Chamberlain Square, Birmingham
Where Victorian grandeur meets modern Birmingham – a lively civic square with museums, markets, and great architecture.
Chamberlain Square is a vibrant civic heart in central Birmingham, where Victorian grandeur meets modern urban life. Named after the city’s influential mayor Joseph Chamberlain, the square is framed by the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, Town Hall, and Council House, and has been revitalised as part of the Paradise Birmingham project. Today it’s a lively pedestrian space with cafes, restaurants, and cultural venues, perfect for admiring architecture, relaxing on the steps, or joining seasonal events like the Christmas Craft Fair.
A brief summary to Chamberlain Sq
- Birmingham, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit in the late afternoon or early evening to enjoy the square’s atmosphere with fewer crowds and good lighting for photos of the Chamberlain Memorial and surrounding buildings.
- Check the Birmingham City Council events calendar for seasonal markets, festivals, and performances that often take place in or near Chamberlain Square.
- Combine your visit with the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery and the Library of Birmingham for a full cultural day in the city centre.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train
From Birmingham New Street Station, follow signs for the city centre and walk for about 10 minutes through the Bullring or along Corporation Street to reach Chamberlain Square.
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Tram
Take the West Midlands Metro to Grand Central or Town Hall tram stop, then walk for 3–5 minutes to Chamberlain Square via Corporation Street or Victoria Square.
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Bus
Several city bus routes serve the city centre; alight near Victoria Square, Bullring, or the Town Hall and walk for 3–7 minutes to Chamberlain Square.
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Walking
From Victoria Square or Centenary Square, Chamberlain Square is a 2–4 minute walk along pedestrianised streets; from the Bullring or Library of Birmingham, allow 5–7 minutes on foot.
Chamberlain Sq 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
Discover more about Chamberlain Sq
Heart of Birmingham’s Civic Life
Chamberlain Square lies at the very core of Birmingham’s civic and cultural identity, a public space that has evolved with the city over more than a century. Originally laid out in the Victorian era and named after Joseph Chamberlain, the reforming mayor and statesman who helped shape modern Birmingham, the square has long served as a gathering place for citizens and visitors alike. Its central location, just steps from Victoria Square and Centenary Square, makes it a natural crossroads for exploring the city centre, while its surrounding landmarks speak to Birmingham’s proud municipal history and architectural ambition.Monuments and Architectural Layers
The square’s focal point is the Chamberlain Memorial, a tall ornate fountain unveiled in 1880 to honour Joseph Chamberlain’s public service. Designed by architect John Henry Chamberlain (no relation), this elaborate Gothic Revival structure stands as a tribute to civic leadership and Victorian craftsmanship. Around it, the square is framed by some of Birmingham’s most significant buildings: the grand west elevation of the Council House, the imposing Birmingham Town Hall with its Corinthian columns, and the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, a Gothic Revival masterpiece housing one of the world’s finest Pre-Raphaelite collections. These historic facades contrast with the sleek glass towers of the Paradise Birmingham development, creating a striking dialogue between past and present.A Modern Public Realm
Following a major redevelopment as part of the Paradise scheme, Chamberlain Square was transformed into a contemporary pedestrian plaza, reopening in 2021 after several years of construction. The redesign introduced new paving, steps, seating, and lighting, creating a more open and accessible space for events, relaxation, and socialising. Two modern commercial buildings, One and Two Chamberlain Square, now face onto the square, housing restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues such as F1 Arcade and La Bellezza Italian Restaurant. This blend of heritage and modernity makes the square a dynamic hub for dining, culture, and urban life.Events and Seasonal Highlights
Chamberlain Square regularly comes alive with events that draw locals and tourists. The annual Birmingham Christmas Craft Fair, held from late November to late December, turns the square into a festive market with stalls selling crafts, gifts, and seasonal food, accompanied by live music and entertainment. Throughout the year, the square also hosts cultural festivals, public art installations, and performances, often centred around the Museum & Art Gallery and the Town Hall. These events reinforce the square’s role as a living, breathing part of the city’s cultural calendar.Exploring the Surroundings
From Chamberlain Square, visitors can easily explore Birmingham’s key attractions on foot. The Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery is right on the square’s edge, offering world-class art and history collections. A short walk leads to the Library of Birmingham, Symphony Hall, and the Bullring shopping centre, while the canals and Brindleyplace are also within easy reach. The square’s proximity to Victoria Square and Centenary Square means that a stroll through this cluster of civic spaces offers a rich sense of Birmingham’s urban fabric, from historic monuments to contemporary architecture and lively public life.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Chamberlain Memorial
0.0 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.
