Victoria Square House: Birmingham’s Historic Civic Landmark
Historic French Renaissance former Head Post Office now vibrant Grade A office space overlooking Birmingham’s civic heart.
Victoria Square House, located on the south side of Birmingham’s iconic Victoria Square, is a Grade II listed building originally constructed as the city’s Head Post Office between 1889 and 1891. Designed in the French Renaissance style by architect Henry Tanner, it now serves as a modern office building overlooking the city’s vibrant civic heart, surrounded by historic landmarks such as the Town Hall and Council House.
A brief summary to A guardian
- Victoria Square House, 1 Pinfold St, Birmingham, B2 4AA, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit Victoria Square House to appreciate its French Renaissance architectural details and historic significance.
- Combine your visit with exploring Victoria Square’s public art and nearby landmarks like the Town Hall and Council House.
- Use nearby public transport hubs such as Birmingham New Street station for easy access to the area.
- Look for the building’s preserved entrance lobby, which integrates the historic post office counter.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train
Arrive at Birmingham New Street station, a major rail hub located approximately 300 meters from Victoria Square House. The walk takes around 5 minutes through pedestrian-friendly streets. Trains connect Birmingham with major UK cities, with fares typically ranging from £10 to £50 depending on distance and booking time.
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Bus
Multiple bus routes serve stops near Victoria Square, including services along New Street and Colmore Row. Bus travel times vary by origin but generally range from 10 to 30 minutes within central Birmingham. Single fares cost around £2 to £3. Frequent services operate daily, though evening and Sunday frequencies may be reduced.
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Car
Driving to Victoria Square House is possible but parking in the immediate area is limited. Nearby multi-story car parks such as those at the Bullring Shopping Centre offer parking for approximately £5 to £15 per day. Expect moderate traffic during peak hours and plan for a short walk from parking to the building.
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Walking
If staying within Birmingham city centre, Victoria Square House is easily accessible on foot. Walking times from key points like the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery or the Bullring Shopping Centre range from 5 to 15 minutes on mostly flat, paved routes suitable for all mobility levels.
A guardian location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Architectural Heritage and Design
Victoria Square House stands as a distinguished example of French Renaissance architecture, designed by Henry Tanner for the General Post Office. Constructed from 1889 to 1891, the building originally served as Birmingham’s Head Post Office, a vital communication hub during the city’s industrial expansion. Its ornate façade and detailed stonework reflect the grandeur of Victorian civic architecture, contributing to the aesthetic richness of Victoria Square. The building is Grade II listed, preserving its historic character amidst the evolving urban landscape.Evolution from Post Office to Modern Offices
After functioning as the city’s main postal facility until 1972, Victoria Square House underwent significant changes. The original sorting office was demolished in 1989, and in 1991, the site was redeveloped into a modern office complex. The former public counter building was retained as the entrance lobby, seamlessly blending historic and contemporary elements. Today, the building offers approximately 160,000 square feet of Grade A office space across six floors, serving as a prime commercial address in Birmingham’s city centre.Context within Victoria Square
Situated on the southern edge of Victoria Square, the building overlooks one of Birmingham’s most celebrated public spaces. Victoria Square itself is a pedestrianised civic hub, home to prominent landmarks including the Town Hall and Council House. The square features notable public art such as the ‘Floozie in the Jacuzzi’ fountain and statues of Queen Victoria and other historical figures. Victoria Square House’s location places it at the heart of Birmingham’s cultural and administrative life.Historical Significance of the Site
Before the post office’s construction, the site was occupied by a variety of smaller buildings, including Corbett’s Temperance Hotel and the Theatre Royal, reflecting Birmingham’s 19th-century urban fabric. The clearance of these structures in the late 1880s marked a shift towards grander civic architecture. The building’s survival from planned demolition in the 1970s was secured through a campaign by The Victorian Society, highlighting its importance to Birmingham’s architectural heritage.Modern Role and Accessibility
Today, Victoria Square House serves as a key office location adjacent to major transport hubs such as Birmingham New Street station and Grand Central. Its proximity to public transport, including metro and bus links, ensures excellent accessibility. The building continues to contribute to the dynamic atmosphere of Victoria Square, blending historic charm with contemporary urban functionality.Legacy and Preservation
Victoria Square House stands as a testament to Birmingham’s Victorian past and its ongoing evolution. Its preservation and adaptive reuse demonstrate the city’s commitment to maintaining architectural heritage while meeting modern needs. The building’s presence enriches the civic landscape, offering a tangible connection to Birmingham’s history amid the vibrant life of Victoria Square.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The River
0.0 km
Iconic bronze fountain sculpture in Birmingham’s Victoria Square, blending art, poetry, and urban life since 1994.
