Hall of Memory, Birmingham: A Monument to Sacrifice and Reflection
A solemn war memorial in Birmingham’s Centenary Square honoring the city’s fallen heroes with timeless artistry and peaceful reflection.
The Hall of Memory in Birmingham is a solemn war memorial dedicated to the 12,320 citizens who lost their lives in World War I, later honoring those fallen in World War II and subsequent conflicts. Located in Centenary Square, this limestone monument features striking bronze statues representing the British military services and offers a quiet space for remembrance amid the city’s bustle. Admission is free, with visiting hours typically from 10am to 4pm, Thursday to Saturday.
A brief summary to Hall of Memory
- Broad St, Birmingham, B1 2HF, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit during opening hours Thursday to Saturday, 10am to 4pm, to explore the interior and view the detailed carvings and roll of honor.
- Look for the Victoria Cross paving stones nearby, commemorating acts of extraordinary valor.
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery and the Town Hall for a full cultural experience.
- Take time inside the memorial to appreciate the quiet atmosphere created by the thick limestone walls, shielding you from city noise.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Bus
Take bus routes 8, 11, or 63 to Centenary Square from Birmingham city center, with a journey time of approximately 10-15 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day, and a single fare costs around £2.50.
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Train and Walk
Arrive at Birmingham Snow Hill Railway Station, about 1 mile northeast of the Hall of Memory. From the station, a 20-minute walk through city streets leads to Centenary Square. The station is well connected with regional trains, and walking is on paved, flat terrain.
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Car
Drive to Centenary Square where multi-story parking and pay-and-display spaces are available nearby. Parking typically costs £3-£5 for a few hours. Note that city center traffic can be busy during peak hours.
Hall of Memory 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 Hall of Memory
A Tribute Carved in Stone and Bronze
The Hall of Memory stands as a poignant tribute to Birmingham’s fallen heroes, originally erected in 1925 to honor the 12,320 citizens who died in World War I. Its limestone structure is both imposing and dignified, designed by architects S. N. Cooke and W. N. Twist. The exterior is adorned with four bronze statues crafted by local artist Albert Toft, each symbolizing a branch of the British armed forces: the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Women’s Services. These statues not only enhance the monument’s aesthetic but also embody the collective sacrifice of those who served.An Interior of Quiet Reverence
Entering through grand bronze doors, visitors find themselves in a spacious chamber where thick walls muffle the sounds of the busy city outside, creating an atmosphere of solemn reflection. Inside, three intricate carvings depict the themes of Call, Front Line, and Return, narrating the journey of those who served. The roll of honor lists the names of Birmingham residents who lost their lives in military service, offering a deeply personal connection to the past. This interior space invites contemplation and remembrance, making it a sanctuary amid urban life.Historical and Cultural Significance
The Hall of Memory not only commemorates those lost in World War I but has expanded its remit to include casualties from World War II and later military conflicts. Funded primarily by public donations, its construction cost £60,000, a significant sum at the time. The memorial’s location in Centenary Square situates it among other cultural landmarks such as the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery and the city’s Town Hall, embedding it within the city’s historical and civic heart.Visitor Experience and Surroundings
Visitors can explore the memorial free of charge, with typical opening hours from 10am to 4pm on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. The site is accessible and offers a peaceful contrast to the surrounding cityscape. Nearby amenities include multi-story parking and pay-and-display spaces. The Victoria Cross paving stones in the vicinity add another layer of remembrance, honoring the highest military decoration for valor. The Hall of Memory’s proximity to Birmingham Snow Hill Railway Station and other transport links makes it an accessible destination for those interested in history and heritage.Architectural and Artistic Highlights
The memorial’s design reflects early 20th-century architectural sensibilities with its clean limestone surfaces and robust form. Albert Toft’s bronze sculptures are notable for their detail and emotional depth, capturing the solemn dignity of military service. The carvings inside are a rare artistic narrative of wartime experience, providing visitors with visual storytelling that complements the written roll of honor.A Place for Reflection in a Modern City
Despite its central urban location, the Hall of Memory offers a tranquil space for mindfulness and remembrance. Its thick walls and thoughtful design create a quiet refuge where visitors can connect with Birmingham’s military history. The memorial stands as a testament to sacrifice and resilience, inviting all who visit to pause and reflect on the cost of conflict and the value of peace.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Chamberlain Memorial
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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
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Explore Birmingham’s rich heritage through 20 iconic sites on this free, immersive city centre trail blending history, art, and urban renewal.
