Bullring And Grand Central Birmingham

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of the Bullring and Grand Centre Birmingham, lets delve a little deeper into the history of this place and understand how this grassy area used for baiting bulls and slaughtering them turned into a city centre, and got popular among the locals and tourists, eventually becoming the shopping haven for all the shopaholics out there. 

Opening Hours

Monday to Friday: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Saturday: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Sunday: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

History Of Bullring and Grand Central Birmingham

The latter, staying true to its name, has been designed in the style of a Bullring, making it an architectural marvel. This area was originally called Corn Cheaping because there was a corn market and a bullring, where bull baiting used to take place. Baiting bulls with dogs and then slaughtering them was the usual practice. It was a popular spectator sport for everyone, except for the dogs and bulls obviously. 

This market became legal in 1154 when King Henry II gave legal rights to the land owner, Peter de Birmingham and by the 18th century, food, corn and local markets had developed in the area. 

During the course of time, there were several ups and downs, and the market even saw the World War II. Revival efforts began in 1955, and by the year 1964 the Birmingham Bullring Centre was completed, covering some 23 acres of land, making it one of the best places for shopping in Birmingham. The area was also visited by the queen as well. The entire area developed into a major cloth trade market by the 13th century, and by the 18th century, the mercer street became popular for its grocery and meat trade. 

Upon the completion of the Bullring and the Grand Central, the two major shopping centres were connected by Link Street via an overpass. So one has access to both the shopping centres without stepping outside. The Bullring structure looks exactly like a bull which is unbaited, and has been the work of Laurence Broderick.