The Old Crown, Birmingham Travel Guide

Nestled on High Street in Deritend, The Old Crown stands as Birmingham's most enduring secular structure, its black-and-white timber frame evoking the Tudor era. Archaeological digs in the 1990s uncovered 15th-century pottery and cobbled floors beneath, pinpointing origins around 1492, though local lore once pinned it to 1368. John Leland, the 16th-century antiquary, praised the street's vibrancy and noted a prominent timber mansion here, marking it as a fixture amid smiths and merchants.

By 1589, local carrier John Dyckson acquired the property, transforming it into a staging post for travelers along trade routes. Official inn records appear in 1626 and 1666, cementing its role as a vital stopover. The building endured the English Civil War, withstanding sieges that ravaged Birmingham's ironworks. Its sturdy frame also survived World War II bombings and 1960s demolition threats, preserving a rare slice of medieval Deritend.

The mid-20th century infused The Old Crown with cultural flair when it became headquarters for the South Side Jazz Club in 1954. Pete Vicary’s South Side Jazzmen filled its halls with swinging rhythms, drawing crowds to the historic beams. A £2 million family investment in 1998 sparked a major restoration, reopening it as a multifaceted venue with an English tea room and space for gatherings, blending preservation with contemporary appeal.

Step inside to low-beamed ceilings, exposed timbers, and cozy nooks that whisper of centuries past. The main bar pulses with chatter, while the rear lounge hosts events amid vinyl markets and quizzes. Outside, a spacious beer garden thrives in summer, ideal for al fresco pints under string lights. Grade II* status safeguards these features, making every corner a testament to architectural resilience.

The kitchen delivers classic pub dishes with a seasonal twist: steak and ale pies, halloumi kebabs, Korean BBQ wings, and renowned Sunday roasts featuring tender meats, crispy Yorkshire puddings, and rich gravies. Local ales flow alongside gins and ciders, paired perfectly with the casual, welcoming vibe. It's a spot where history meets hearty sustenance.

In Birmingham's creative Digbeth district, The Old Crown anchors community life with comedy nights, live music, DJ sets, and garden parties. Its survival through urban flux underscores resilience, offering locals and visitors an authentic taste of Brummie heritage amid evolving street art and warehouses.