Utilita Arena Birmingham

PENULTIMATE PRIZE! Fancy getting your mitts on two tickets to see hilarious stand-up and Hollywood legend, Chris Tucker?
TO ENTER 👉 COMMENT on the post with who you'd bring with you if you're our lucky winner...oh and make sure you've LIKED our Arena Birmingham page!
There's only one more prize after this and it's gonna be up for grabs on Twitter tomorrow - so this is you last chance to win on Facebook - and it's a goodun! T&Cs: http://bit.ly/SummerGiveawayTCs2018AB

KEVIN HART IS BACK! If you're joining us for Kevin Hart's Impossible Tour tonight then check all the show info here including event timings and the strict mobile phone policy...

There's still time to WIN Bill Bailey tickets over on Twitter. What you waiting for?
ENTER 👉 http://bit.ly/WINBILLBAILEY

Earlier this month, Jeff Lynne's ELO kicked off their 2018 tour over in the USA...and the fans absolutely loved it! The gang are making their way back round the world and will return home to Birmingham this October! Here's what you can expect from their latest show!

HEADS UP! If you're joining us for Kevin Hart tomorrow night, please make sure you give this a read, There is a strict no mobile phone and camera usage policy in place for this event whilst in arena bowl meaning...
🚫 NO texting 🚫 NO phone calls 🚫 NO recording / photos... 🚫 NO social media
If you need to use your phone, you can do so on the concourse - those found on their phone in the arena bowl will be ejected, with no warnings or refunds!
See More

Have you seen what we're giving away over on Twitter?
ENTER 👉 http://bit.ly/WINBILLBAILEY

The countdown is on - 10 days until @amirkingkhan steps back into the ring here in Birmingham! It's gonna be HUGE! 🥊💥
Tickets 👉 http://bit.ly/KhanVargasFBOS

Who’s gonna win this? We're giving you the chance to bag four tickets to both National SEA LIFE Centre AND LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Birmingham!
TO ENTER 👉 Hit like on our page and COMMENT below with who you'd bring with you if you're our lucky winner! Closes midnight!
T&Cs: http://bit.ly/SummerGiveawayTCs2018AB

YOU'RE GONNA LOVE THIS! Today's prize is epic! We're giving you the chance to bag four tickets to both National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham AND LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Birmingham!
TO ENTER 👉 Hit like on the Arena Birmingham page and COMMENT below with who you'd bring with you if you're our lucky winner! Closes midnight!
T&Cs: http://bit.ly/SummerGiveawayTCs2018AB

Oh hey Justin Timberlake 👋

CALLING ALL YOU BALLERS! Today's prize is for you! If you fancy getting your mitts on four tickets to the BBL Cup Final 2019, then here's what you've gotta do 🏀
ENTER 👉 http://bit.ly/WINBBL19
T&C's: http://bit.ly/SummerGiveawayTCs2018AB

TONIGHT'S THE NIGHT! Justin Timberlake brings SexyBack to Brum tonight as the Man Of The Woods arrives here at Arena Birmingham!
Here's all the event info and show timings you need 👇

LAST CHANCE to win two tickets to see the iconic Barry Manilow here in Brum!
TO ENTER 👉 COMMENT below with your fave Barry Manilow song, PLUS, the name of the person you'd bring with you! Oh and make sure you've LIKED our page too!
Closes midnight tonight! T&Cs: http://bit.ly/SummerGiveawayTCs2018AB

Our Sunday prize is as good as they come! Fancy bagging two tickets to see the iconic Barry Manilow here in Brum?
TO ENTER 👉 COMMENT below with your fave Barry Manilow song, PLUS, the name of the person you'd bring with you! Oh and make sure you've LIKED our page too!
Closes midnight tonight! T&Cs: http://bit.ly/SummerGiveawayTCs2018AB

This one is for all you rockers! 🤘 We've got a pair of tickets to see Black Stone Cherry here in Brum!
Enter 👉 http://bit.ly/WINBSC18

Justin Timberlake & Bank Holiday Monday...name a better duo, we'll wait 🔥

ICYMI...we’ve got a pair of Jason Derulo tickets to giveaway 👇
To enter: COMMENT on the post with your fave Jason Derulo song plus the name of the person you'd bring with you to the show! Also, make sure you hit LIKE on our page!
T&Cs: http://bit.ly/SummerGiveawayTCs2018AB

Today's prize is an absolute Friday treat - but there can only be one winner! Here's how you can enter...
Simply COMMENT on the post with your fave Jason Derulo song and the name of the person you'd bring with you to the show! Also, make sure you hit LIKE on our page!
T&Cs: http://bit.ly/SummerGiveawayTCs2018AB

Calling all you Voodoo People, The Prodigy are back and they bringing their brand new live show to Birmingham this November!

Went to see dancing on ice brilliant show loved every minute of the show hope see it again next year

Went to see Demi Lovato with a friend and we extremely enjoyed it, security staff were nice enough but on their website it clearly stated no aerosols but i brought some in and they didnt even notice which is a bit weird but everything else was great, demi was incredible

Wanted to say a massive thank you to one of your security guards (lady with brown shoulder length hair). I was at the royal blood gig on Saturday the 18th November and about 10 minutes before they came on I stated to feel really dizzy (stupidly forgot to eat before I went out). I told the security guard outside the standing area doors that I wasn't feeling great and that it was my own fault for not eating and she gave me her pack of fruit gums. Those fruit gums gave me the sugar hit I needed to be able to enjoy the gig! So sorry for nabbing your sweets off you but thanks so much �!

The staff are very helpful and very kind to me when l went to celine Dion last July and very big thank you � to them ���� xx

Just wanted to say a massive thank you, to all the wonderful staff at the Arena last night, For the John Bishop show, who helped us, with our Mam, who needed wheelchair assistance, nothing was to much trouble for the staff, everyone was pleasant and more than helpful, making sure she and us were well looked after!

Just back from watching Peter Pan - long day from Pontypridd, South Wales - but well worth the trip. We all thoroughly enjoyed it and Bradley Walsh was brilliant.

Experienced my 1st Gig and what a first gig it was, 5 Finger Death Punch on the 17th December 2017 with supporting bands In Flames & Of Mice & Men. Hoping to see Slayer in November, fingers crossed � The staff were very helpful..Thanks Everyone for an Awesome night.

