The Best Cocktail Bars in Birmingham: Where to Find the City's Finest Drinks
Birmingham's cocktail scene has absolutely exploded over the past decade, and as someone who's watched this city transform from the inside, I can tell you we're now punching well above our weight when it comes to serious drinks. From underground speakeasies that feel like the best-kept secrets to glamorous rooftop bars with views that'll make you fall in love with our skyline all over again, Brum has got something for every cocktail lover.
The Jewellery Quarter Gems
Let's start where the magic really happens. 40 St Paul's in St Paul's Square is an absolute must-visit. This place feels like stepping into a Georgian drawing room, but with cocktails that would make London bartenders weep with envy. Their seasonal menu changes regularly, but the attention to detail never wavers. Book ahead because this 30-cover bar fills up fast, especially on weekends. Expect to pay £10-12 per cocktail, but trust me, it's worth every penny.
Just around the corner, Jekyll & Hyde brings a theatrical twist to cocktail making. The Victorian apothecary theme might sound gimmicky, but the drinks are seriously impressive. Their 'prescriptions' come with dry ice, colour-changing concoctions, and flavours that'll surprise you. It's perfect for impressing out-of-town visitors who still think Birmingham is all about Broad Street nightclubs.
Digbeth's Underground Scene
Digbeth has always been Birmingham's creative heartland, and its cocktail bars reflect that perfectly. Alcott on Bennett's Hill (technically just outside Digbeth proper, but close enough) is a speakeasy that takes itself seriously in all the right ways. Hidden behind an unmarked door, it's the kind of place where bartenders remember your drink and the conversation flows as smoothly as their perfectly balanced Old Fashioneds.
For something completely different, head to Ghetto Golf. Yes, it's crazy golf, but their cocktail game is no joke. The drinks are Instagram-ready without sacrificing taste, and it's brilliant fun for groups. Much more relaxed than some of the more serious cocktail spots, and you can actually get a table without booking three weeks ahead.
City Centre Sophistication
Right in the heart of things near Colmore Row, The Alchemist in Colmore Row brings molecular mixology to Birmingham. Their colour-changing cocktails and dramatic presentations might seem like style over substance, but the drinks genuinely taste as good as they look. It's pricier than most (£12-15 per cocktail), but the theatre is part of the experience.
Bambu near The Mailbox deserves special mention for bringing proper tiki culture to the Midlands. Their rum selection is phenomenal, and the tropical cocktails transport you somewhere much warmer than Birmingham in January. The happy hour (5-7pm weekdays) makes it much more wallet-friendly too.
Southside Surprises
Don't sleep on the areas south of the city centre. Lasan Bar in the Jewellery Quarter extension towards Hockley brings Indian-inspired cocktails that are genuinely innovative. Their spiced gin creations and curry leaf infusions show just how creative Birmingham's bar scene has become. Plus, if you get peckish, you're right next to one of the city's best restaurants.
Over in Moseley, The Dark Horse has been quietly serving excellent cocktails for years. It's more of a neighbourhood spot than a destination bar, but that's exactly why it's brilliant. Great drinks, friendly atmosphere, and you can actually have a conversation without shouting over music.
Rooftop Views
For the full Birmingham skyline experience, Orelle Bar at the top of 103 Colmore Row is hard to beat. The 24th-floor views across the city are spectacular, especially at sunset. Yes, it's expensive (£14+ for cocktails), but you're paying for the view and the experience. Book well ahead, especially for weekend evenings, and dress smart – they take their door policy seriously.
Fazenda Bar in the Cube doesn't have quite the same height, but the terrace gives you brilliant views across to the Mailbox and beyond. Their caipirinha selection is excellent, and the Brazilian vibe makes it feel like a proper night out.
Transport and Timing Tips
Most of these venues are easily accessible by public transport. Snow Hill and New Street stations put you within walking distance of the city centre and Jewellery Quarter spots. For Digbeth bars, Moor Street station is your friend.
Timing is crucial for the popular spots. Tuesday to Thursday evenings are your best bet for getting in without booking, while Friday and Saturday nights require planning ahead. Many bars offer early evening deals (5-7pm) that make the premium locations much more affordable.
The Birmingham Difference
What makes Birmingham's cocktail scene special isn't just the quality of the drinks (though they're genuinely world-class now), it's the lack of pretension. Even our fanciest bars feel welcoming rather than intimidating. The bartenders are passionate about their craft but won't make you feel stupid if you can't pronounce mezcal properly.
We've got bars that celebrate our industrial heritage, others that showcase our multicultural influences, and some that are just brilliantly, unapologetically fun. After years of watching London from the sidelines, Birmingham has built a cocktail scene that's distinctly our own – and it's bloody brilliant.
Whether you're celebrating something special, impressing a date, or just want to drink something more interesting than a pint, Birmingham's cocktail bars have got you covered. Just don't blame me when you start bragging to your mates from other cities about how good our bar scene has become.