2 Best Hotels in Birmingham, Stratford-upon-Avon and the Heart of England

This budget hotel in the Jewellery Quarter has pod-style bedrooms and a selection of mini-apartments for those who want to use their hotel as little more than somewhere to sleep between exploring. The rooms are updated with smart controls and decorated in cool tones of autumnal brown, green, and gray, and have amenities such as pocket-sprung mattresses, monsoon showers, and high-definition LED TVs. You can order a rather basic "breakfast bag" for the morning or just try one of the many local cafés. Guests can also make use of many local discounts, including free entry to the nearby Jam House live music venue.

An excellent central location near the waterside nightlife scene is just one perk of staying at this smoothly run chain hotel. The crisp, modern bedrooms and bathrooms, though on the small side, are beautifully equipped and furnished in calm, neutral tones. Downstairs, the trendy bar and neighboring Recess restaurant have a very Mad Men feel. Cooked-to-order breakfasts are included in the good weekend deals and even in high-season, bargains can be had.