Discover the Vibrant Spirit of Digbeth

Explore Digbeth, Birmingham’s creative quarter, brimming with street art, indie shops, and vibrant nightlife. Dive into the heart of the city's cultural renaissance.

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Nestled just a short walk from Birmingham's bustling city centre, Digbeth is a neighbourhood that pulses with creativity and history. Known for its industrial past, this area has transformed into a hub of artistic expression and cultural diversity, making it a must-visit destination for travellers seeking an authentic urban experience. Wander through the streets of Digbeth and you'll be greeted by an eclectic mix of street art, trendy bars, and quirky independent shops. The Custard Factory, a former factory turned creative complex, is the heart of this neighbourhood. Here, you can explore galleries, boutiques, and cafes, all set against a backdrop of colourful murals and installations. Digbeth is also home to some of Birmingham's most exciting nightlife. From live music venues to craft beer pubs, there's something for everyone. Don't miss the iconic Digbeth Dining Club, where you can sample street food from some of the best vendors in the UK. Whether you're a foodie, an art lover, or simply looking to soak up the local vibe, Digbeth offers a unique slice of Birmingham that shouldn't be overlooked.

Local tips in Digbeth

Visit on a weekend to experience the bustling Digbeth Dining Club and sample diverse street food.
Wear comfortable shoes; Digbeth is best explored on foot to fully appreciate its street art and hidden gems.
Check out the events calendar at the Custard Factory for art exhibitions, markets, and live performances.
Pop into some of the independent shops for unique souvenirs and local crafts.
Explore the area during the day and return at night to experience Digbeth's lively nightlife.

File:Custard Factory.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Digbeth street art 2.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:The Old Crown Deritend.jpg - Wikipedia

HD wallpaper: birmingham, united kingdom, purecraft bar and kitchen, pub | Wallpaper Flare

File:On the train into Moor Street Station - Digbeth - Renault and The Rainbow (5623947977).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Birmingham Digbeth Branch canal - panoramio (1).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:'The Bond' on Digbeth Branch Canal - geograph.org.uk - 2700495.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

National Trust - Birmingham Back to Backs

Experience Birmingham's rich history at the National Trust's Back to Backs, a unique museum featuring restored 19th-century working-class houses.

Custard Factory

Explore the Custard Factory - Birmingham's creative hub of art, culture, and unique shopping experiences.

St. Martin's

Explore St. Martin's Church, a serene Anglican landmark in Birmingham, where architectural beauty and rich history await every visitor.

The Floodgate

Discover The Floodgate in Birmingham for a unique blend of drinks, indoor sports, and a lively atmosphere perfect for tourists.

The Coffin Works

Uncover the hidden history of coffin-making in Birmingham at The Coffin Works, a unique museum offering engaging insights into the trade's past.

Digbeth Arena

Discover the heart of Birmingham's cultural scene at Digbeth Arena, a vibrant events venue for live music and artistic expression.

Chamberlain Memorial

A striking neo-Gothic monument in Birmingham’s Chamberlain Square honoring Joseph Chamberlain’s legacy of public service and city transformation.

Digbeth Art Space

Discover the vibrant creativity at Digbeth Art Space, Birmingham's premier art gallery showcasing local talent and innovative exhibitions.

Factory Works

Discover Birmingham's Factory Works, a vibrant events venue in the historic Custard Factory, showcasing the best of local art and culture.

Digbeth Branch Canal

Discover the peaceful allure of Digbeth Branch Canal in Birmingham, a perfect spot for leisurely walks and vibrant street art amidst urban beauty.

Unmissable attractions to see

The Birmingham Botanical Gardens

Explore 15 acres of historic Victorian gardens and glasshouses showcasing over 30,000 plants in a tranquil urban oasis.

Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum

Explore Birmingham’s industrial heritage, interactive science exhibits, and immersive planetarium at Thinktank, a family-friendly hub of discovery and innovation.

