The Top 8 Emerging UK Cities for Business Travel Accommodation

With globalisation, paying more attention to where you travel for business has never been so important in terms of productivity and success. With such a colourful history and booming economy, there are a number of up-and-coming cities in the UK – many bustling with business travellers looking for accommodation like serviced apartments. 

From a business standpoint, these cities are not only economically thriving but also developing infrastructure and amenities to assist the state of businesses. Thanks to Manchester's thriving innovation hub and Cambridge-based academic giants, business travel in the UK is changing.

Here, we identify the top eight emerging UK cities for business travel accommodation based on their financial performance and growth in business facilities.

Manchester

Manchester has made a name for itself as one of the top choices among business travellers with noteworthy economic and infrastructure improvements. The city has the Manchester Central Convention Complex and its airport, which is one of the busiest in Europe, with direct flights to other major world cities. 

Greater Manchester is booming with high-quality serviced apartments and places to dine and entertain in the Northern Quarter and Spinningfields areas. In addition, the wide-spread Metrolink tram network in Manchester means that all central business districts are within easy reach. The city's strong emphasis on technology and innovation—MediaCityUK in Salford is a major case-in-point—makes it an even bigger draw for business travel.

Birmingham

Given its infrastructure and the advances in economic activity, Birmingham is quickly becoming a popular business destination. The city's International Convention Centre (ICC) and National Exhibition Centre (NEC) are both major venues staging significant business events and conferences. There is an excellent range of international flights to and from Birmingham Airport, with exceptional connectivity. 

The city is served by a vast railway network, including the new HS2 high-speed rail project, which will offer even quicker journeys to London and further. Upscale serviced apartments in the city centre, near Brindley Place and Colmore Business District, are good options for business travellers. Its strong commercial culture in finance, engineering, and digital industries helps push its desirability even higher.

Bristol

Bristol, a lively south-western city in the UK, is fast emerging as a serious player in terms of business travel requirements. The Bristol Convention Bureau has offices, and Ashton Gate Stadium hosts numerous corporate meetings and conferences. International hubs are also strategically placed; Bristol Airport is the main one, and there is a good public transport network to help you move from A to B if needed. 

These are exciting times due to the growth in tech and aerospace companies contributing to a vibrant type of business environment. Harbourside and Cabot Circus are ideal areas for business travellers, offering a variety of serviced apartments. 

Glasgow

Glasgow is a growing hub for business travel, supported by its expanding infrastructure and economic growth. The Scottish Events Campus (SEC) hosts numerous international conferences and events, including the SSE Hydro and the SEC Centre. 

Glasgow Airport connects the city to global destinations, and the city’s efficient public transport system, including the Glasgow Subway, enhances accessibility. The Merchant City and Buchanan Street areas offer a range of high-quality serviced apartments and dining options. Glasgow’s strengths in financial services, technology, and creative industries, along with its rich cultural scene, make it an appealing choice for business travellers.

Leeds

With its central position and fantastic travel connections, Leeds has quickly become a main location for business travel. The First Direct Arena and Royal Armouries Museum are upcoming venues for business events, conferences, and exhibits. There are direct flights to Leeds Bradford Airport from all major European cities and the city also has great rail connections, including high-speed links. 

The city centre is home to luxury serviced apartments, particularly around Leeds Dock and the financial district, where business travellers will likely want to stay. With its abundance of financial, legal services, and digital industries in tow, Leeds indeed is a veritable business hub where the current offerings, coupled with innovation, will only see this city continue to grow.

Liverpool

Liverpool is a popular choice for businesses that desire business travel opportunities due to its thriving commercial presence and fantastic transport links. At the heart of these are M&S Bank Arena and Exhibition Centre Liverpool, which are key venues for corporate events and trade shows. From here and Liverpool John Lennon Airport, passengers can travel directly to many destinations by plane and public transport like Merseyrail. 

Albert Dock and city centre serviced apartments make the accommodation convenient for business visitors. Liverpool is a great destination for business travel due to its growing status in important sectors, such as maritime and digital, along with numerous cultural attractions.

Newcastle

Newcastle is fast becoming one of the most popular business destinations due to its thriving economy and excellent transport links. The Newcastle International Conference Centre (NICC), St. James' Park, and the Brittan Building, with its conference facilities, are hot spots for business events. 

The city's metro system provides easy travel around the region, while Newcastle International Airport offers international connections. The city centre offers several sophisticated, upscale serviced apartments suitable for business travellers. Newcastle has one of the best digital, health, and creative sectors in the UK, combined with its friendly environment, which is why it will be a first choice among the list for business accommodation.

Cambridge

Cambridge is an alluring proposition for business travellers with its centuries-old academic prestige and highly successful innovation sector. The city regularly holds academic and business events in the Cambridge University Conference Centre or at other locations. 

Regional flights are available from Cambridge Airport, and the city boasts fantastic rail links to access London and other cities. For business travellers, there are many high-end serviced apartments in the city centre and Science Park area. With its strong history as a tech hub, it is no surprise that Cambridge continues to draw business in droves.

Choose TrustedStays for business travel accommodation in the UK

For seamless business travel in the UK, choose TrustedStays. Our extensive network of vetted serviced apartments offers prime locations, exceptional amenities, and personalised service to ensure your stay is productive and comfortable. Book with us for a hassle-free experience tailored to your business needs. Visit TrustedStays today!