Celine Dion - 3/8/2017. Amazing venue facility's were really good , plenty toilets and bars , separate smoking area , staff were really friendly and helpful security was spot on , police, sniffer dogs, All bags searched , scanned and body searched everyone on entry right till the last person (which was me) , made me feel a lot safer and would definitely return and obviously celine was amazing �

The security was very reassuring and we had a brilliant time, however was spoilt slightly due to the couple in front of us having a domestic whilst drunk, could have been something to do with the bottle of wine he had in his hand, a bit off really when you pay money to watch the venue

I had a fall in the Arena tonight (no fault of the venue, I hasten to add) and would like to say a very big thank you to the fellow Alice fans who picked me up, collected my far flung possessions and made sure I was okay!!! And then a massive thank you to the Arena management and staff who looked after me and wheeled me to the medical room!!! And then finally a huge thank you to the lovely medic who treated me and gave me extra ice packs for during the show!!! Thank you to you all xxx

UTTER CHAOS!!!



Now I know the venue can be a little difficult to get away from, when thousands of people are descending onto the streets and canals of Birmingham City Centre, but Tuesday night was the worst experience I have ever encountered here.



After having had a fabulous time with Fall Out Boy, the show ended and the ridiculous and hazardous ordeal began - not just for me, but for the hundreds, possibly thousands of people being directed the same way.



Having parked at a friend’s house in Goodman Street (past the North Car Park), I had entered the venue at Entrance G, but was not permitted to leave the same way. I was forced to leave through the opposite side of the venue. Expecting to be able to go down the steps there and make my way around the outside of the venue, I was surprised to find these were also blocked off and EVERYONE was forced into the South Car Park.



This was a H&S nightmare!!

Swarms of people not knowing where they are supposed to be going: through the car park or down the small staircases. Most proceeded down the stairs but, were encountered with other swarms of people making their way up the stairs, also not knowing where they were supposed to be going.



Finding these stairs too crowded and dangerous (I dread to think what happened to disabled visitors), I walked across the car park and took a quieter staircase, albeit urine soaked to the point that I was retching by the time I reached the bottom. However, these stairs still didn’t get me out onto the road or canal and I ended up walking back across the car park until I found my way out.



10 minutes after leaving the venue, I found myself still right next to it, walking along the canal with hundreds of other people all going in different directions and some just sat on the pavement (probably waiting for the chaos to calm down).



It wasn’t for another 5 minutes when I had actually made it to the roundabout by the North Car Park that I was actually able to walk freely and in the direction which I knew I needed to be heading.



Such a damp end to a wonderful night.

The sound and space where you watch the bands is ok. However the carnage of the road network leading to the car parks. The naff organisation to get in. Why they don't print the door you need to enter on the tickets is beyond me. Then the 45 minute to get out of the car park.



Shame really as it has potential. Just wrong location - too near the centre

I don't recommend this venue for concerts I don't know what it is but there's just something off with the sound that ruins the whole show. First time I thought the band had put on a bad show but after reading other reviews and the same happening with another gig it must be the venue. The sound was tinny and mostly noise I struggled to hear the lyrics.



However I also came here to see Marvel Live with my son and there were no problems with sound or views. We had a fantastic time so I would return for something like that but definitely not a concert.

Not having a cloak room? How is the show supposed to be enjojable holding winter jacket and jumper in my hands in the middle of the crowd

I haven’t even got there yet and I’m not impressed. Your website is utter rubbish. The information it “offers” is scant at best. The performance is tomorrow and you had to be prompted to post the performance schedule which is inaccurate (good start). To find a map of the arena so you know where your seat is; if indeed there is one is difficult to find. The experience can only improve. May I suggest you contact the NEC because they seem to manage so much better.

I attended the Linkin Park concert nearly 2 weeks ago, they were brilliant! Great venue, well organised, amazing show.



However, the security procedures are concerning. Even without the devastating attack in Manchester which is still quite recent, it has always been a necessity for security to search the public as they enter an area which contains a large amount of people.



As I entered, a member of security asked me to raise my arms for a search, which is absolutely fine and I obliged. He patted me down well, but then asked me to carry on into the venue.



I had multiple items in my jeans pockets, such as my phone, wallet, vape, and keys. He felt they were there, not knowing what they could have been, and did not ask me to empty my pockets.



I would never carry anything I shouldn't, whether that would be drugs, or something that could potentially harm somebody, such as a blade. But that may not be the same with somebody else. It's understandable that they must push around 15,000 people in as quick as possible to meet the shows start time, but I feel security search procedures should be increased to ensure the safety of the public.

Great Arena and really enjoyed the show (Roger Waters)

But I just can’t believe how poorly the arena is designed for flow of people/traffic and the lack of bars and loos.

The queue for the bar was so ridiculous that we couldn’t even get a drink before or during the show and the queue for the men’s toilet is a joke. There is no in and out of the toilets and a massive queue just to get out not in of the loo. For a modern Arena it’s really been poorly designed in the public areas.

D.O.I tour 2018 was a brilliant show and a great present for my nan.

However after paying the same price as everyone in the upper blocks we were allocated awful seats. I have been to concerts before and paid a lower price for limited view. We paid full price and did not get to pick our seats they were allocated to us.

We had to spend the duration of the show leaning to see around the camera rigging and barefooted camera man who constantly had his feet up in the way! Put seats weren’t even in the row but at the top of very steep steps!

These seats should not be used unless stated they have limited views and charged a reduced price!

£126 for limited view is not acceptable arena Birmingham!

Badly run venue and trust me I’ve been to loads of venues like this one and this is the worst by a long mile. Seats were uncomfortable and too close together, queues for bars, food outlets and toilets were ridiculous and with it being a hot sunny day the venue was badly ventilated and no air con that I could feel the benefits of as we all ended up sweating in our seats. Staff herded us around before and after the show like sheep, entrances blocked, thousands being forced down concrete steps that we had to be careful and look out for in the crush. Fantastic show from Roger badly let down by everyone, won’t be coming back to this venue ever again.

awful security staff, one in particular by the name of Ian (apparently a supervisor) who clearly went to two ladies sat behind me and my 10 year old to tell them that I had a complained that they were too loud (after asking him to be discrete about it), sat there laughing with her about it, explaining that I should have took the downgraded seats 11 rows behind the seats we paid for if I really had a problem with her being loud, belligerent and inappropriate at a childs show. This caused the woman to then want to cause trouble with me after being highlighted by Ian that it was me who had complained. After emailing NEC group, their response was in short hand that I should have took the downgraded seats offered to me and that Ian denies he told the woman it was me (despite hearing it with my own ears) and they believe him despite me raising this with Ian's manager straight after the show as if I just made it all up for some form of amusement!!!