Chamberlain Memorial
0.1 km
A striking neo-Gothic monument in Birmingham’s Chamberlain Square honoring Joseph Chamberlain’s legacy of public service and city transformation.
The Best of Birmingham Trail
0.1 km
Explore Birmingham’s rich heritage through 20 iconic sites on this free, immersive city centre trail blending history, art, and urban renewal.
Workers Memorial
0.4 km
A solemn landmark in Birmingham honoring workers lost to workplace tragedy and inspiring the fight for safer labor conditions.
Historic England
0.7 km
Uncover Birmingham's rich history and heritage at Historic England, a cornerstone of cultural preservation and education in the heart of the city.
St Chad's Catholic Cathedral
0.7 km
Discover Birmingham’s first post-Reformation Catholic cathedral, a Gothic Revival masterpiece rich in history, art, and spiritual heritage.
The Selfridges Building
0.7 km
A shimmering silver landmark in Birmingham’s Bullring, where shopping meets futuristic architecture and luxury retail in a sculptural masterpiece.
West Midlands Police Museum
0.8 km
Explore the captivating history of law enforcement at the West Midlands Police Museum in Birmingham, a unique attraction for history enthusiasts and tourists alike.
Pen Museum
0.8 km
Explore the fascinating world of writing instruments at the Pen Museum, a unique Birmingham attraction celebrating the heritage of pens and writing.
Eleven Brindley Place
0.8 km
Discover the vibrant Eleven Brindley Place in Birmingham, where modern architecture meets cultural experiences along scenic canalside views.
J. W. Evans Silver Factory
0.9 km
Explore the historic J. W. Evans Silver Factory in Birmingham, where artistry meets heritage in a captivating journey through silver craftsmanship.
LEGOLAND Discovery Centre & LEGO Store Birmingham
1.0 km
Discover the magic of creation at LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Birmingham, an indoor adventure filled with LEGO fun, interactive exhibits, and thrilling rides.
Chamberlain Clock
1.1 km
An elegant Edwardian clock tower at the heart of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, built in 1903 as a memorial to Joseph Chamberlain and recently restored to its former glory.
The Jewellery Quarter Birmingham
1.1 km
Birmingham's glittering historic heart where Victorian workshops craft timeless jewels amid cobblestone charm and creative revival.
Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum
1.1 km
Unleash your curiosity at Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum, where science comes to life through interactive exhibits and engaging experiences for all ages.
Unmissable attractions to see
Victoria Square
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Victoria Square: Birmingham’s historic pedestrian plaza blending iconic architecture, lively fountains, and vibrant city culture in a central urban oasis.
Frankfurt Christmas Market Birmingham
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Experience the largest authentic German Christmas market outside Germany, alive with festive food, crafts, and music in Birmingham’s Victoria Square.
Birmingham Town Hall
0.1 km
Discover Birmingham Town Hall, a Roman Revival architectural gem and historic concert venue at the heart of Victoria Square.
Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery
0.1 km
Explore Birmingham’s rich heritage and world-class art in a stunning historic museum with free entry and family-friendly galleries.
Chamberlain Sq
0.1 km
Where Victorian grandeur meets modern Birmingham – a lively civic square with museums, markets, and great architecture.
Chamberlain Square
0.1 km
Birmingham’s iconic public square blending Victorian grandeur with modern vibrancy and cultural celebration.
Birmingham & Midland Institute
0.2 km
Historic cultural landmark fostering education, arts, and science in Birmingham since 1854, with a renowned library and vibrant programs.
The Old Joint Stock Pub & Theatre, Birmingham
0.2 km
Historic Victorian pub and vibrant studio theatre in Birmingham’s city centre, blending rich heritage with live entertainment and refined British dining.
New Street & Burlington Arcade
0.3 km
A vibrant crossroads in Birmingham city centre blending historic elegance and dynamic shopping at New Street and Burlington Arcade.
