It may not surprise you to find out that the biggest fans of Birmingham's music scene just so happen to be the Birmingham locals themselves; with this bustling city home to a hubbub of musical going ons, both little and large. From small independent Jazz nights, to the hottest acts on the planet making a beeline for Birmingham's biggest venues (even home to a Jools Holland curated bar); Brum has a scene and venue for every genre. Check out our recommendations for some of the finest sounding music venues and bars in Birmingham host to great live nights.
Last edited by Kiera Chapman
Nortons Digbeth is a prominent music venue in Birmingham, hosting live music every weekend and showcasing international acts and local talent. The venue's 500-capacity live music space has been a stage for renowned artists and exciting music festivals. With its commitment to promoting grassroots music, Nortons Digbeth has become a cultural cornerstone in the thriving heart of Digbeth.
Did you know that The Jam House is the brainchild of none other than music virtuoso, Jools Holland? Well now you do! Housed in Birmingham's luxurious Jewellery Quarter, The Jam House is a 600 capacity venue with historic charm thanks to its traditional Georgian location. With a raised stage area overlooked by a dapper balcony seating area, heading out to a Jazz night has never sounded so relaxing.
Home to a large portion of Birmingham's alternative music scene, The Actress and Bishop may come as an unusual addition to the Jewellery Quarter. But thanks to their line-up boasting a live gig nearly every day of the week and their atmosphere complimented on the regular, The Actress and Bishop is a venue to check out. Head upstairs to The Catapult Club and dabble in some local indie goodness.
The Hare and Hounds in Kings Heath were only host to UB40's first ever gig weren't they! What with that magic having shone a light on this petite venue ever since, The Hare and Hounds' 250 capacity venue might sound small, but its booming atmosphere makes up for its size. Major advocates of Birmingham's underground indie music scene, The Hare and Hounds are front runners for the best small music venue in Brum.
Yes, we know it says 'Comedy Club' up there, but Glee is so much more than laughter you know. 600 of you budding music enthusiasts can pack into Glee's main room to indulge some of the globes finest musicians; of which have included Laura Marling, Mumford & Sons, Adele and many more. Since their initial Songwriters Music Festival in 2002, the Glee's gift of gigs just keep on giving.
If you're looking for the nitty gritty of Birmingham music venues then The Sunflower Lounge is the place for you. A mere stone's throw away from Birmingham's New Street station, The Sunflower Lounge is a mecca of indie madness. If you read the NME, like the NME or have perhaps even heard of NME, you'd be likely to find any featured band having graced this quaint but feisty venue.
One of the biggest music venues in Birmingham, The Institute in Brum's quirky Digbeth has seen everyone from the likes of Laura Mvula and Imagine Dragons to The Fratelli's take the stage. Ready and rearing for up to 1,500 music buffs to take homage in its main auditorium, The Institute is also geared for one of Birmingham's biggest club nights, Godskitchen. A premium venue for music frolics and booming sound systems.
Specialists in all things Northern Soul, The Night Owl is no stranger to live music in Birmingham. When their DJs are playing the best in retro tunes, they invite a variety of fun soul singers into the quirky bar.
