Overview

Birmingham feels like several cities rolled into one. From the dusty area outside New Street Station, to the warped red brick road of New Street, the waterside walkways of the canal, and the downright elegant look of Victoria Square, the Museum and Art Gallery, and Birmingham Library, it’s anything but boring. The standout feature of this location is the fountain. At the top is a large sculpture of a woman reclining in the water. The installation is officially known as The River, though it's often referred to as The Floozie – short for The Floozie in the Jacuzzi. Around the rim of the fountain, there's an inscription taken from Burnt Norton by T. S. Eliot: "And the pool was filled with water of sunlight, And the lotus rose, quietly, quietly, The surface glittered out of heart of light, And they were behind us, reflected in the pool. Then a cloud passed, and the pool was empty." Following the flow of water and down the stairs, there's a second installation known as Youth, depicting a young man and woman. On either side of the fountain are two large sculptures of Sphinx-like creatures collectively known as Guardians. Victoria Square is a lovely place to stop when the sun's out, definitely popular with the meal deal munching staff of local businesses. Though I'd suggest a coffee and a pastry from Gayles on the New Street.

Transport & Parking

The most convenient way to get to Victoria Square is probably by tram, with the Town Hall – Victoria Square stop just nearby. Parking options aren't great, as the area is mostly pedestrianised, but there are on-street accessible spaces on Swallow Street, less than 100 metres away. Birmingham New Street Station is the closest train station, around 320 metres from Victoria Square.

Access

If you're arriving via New Street, you'll find yourself at the foot of the stairs that curve around either side of the large fountain. The steps are quite wide, and many people use them as seating. There are three levels, with the steps leading to short level sections. The first and second levels have benches where you can stop and rest - or of course, you. can just sit on the steps. There's also space to sit on the rim of the fountain itself. If stairs aren't an option, there's a hill to the left, which is quite steep but will bring you to the top. If you're coming from the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, you'll start at the top level - I felt this route also offered a nice view.

Toilets

There are toilets available in some of the eateries along New Street, and there’s an accessible toilet in the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, which is free to enter. If you need a Changing Places toilet, you’ve got a few options nearby. There’s one at the Library of Birmingham and another at The Exchange, both around 500 metres away. Birmingham New Street Station also has a Changing Places toilet, about 320 metres from Victoria Square. Just keep in mind that reaching it means heading through New Street itself, which can be very busy with cars and delivery bikes.

Staff

Photos