Known on the circuit as one of the birthplaces of Rock music in the UK, Birmingham is well aware of its riff-tastic heritage and promises a bustling rock scene amongst many other genres. Boasting everything from ultimate gig venues with over 2,000 capacity to intimate basement bars in Birmingham with hefty sound-systems, everyone from Metallica to Enter Shikari have graced these places. Check out our recommendations to check out some of the best Rock music in Birmingham.
Last edited by Scarlett Welch
Last updated on 8th July 2025
From Slamdunk to Download after parties, The Asylum Venue just by the way of Birmingham's luxurious Jewellery Quarter is a well know venue for pop-punk enthusiasts and metal fans alike. Regular club night, UPRAWR, promises club goers the very best in alternative from Everytime I Die to Blink 182.
Standing proud on Birmingham's rock scene for over two decades now, this Irish pub in Birmingham have staked claim over being one of the original birthplaces of Rock in Birmingham. Having seen the likes of Napalm Death and Benediction play live on their stage, Scruffy Murphy's are renowned for their friendly rock and roll attitude and premium live gigs.
One of Birmingham's biggest music venues, the O2 Academy Birmingham is renowned for globally sought after gigs nearly every night. Fitting the bill with an almost 3,000 person capacity, the O2 Academy Birmingham splits into three venues worth of great rock music and cracking club nights.
With Birmingham's finest Rock and Roll DJ's manning the decks every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday night, it's no surprise that The Sunflower Lounge is such a pull to for the indie scene in Brum. From acoustic nights upstairs to intimate and bustling evenings at the downstairs venue, The Sunflower Lounge is a dapper music venue in Birmingham.
Did you know that The Hare and Hounds were the venue for UB40's first ever gig? Boasting star worthy status, The Hare and Hounds in King's Heath has a basement venue to envy some of the biggest Birmingham venues. From Jazz nights to local festivals, The Hare and Hounds are a cool and independent advocate for music in Birmingham.