Your security took a dislike to my friend for no good reason and unlawfully ejected him. They kicked, punched and dragged him out the fire escape and left him beaten in the street. Absolutely disgusting!!

Yet again horrendous queues to get into the venue tonight. Ended up missing the first support act and most of the second. This has happened at many concerts here because of all the queues. At least a hour of waiting outside in the freezing cold and that's once you are luckily enough to of even found the end of one of the many queues of hundreds of people. Then after the concert you get the joy of sitting in the car park for a hour or two not moving at all (like we all are now at 11:10pm). It's been like this for years and nothing changes. The acts you have keep bringing people back but access to inside the venue and then trying to leave the car park ruins it every time!

Wow what a joke! Venue changes the seating plan days before the show! Instead of sending out new tickets my husband and I have just queued for over an hour to get new tickets! Total chaos and has ruined my evening!!!! Still queuing now and John Legend comes on in 20 minutes ����

Visited for Kasabian on Saturday 9th December and couldn't believe the number of toilets that were out of order. Very disappointed and pretty much ruined the evening as felt we couldn't have a drink as the search for working toilets was such a nightmare.

This place is shameful. The food is disgusting (all overpriced junk) the toilets are vile and the staff are ignorant. To make matters worse Badminton England adopted a no re entry policy so I was stuck in this hideous place without coffee or food! Shame on you all!

Step daughter attended Ed Sheeran- girls fainting and no water being passed back and little support from security staff. Son attended Royal Blood- ejected for no apparent reason alleged he was smoking- he’s a non smoker- complaint pending but what was worse he was grabbed around the neck! Has gone down hill in the last 12 mths with last weeks issues being the last straw! None of us will be attending again!

Seeing Michael McEntyre tonight, opening act over, went to the bar at 8:45pm as main act started at 9pm. All bars are closed at 8:50pm. A security shirt acts important and says all bars are closed. I point out that the headline act hasn't even started? Security guy is just confused. What sort of a venue closes the bars by 8:50pm? A very bad one!

Kasabian dec 9th. Absolute chaos and aggro crowds in the concourse trying to get to the floor standing due to toilets on one side of the building being out of order. As we finally got to the entrance, security closed the doors, splitting up a number of groups and refused to let anyone else through. Borderline riot about to occur as the crowd had no intention of navigating back the way we had just come! Security continuously screamed at everyone that only option was to go back the way they had come. One of them spat in my face. Absolutely disgusting treatment of customers and totally negligent to have such a huge crowd and such terrible crowd management. Actually, it was very dangerous. You need to pull your socks up and deal with your poor facilities and horrible security. �

Just had a parking fine relating to a delivery we made to the BSAVA conference in April having parked and unloaded where we were told. Will be telling future customers that we have to add extra for anything go to Arena Birmingham as we're likely to get fined simply for delivering to their stands.

John Bishop brilliant. Venue terrible.

Horrendous queues to get in, meaning show had to start late again. Queued for the whole interval for the toilet. Unsafe crush outside afterwards!!

Aisle seat had large pieces of metal all around it meaning could not get comfortable.

Will not be looking to return

If a 0 was possible it would be given ..... please 're think the carpark .... over 2 hours to get out !!!!! No stewards no nothing . Ridiculous when there are thousands of people try to get out .

I feel the need to register my disappointment at the total lack of people skills demonstrated by 2 particular members of Arena door staff whilst waiting for doors to open to the Tattoo. The coordinated release of the concourse doors to allow the public to enter was delayed until after 1610 (despite all signage displaying access permitted from 1600), leaving the fee paying public (including wheelchair users unable to keep themselves warm by moving around), literally out in the cold. As one female member of the security staff was made aware that a. the advertised time of entry had long passed, and b. there were people with disabilities who were getting colder by the minute, she merely replied that "she would open the doors when directed to from the promoter" in an abrupt (bordering on rude) manner, then continued joking with her colleagues in the warmth of the concourse and security office. When access was finally released, I approached a male colleague to enquire the name of the lady in question in order to register my disappointment by complaining, only to be told in no uncertain terms that he wouldn't divulge that information, as I had "no cause for complaint". That my friend is MY call as a customer, not yours as an Arena employee. The Arena boasts on the branded uniform worn by the staff manning the entrance doors that they are "Happy to help", on this occasion, using these two shining examples I beg to differ! On a positive note Felicity dealt with my complaint professionally, and to my satisfaction, and as an Armed Forces Veteran I enjoyed the Tattoo thoroughly, as I do every year! Please Arena Birmingham, or whatever your name is this week, remember that the fee paying customers that visit the Arena are the life blood that justifies it's existence. Please respect them and treat them accordingly!

I didn't expect the seating for disabled people to be so far away from the Stage. .was ridiculous. .didn't see the singers/presenters close up at all @ Asian Network Live event 2018. I don't think I'll ever attend an event here again even if it was free entry into the show. Seats were very uncomfortable for more than 1 hour.

Disappointed. Have just spent 1 hour trying to get parked before the 30 seconds to mars gig. Nowhere seems to have car parks tall enough to accept a transit van. £100 worth of tickets wasted.

Booked tickets to see celine Dion on 3rd august on day of release got tickets in side block right by stage received email on 18th July to say had to move us due to change in production and camera will block view and offered tickets at back of venue as replacement and on my complaint was told they are same price tickets we have closer ones if you pay more money this is discussing I am been moved due to no fault of mine why should I pay more will think twice of booking to go hear again.

