Summer in the square
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Centenary Square

4.5
·45 reviews·, United Kingdom

A dynamic public square in Birmingham, home to the iconic Library of Birmingham and host to vibrant seasonal events and cultural gatherings.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Winter evenings

Festive lights and ice skating magic

CrowdHigh
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Summer in the square

Centenary Square

Best Time

Winter evenings

Festive lights and ice skating magic

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A dynamic public square in Birmingham, home to the iconic Library of Birmingham and host to vibrant seasonal events and cultural gatherings.

4.5
(45 reviews)

"A big open square outside the Birmingham Library that allows events to be featured with ease of access."

Vertical photo
TIP

Free Library Access

Visit the Birmingham Library for free! Membership is only needed to borrow books. 📚

Check Event Schedules

The square hosts many events. Check listings to avoid crowds or catch special happenings. 📅

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Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.5 · 45 reviews

Type

Historical Landmark

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Birmingham Library

Birmingham Library

Centenary Square

A stunning architectural marvel with free entry, roof gardens, and panoramic city views.

The Exchange

The Exchange

Centenary Square

Admire this impressive building, a hub for exhibitions and events, adding to the square's cultural appeal.

Seasonal Attractions

Seasonal Attractions

Centenary Square

Experience the magic of the Christmas market, ice skating rink, and funfair rides that pop up annually.

Statues and Memorials

Statues and Memorials

Centenary Square

Discover the striking 'Three Graces' statues and the poignant War Memorial, offering moments of reflection.

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Planning Your Visit

Seasonal Spectacles

Centenary Square transforms with seasonal attractions like Christmas markets, ice skating, and funfairs. Check local listings for dates, as these pop-up events can draw significant crowds and impact accessibility.

Event Hub

This square is a major event space, hosting everything from concerts and festivals to sporting event screenings. Always check for scheduled events before your visit to avoid crowds or to plan around them.

Best Times

When
Winter evenings
Why
Festive lights and ice skating magic
Crowd
High
When
Summer mornings
Why
Quieter exploration of the library
Crowd
Low
When
Event days
Why
Vibrant atmosphere and entertainment
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍 Birmingham – Centenary Square
8:30 – Meet & greet / bibs / check-in
8:45 – Warm-up
9:00 – Run (we set off on time ⏱️) #runclub #vibess #foryoupage #community #running
@rocup.run
117 likes • 2K views

Free Library Access

Visit the Birmingham Library for free! Membership is only needed to borrow books. 📚 TikTok

Check Event Schedules

The square hosts many events. Check listings to avoid crowds or catch special happenings. 📅 TikTok

📍Centenary Square Birmingham 🎡🎢#birmingham #winter #christmas #birminghamcentrallibrary #ferriswheel #nightvibe #lights #fyp #foryoupage #centenarysquarebirmingham #iceskating
@saf.x92
2.8K likes • 46.9K views
🌸 Sri Jagannatha Ratha Yatra – Parramatta 🌸 📅 27th September | 🕘 9am – 3pm 📍 Centenary Square (Parramatta Square) Cnr Church & Macquarie Streets 🚋 Close to Light Rail & Parramatta Train Station ✨ What’s happening: 🪔 Ratha Yatra parade 🎶 Stage entertainment: live acoustic kirtan & electronic mantra DJ set 💃 Cultural performances, chanting & dancing 🍛 Delicious prasadam feast 🌿 Join our friends Ve...
globalpartypeople
0 likes • 1.3K views

Seasonal Funfair

Enjoy the Christmas market, ice skating, and rides, but be aware of potential crowds and costs. :ice_skate: TikTok

Accessibility Notes

Generally accessible, but event setups can sometimes impact pathways. ♿ Reddit

Centenary Square transformed into a technicolour dream for National Playday! 🫧 Island of Foam: Version #40 is the spectacular creation of German artist Stephanie Lüning, whose large scale painting actions change how we look at familiar public spaces. Did you get involved?🌈 #bradford #bfd #bradfordevents #bd1
itsoninbradford
63 likes • 1.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Free Library Access

Visit the Birmingham Library for free! Membership is only needed to borrow books. 📚 TikTok

Check Event Schedules

The square hosts many events. Check listings to avoid crowds or catch special happenings. 📅 TikTok

Seasonal Funfair

Enjoy the Christmas market, ice skating, and rides, but be aware of potential crowds and costs. :ice_skate: TikTok

Accessibility Notes

Generally accessible, but event setups can sometimes impact pathways. ♿ Reddit

Photography Hotspot

The library's architecture and seasonal displays make for great photo opportunities. 📷 TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.5
(45 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Centenary Square is a vibrant, accessible public space, lauded for its stunning library and seasonal attractions like the Christmas market and ice rink. While many appreciate its open feel and event hosting capabilities, some reviews mention concerns about accessibility during event setups and the city council's traffic policies impacting disabled visitors.