Birmingham Cathedral

Discover Birmingham Cathedral, a stunning Baroque masterpiece and vibrant community hub in the heart of Birmingham, rich in history and artistry.

Hall of Memory

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.

Ozzy the Bull

A bold symbol of Birmingham’s industrial heritage and cultural vibrancy, standing proudly at New Street Station Forecourt.

54 Inge Street

Step into Birmingham’s industrial past at the last surviving Back to Back houses, a vivid glimpse into 19th-century working-class life.

Essential places to dine

The Old Crown

Step into Birmingham’s oldest Tudor pub, The Old Crown, where centuries of history blend with hearty fare and lively community spirit in Digbeth.

Original Patty Men

Discover Birmingham’s legendary burger joint in Digbeth, serving bold, flavorful patties and craft beers in a cool industrial setting.

Manzil Restaurant

Discover vibrant Indian flavors and a welcoming atmosphere at Manzil Restaurant, a Digbeth gem serving authentic dishes in Birmingham’s lively heart.

Baked In Brick

Lively wood-fired pizza haven in Birmingham’s Custard Factory, blending street food roots with creative toppings and a buzzing arts vibe.

Rico Libre — Tapas with a Twist

Discover bold, fresh tapas with a creative twist at Rico Libre, Birmingham’s intimate BYOB hotspot in the heart of Deritend.

Kanteen

Creative, healthy world street food café in Birmingham’s vibrant Digbeth quarter, serving fresh, seasonal breakfast and lunch.

BA-HA

Innovative vegan dining with hearty flavors and warm vibes inside Birmingham’s charming Rainbow Pub.

Falafel Vegan Munch

Fresh, handmade vegan falafel wraps and vibrant juices in the heart of Birmingham’s creative Digbeth district.

670 Grams

Experience Birmingham’s bold and inventive 15-course modern European tasting menu in a punk-inspired setting at 670 Grams.

Cluck N Burger

Savor smoky barbecue and inventive burgers in Birmingham’s buzzing Custard Factory, where bold flavors meet lively music and cocktails.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Cow Vintage

Unearth retro treasures in Digbeth's creative heart at Cow Vintage, where past eras inspire today's boldest looks in a gritty, stylish haven.

Menkind

Quirky gadgets and geeky gifts await at Menkind Bullring—unique finds for him, from Star Wars merch to tech toys in Birmingham's premier shopping hub.

Dark Bull Vintage

Handpicked retro treasures in Digbeth: affordable bombers, leathers, and Brummie merch await in this colorful vintage gem.

Ridding & Wynn

Eclectic antiques and vintage homewares under the red-brick arches of Deritend — perfect for design-minded treasure hunters.

Retro Kimono | Red Brick Market Birmingham

A compact, curated stall of authentic vintage kimono and Japanese curios tucked inside Digbeth’s Red Brick Market.

TFA Birmingham inside RedBrick Market

Dive into TFA's colorful pop paradise amid Red Brick Market's eclectic stalls—quirky treasures and creative vibes await in Digbeth's indoor wonderland.

My Etsy Shop

Explore unique handmade gifts and support local artisans at My Etsy Shop in Deritend, Birmingham.

BingX Cryto

Discover BingX Crypto in Birmingham: Your Gateway to the Future of Cryptocurrency with Expert Guidance and Innovative Products.

Thrifty Store

Unearth unique finds and incredible deals at Thrifty Store, Birmingham's prime destination for budget shopping and eclectic treasures.

Genies Emporium

Uncover enchanted gifts and local artistry in Birmingham's creative heart at Genies Emporium, where every treasure tells a story.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

The Botanist Birmingham

Canal-side botanical bar and grill where hanging kebabs swing, cocktails bloom, and live music thrives amid lush greenery and vibrant vibes.

The Old Crown

Birmingham's timber-framed treasure: 15th-century pub pulsing with history, live events, and Sunday roasts in lively Digbeth.