Been waiting a long time to see At The Drive-In, only to have their set ruined by the worst sound I have ever heard at a live event anywhere. Royal Blood fared better sound-wise, but then again there's only 3 things to mix. Atmosphere not helped by loud fat Brummies (god they sound thick) troughing their vinegar-soaked chips a few inches from the back of my head. Then, on leaving, for some reason we weren't allowed out of the doors we came in through, but had to walk round to the front, further away from the car park. I really hope no band I like plays here again, as I really don't want to come back.

Been looking forward to seeing Kasabian on the saturday for ages, but between the incredibly rude and unhelpful stewards throughout the arena, and how unfriendly the arena is for disabled, you absoluteky ruined my first night of fun for 18 months. I was lucky to stay on my feet with how slippy the floor was, and that was when it was dry, I couldn't walk without assistance on any wet floor, couldn't even reach the disabled toilets due to them being placed where the queues for the normal loos build up, and to top it off one of the stewards tried to kick me out of my seat despite having a disabled ticket and carer ticket. First time going to your arena and definately was the last. Sort it out for future guests!

Awful customer service venue pass the buck and blame promotors for everything. Works on the system were big your a tiny go away your not worthy.

Arena is good. The parking and control of traffic is ATROCIOUS!! �

Went to see dancing on ice brilliant show loved every minute of the show hope see it again next year

Went to see Demi Lovato with a friend and we extremely enjoyed it, security staff were nice enough but on their website it clearly stated no aerosols but i brought some in and they didnt even notice which is a bit weird but everything else was great, demi was incredible

Wanted to say a massive thank you to one of your security guards (lady with brown shoulder length hair). I was at the royal blood gig on Saturday the 18th November and about 10 minutes before they came on I stated to feel really dizzy (stupidly forgot to eat before I went out). I told the security guard outside the standing area doors that I wasn't feeling great and that it was my own fault for not eating and she gave me her pack of fruit gums. Those fruit gums gave me the sugar hit I needed to be able to enjoy the gig! So sorry for nabbing your sweets off you but thanks so much �!

The staff are very helpful and very kind to me when l went to celine Dion last July and very big thank you � to them ���� xx

Just wanted to say a massive thank you, to all the wonderful staff at the Arena last night, For the John Bishop show, who helped us, with our Mam, who needed wheelchair assistance, nothing was to much trouble for the staff, everyone was pleasant and more than helpful, making sure she and us were well looked after!

Just back from watching Peter Pan - long day from Pontypridd, South Wales - but well worth the trip. We all thoroughly enjoyed it and Bradley Walsh was brilliant.

Experienced my 1st Gig and what a first gig it was, 5 Finger Death Punch on the 17th December 2017 with supporting bands In Flames & Of Mice & Men. Hoping to see Slayer in November, fingers crossed � The staff were very helpful..Thanks Everyone for an Awesome night.

Celine Dion - 3/8/2017. Amazing venue facility's were really good , plenty toilets and bars , separate smoking area , staff were really friendly and helpful security was spot on , police, sniffer dogs, All bags searched , scanned and body searched everyone on entry right till the last person (which was me) , made me feel a lot safer and would definitely return and obviously celine was amazing �

The security was very reassuring and we had a brilliant time, however was spoilt slightly due to the couple in front of us having a domestic whilst drunk, could have been something to do with the bottle of wine he had in his hand, a bit off really when you pay money to watch the venue

I had a fall in the Arena tonight (no fault of the venue, I hasten to add) and would like to say a very big thank you to the fellow Alice fans who picked me up, collected my far flung possessions and made sure I was okay!!! And then a massive thank you to the Arena management and staff who looked after me and wheeled me to the medical room!!! And then finally a huge thank you to the lovely medic who treated me and gave me extra ice packs for during the show!!! Thank you to you all xxx

UTTER CHAOS!!!



Now I know the venue can be a little difficult to get away from, when thousands of people are descending onto the streets and canals of Birmingham City Centre, but Tuesday night was the worst experience I have ever encountered here.



After having had a fabulous time with Fall Out Boy, the show ended and the ridiculous and hazardous ordeal began - not just for me, but for the hundreds, possibly thousands of people being directed the same way.



Having parked at a friend’s house in Goodman Street (past the North Car Park), I had entered the venue at Entrance G, but was not permitted to leave the same way. I was forced to leave through the opposite side of the venue. Expecting to be able to go down the steps there and make my way around the outside of the venue, I was surprised to find these were also blocked off and EVERYONE was forced into the South Car Park.



This was a H&S nightmare!!

Swarms of people not knowing where they are supposed to be going: through the car park or down the small staircases. Most proceeded down the stairs but, were encountered with other swarms of people making their way up the stairs, also not knowing where they were supposed to be going.



Finding these stairs too crowded and dangerous (I dread to think what happened to disabled visitors), I walked across the car park and took a quieter staircase, albeit urine soaked to the point that I was retching by the time I reached the bottom. However, these stairs still didn’t get me out onto the road or canal and I ended up walking back across the car park until I found my way out.



10 minutes after leaving the venue, I found myself still right next to it, walking along the canal with hundreds of other people all going in different directions and some just sat on the pavement (probably waiting for the chaos to calm down).



It wasn’t for another 5 minutes when I had actually made it to the roundabout by the North Car Park that I was actually able to walk freely and in the direction which I knew I needed to be heading.



Such a damp end to a wonderful night.

The sound and space where you watch the bands is ok. However the carnage of the road network leading to the car parks. The naff organisation to get in. Why they don't print the door you need to enter on the tickets is beyond me. Then the 45 minute to get out of the car park.



Shame really as it has potential. Just wrong location - too near the centre

I don't recommend this venue for concerts I don't know what it is but there's just something off with the sound that ruins the whole show. First time I thought the band had put on a bad show but after reading other reviews and the same happening with another gig it must be the venue. The sound was tinny and mostly noise I struggled to hear the lyrics.



However I also came here to see Marvel Live with my son and there were no problems with sound or views. We had a fantastic time so I would return for something like that but definitely not a concert.

Not having a cloak room? How is the show supposed to be enjojable holding winter jacket and jumper in my hands in the middle of the crowd

I haven’t even got there yet and I’m not impressed. Your website is utter rubbish. The information it “offers” is scant at best. The performance is tomorrow and you had to be prompted to post the performance schedule which is inaccurate (good start). To find a map of the arena so you know where your seat is; if indeed there is one is difficult to find. The experience can only improve. May I suggest you contact the NEC because they seem to manage so much better.

