Although it already had a substantial music scene, Birmingham became the birthplace of heavy metal in the 1960s with the formation of Black Sabbath and Led Zeppelin, whose lead singer Robert Plant hailed from West Brom. Judas Priest quickly followed suit, with many rock and metal bands ultimately originating from the city, such as ELO, Napalm Death, Editors, and Oceans Ate Alaska. Although many iconic music venues have sadly closed over the years, the music scene continues to thrive in England’s second city. Here are the best places to let your inner rocker out.
The Flapper
Beloved by many for over 50 years, The Flapper was almost lost to us in 2020, when it closed its doors in January despite thousands of signatures to save it. However, the developers were beaten back and the iconic canalside pub reopened in 2021, much to the joy of Brummies and musicians from all over.
With views over the canal, the outdoor seating is perfect for beers on a hot, sunny day, although the lights at night make for an equally cool location. Inside, there are pool tables and a big screen for the biggest sporting events, as well as great music blasting from the speakers all night long. Speaking of music, downstairs you will find a small gig room that frequently hosts local artists. There’s good food, good drinks, and most importantly, they’re dog friendly!
Kingston Row, Cambrian Wharf, Birmingham B1 2NU
The Asylum
If you’re a young metal fan living in Birmingham, there is no way that you haven’t heard of The Asylum. Located just around the corner from the Jewellery Quarter, the amazing black and blue building is hard to miss – and you really shouldn’t miss out! Walking inside, the place gives off dive-bar-meets-secret-underground-venue vibes with its grungy aesthetics, but there’s always new décor for themed club nights too. Plus, two bars and two rooms mean double the fun!
The venue has rock and metal gigs every week, having hosted bands such as Pierce the Veil, Mallory Knox, and Trivium, as well as many smaller, local, and tribute bands. But the event that The Asylum is most famous for is the weekly UPRAWR club night. The biggest (and best) alternative club night in Birmingham, there is no better way to spend a Saturday night. They also host the occasional Black Parade, a UK-wide emo club night, so there is something for everyone of an alternative persuasion.
38-43 Hampton St, Birmingham B19 3LS
Scruffy Murphy’s
In the city centre you cannot move for bars, but let’s be honest: if you want rock, you go to Scruffy’s. It has a traditional English pub interior, complete with pool table and jukebox, with nods to the Birmingham music scene everywhere. The low-light, moody atmosphere makes it feel like you’re in a bra off Route 66, but the people make it a warm and inviting place to be.
Scruffy’s serve some great food, including a full English breakfast and a range of burgers, in addition to their signature cocktails. The pub itself has been going for over 20 years, but in 2021 they opened their Monster stage, from which rock and metal bands play to intimate crowds. All round, it is the perfect place for old rockers and new, and being just around the corner from the busy city centre, it is a nice respite from the crowds.
Newton Street, Dale End, Birmingham B4 6NB
Hare & Hounds
For the classiest of rock fans, the Hare & Hounds in Kings Heath combines a rich musical history with a beautiful Grade II listed Edwardian venue. With its Art Nouveau interior and mahogany details, stopping in here feels like drinking in a 20th century members club, only without the clouds of smoke and stern men reading newspapers. Rather, there is always a party atmosphere.
The venue boasts two downstairs bars and two upstairs venues rooms, that have been the sites of various musical artists. Most notably, the Hare & Hounds was the location of UB40’s first ever gig! With music of all genres, it might be a bit of a cheat to call it a rock venue, but it is certainly a fantastic venue no matter what your tastes may be. There is also a weekly quiz on Wednesdays, and a massive drinks selection, so it caters for everyone.
106 High St, King’s Heath, Birmingham B14 7JZ
Subside
Students: this one’s for you. Every Wednesday night is student night at Subside, with amazing drink prices and the resident DJ providing the perfect atmosphere. This is a regular spot for the rock and metal societies from all of Birmingham’s universities, but everyone is welcome. Down the road from the ever-popular Custard Factory, and just across the road from the O2 Institute, the location of this laid-back bar couldn’t be better.
Inside you will find pool tables, shisha, and a lot of very friendly people! Thursdays bring live music from local bands – with free entry – and Fridays and Saturdays belong to the DJs. If you want to party ‘til the sun comes up, these DJ nights are perfect for you, because the bar doesn’t close until 6am!
57 High Street, Digbeth, Birmingham B5 6DA
The Sunflower Lounge
Don’t worry indie-rock fans, we’ve not forgotten about you! Around the corner from New Street, you might spot a small storefront named The Sunflower Lounge. Don’t let the size fool you – it is a hotspot for up-and-coming indie talent. Royal Blood and FOALS are among the big names to have performed here, so with gigs almost every night, who knows what rising star you’ll catch before their big break?
The place itself really makes you feel like you’re going to a secret gig. Its small size makes for an intimate show, but with the crowds of cheering punters, the vibe is much more reminiscent of an underground music venue. And with Snobs just opposite, you’re sure to have a proper Birmingham night out!
76 Smallbrook Queensway, Birmingham B5 4EG