Hall of Memory
0.3 km
Discover the Hall of Memory in Birmingham, a significant memorial dedicated to the bravery of those who served in the World Wars amidst serene gardens.
Birmingham Cathedral
0.3 km
Discover Birmingham Cathedral, a stunning Baroque masterpiece and vibrant community hub in the heart of Birmingham, rich in history and artistry.
The Grand Central Bull
0.3 km
Experience Birmingham's vibrant culture and rich history at The Grand Central Bull, a must-see tourist attraction in the heart of the city.
Grand Central Shopping Centre
0.4 km
A stunning, modern shopping centre integrated with Birmingham’s New Street Station, offering diverse retail and dining in a light-filled, accessible space.
Mailbox Birmingham
0.4 km
A chic canalside hub in Birmingham blending luxury shopping, fine dining, vibrant workspaces, and entertainment in a stunning historic setting.
Library of Birmingham
0.4 km
Discover the Library of Birmingham: a modern architectural gem with vast collections, rooftop gardens, and vibrant cultural spaces in the city’s heart.
Essential places to dine
Adam's Restaurant
0.1 km
Michelin-starred modern British fine dining in Birmingham with creative cuisine, elegant Art Deco style, and impeccable service.
La Galleria
0.1 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Birmingham at La Galleria, where tradition meets generous portions and cozy charm.
The Lost & Found Birmingham
0.1 km
A Victorian botanical haven in Birmingham offering creative British cuisine and inventive cocktails in a quirky, vintage-inspired setting.
Orelle
0.2 km
Sophisticated French fine dining on the 24th floor with panoramic views across Birmingham’s skyline.
Dishoom Birmingham
0.2 km
A vibrant 1960s Bombay café in central Birmingham, serving bold Indian street food and classics in a theatrical, nostalgic setting with a large outdoor terrace.
Tiger Bites Pig
0.2 km
Experience Birmingham’s vibrant Taiwanese bao culture with fresh, flavorful buns and rice bowls in a cozy, lively city centre spot.
The Birmingham Stable
0.2 km
A lively Birmingham pizza and cider bar with thin-crust sourdough, craft ciders, and a buzzing industrial-chic vibe – perfect for casual dinners and bottomless brunches.
The Botanist Birmingham
0.2 km
A vibrant botanical oasis in Birmingham city centre, blending fresh seasonal dining, inventive cocktails, and live music by the canal.
San Carlo - Birmingham
0.3 km
Classic Italian elegance and seafood delights in Birmingham’s stylish city centre dining destination.
Fumo by San Carlo - Birmingham Waterloo St
0.3 km
Chic Italian dining in Birmingham serving Venetian cicchetti, creative cocktails, and authentic flavors in a stylish modern setting.
Las Iguanas - Birmingham - Temple Street
0.3 km
Vibrant Latin American dining with carnival energy, fresh cocktails, and shareable feasts in Birmingham's city centre.
The Oyster Club
0.3 km
A sophisticated oyster bar and seafood restaurant in Birmingham offering fresh oysters, creative cocktails, and seasonal dishes in a relaxed setting.
The Ivy Temple Row
0.3 km
A stylish British brasserie in Birmingham blending art deco elegance with classic dishes and impeccable service.
Turtle Bay Birmingham
0.3 km
Experience vibrant Caribbean flavours, lively reggae vibes, and 2-for-1 cocktails in the heart of Birmingham’s city centre.
Riva Blu Italian Restaurant & Bar, Birmingham
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant taste and style of Southern Italy in the heart of Birmingham with Riva Blu’s authentic cuisine and chic atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Miniso
0.3 km
Bright, affordable design and collectable character goods — a family-friendly stop for pocket-money treats in Grand Central.
Urban Outfitters
0.3 km
Discover stylish apparel, unique homewares, and a vibrant shopping vibe at Urban Outfitters Birmingham in the city centre.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.4 km
Discover quirky, affordable Scandinavian gifts and everyday essentials that bring joy and creativity to Birmingham’s city center.
Community Gift Shop
0.4 km
Discover unique products and support diverse entrepreneurs at Birmingham’s Black Pounds Project Community Gift Shop in the historic Great Western Arcade.