The River
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Historic England
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Uncover Birmingham's rich history and heritage at Historic England, a cornerstone of cultural preservation and education in the heart of the city.
Workers Memorial
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A solemn landmark in Birmingham honoring workers lost to workplace tragedy and inspiring the fight for safer labor conditions.
Bullring & Grand Central
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Explore Birmingham's Bullring & Grand Central: a shopping and dining paradise that blends modern architecture with an unforgettable experience.
St Chad's Catholic Cathedral
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Discover Birmingham’s first post-Reformation Catholic cathedral, a Gothic Revival masterpiece rich in history, art, and spiritual heritage.
Chamberlain Clock
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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
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Birmingham's glittering historic heart where Victorian workshops craft timeless jewels amid cobblestone charm and creative revival.
St. Martin's
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Explore St. Martin's Church, a serene Anglican landmark in Birmingham, where architectural beauty and rich history await every visitor.
The Selfridges Building
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West Midlands Police Museum
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Explore the captivating history of law enforcement at the West Midlands Police Museum in Birmingham, a unique attraction for history enthusiasts and tourists alike.
The Jewellery Quarter
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Explore Birmingham's historic Jewellery Quarter, a vibrant district filled with artisan shops, exquisite craftsmanship, and rich heritage.
Museum of the Jewellery Quarter
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Step into a perfectly preserved jewellery workshop and discover Birmingham’s sparkling heritage through immersive guided tours and rich craftsmanship history.
Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum
1.4 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
Library of Birmingham
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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
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Discover a peaceful rooftop oasis with stunning city views atop Birmingham’s iconic Library of Birmingham.
Centenary Winter Carousels
0.1 km
Experience festive joy and colorful carousels in Birmingham’s vibrant Centenary Square during the magical winter season.
Boulton, Watt and Murdoch
0.2 km
Iconic gilded bronze statue celebrating Birmingham’s industrial pioneers Boulton, Watt, and Murdoch on Broad Street.
Chamberlain Sq
0.2 km
Where Victorian grandeur meets modern Birmingham – a lively civic square with museums, markets, and great architecture.
Chamberlain Square
0.2 km
Birmingham’s iconic public square blending Victorian grandeur with modern vibrancy and cultural celebration.
Symphony Hall
0.2 km
Experience world-class acoustics and vibrant live performances at Birmingham’s iconic Symphony Hall on Broad Street.
Birmingham Town Hall
0.2 km
Discover Birmingham Town Hall, a Roman Revival architectural gem and historic concert venue at the heart of Victoria Square.
Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery
0.3 km
Explore Birmingham’s rich heritage and world-class art in a stunning historic museum with free entry and family-friendly galleries.
Victoria Square
0.3 km
Victoria Square: Birmingham’s historic pedestrian plaza blending iconic architecture, lively fountains, and vibrant city culture in a central urban oasis.
Regency Wharf
0.3 km
Scenic canals, vibrant dining, and cultural events converge at Birmingham’s dynamic Regency Wharf.
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.
Lock 3, Farmers Bridge Locks
0.3 km
Discover the historic Lock 3 within Birmingham’s iconic Farmers Bridge Locks, a captivating canal engineering marvel in the city centre.
A guardian
0.3 km
Historic French Renaissance former Head Post Office now vibrant Grade A office space overlooking Birmingham’s civic heart.
Birmingham & Midland Institute
0.3 km
Historic cultural landmark fostering education, arts, and science in Birmingham since 1854, with a renowned library and vibrant programs.
Essential places to dine
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.
