, some reviews mention limited legroom, so consider 'birmingham hippodrome seating' charts and 'birmingham hippodrome view from seat' when booking. Reddit

Most seats offer a good view, but it's always wise to check seating plans. Row B of the circle has been noted for an incredible view. Reddit

The venue has ample toilets, spacious front-of-house areas, bars, and cloakroom facilities. Reddit

Yes, the Hippodrome is committed to accessibility. They offer wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance from staff. Contact them in advance to arrange your visit. TikTokReddit

Photography and videography are generally not permitted during performances to avoid disturbing other audience members and due to copyright restrictions. Check for specific policies regarding 'birmingham hippodrome photos'. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While the Hippodrome has bars for drinks and snacks, it doesn't have a full-service restaurant. However, there are many dining options nearby. Reddit

Chinatown restaurants opposite the theatre are popular for quick pre-theatre meals. Mythos (Greek) and Toppokki (Korean) are often recommended for their speed and quality. Reddit

Yes, you can pre-order interval drinks at the bars to save time and avoid queues. Reddit

Bar snacks and nearby restaurants usually offer a range of vegetarian and vegan options. It's best to check menus in advance or ask staff. Reddit

Some visitors find the drinks and snacks at the Hippodrome to be on the expensive side. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

No, photography and filming during performances are strictly prohibited to ensure the best experience for all audience members and performers. TikTok

The grand facade of the Hippodrome itself makes for a great photo opportunity, especially lit up at night. The surrounding Hurst Street area also offers vibrant city backdrops. TikTok

Meet-and-greets or photo opportunities with cast members are rare and usually only occur during special events or after specific performances. Keep an eye on the Hippodrome's social media for announcements. TikTok

You'll find a mix of professional production shots, backstage glimpses, audience reactions, and promotional images for upcoming shows like 'birmingham hippodrome photos'. TikTok+1

Generally, you can take photos in the public areas of the theatre, such as the foyer, before the performance begins, but always be mindful of other patrons. Reddit

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