I attended the Linkin Park concert nearly 2 weeks ago, they were brilliant! Great venue, well organised, amazing show.



However, the security procedures are concerning. Even without the devastating attack in Manchester which is still quite recent, it has always been a necessity for security to search the public as they enter an area which contains a large amount of people.



As I entered, a member of security asked me to raise my arms for a search, which is absolutely fine and I obliged. He patted me down well, but then asked me to carry on into the venue.



I had multiple items in my jeans pockets, such as my phone, wallet, vape, and keys. He felt they were there, not knowing what they could have been, and did not ask me to empty my pockets.



I would never carry anything I shouldn't, whether that would be drugs, or something that could potentially harm somebody, such as a blade. But that may not be the same with somebody else. It's understandable that they must push around 15,000 people in as quick as possible to meet the shows start time, but I feel security search procedures should be increased to ensure the safety of the public.

Great Arena and really enjoyed the show (Roger Waters)

But I just can’t believe how poorly the arena is designed for flow of people/traffic and the lack of bars and loos.

The queue for the bar was so ridiculous that we couldn’t even get a drink before or during the show and the queue for the men’s toilet is a joke. There is no in and out of the toilets and a massive queue just to get out not in of the loo. For a modern Arena it’s really been poorly designed in the public areas.

D.O.I tour 2018 was a brilliant show and a great present for my nan.

However after paying the same price as everyone in the upper blocks we were allocated awful seats. I have been to concerts before and paid a lower price for limited view. We paid full price and did not get to pick our seats they were allocated to us.

We had to spend the duration of the show leaning to see around the camera rigging and barefooted camera man who constantly had his feet up in the way! Put seats weren’t even in the row but at the top of very steep steps!

These seats should not be used unless stated they have limited views and charged a reduced price!

£126 for limited view is not acceptable arena Birmingham!

Badly run venue and trust me I’ve been to loads of venues like this one and this is the worst by a long mile. Seats were uncomfortable and too close together, queues for bars, food outlets and toilets were ridiculous and with it being a hot sunny day the venue was badly ventilated and no air con that I could feel the benefits of as we all ended up sweating in our seats. Staff herded us around before and after the show like sheep, entrances blocked, thousands being forced down concrete steps that we had to be careful and look out for in the crush. Fantastic show from Roger badly let down by everyone, won’t be coming back to this venue ever again.

awful security staff, one in particular by the name of Ian (apparently a supervisor) who clearly went to two ladies sat behind me and my 10 year old to tell them that I had a complained that they were too loud (after asking him to be discrete about it), sat there laughing with her about it, explaining that I should have took the downgraded seats 11 rows behind the seats we paid for if I really had a problem with her being loud, belligerent and inappropriate at a childs show. This caused the woman to then want to cause trouble with me after being highlighted by Ian that it was me who had complained. After emailing NEC group, their response was in short hand that I should have took the downgraded seats offered to me and that Ian denies he told the woman it was me (despite hearing it with my own ears) and they believe him despite me raising this with Ian's manager straight after the show as if I just made it all up for some form of amusement!!!

Your security took a dislike to my friend for no good reason and unlawfully ejected him. They kicked, punched and dragged him out the fire escape and left him beaten in the street. Absolutely disgusting!!

Yet again horrendous queues to get into the venue tonight. Ended up missing the first support act and most of the second. This has happened at many concerts here because of all the queues. At least a hour of waiting outside in the freezing cold and that's once you are luckily enough to of even found the end of one of the many queues of hundreds of people. Then after the concert you get the joy of sitting in the car park for a hour or two not moving at all (like we all are now at 11:10pm). It's been like this for years and nothing changes. The acts you have keep bringing people back but access to inside the venue and then trying to leave the car park ruins it every time!

Wow what a joke! Venue changes the seating plan days before the show! Instead of sending out new tickets my husband and I have just queued for over an hour to get new tickets! Total chaos and has ruined my evening!!!! Still queuing now and John Legend comes on in 20 minutes ����

Visited for Kasabian on Saturday 9th December and couldn't believe the number of toilets that were out of order. Very disappointed and pretty much ruined the evening as felt we couldn't have a drink as the search for working toilets was such a nightmare.

This place is shameful. The food is disgusting (all overpriced junk) the toilets are vile and the staff are ignorant. To make matters worse Badminton England adopted a no re entry policy so I was stuck in this hideous place without coffee or food! Shame on you all!

Step daughter attended Ed Sheeran- girls fainting and no water being passed back and little support from security staff. Son attended Royal Blood- ejected for no apparent reason alleged he was smoking- he’s a non smoker- complaint pending but what was worse he was grabbed around the neck! Has gone down hill in the last 12 mths with last weeks issues being the last straw! None of us will be attending again!

Seeing Michael McEntyre tonight, opening act over, went to the bar at 8:45pm as main act started at 9pm. All bars are closed at 8:50pm. A security shirt acts important and says all bars are closed. I point out that the headline act hasn't even started? Security guy is just confused. What sort of a venue closes the bars by 8:50pm? A very bad one!

Kasabian dec 9th. Absolute chaos and aggro crowds in the concourse trying to get to the floor standing due to toilets on one side of the building being out of order. As we finally got to the entrance, security closed the doors, splitting up a number of groups and refused to let anyone else through. Borderline riot about to occur as the crowd had no intention of navigating back the way we had just come! Security continuously screamed at everyone that only option was to go back the way they had come. One of them spat in my face. Absolutely disgusting treatment of customers and totally negligent to have such a huge crowd and such terrible crowd management. Actually, it was very dangerous. You need to pull your socks up and deal with your poor facilities and horrible security. �

Just had a parking fine relating to a delivery we made to the BSAVA conference in April having parked and unloaded where we were told. Will be telling future customers that we have to add extra for anything go to Arena Birmingham as we're likely to get fined simply for delivering to their stands.

John Bishop brilliant. Venue terrible.

Horrendous queues to get in, meaning show had to start late again. Queued for the whole interval for the toilet. Unsafe crush outside afterwards!!

Aisle seat had large pieces of metal all around it meaning could not get comfortable.