The River
0.2 km
Iconic bronze fountain sculpture in Birmingham’s Victoria Square, blending art, poetry, and urban life since 1994.
Workers Memorial
0.5 km
A solemn landmark in Birmingham honoring workers lost to workplace tragedy and inspiring the fight for safer labor conditions.
Historic England
0.6 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. Martin's
0.8 km
Explore St. Martin's Church, a serene Anglican landmark in Birmingham, where architectural beauty and rich history await every visitor.
J. W. Evans Silver Factory
0.8 km
Explore the historic J. W. Evans Silver Factory in Birmingham, where artistry meets heritage in a captivating journey through silver craftsmanship.
The Selfridges Building
0.9 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
0.9 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.
LEGOLAND Discovery Centre & LEGO Store Birmingham
0.9 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
1.0 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
1.0 km
Birmingham's glittering historic heart where Victorian workshops craft timeless jewels amid cobblestone charm and creative revival.
The Jewellery Quarter
1.2 km
Explore Birmingham's historic Jewellery Quarter, a vibrant district filled with artisan shops, exquisite craftsmanship, and rich heritage.
Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum
1.2 km
Unleash your curiosity at Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum, where science comes to life through interactive exhibits and engaging experiences for all ages.
Millennium Point
1.3 km
Explore Millennium Point, Birmingham's architectural marvel and vibrant venue for conferences, exhibitions, and community events.
Unmissable attractions to see
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.
Chamberlain Square
0.1 km
Birmingham’s iconic public square blending Victorian grandeur with modern vibrancy and cultural celebration.
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.
Victoria Square
0.1 km
Victoria Square: Birmingham’s historic pedestrian plaza blending iconic architecture, lively fountains, and vibrant city culture in a central urban oasis.
A guardian
0.1 km
Historic French Renaissance former Head Post Office now vibrant Grade A office space overlooking Birmingham’s civic heart.
Frankfurt Christmas Market Birmingham
0.2 km
Experience the largest authentic German Christmas market outside Germany, alive with festive food, crafts, and music in Birmingham’s Victoria Square.
Hall of Memory
0.2 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 & Midland Institute
0.2 km
Historic cultural landmark fostering education, arts, and science in Birmingham since 1854, with a renowned library and vibrant programs.
Library of Birmingham
0.3 km
Discover the Library of Birmingham: a modern architectural gem with vast collections, rooftop gardens, and vibrant cultural spaces in the city’s heart.
The Secret Garden
0.3 km
Discover a peaceful rooftop oasis with stunning city views atop Birmingham’s iconic Library of Birmingham.
Centenary Winter Carousels
0.3 km
Experience festive joy and colorful carousels in Birmingham’s vibrant Centenary Square during the magical winter season.
The Coffin Works
0.3 km
A Victorian coffin factory preserved as a time-capsule museum, revealing the craftsmanship behind royal funerals and industrial Birmingham.
The Old Joint Stock Pub & Theatre, Birmingham
0.3 km
Historic Victorian pub and vibrant studio theatre in Birmingham’s city centre, blending rich heritage with live entertainment and refined British dining.
Boulton, Watt and Murdoch
0.3 km
Iconic gilded bronze statue celebrating Birmingham’s industrial pioneers Boulton, Watt, and Murdoch on Broad Street.
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.
Essential places to dine
Dishoom Birmingham
0.1 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.
Adam's Restaurant
0.2 km
Michelin-starred modern British fine dining in Birmingham with creative cuisine, elegant Art Deco style, and impeccable service.
La Galleria
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Birmingham at La Galleria, where tradition meets generous portions and cozy charm.
Orelle
0.2 km
Sophisticated French fine dining on the 24th floor with panoramic views across Birmingham’s skyline.
The Lost & Found Birmingham
0.3 km
A Victorian botanical haven in Birmingham offering creative British cuisine and inventive cocktails in a quirky, vintage-inspired setting.