Aria Restaurant
0.2 km
Glass-roofed fine dining sanctuary serving seasonal British cuisine in Birmingham's city centre.
Opheem
0.3 km
Experience Michelin-starred Indian cuisine reimagined with British seasonal flair in Birmingham’s elegant Opheem.
Bistrot Pierre - Birmingham
0.3 km
Authentic French bistro on Birmingham's canalside, serving traditional cuisine at accessible prices in a Grade II listed building.
The Coconut Tree Birmingham
0.3 km
Experience vibrant Sri Lankan street food and unique island Cocotails in a lively, colorful setting at The Coconut Tree Birmingham.
Adam's Restaurant
0.4 km
Michelin-starred modern British fine dining in Birmingham with creative cuisine, elegant Art Deco style, and impeccable service.
La Galleria
0.4 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
0.4 km
Sophisticated French fine dining on the 24th floor with panoramic views across Birmingham’s skyline.
The Birmingham Stable
0.4 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 Lost & Found Birmingham
0.4 km
A Victorian botanical haven in Birmingham offering creative British cuisine and inventive cocktails in a quirky, vintage-inspired setting.
Noel’s Bar and Restaurant
0.4 km
Mediterranean charm meets Birmingham's waterfront—where fresh pasta, charcoal grills, and craft cocktails create unforgettable canalside dining.
Tiger Bites Pig
0.5 km
Experience Birmingham’s vibrant Taiwanese bao culture with fresh, flavorful buns and rice bowls in a cozy, lively city centre spot.
Turtle Bay Birmingham
0.5 km
Experience vibrant Caribbean flavours, lively reggae vibes, and 2-for-1 cocktails in the heart of Birmingham’s city centre.
Bank Restaurant Bar & Grill
0.5 km
Sophisticated grill classics and fresh seafood in a stylish Brindleyplace setting with scenic canal terraces and vibrant atmosphere.
The ARK Birmingham
0.5 km
A vibrant fusion of authentic Indian cuisine and dynamic nightlife in Birmingham’s city center.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Harvey Nichols
0.4 km
Discover luxury fashion, beauty, and gourmet delights at Harvey Nichols Birmingham, a premier designer department store in The Mailbox.
Miniso
0.6 km
Bright, affordable design and collectable character goods — a family-friendly stop for pocket-money treats in Grand Central.
Urban Outfitters
0.6 km
Discover stylish apparel, unique homewares, and a vibrant shopping vibe at Urban Outfitters Birmingham in the city centre.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.6 km
Discover quirky, affordable Scandinavian gifts and everyday essentials that bring joy and creativity to Birmingham’s city center.
Fine Jewellery Collections & Bespoke Design Service
0.6 km
Discover bespoke brilliance in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, where custom gems and fine collections craft heirlooms with personal stories etched in gold.
Community Gift Shop
0.7 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
0.7 km
Discover timeless vintage-inspired fashion in a charming boutique nestled within Birmingham’s historic Great Western Arcade.
Designer Exchange
0.7 km
Discover authenticated preloved luxury fashion in Birmingham’s elegant Victorian Great Western Arcade.
The Works
0.7 km
Discover affordable arts, crafts, books, and stationery in the heart of Birmingham’s vibrant New Street shopping district.
Beauty & the Button
0.7 km
Discover personalised gifts and colourful button frames at Beauty & the Button, Birmingham’s charming shop for meaningful celebrations.
La MC Vintage
0.8 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures in Birmingham’s charming North Western Arcade at La MC Vintage.
KENJI Birmingham Bullring
0.8 km
Discover quirky Japanese-inspired gifts and immersive pop culture at KENJI Birmingham Bullring, a vibrant hub for unique shopping experiences.
Funkybits4u Fair Trade - Birmingham
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Discover ethically crafted gifts and inspiring interiors at Funkybits4u Fair Trade, a vibrant hub of sustainable artistry in Birmingham.
Buff Jewellery
0.9 km
Timeless minimalist jewellery handcrafted in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter—personalised birthstone designs blending sentiment, subtlety, and modern British elegance for everyday sparkle.
