The hype
Reviewers are obsessed with the decor and the 'best hospitality experience' from the staff, but often mention the quirks of a historic building.
Baloci
$170-250/ night
Book this if You want a seductive, adults-only escape where the bathtub is the main event and dinner is a Silk Road journey.
Why People Love It
- Opulent Indo-Persian design that feels worlds away from Birmingham
- Massive freestanding bathtubs in themed rooms like 'Babylon'
- Exceptional on-site fine dining and theatrical cocktails
Quick Take: A visually stunning romantic hideaway that prioritizes vibes and aesthetics over practical hotel logistics like a 24-hour front desk.
Reviewed by @lov_exclusive: I stayed here for a weekend escape and was blown away by the decor. The afternoon tea was a highlight, but the Red Room was the real showstopper. It felt like a private palace. If you love unique aesthetics over boring beige hotels, this is it.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The heating can be temperamental (rooms reported as 'very cold' before radiators kick in) and sensor lights in bathrooms can be annoying at night.
- You are a couple looking for a romantic, high-design staycation
- You love Persian/Indian fine dining and want to stumble upstairs after dinner
- You appreciate boutique quirks over cookie-cutter chain consistency
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9.4
- Housekeeping: Daily housekeeping is thorough; guests consistently praise the tidy rooms.
- Bathroom hygiene: Sparkling. The bathtubs are a highlight and are kept immaculate.
- Maintenance: Generally good, though some tech issues (sensor lights, steam showers) and heating delays are reported.
- Linens & towels: Fabulous fluffy towels and high-quality bed linens are frequently mentioned in reviews.
- Odors & scents: Pleasant; no complaints of mustiness, likely due to the new renovation.
Sleepability™
7MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Bathroom sensor fans/lights staying on too long
- Steam shower in 'Alexander' room reportedly turning on by itself
- Creaky floorboards typical of a historic building
Before you book
Good to know
- Parking is free but limited; you must request the access code when booking
- Breakfast is a la carte (approx £12-18), not a buffet
- Check-in window is tight (3pm-6pm); communicate early if arriving late
What to pack
- Warm pajamas (heating can be slow)
- Bath salts (to make the most of the incredible tubs)
- Smart casual outfits (the restaurant and bar have a dress code)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Babylon Room — Stunning decor and bath, but requires navigating steep stairs
- Rumi Room — Beautifully themed, perfect for poetry lovers and soaking
Rooms to avoid
- Alexander the Great Room — Recent reports of the steam shower malfunction (turning on at night) and green sensor lights keeping guests awake
- Loft/Attic rooms — If you struggle with steep, narrow staircases
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“We are celebrating a special occasion and would love one of the rooms with a freestanding bath. Please ensure the heating is turned on prior to our arrival as we get cold easily.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there an elevator?
No, this is a historic building with narrow, steep stairs. Pack light.
Is breakfast included?
Usually no. It's an a la carte menu featuring dishes like Shakshuka (£12) and Full Baloci Breakfast (£18).
Can I bring my kids?
No. The hotel and restaurant have a strict 16+ policy (18+ for the bar).
Is there parking?
Yes, free private parking is available on-site, but spaces are limited and require a code.
Is it noisy at night?
Edgbaston is quiet, but the hotel bar can be lively. Ask for a room away from the bar if you're a light sleeper.
What is the 'Alexander' room issue?
Guests have reported the steam shower creates noise and light autonomously at night; check if this has been fixed.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The 'High Field' gastropub just down the road is a great alternative for a casual lunch.
- ✨
Request the parking code immediately upon booking; the lot is gated and secure.
- ✨
The 'Zoroaster Bar' is destination-worthy on its own—try the 'Spice Route' cocktail.
5 things to know before you go
💡The bathroom sensor lights can be blindingly bright in the middle of the night.
💡There is no 24-hour reception; if you have an issue at 2 AM, you might be on your own.
💡The 'steam room' feature in some showers is temperamental.
💡It's not just a hotel; it's effectively a restaurant with rooms, so dining takes center stage.
💡The stairs to the top floor are genuinely steep—think 'ladder' vibes.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Baloci is located and what's nearby.