Will not be looking to return

If a 0 was possible it would be given ..... please 're think the carpark .... over 2 hours to get out !!!!! No stewards no nothing . Ridiculous when there are thousands of people try to get out .

I feel the need to register my disappointment at the total lack of people skills demonstrated by 2 particular members of Arena door staff whilst waiting for doors to open to the Tattoo. The coordinated release of the concourse doors to allow the public to enter was delayed until after 1610 (despite all signage displaying access permitted from 1600), leaving the fee paying public (including wheelchair users unable to keep themselves warm by moving around), literally out in the cold. As one female member of the security staff was made aware that a. the advertised time of entry had long passed, and b. there were people with disabilities who were getting colder by the minute, she merely replied that "she would open the doors when directed to from the promoter" in an abrupt (bordering on rude) manner, then continued joking with her colleagues in the warmth of the concourse and security office. When access was finally released, I approached a male colleague to enquire the name of the lady in question in order to register my disappointment by complaining, only to be told in no uncertain terms that he wouldn't divulge that information, as I had "no cause for complaint". That my friend is MY call as a customer, not yours as an Arena employee. The Arena boasts on the branded uniform worn by the staff manning the entrance doors that they are "Happy to help", on this occasion, using these two shining examples I beg to differ! On a positive note Felicity dealt with my complaint professionally, and to my satisfaction, and as an Armed Forces Veteran I enjoyed the Tattoo thoroughly, as I do every year! Please Arena Birmingham, or whatever your name is this week, remember that the fee paying customers that visit the Arena are the life blood that justifies it's existence. Please respect them and treat them accordingly!

I didn't expect the seating for disabled people to be so far away from the Stage. .was ridiculous. .didn't see the singers/presenters close up at all @ Asian Network Live event 2018. I don't think I'll ever attend an event here again even if it was free entry into the show. Seats were very uncomfortable for more than 1 hour.

Disappointed. Have just spent 1 hour trying to get parked before the 30 seconds to mars gig. Nowhere seems to have car parks tall enough to accept a transit van. £100 worth of tickets wasted.

Booked tickets to see celine Dion on 3rd august on day of release got tickets in side block right by stage received email on 18th July to say had to move us due to change in production and camera will block view and offered tickets at back of venue as replacement and on my complaint was told they are same price tickets we have closer ones if you pay more money this is discussing I am been moved due to no fault of mine why should I pay more will think twice of booking to go hear again.

Been waiting a long time to see At The Drive-In, only to have their set ruined by the worst sound I have ever heard at a live event anywhere. Royal Blood fared better sound-wise, but then again there's only 3 things to mix. Atmosphere not helped by loud fat Brummies (god they sound thick) troughing their vinegar-soaked chips a few inches from the back of my head. Then, on leaving, for some reason we weren't allowed out of the doors we came in through, but had to walk round to the front, further away from the car park. I really hope no band I like plays here again, as I really don't want to come back.

Been looking forward to seeing Kasabian on the saturday for ages, but between the incredibly rude and unhelpful stewards throughout the arena, and how unfriendly the arena is for disabled, you absoluteky ruined my first night of fun for 18 months. I was lucky to stay on my feet with how slippy the floor was, and that was when it was dry, I couldn't walk without assistance on any wet floor, couldn't even reach the disabled toilets due to them being placed where the queues for the normal loos build up, and to top it off one of the stewards tried to kick me out of my seat despite having a disabled ticket and carer ticket. First time going to your arena and definately was the last. Sort it out for future guests!

Awful customer service venue pass the buck and blame promotors for everything. Works on the system were big your a tiny go away your not worthy.

Arena is good. The parking and control of traffic is ATROCIOUS!! �

Went to see dancing on ice brilliant show loved every minute of the show hope see it again next year

Went to see Demi Lovato with a friend and we extremely enjoyed it, security staff were nice enough but on their website it clearly stated no aerosols but i brought some in and they didnt even notice which is a bit weird but everything else was great, demi was incredible

Wanted to say a massive thank you to one of your security guards (lady with brown shoulder length hair). I was at the royal blood gig on Saturday the 18th November and about 10 minutes before they came on I stated to feel really dizzy (stupidly forgot to eat before I went out). I told the security guard outside the standing area doors that I wasn't feeling great and that it was my own fault for not eating and she gave me her pack of fruit gums. Those fruit gums gave me the sugar hit I needed to be able to enjoy the gig! So sorry for nabbing your sweets off you but thanks so much �!

The staff are very helpful and very kind to me when l went to celine Dion last July and very big thank you � to them ���� xx

Just wanted to say a massive thank you, to all the wonderful staff at the Arena last night, For the John Bishop show, who helped us, with our Mam, who needed wheelchair assistance, nothing was to much trouble for the staff, everyone was pleasant and more than helpful, making sure she and us were well looked after!

Just back from watching Peter Pan - long day from Pontypridd, South Wales - but well worth the trip. We all thoroughly enjoyed it and Bradley Walsh was brilliant.

Experienced my 1st Gig and what a first gig it was, 5 Finger Death Punch on the 17th December 2017 with supporting bands In Flames & Of Mice & Men. Hoping to see Slayer in November, fingers crossed � The staff were very helpful..Thanks Everyone for an Awesome night.

Celine Dion - 3/8/2017. Amazing venue facility's were really good , plenty toilets and bars , separate smoking area , staff were really friendly and helpful security was spot on , police, sniffer dogs, All bags searched , scanned and body searched everyone on entry right till the last person (which was me) , made me feel a lot safer and would definitely return and obviously celine was amazing �

The security was very reassuring and we had a brilliant time, however was spoilt slightly due to the couple in front of us having a domestic whilst drunk, could have been something to do with the bottle of wine he had in his hand, a bit off really when you pay money to watch the venue

I had a fall in the Arena tonight (no fault of the venue, I hasten to add) and would like to say a very big thank you to the fellow Alice fans who picked me up, collected my far flung possessions and made sure I was okay!!! And then a massive thank you to the Arena management and staff who looked after me and wheeled me to the medical room!!! And then finally a huge thank you to the lovely medic who treated me and gave me extra ice packs for during the show!!! Thank you to you all xxx

UTTER CHAOS!!!