The Works
0.4 km
Discover affordable arts, crafts, books, and stationery in the heart of Birmingham’s vibrant New Street shopping district.
The Alice Boutique
0.4 km
Discover timeless vintage-inspired fashion in a charming boutique nestled within Birmingham’s historic Great Western Arcade.
Harvey Nichols
0.5 km
Discover luxury fashion, beauty, and gourmet delights at Harvey Nichols Birmingham, a premier designer department store in The Mailbox.
Designer Exchange
0.5 km
Discover authenticated preloved luxury fashion in Birmingham’s elegant Victorian Great Western Arcade.
La MC Vintage
0.5 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures in Birmingham’s charming North Western Arcade at La MC Vintage.
Beauty & the Button
0.5 km
Discover personalised gifts and colourful button frames at Beauty & the Button, Birmingham’s charming shop for meaningful celebrations.
Funkybits4u Fair Trade - Birmingham
0.6 km
Discover ethically crafted gifts and inspiring interiors at Funkybits4u Fair Trade, a vibrant hub of sustainable artistry in Birmingham.
KENJI Birmingham Bullring
0.6 km
Discover quirky Japanese-inspired gifts and immersive pop culture at KENJI Birmingham Bullring, a vibrant hub for unique shopping experiences.
Primark
0.6 km
A huge, multi‑level flagship on Birmingham High Street offering fast, affordable fashion, homewares and themed in‑store concepts under one roof.
Wornwell Vintage Clothing
0.6 km
Discover authentic vintage fashion and quality streetwear at Wornwell Vintage Clothing, a unique shop nestled inside Primark on Birmingham's High Street.
Simply Gifted
0.6 km
Explore Simply Gifted in Birmingham for unique gifts and local treasures that reflect the vibrant spirit of the city.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Theatrix Birmingham
0.1 km
Historic charm meets vibrant nightlife at Theatrix Birmingham, a stylish multi-floor bar and entertainment venue in the city centre.
Purecraft Bar & Kitchen
0.1 km
A vibrant gastropub in Birmingham blending craft beer culture with modern British cuisine in a spacious, welcoming setting.
Fox and Chance
0.1 km
An award-winning independent cocktail bar in Birmingham, blending creative drinks with a cozy, sophisticated atmosphere.
Dirty Martini - Birmingham
0.2 km
Trendy cocktail bar in Birmingham’s city center, known for stylish decor, expertly crafted drinks, and a lively party atmosphere.
Be At One - Birmingham
0.2 km
Lively cocktail bar in Birmingham city centre with 100+ drinks, expert bartenders, and a vibrant party atmosphere.
Flight Club Birmingham
0.2 km
Experience social darts like never before in Birmingham’s vibrant Victorian circus-themed bar with cocktails, brunch, and interactive games.
The Trocadero
0.2 km
Lively city-centre pub with great food, live sports, and a welcoming atmosphere in Birmingham’s Temple Street.
Revolución de Cuba Birmingham
0.2 km
Experience authentic Cuban vibes, vibrant cocktails, and lively salsa music in the heart of Birmingham’s city centre.
The Cocktail Club - Birmingham
0.3 km
Three floors of cocktail theatre, bottomless brunches, and Birmingham nightlife magic—where sexy sips meet wild vibes until 2am.
The Head of Steam Birmingham
0.3 km
A vibrant city-centre pub with craft beers, over 50% vegan menu, shuffleboard, live music, and private event spaces near New Street Station.
Tonight Josephine - Birmingham
0.3 km
Experience Birmingham’s boldest pink cocktail bar with creative drinks, vibrant events, and a party spirit inspired by Empress Joséphine.
Bacchus Bar
0.3 km
Discover Birmingham’s medieval-inspired basement pub, where historic charm meets lively atmosphere and quality British ales.
BrewDog Birmingham
0.3 km
Discover Birmingham’s craft beer haven with bold brews, industrial vibes, and lively events at BrewDog on John Bright Street.
Madeleine
0.3 km
An elegant, salon‑style cocktail bar in The Grand Hotel — famed for refined afternoon tea and meticulous cocktails in a dramatic, over‑sized parlour.
The Alchemist Colmore Row
0.4 km
Experience Birmingham’s iconic Grand building transformed into a theatrical cocktail haven blending molecular magic with vibrant city nightlife.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Architectural Shots
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