The Birmingham Stable
0.3 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.
Tiger Bites Pig
0.3 km
Experience Birmingham’s vibrant Taiwanese bao culture with fresh, flavorful buns and rice bowls in a cozy, lively city centre spot.
Opheem
0.3 km
Experience Michelin-starred Indian cuisine reimagined with British seasonal flair in Birmingham’s elegant Opheem.
The Botanist Birmingham
0.3 km
A vibrant botanical oasis in Birmingham city centre, blending fresh seasonal dining, inventive cocktails, and live music by the canal.
Aria Restaurant
0.4 km
Glass-roofed fine dining sanctuary serving seasonal British cuisine in Birmingham's city centre.
Turtle Bay Birmingham
0.4 km
Experience vibrant Caribbean flavours, lively reggae vibes, and 2-for-1 cocktails in the heart of Birmingham’s city centre.
San Carlo - Birmingham
0.4 km
Classic Italian elegance and seafood delights in Birmingham’s stylish city centre dining destination.
Fumo by San Carlo - Birmingham Waterloo St
0.4 km
Chic Italian dining in Birmingham serving Venetian cicchetti, creative cocktails, and authentic flavors in a stylish modern setting.
Las Iguanas - Birmingham - Temple Street
0.4 km
Vibrant Latin American dining with carnival energy, fresh cocktails, and shareable feasts in Birmingham's city centre.
The Oyster Club
0.4 km
A sophisticated oyster bar and seafood restaurant in Birmingham offering fresh oysters, creative cocktails, and seasonal dishes in a relaxed setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Miniso
0.4 km
Bright, affordable design and collectable character goods — a family-friendly stop for pocket-money treats in Grand Central.
Harvey Nichols
0.4 km
Discover luxury fashion, beauty, and gourmet delights at Harvey Nichols Birmingham, a premier designer department store in The Mailbox.
Urban Outfitters
0.5 km
Discover stylish apparel, unique homewares, and a vibrant shopping vibe at Urban Outfitters Birmingham in the city centre.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.5 km
Discover quirky, affordable Scandinavian gifts and everyday essentials that bring joy and creativity to Birmingham’s city center.
Community Gift Shop
0.5 km
Discover unique products and support diverse entrepreneurs at Birmingham’s Black Pounds Project Community Gift Shop in the historic Great Western Arcade.
The Alice Boutique
0.5 km
Discover timeless vintage-inspired fashion in a charming boutique nestled within Birmingham’s historic Great Western Arcade.
Designer Exchange
0.6 km
Discover authenticated preloved luxury fashion in Birmingham’s elegant Victorian Great Western Arcade.
The Works
0.6 km
Discover affordable arts, crafts, books, and stationery in the heart of Birmingham’s vibrant New Street shopping district.
La MC Vintage
0.6 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures in Birmingham’s charming North Western Arcade at La MC Vintage.
Beauty & the Button
0.6 km
Discover personalised gifts and colourful button frames at Beauty & the Button, Birmingham’s charming shop for meaningful celebrations.
Funkybits4u Fair Trade - Birmingham
0.7 km
Discover ethically crafted gifts and inspiring interiors at Funkybits4u Fair Trade, a vibrant hub of sustainable artistry in Birmingham.
KENJI Birmingham Bullring
0.7 km
Discover quirky Japanese-inspired gifts and immersive pop culture at KENJI Birmingham Bullring, a vibrant hub for unique shopping experiences.
Primark
0.7 km
A huge, multi‑level flagship on Birmingham High Street offering fast, affordable fashion, homewares and themed in‑store concepts under one roof.
Obsidian
0.7 km
Discover mystical treasures and spiritual gifts at Obsidian, Birmingham’s premier metaphysical shop on vibrant Corporation Street.
The Oasis fashion store
0.7 km
A vibrant hub for alternative fashion, vintage finds, and creative lifestyle services in the heart of Birmingham.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Theatrix Birmingham
0.2 km
Historic charm meets vibrant nightlife at Theatrix Birmingham, a stylish multi-floor bar and entertainment venue in the city centre.
Purecraft Bar & Kitchen
0.2 km
A vibrant gastropub in Birmingham blending craft beer culture with modern British cuisine in a spacious, welcoming setting.