Luna Springs - Digbeth

Digbeth's moonlit beer garden where Lunar Society spirit meets cocktails, brunches, and dancing under the stars in Birmingham's creative heart.

Subside Bar

A late-night, no-frills rock and metal bar on Birmingham’s High Street — loud DJs, cheap drinks and an intense after-hours atmosphere.

The Floodgate

A sociable Digbeth bar where games, street-food energy and an indoor–outdoor beer-garden mix for casual group nights and daytime hangouts.

The Anchor Digbeth

A compact, characterful Bradford Street pub mixing real ales, vintage charm and a cosy multi-room layout in the heart of Digbeth.

The Ruin

Discover Digbeth's quirky ruin bar haven: maze-like rooms, craft ales, European bites, and chill vibes in Birmingham's creative heart.

Dead Wax Digbeth

Spin vinyl, sip craft brews, and savor pizzas in Digbeth's ultimate music boozer—where analog beats meet late-night vibes.

The Rainbow

Historic Digbeth pub pulsing with live music, vegan feasts, cocktails, and 250 years of Birmingham nightlife legend—your spot for unforgettable evenings.

Birdies Bar - Birmingham

Birmingham's beach bar oasis: cocktails, BBQ, and beats in Digbeth's Custard Factory for instant island vibes any day of the week.

Passing Fancies

A compact, kitchen‑party cocktail bar in Digbeth serving rotating, ingredient‑led cocktails and small plates in an intimate island‑bar setting.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Digbeth

Discover Digbeth with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases

- HelloAlright
  [al-right]
- GoodbyeTa'ra
  [ta-ra]
- YesAye
  [aye]
- NoNah
  [nah]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/You're welcome
  [please/you're welcome]
- Thank youCheers
  [cheers]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon
  [pardon]
- How are you?Ow bist?
  [ow bist]
- Fine. And you?Alright. Ow are you?
  [al-right. ow are you]
- Do you speak English?D'ya speak English?
  [d'ya speak English]
- I don't understandI dunno get ya
  [i dunno get ya]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseI'd like to see the grub list, please
  [i'd like to see the grub list, please]
- I don't eat meatI don't eat flesh
  [i don't eat flesh]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI wanna settle up, please
  [i wanna settle up, please]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Clear off!
  [clear off]
- Call the Police!Ring the bizzies!
  [ring the bizzies]
- Call a doctor!Ring the quack!
  [ring the quack]
- I'm lostI'm mazed
  [i'm mazed]
- I'm illI'm poorly
  [i'm poorly]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [i wanna buy]
- I'm just lookingI'm just sniffing around
  [i'm just sniffing around]
- How much is it?How much does it set ya back?
  [how much does it set ya back]
- That's too expensiveThat's dear, that is
  [that's dear, that is]
- Can you lower the price?Can ya drop the price?
  [can ya drop the price]
- What time is it?Wot time is it?
  [wot time is it]
- It's one o'clockIt's one on the dot
  [it's one on the dot]
- Half past (10)Half ten
  [half ten]
- MorningMornin'
  [mornin']
- AfternoonArvo
  [arvo]
- EveningEvenin'
  [evenin']
- YesterdayYest'day
  [yest'day]
- TodayToday
  [today]
- TomorrowTomorrer
  [tomorrer]
- 1One
  [one]
- 2Two
  [two]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Four
  [four]
- 5Five
  [five]
- 6Six
  [six]
- 7Seven
  [seven]
- 8Eight
  [eight]
- 9Nine
  [nine]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's a/the...?
  [where's a/the]
- What's the address?Woss the addy?
  [woss the addy]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya show me (on the map)?
  [can ya show me (on the map)]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [when's the next (bus)]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [a ticket (to ....)]

