02 Institute in Birmingham

photo by Tony Hisgett (CC BY 2.0) modified

O2 Institute highlights

The primary feature of this music venue is the multitude of stages. The main stage has a 1,500-person capacity complete with 2 seated, upper balcony levels. You'll find an additional room downstairs with room for 600 spectators. Upstairs, there's a smaller 250-capacity stage. Finally, the cellar is home to a 400-capacity stage primarily used for more intimate acoustic shows called Un-Plug.

You'll find historic value in the building itself, with an impressive interior that dates back more than a century. Red brick and grey terracotta make up most of the exterior, and you'll also find intricate carvings and allegorical figures.

Good to know when visiting O2 Institute

It's generally best to travel to the O2 Institute via public transport. Birmingham's bus network can get you here directly with a stop right outside. Alternatively, the Birmingham New Street train station is a little more than a half-mile away. If you do drive yourself, there's parking at the Bullring and Mailbox car parks, but those spots will cost a fee.

Keep in mind that some shows will have an age restriction. If you see something like 14+, 18+ or 21+, you'll know that you have to be a certain age to attend. If you're younger than 16, you'll always have to come with someone 18 or older.