"Nice open space outside of the eye catching library building. This was where the tv studios were set up for the Commonwealth games in 2022, with the large mechanical bull here at the time. Every Christmas, a big wheel and an ice skating rink are set up here."

Dal

"A big open square outside the Birmingham Library that allows events to be featured with ease of access from public transport and walking with parking nearby.
There are a number of featured statues around with the 3 golden men a standout. You will also find the War Memorial here which is worth a visit.
The Birmingham Library is definitely a must visit."

Paul Tooze (No Journey Too Small)

"An open accessible area suite for manual and powered wheelchairs
With various events going on throughout the year my latest visit was to see the bill from the commonwealth games and was enjoyable
Sadly Birmingham city council's anti car attitude has made it harder for disabled ppl to visit the city centre
I noticed many disabled bays have been removed to allow street furniture from bars to take over that area and with one way rds around pigeon park, trying to find a space on the left is harder than ever, I ended up parking on the right hand side of newhall at and had to open my side lift into oncoming traffic and if it wasn't for a decent bus driver stopping and letting me get out safely I would have been there all day
Birmingham anti car stance is creating issues for family's and disabled ppl
The same with the various LTNs going on around the city
It feels like that BCC doesn't want Brummies in the city centre"

Mark Hannaby (Yoda)

What People Like

Stunning library architecture
Seasonal festive attractions
Open and accessible space

What People Dislike

Event setup accessibility
City traffic policies

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Centenary Square is easily accessible via public transport. Numerous bus routes stop nearby, and it's a short walk from Birmingham New Street and Moor Street train stations. Parking is available in nearby multi-storey car parks. TikTok+1

While accessible by car, be aware of Birmingham's city centre traffic and potential road closures due to events. Parking is available in nearby car parks, but some reviews mention challenges for disabled individuals due to council policies. Reddit

The closest train stations are Birmingham New Street and Birmingham Moor Street, both within a 10-15 minute walk to Centenary Square. TikTok

Yes, many bus routes serve the area around Centenary Square. It's best to check local bus timetables for the most up-to-date information on routes and stops. TikTok

Yes, there are several car parks within walking distance of Centenary Square. Some reviews suggest checking accessibility options if you have specific needs. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Centenary Square itself is a public space and is free to enter. However, specific attractions within the square, such as the ice skating rink or funfair rides, will have their own admission fees. TikTok

No, the Birmingham Library, located in Centenary Square, is free to visit. You only need a membership if you wish to borrow books. TikTok

The ice skating rink and other seasonal attractions typically operate during the winter months, often coinciding with the Christmas market. Dates vary annually, so check local listings. TikTok

Yes, Centenary Square frequently hosts free events, including screenings like Eurovision and community gatherings. Keep an eye on local event listings for announcements. TikTok+1

For seasonal attractions like the Big Wheel or ice skating, it's often possible to buy tickets on the day. However, purchasing in advance might be recommended during peak times to guarantee entry or avoid queues. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The Birmingham Library's unique architecture is a prime subject. The 'Three Graces' statues and the War Memorial also offer great photographic opportunities. Seasonal events like the Christmas market and ice rink provide vibrant backdrops. TikTok+1

Absolutely! Centenary Square is beautifully illuminated at night, especially during the festive season with the Christmas market and ice rink. The library's lights create a stunning effect. TikTok+1

Yes, photography is generally permitted inside the Birmingham Library, but it's always good practice to be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage regarding photography in certain areas. TikTok

Generally, casual photography is allowed. However, for professional shoots or commercial use, you may need to seek permission. Be aware of any temporary restrictions during large events. TikTok

The library looks impressive at any time. Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) can offer beautiful light. For dramatic shots, consider visiting after dark when the building is illuminated. TikTok

🎫 📍 Onsite Experience

Centenary Square offers a mix of attractions: explore the Birmingham Library, admire The Exchange building, enjoy seasonal events like ice skating and funfairs, and see the statues and memorials. TikTok+2

Yes, families can enjoy the Birmingham Library's spaces, seasonal attractions like the ice rink and rides, and open areas for children to explore. TikTok

While the square itself might not have many dining options, the Birmingham Library has a cafe, and numerous restaurants and cafes are located in the surrounding city centre, easily accessible from the square. TikTok

The 'Three Graces' are prominent statues located in Centenary Square, representing the city's industrial heritage and artistic spirit. They are a notable landmark within the square. Reddit

Yes, it's a large open space with seating areas, particularly around the library and fountains, making it a pleasant spot to relax and people-watch. InstagramReddit

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