History of Digbeth

Digbeth's name is believed to stem from the Old English 'Dic' meaning 'ditch' and 'beorht' meaning 'bright.' The area has roots tracing back to the Anglo-Saxon period, with its first mentions in historical records dating back to the 11th century. The neighborhood's evolution started as a small settlement that gradually developed into a significant part of Birmingham.
During the 18th and 19th centuries, Digbeth became a hub of industry and innovation, closely associated with Birmingham's rapid industrial growth. The construction of canals, including the Digbeth Branch Canal, facilitated transportation and trade, leading to an influx of factories and workshops. This era saw the rise of metalworking, and the area became known for its contribution to the manufacturing sector.
The nearby Bull Ring market has historical significance, with roots dating back to the 12th century. It was a vital center for trade and commerce, influencing the economy of Digbeth and Birmingham as a whole. The market evolved over centuries, reflecting the changing commercial landscape and contributing to the urban character of the area.
In recent decades, Digbeth has undergone a cultural renaissance, transforming from an industrial area into a vibrant creative hub. The area is now known for its street art, galleries, and performance spaces, such as the Custard Factory, which houses various creative businesses. This cultural shift has attracted artists, musicians, and designers, making Digbeth a focal point for contemporary art and culture in Birmingham.
Digbeth is home to several historical landmarks, including the iconic Digbeth Coach Station, which opened in 1929 and served as a major transport hub. The area's architecture reflects its industrial past, with a mix of Victorian warehouses and modern developments. The preservation of these historical structures provides a glimpse into the neighborhood's rich heritage and evolution over time.

Digbeth Essentials

Digbeth is conveniently located just a mile from Birmingham city centre. You can reach Digbeth using various modes of transport. From Birmingham New Street Station, take a short walk or use the number 3, 5, 6, or 60 buses which directly serve the area. If you're coming from the airport, the National Express coach service offers direct transportation to Digbeth, with services running regularly.
Digbeth is well-connected and walkable, making it easy to explore on foot. For public transport, buses are the primary mode of travel, and you can check the Birmingham bus app for real-time updates. Bicycles are also a popular option, with several bike rental schemes available in the area. In addition, there are designated cycle paths providing safe routes for cyclists.
Digbeth is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Areas around the Bullring shopping centre can be busy and require vigilance. Some parts of Digbeth may have higher crime rates, particularly at night; it is advisable to avoid poorly lit streets and remain aware of your surroundings. Always keep your belongings secure and be cautious when using your phone in public.
In case of an emergency, dial 999 for police, fire, or ambulance services. The nearest hospital is the Heartlands Hospital, which can provide medical assistance. It's wise to carry a copy of your insurance details and emergency contact numbers. For minor health issues, local pharmacies can assist with over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and casually, as Digbeth has a relaxed atmosphere. However, avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do be respectful of local customs when visiting places of worship. Public Transport: Do give up your seat for elderly or disabled passengers. Don't play loud music or speak loudly. Greetings: Do greet people with a polite smile or nod. Eating & Drinking: Do try local street food, especially at the Custard Factory. Don't eat or drink on public transport.
To experience Digbeth like a local, visit the diverse markets, especially the Digbeth Dining Club for a taste of local street food. Engage with local artists at the Custard Factory, where many creative events are held. Check out local pubs and bars, as they often host live music and community events. Don’t forget to explore the street art that adorns many buildings; it's a vibrant part of Digbeth's culture.
Digbeth is known for its rich cultural scene, including galleries, music venues, and theatres. Attend local events or festivals for a taste of the area's artistic flair. Be mindful of the local community’s pride in their heritage; engaging positively with locals can enhance your experience.
Digbeth boasts a variety of dining options, from traditional British pubs to international cuisine. Do try local delicacies and be open to trying street food. Many eateries offer vegetarian and vegan options, reflecting the diverse population. Be aware of peak dining hours to avoid long waits, especially on weekends.

Discover the Vibrant Spirit of Digbeth

Local tips in Digbeth