There are a number of ways to get to the NEC, and we’ve got all the key information below to help make your journey as easy as possible.
Travel & Accomodation
Travel
By Car
The NEC is in the perfect location for car travel - 8 miles east of Birmingham city centre, and at the heart of the UK motorway network.
Postcode: B40 1NT
Free parking for Blue Badge holders
Parking will be on Hall 17 & 16 in the first instance. Once they are full they move to North 1 B. Visitors should follow signage and staff directions rather than looking for a named carpark as they won’t be labelled as such
By Train
Direct services run all day, however if you’re travelling from further afield you may need to catch a connecting train at Birmingham New Street, which is less than a 15-minute journey away.
There is a Shuttle Bus running from the Birmingham International Rail station to the NEC venue entrance. The Shuttle Bus will run throughout the whole event.
The NEC entrance is on the right hand side as you exit the station, and is clearly signposted.
Many services run direct to Birmingham International. If yours doesn't, you can catch a connecting train at Birmingham New Street. There are regular services, and the journey only takes 10-15 minutes. Buses to the NEC can be caught at Birmingham Moor Street and Solihull stations. For further information call National Rail enquiries on 08457 484950 or visit National Rail or Network West Midlands.
A Changing Places facility is also available at the Virgin Trains Birmingham International train station.
By Bus & Coach
Coach services are operated by National Express and Megabus, with over 120 daily services from across the UK to Birmingham Airport. From here you can get to the NEC via the free air-rail link, which takes just 90 seconds and runs every two minutes. Jumping on a bus in Birmingham City Centre? You’ll want the X1 service (every 15 minutes) or the 97A (every 30 minutes).
Local bus services also run every 30 mins throughout the day to Solihull (service 966) and Coventry (service 900).
By Taxi
NEC has teamed up with TOA Taxis to ensure a safe, friendly service is available to you 24/7 at the NEC
You can book over the phone by calling 0121 427 8888 or 0800 0142 729, online or via their handy app. Alternatively, pick one up at the clearly marked ranks outside the NEC main entrances. For added convenience TOA Taxis accept all major credit cards, subject to a charge of 10%+VAT.
Other Taxis and Private Hire Vehicles
If you plan to arrive at the NEC using other Taxi or Private Hire provider you will be dropped off at either the Piazza drop off and pick up area or the Atrium entrance.
At the end of your visit if you choose to use TOA you can be picked up by the main entrance, or if you are being picked up by other Taxi or Private Hire provider, you will need to go to the Private Hire pick up area. You will find one located at either the Piazza or Atrium, a short walk from the main entrances.
If you are a disabled visitor please visit the dedicated page.
Accommodation
We’ve partnered up with specialist accommodation agency Event Express to provide discounted hotel accommodation and flexible cancellation policies exclusively for the Smart Home Expo attendees. If you’re unsure of your requirements at this stage, the flexible cancellation terms will allow you to make amendments and cancellations at no charge until closer to the event date. However, we do advise that you book now and amend later in order to guarantee your preferred hotel.
The Event Express service is completely free to use with no hidden charges and no booking or transaction fees, and the friendly reservations team will liaise with the hotels directly on your behalf. For more information, please contact Event Express directly via reservations@eventexpressuk.com or on +44 (0)1905 732 737, or alternatively click here to book your accommodation online.