Now I know the venue can be a little difficult to get away from, when thousands of people are descending onto the streets and canals of Birmingham City Centre, but Tuesday night was the worst experience I have ever encountered here.



After having had a fabulous time with Fall Out Boy, the show ended and the ridiculous and hazardous ordeal began - not just for me, but for the hundreds, possibly thousands of people being directed the same way.



Having parked at a friend’s house in Goodman Street (past the North Car Park), I had entered the venue at Entrance G, but was not permitted to leave the same way. I was forced to leave through the opposite side of the venue. Expecting to be able to go down the steps there and make my way around the outside of the venue, I was surprised to find these were also blocked off and EVERYONE was forced into the South Car Park.



This was a H&S nightmare!!

Swarms of people not knowing where they are supposed to be going: through the car park or down the small staircases. Most proceeded down the stairs but, were encountered with other swarms of people making their way up the stairs, also not knowing where they were supposed to be going.



Finding these stairs too crowded and dangerous (I dread to think what happened to disabled visitors), I walked across the car park and took a quieter staircase, albeit urine soaked to the point that I was retching by the time I reached the bottom. However, these stairs still didn’t get me out onto the road or canal and I ended up walking back across the car park until I found my way out.



10 minutes after leaving the venue, I found myself still right next to it, walking along the canal with hundreds of other people all going in different directions and some just sat on the pavement (probably waiting for the chaos to calm down).



It wasn’t for another 5 minutes when I had actually made it to the roundabout by the North Car Park that I was actually able to walk freely and in the direction which I knew I needed to be heading.



Such a damp end to a wonderful night.

The sound and space where you watch the bands is ok. However the carnage of the road network leading to the car parks. The naff organisation to get in. Why they don't print the door you need to enter on the tickets is beyond me. Then the 45 minute to get out of the car park.



Shame really as it has potential. Just wrong location - too near the centre

I don't recommend this venue for concerts I don't know what it is but there's just something off with the sound that ruins the whole show. First time I thought the band had put on a bad show but after reading other reviews and the same happening with another gig it must be the venue. The sound was tinny and mostly noise I struggled to hear the lyrics.



However I also came here to see Marvel Live with my son and there were no problems with sound or views. We had a fantastic time so I would return for something like that but definitely not a concert.

Not having a cloak room? How is the show supposed to be enjojable holding winter jacket and jumper in my hands in the middle of the crowd

I haven’t even got there yet and I’m not impressed. Your website is utter rubbish. The information it “offers” is scant at best. The performance is tomorrow and you had to be prompted to post the performance schedule which is inaccurate (good start). To find a map of the arena so you know where your seat is; if indeed there is one is difficult to find. The experience can only improve. May I suggest you contact the NEC because they seem to manage so much better.

I attended the Linkin Park concert nearly 2 weeks ago, they were brilliant! Great venue, well organised, amazing show.



However, the security procedures are concerning. Even without the devastating attack in Manchester which is still quite recent, it has always been a necessity for security to search the public as they enter an area which contains a large amount of people.



As I entered, a member of security asked me to raise my arms for a search, which is absolutely fine and I obliged. He patted me down well, but then asked me to carry on into the venue.



I had multiple items in my jeans pockets, such as my phone, wallet, vape, and keys. He felt they were there, not knowing what they could have been, and did not ask me to empty my pockets.



I would never carry anything I shouldn't, whether that would be drugs, or something that could potentially harm somebody, such as a blade. But that may not be the same with somebody else. It's understandable that they must push around 15,000 people in as quick as possible to meet the shows start time, but I feel security search procedures should be increased to ensure the safety of the public.

Great Arena and really enjoyed the show (Roger Waters)

But I just can’t believe how poorly the arena is designed for flow of people/traffic and the lack of bars and loos.

The queue for the bar was so ridiculous that we couldn’t even get a drink before or during the show and the queue for the men’s toilet is a joke. There is no in and out of the toilets and a massive queue just to get out not in of the loo. For a modern Arena it’s really been poorly designed in the public areas.

D.O.I tour 2018 was a brilliant show and a great present for my nan.

However after paying the same price as everyone in the upper blocks we were allocated awful seats. I have been to concerts before and paid a lower price for limited view. We paid full price and did not get to pick our seats they were allocated to us.

We had to spend the duration of the show leaning to see around the camera rigging and barefooted camera man who constantly had his feet up in the way! Put seats weren’t even in the row but at the top of very steep steps!

These seats should not be used unless stated they have limited views and charged a reduced price!

£126 for limited view is not acceptable arena Birmingham!

Badly run venue and trust me I’ve been to loads of venues like this one and this is the worst by a long mile. Seats were uncomfortable and too close together, queues for bars, food outlets and toilets were ridiculous and with it being a hot sunny day the venue was badly ventilated and no air con that I could feel the benefits of as we all ended up sweating in our seats. Staff herded us around before and after the show like sheep, entrances blocked, thousands being forced down concrete steps that we had to be careful and look out for in the crush. Fantastic show from Roger badly let down by everyone, won’t be coming back to this venue ever again.

awful security staff, one in particular by the name of Ian (apparently a supervisor) who clearly went to two ladies sat behind me and my 10 year old to tell them that I had a complained that they were too loud (after asking him to be discrete about it), sat there laughing with her about it, explaining that I should have took the downgraded seats 11 rows behind the seats we paid for if I really had a problem with her being loud, belligerent and inappropriate at a childs show. This caused the woman to then want to cause trouble with me after being highlighted by Ian that it was me who had complained. After emailing NEC group, their response was in short hand that I should have took the downgraded seats offered to me and that Ian denies he told the woman it was me (despite hearing it with my own ears) and they believe him despite me raising this with Ian's manager straight after the show as if I just made it all up for some form of amusement!!!

Your security took a dislike to my friend for no good reason and unlawfully ejected him. They kicked, punched and dragged him out the fire escape and left him beaten in the street. Absolutely disgusting!!

Yet again horrendous queues to get into the venue tonight. Ended up missing the first support act and most of the second. This has happened at many concerts here because of all the queues. At least a hour of waiting outside in the freezing cold and that's once you are luckily enough to of even found the end of one of the many queues of hundreds of people. Then after the concert you get the joy of sitting in the car park for a hour or two not moving at all (like we all are now at 11:10pm). It's been like this for years and nothing changes. The acts you have keep bringing people back but access to inside the venue and then trying to leave the car park ruins it every time!

