Now, this was a tough one folks. Birmingham is home to so much culture and history that it's practically swamped with traditional joints and fun British boozers, but alas, we're breaking down the best-of-the-best. From quirky independents to scenic beer gardens and student spots, this list is brimming with excellent watering holes. Check out our recommendations for the best pubs in Birmingham for a hoppy good time.
Last edited by Lauren Cole
Last updated on 4th February 2025
A pub with a striking and stylish yet also traditional look, The Royal is a boozer that shouldn't be missed out on. Expect velvet church pew booths and rich mahogany colours, alongside HD screens around the Church Street venue - plus a menu spanning everything from gourmet burgers to pizza and grilled plates too.
Located in Birmingham city centre, The Roebuck is a great shout for food and drink. Enjoy munching on slap-up roast dinners, beer-battered fish and Norfolk chicken wings, while washing it all down with a cocktail or pint of beer.
After the best pubs in Birmingham town centre? Bacchus Bar flaunts unique spaces, from its Egyptian basement bar to the French style dining room and much more. As for drinks, expect real cask ales and local craft lagers.
Situated in the heart of Moseley Village, One Trick Pony is serving delicious American grub, alongside towering pints of craft beer. Perfect for a night out with friends or a birthday gathering, it's no wonder why this venue is one of the best pubs in Birmingham for food.
If you're a big pizza lover, you'll absolutely adore margherita and vegan slices at The Birmingham Stable. With freshly-made sourdough, delicious wraps and craft brews on offer, this comfort food spot makes for one of the best pubs in Birmingham city centre.
There's much more to The Old Joint Stock than meets the eye. You'll find a banging selection of booze making for one of the best real ale pubs in Birmingham city centre, but the real prize is the in-house theatre featuring some of the most ground-breaking plays and productions in the city.
Located on Harborne High Street, The Junction has been a linchpin of the community as far back as 1904. Alongside cosy interiors full of vintage touches and a pretty alfresco courtyard, they'll sort you for some serious grub, including chicken and bacon burgers or seafood linguine.
A gastropub in Birmingham, The White Swan has got you covered if you're looking for a little extra glamour. Stylish and relaxed, it comes fully loaded with real ales, crafty cocktails and a very enticing set of menus, that run from simple lunches to luxe Sunday roasts and afternoon tea.
Located right on Adderley Street, Dead Wax Digbeth is quite the bustling spot to check out. Enjoy chomping on stone-baked pizzas while tipping back freshly pulled pints and whiling away in its quirky outdoor space.
Found on the ever-bustling Broad Street, Brasshouse is a warm and cosy escape. The traditional pub lures you in with its old school interiors, affordable food and top-notch drinks. But that's not all, as it also hosts fun-filled party nights on the weekend.
Located on Temple Street, just a short distance from New Street Station, The Shakespeare is a highly rated, traditional pub. Taking over 150 of Nicholson's pubbing heritage and combining it with this characterful spot is a recipe for success, pairing an eclectic range of craft beer and real ales with proper pub grub like the brand's famous pies.
A gin distillery next to the canal, this charming two-storey bar and restaurant is a go-to for the best pubs in Birmingham. Head down for the chance to enjoy their fine selection of eats - think stone-baked pizzas and bottomless brunches.
Just a stone's throw from New Street and Colmore Business District, The Head Of Steam is a pub with the ideal location for after-work pints or a few drinks before travelling. Make sure to nab local craft beers or cocktails to wash down some of the best pub food in Birmingham city centre - think pizzas, burgers, gyros and tacos.
Fab for lunch and dinner, The Fighting Cocks promises both classic pub grub and modern eats. Tuck into juicy beef burgers or British pies all while washing it down with a pint. Beer not your thing? They also have a wide range of wine and delish G&Ts.
Looking for a Birmingham pub? With colourful interiors, quirky lighting and a plethora of drink deals, Bristol Pear is ideal for student nights out and affordable weekend dinners - you can even grab a burger and a drink for less than a tenner.
Brewdog are the cool kids of the beer world, so it's no surprise these folks made our list. With unique beers on the taps, a slick interior with exposed brickwork and New York-style booths, and live music nights, it's bound to become one of your favourite Brum haunts.
When you're after pubs in Selly Oak, look no further than The Goose. A mainstay with locals and students alike, this place is a mecca of affordable food, pints, pool and plenty of screens for catching all the live sport.
The Old Crown is perfect if you're after old pubs in Birmingham, reportedly dating back to 1368. Why? The Digbeth den is known for hosting epic weekly quizzes with fun themes - think Stranger Things, Harry Potter and more. In addition, the venue's beer garden is ideal for summer nights out.
Host to UB40's first ever gig, don't let the Hare and Hounds' celebrity status fool you into thinking this isn't great pub with a relaxed atmosphere. Renowned for its involvement in the local music scene, it's home to a gig nearly every day of the week, making it a great music venue too.
Home to live music, comedy and a popular quiz, 19th century pub The Victoria is a quirky gaff with eclectic decor and an artsy crowd. Find locally brewed ales from the likes of Wye Valley, Purity, Attic Brewery and Burning Soul stocked at the bar, alongside one of Birmingham's best selections of whiskey.
