The National Exhibition Centre (NEC) Birmingham is one of the UK’s most important event venues, attracting millions of visitors every year. Whether you’re attending a trade show, exhibiting, or delivering goods, getting to the NEC is simple thanks to its central location and excellent transport links. But one of the key questions each year is how to get to the NEC Birmingham?
This guide will cover all the ways to reach the NEC Birmingham, including train, car, bus, and even air travel, plus important exhibitor delivery information to ensure a smooth journey.
Where is the NEC Birmingham?
Address:
National Exhibition Centre (NEC), Birmingham, B40 1NT, UK
The NEC is located just outside Birmingham City Centre, right next to Birmingham Airport and Birmingham International Train Station. Thanks to its prime location and excellent transport network, reaching the NEC is quick and convenient from anywhere in the UK.
🔗 Official NEC Birmingham Website
Getting to NEC Birmingham by Train
The fastest and easiest way to reach the NEC is by train.
- Birmingham International Station is directly connected to the NEC via a covered walkway—you’ll arrive within minutes of leaving the train.
- Frequent direct services run from London, Manchester, Glasgow, Edinburgh, and other major UK cities.
- The station is serviced by Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, and West Midlands Trains.
🔗 Plan your journey via National Rail
Pro Tip: If you’re traveling from Birmingham New Street, the journey to Birmingham International Station takes just 10-15 minutes by train.
Driving to NEC Birmingham & Parking Information
If you’re driving, the NEC is easily accessible from major motorways, including:
M42 (Junction 6) – Direct access to the NEC.
M6 (Junction 4 or 4A) – Just a short drive from the venue.
M5 & M1 – Well-connected routes leading to the NEC.
NEC Parking Information
- The NEC has over 16,500 parking spaces across multiple car parks.
- Pre-booking parking online is recommended to save money and guarantee a spot.
- Shuttle buses operate from designated parking areas to the NEC entrance.
🔗 Pre-book NEC parking here: NEC Parking Booking
Tip: Electric vehicle (EV) charging points are available in the East and South car parks.
Navigating NEC Parking & Deliveries
The NEC is well-signposted, with electronic digital displays guiding visitors to the appropriate car parks. As you approach the NEC, follow the on-screen instructions to find the best parking zone for your event.
Delivering Goods to NEC Halls: The Voyager System
If you are delivering to the NEC as an exhibitor or supplier, you’ll need to check in via the Voyager system before gaining access to the event halls.
✅ Where to Check In:
- Car Park North 12 is the designated check-in point for deliveries.
- Once checked in, you will receive an assigned time slot and access to the halls.
- Staff at the NEC will direct you to the correct entrance based on your delivery schedule.
🔗 More details on NEC deliveries: NEC Exhibitor Information
Bus & Coach Travel to NEC Birmingham
The NEC is well-connected by local and national bus services, making it an affordable option for visitors.
National Express & Long-Distance Coaches
- National Express provides direct services to Birmingham Coach Station.
- From there, you can take a 10-minute train ride to Birmingham International Station.
Local Bus Services
- The X1 and X12 buses run between Birmingham City Centre and the NEC.
- Bus stops are located outside Birmingham International Station and near NEC entrances.
🔗 Check bus timetables via Transport for West Midlands
Flying to NEC Birmingham (For International Visitors)
The NEC is next door to Birmingham Airport (BHX), making it easily accessible for international visitors.
✈️ Flying into Birmingham Airport:
- From the airport, take the free Air-Rail Link to Birmingham International Station (a 90-second journey).
- From there, walk straight into the NEC through the covered walkway—you’ll be at the venue in minutes!
🔗 More info on Birmingham Airport
Tips for a Stress-Free NEC Journey
✔ Arrive Early: Events can be extremely busy, especially in the mornings—avoid last-minute travel stress!
✔ Pre-book Parking: Saves money and guarantees a spot.
✔ Use Digital Maps: NEC is large—download an event floor plan in advance.
✔ Check Traffic & Train Timetables: Unexpected delays happen—plan accordingly.
✔ For Exhibitors: Book staff to help with setup & operations—Events Family can assist.
How Events Family Can Help Exhibitors at NEC
If you’re exhibiting at the NEC, having the right event team is crucial for success.
At Events Family, we provide:
✅ Trained event staff to assist with setup & logistics.
✅ Promo teams for leafletting & engaging visitors.
✅ Lead generators to capture potential customers.
📢 Book professional event staff now to make your NEC exhibition a success!