Wow what a joke! Venue changes the seating plan days before the show! Instead of sending out new tickets my husband and I have just queued for over an hour to get new tickets! Total chaos and has ruined my evening!!!! Still queuing now and John Legend comes on in 20 minutes ����

Visited for Kasabian on Saturday 9th December and couldn't believe the number of toilets that were out of order. Very disappointed and pretty much ruined the evening as felt we couldn't have a drink as the search for working toilets was such a nightmare.

This place is shameful. The food is disgusting (all overpriced junk) the toilets are vile and the staff are ignorant. To make matters worse Badminton England adopted a no re entry policy so I was stuck in this hideous place without coffee or food! Shame on you all!

Step daughter attended Ed Sheeran- girls fainting and no water being passed back and little support from security staff. Son attended Royal Blood- ejected for no apparent reason alleged he was smoking- he’s a non smoker- complaint pending but what was worse he was grabbed around the neck! Has gone down hill in the last 12 mths with last weeks issues being the last straw! None of us will be attending again!

Seeing Michael McEntyre tonight, opening act over, went to the bar at 8:45pm as main act started at 9pm. All bars are closed at 8:50pm. A security shirt acts important and says all bars are closed. I point out that the headline act hasn't even started? Security guy is just confused. What sort of a venue closes the bars by 8:50pm? A very bad one!

Kasabian dec 9th. Absolute chaos and aggro crowds in the concourse trying to get to the floor standing due to toilets on one side of the building being out of order. As we finally got to the entrance, security closed the doors, splitting up a number of groups and refused to let anyone else through. Borderline riot about to occur as the crowd had no intention of navigating back the way we had just come! Security continuously screamed at everyone that only option was to go back the way they had come. One of them spat in my face. Absolutely disgusting treatment of customers and totally negligent to have such a huge crowd and such terrible crowd management. Actually, it was very dangerous. You need to pull your socks up and deal with your poor facilities and horrible security. �

Just had a parking fine relating to a delivery we made to the BSAVA conference in April having parked and unloaded where we were told. Will be telling future customers that we have to add extra for anything go to Arena Birmingham as we're likely to get fined simply for delivering to their stands.

John Bishop brilliant. Venue terrible.

Horrendous queues to get in, meaning show had to start late again. Queued for the whole interval for the toilet. Unsafe crush outside afterwards!!

Aisle seat had large pieces of metal all around it meaning could not get comfortable.

Will not be looking to return

If a 0 was possible it would be given ..... please 're think the carpark .... over 2 hours to get out !!!!! No stewards no nothing . Ridiculous when there are thousands of people try to get out .

I feel the need to register my disappointment at the total lack of people skills demonstrated by 2 particular members of Arena door staff whilst waiting for doors to open to the Tattoo. The coordinated release of the concourse doors to allow the public to enter was delayed until after 1610 (despite all signage displaying access permitted from 1600), leaving the fee paying public (including wheelchair users unable to keep themselves warm by moving around), literally out in the cold. As one female member of the security staff was made aware that a. the advertised time of entry had long passed, and b. there were people with disabilities who were getting colder by the minute, she merely replied that "she would open the doors when directed to from the promoter" in an abrupt (bordering on rude) manner, then continued joking with her colleagues in the warmth of the concourse and security office. When access was finally released, I approached a male colleague to enquire the name of the lady in question in order to register my disappointment by complaining, only to be told in no uncertain terms that he wouldn't divulge that information, as I had "no cause for complaint". That my friend is MY call as a customer, not yours as an Arena employee. The Arena boasts on the branded uniform worn by the staff manning the entrance doors that they are "Happy to help", on this occasion, using these two shining examples I beg to differ! On a positive note Felicity dealt with my complaint professionally, and to my satisfaction, and as an Armed Forces Veteran I enjoyed the Tattoo thoroughly, as I do every year! Please Arena Birmingham, or whatever your name is this week, remember that the fee paying customers that visit the Arena are the life blood that justifies it's existence. Please respect them and treat them accordingly!

I didn't expect the seating for disabled people to be so far away from the Stage. .was ridiculous. .didn't see the singers/presenters close up at all @ Asian Network Live event 2018. I don't think I'll ever attend an event here again even if it was free entry into the show. Seats were very uncomfortable for more than 1 hour.

Disappointed. Have just spent 1 hour trying to get parked before the 30 seconds to mars gig. Nowhere seems to have car parks tall enough to accept a transit van. £100 worth of tickets wasted.

Booked tickets to see celine Dion on 3rd august on day of release got tickets in side block right by stage received email on 18th July to say had to move us due to change in production and camera will block view and offered tickets at back of venue as replacement and on my complaint was told they are same price tickets we have closer ones if you pay more money this is discussing I am been moved due to no fault of mine why should I pay more will think twice of booking to go hear again.

Been waiting a long time to see At The Drive-In, only to have their set ruined by the worst sound I have ever heard at a live event anywhere. Royal Blood fared better sound-wise, but then again there's only 3 things to mix. Atmosphere not helped by loud fat Brummies (god they sound thick) troughing their vinegar-soaked chips a few inches from the back of my head. Then, on leaving, for some reason we weren't allowed out of the doors we came in through, but had to walk round to the front, further away from the car park. I really hope no band I like plays here again, as I really don't want to come back.

Been looking forward to seeing Kasabian on the saturday for ages, but between the incredibly rude and unhelpful stewards throughout the arena, and how unfriendly the arena is for disabled, you absoluteky ruined my first night of fun for 18 months. I was lucky to stay on my feet with how slippy the floor was, and that was when it was dry, I couldn't walk without assistance on any wet floor, couldn't even reach the disabled toilets due to them being placed where the queues for the normal loos build up, and to top it off one of the stewards tried to kick me out of my seat despite having a disabled ticket and carer ticket. First time going to your arena and definately was the last. Sort it out for future guests!

Awful customer service venue pass the buck and blame promotors for everything. Works on the system were big your a tiny go away your not worthy.

Arena is good. The parking and control of traffic is ATROCIOUS!! �