What to Do at BHX

BHX isn't huge, but the food options feel cosy, varied, and surprisingly decent.

• Caffè Nero – Landside: A cosy place for travellers looking for a coffee and a warm pastry before heading through security. It’s perfect for a start to your journey without rushing into the crowded terminal hustle.
• Gregor’s Bar – Landside: A lit bar ideal for savouring a casual pint or a light drink before heading through security. It’s a spot to relax, decompress and tune into the airport’s tempo.
• Factory Bar & Kitchen – Airside: Bright and modern, this location provides dishes with plenty of space to relax. It’s a choice for a reliable meal, especially if you have some spare time before you leave.
• Wetherspoon – The Meriden Bar – Airside: A reliable option for pub fare at affordable prices. The service is quick, and seating is available.
• Pret A Manger – Airside: Perfect for revitalising sandwiches, wraps and quick bites, offering nutritious grab-and-go options.
• Giraffe – Airside: An active yet family-friendly hub serving comfort food in a cosy setup, suitable for kids and quick meals.

• World Duty Free – Departures: Packed with fragrances, sweets and fine bottles. VAT refunds available landside.
• Superdry – Departures: Vibrant jackets and comfy tees that feel essential for the journey.
• WHSmith – Departures: Books, gum and travel essentials — familiar and soothing.
• JD Sports – Departures: Athletic wear to make airport walking more comfortable.
• InMotion – Departures: Earphones, cords and travel accessories for last-minute tech needs.

• Aspire Lounge – South Side: Soft lighting, hot buffet, bar and quiet corners. Cost around £34–40.
• No.1 Lounge – North Gate Area: Stylish interiors, calming meals, runway views. Entry around £36.
• Emirates Lounge: Premium atmosphere with spacious seating, showers and a high-quality buffet.

BHX has one main terminal split into North and South wings. Compact and walkable, but busy during morning surges.

• South Side (Check-in Halls 1 & 2): Jet2, Emirates, Lufthansa, Ryanair and Wizz Air. Organised but queues form at peak hours.
• North Side (Gates 1–20): Mostly domestic and short-haul. Smaller, slightly older and easy to navigate.
• South Terminal Area: Jet2 Zone B, Emirates Zone C, Ryanair & Wizz Air Zones A & D.

• Multi-faith prayer rooms: One landside and one airside.
• Family friendly play area (Sky Zone): Dedicated space to keep kids entertained.
• Aircraft viewing area: Ideal for plane-spotting enthusiasts.
• Meeting rooms & business facilities: Available for professionals.
• Transit-hotel & nearby accommodation: Convenient for long layovers or overnight stays.

• 3-hour layover (airside only): Aspire or No.1 Lounge, Factory Bar & Kitchen or Pret, then duty-free.
• 5–6-hour layover: Air-Rail link to Birmingham city centre, cafés and relaxing spots, return with 90-minute buffer.
• 8+ hour layover: Train to Birmingham New Street, canal walks or museum visit, return with 2-hour buffer, end with Fast Track and lounge.