Fox and Chance
0.2 km
An award-winning independent cocktail bar in Birmingham, blending creative drinks with a cozy, sophisticated atmosphere.
Dirty Martini - Birmingham
0.3 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
0.3 km
Lively cocktail bar in Birmingham city centre with 100+ drinks, expert bartenders, and a vibrant party atmosphere.
Flight Club Birmingham
0.3 km
Experience social darts like never before in Birmingham’s vibrant Victorian circus-themed bar with cocktails, brunch, and interactive games.
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.
The Trocadero
0.3 km
Lively city-centre pub with great food, live sports, and a welcoming atmosphere in Birmingham’s Temple Street.
Revolución de Cuba Birmingham
0.4 km
Experience authentic Cuban vibes, vibrant cocktails, and lively salsa music in the heart of Birmingham’s city centre.
The Cocktail Club - Birmingham
0.4 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
0.4 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
0.4 km
Experience Birmingham’s boldest pink cocktail bar with creative drinks, vibrant events, and a party spirit inspired by Empress Joséphine.
The Botanist Gas Street Basin
0.4 km
A lush botanical bar and restaurant with canal views, seasonal menus, and live music in Birmingham’s vibrant Gas Street Basin.
Bacchus Bar
0.4 km
Discover Birmingham’s medieval-inspired basement pub, where historic charm meets lively atmosphere and quality British ales.
Madeleine
0.4 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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
What do you mean
0.3 km
Dive into Birmingham’s vibrant nightlife at What Do You Mean, a premier nightclub known for electrifying music, creative cocktails, and an unforgettable party vibe.
King of clubs
0.4 km
Compact late‑night Birmingham club for high‑energy R&B, hip‑hop and DJ nights, pulsing into the small hours with neon, bass and bar-driven parties.
Reflex - Birmingham
0.4 km
Spin into 80s-00s nostalgia at Reflex Birmingham: revolving dance floor, karaoke booths, neon vibes, and epic sing-alongs on Broad Street's party strip.
Rosies - Birmingham
0.5 km
Birmingham's ultimate super club: five themed rooms, killer cocktails, and non-stop beats on Broad Street for epic nights out.
Popworld - Birmingham
0.6 km
Broad Street's ultimate pop party hub: 90s-00s hits, neon dance floors, cocktails, and celebration packages until 3am.
Tunnel Club Birmingham
0.7 km
Dive under Birmingham's arches into Tunnel Club's seven-room warehouse wonderland, where house, techno, and hip-hop fuel all-night dances amid pounding bass and vivid lights.
Bambu Nightclub
0.7 km
Experience Birmingham’s chic nightlife hotspot with stylish vibes, eclectic music, and late-night dancing at Bambu Nightclub.
101 Night Club
0.7 km
Unleash your nightlife spirit at 101 Night Club, Birmingham's vibrant center for music, dancing, and unforgettable experiences.
Sobar
0.8 km
Dive into Birmingham's electric nightlife at Sobar, where R&B beats, masterful cocktails, and inclusive vibes fuel unforgettable weekend revelry in the heart of the Arcadian.
Snobs
0.8 km
Birmingham's 40-year indie-retro nightclub legend: cheap drinks, themed dance floors, and non-stop beats on Broad Street.
Mango Night Club
0.9 km
A high‑energy Bristol Street nightclub serving Afrobeats, hip‑hop and R&B for late‑night dancers and party crowds in central Birmingham.
PAVO Birmingham
0.9 km
Vibrant African fusion lounge and nightclub in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, where bold flavors meet electrifying beats until 4am on weekends.
Nightingale Club
1.0 km
Birmingham's legendary LGBTQIA+ superclub: three floors of pulsating beats, go-go glamour, and five decades of unapologetic queer joy in the Gay Village.
suki10c
1.1 km
Quirky Digbeth nightclub with local art, sustainable vibes, and eclectic beats in an intimate 180-capacity space powered by wind energy.
Dreams Night club and Shisha
1.1 km
Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter gem fusing aromatic shisha clouds with thumping club beats until 5am—pure late-night energy on Barr Street.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Retro Vibes
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Modern
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Business Friendly