Primark
0.9 km
A huge, multi‑level flagship on Birmingham High Street offering fast, affordable fashion, homewares and themed in‑store concepts under one roof.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Botanist Gas Street Basin
0.3 km
A lush botanical bar and restaurant with canal views, seasonal menus, and live music in Birmingham’s vibrant Gas Street Basin.
Theatrix Birmingham
0.3 km
Historic charm meets vibrant nightlife at Theatrix Birmingham, a stylish multi-floor bar and entertainment venue in the city centre.
Pitcher & Piano Birmingham
0.4 km
A stylish canal-side bar in Brindley Place, Birmingham, perfect for all-day dining, cocktails, and vibrant social experiences.
Fox and Chance
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An award-winning independent cocktail bar in Birmingham, blending creative drinks with a cozy, sophisticated atmosphere.
Purecraft Bar & Kitchen
0.4 km
A vibrant gastropub in Birmingham blending craft beer culture with modern British cuisine in a spacious, welcoming setting.
Be At One - Brindley Place Birmingham
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Lively cocktail bar in Birmingham’s Brindley Place offering extensive drinks, vibrant atmosphere, and expert bartenders for unforgettable nights.
All Bar One Brindleyplace
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Stylish canal-side wine bar and cocktail lounge in Birmingham’s vibrant Westside, perfect for bottomless brunches and lively evenings.
Slug & Lettuce - Birmingham
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Lively cocktail bar and restaurant at Brindley Place offering vibrant drinks, tasty bites, and late-night fun in Birmingham’s city centre.
The Alchemist Brindleyplace
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Experience Birmingham’s theatrical cocktail bar and restaurant at Brindleyplace, where molecular mixology meets creative cuisine above the canal.
Malt House
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A vibrant British pub in Birmingham city centre offering classic dishes, lively atmosphere, and a great spot for social gatherings near the arena.
Dirty Martini - Birmingham
0.4 km
Trendy cocktail bar in Birmingham’s city center, known for stylish decor, expertly crafted drinks, and a lively party atmosphere.
BrewDog Birmingham
0.5 km
Discover Birmingham’s craft beer haven with bold brews, industrial vibes, and lively events at BrewDog on John Bright Street.
Aluna
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Experience theatrical cocktails and pan-Asian dining in a stylish canalside setting at Birmingham's Aluna, the Mailbox's premier cocktail bar.
Queen's Arms birmingham
0.5 km
Traditional Jewellery Quarter pub pouring fine ales in a quirky, welcoming space with games, books, and hearty grub amid Birmingham's historic heart. (162 characters)
Be At One - Birmingham
0.5 km
Lively cocktail bar in Birmingham city centre with 100+ drinks, expert bartenders, and a vibrant party atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Reflex - Birmingham
0.3 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
0.4 km
Birmingham's ultimate super club: five themed rooms, killer cocktails, and non-stop beats on Broad Street for epic nights out.
Popworld - Birmingham
0.4 km
Broad Street's ultimate pop party hub: 90s-00s hits, neon dance floors, cocktails, and celebration packages until 3am.
What do you mean
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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
0.5 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.
Snobs
0.7 km
Birmingham's 40-year indie-retro nightclub legend: cheap drinks, themed dance floors, and non-stop beats on Broad Street.
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
0.8 km
Experience Birmingham’s chic nightlife hotspot with stylish vibes, eclectic music, and late-night dancing at Bambu Nightclub.
101 Night Club
0.8 km
Unleash your nightlife spirit at 101 Night Club, Birmingham's vibrant center for music, dancing, and unforgettable experiences.
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.
Sobar
0.9 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.
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.
Nightingale Club
1.1 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.
Dreams Night club and Shisha
1.2 km
Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter gem fusing aromatic shisha clouds with thumping club beats until 5am—pure late-night energy on Barr Street.
suki10c
1.3 km
Quirky Digbeth nightclub with local art, sustainable vibes, and eclectic beats in an intimate 180-capacity space powered by wind energy.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Reflective
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
- 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
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Mindfulness
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- 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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
