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The Rainbow Pub

4.5 (431)

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

The Rainbow Pub in Birmingham's Digbeth district is an iconic venue blending 250 years of history with vibrant modern nightlife. This beloved pub offers craft cocktails, vegan-friendly cuisine, live music performances, and sports screenings in a lively atmosphere perfect for evenings out. Located at 160 High St, Bordesley, it features a basement stage that has hosted legends like UB40 and Joss Stone, alongside bottomless brunches and themed events that draw crowds to the creative heart of the city.

A brief summary to The Rainbow

  • Tuesday 4 pm-12 am
  • Wednesday 4 pm-12 am
  • Thursday 4 pm-12 am
  • Friday 4 pm-2 am
  • Saturday 12 pm-2 am
  • Sunday 12 pm-12 am

Local tips

  • Book ahead for bottomless brunches and live music events, especially weekends, to secure your spot in the basement or courtyard.
  • Opt for vegan dishes during themed nights like Wing Wednesday for bold flavors paired with unlimited cocktails.
  • Arrive early for prime viewing of sports on big screens or to snag courtyard seating on sunny days.
  • Check the event calendar for gigs featuring local and international acts—many start at 7pm sharp.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    Take bus 6 or 97 from Birmingham city center to Highgate stop, 10-15 minutes journey, services every 10-15 minutes daily, single ticket £2.

  • Walking

    Walk from Bullring shopping center along covered walkways and pavements, 20-25 minutes on flat terrain, fully accessible with no steep inclines.

  • Taxi

    Taxi from New Street Station, 8-12 minutes depending on traffic, street parking limited nearby, fare £8-12.

  • Train + Walk

    Train from Birmingham Moor Street to Bordesley station, 3-5 minutes with trains every 15 minutes, then 10-minute flat walk, return ticket £3-5.

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

  • Drink Options
  • Food Options
  • Seating Areas
  • Sheltered Areas
  • Trash Bins

The Rainbow location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

Discover more about The Rainbow

Iconic Legacy in Digbeth's Creative Quarter

Tucked into the bustling streets of Digbeth, The Rainbow Pub stands as a testament to Birmingham's enduring pub culture. Established over 250 years ago, this venue has evolved from a traditional alehouse into a cornerstone of the city's nightlife. Its location in the vibrant Bordesley area places it amid street art, warehouses, and creative hubs, where the pulse of urban renewal beats strong. The pub's facade hints at its storied past, while inside, thoughtful refurbishments preserve original features alongside contemporary touches.

Live Music and Legendary Performances

Descend to the basement for an intimate live music experience that has defined The Rainbow's reputation. This underground space has welcomed global artists including The Heavy, La Roux, Joss Stone, Ocean Colour Scene, Bastille, and local heroes UB40. Regular events like indie nights, bingo pop specials, and late-night grooves fill the calendar, with performances ranging from emerging bands to high-energy DJ sets. The acoustics amplify the electric atmosphere, making every show feel personal and immersive.

Culinary Delights with a Vegan Twist

Food at The Rainbow caters to modern tastes, emphasizing vegan options alongside hearty pub classics. Bottomless brunches feature unlimited cocktails paired with flavorful dishes, available on weekends and select weekdays. Wing Wednesdays and Sunday roasts add variety, served in a courtyard for outdoor seating when weather permits. The full bar boasts craft beers, inventive cocktails, and big-screen TVs for live sports, ensuring sustenance matches the entertainment.

Nightlife Hub with Themed Nights

Evenings ignite with themed happenings that showcase Digbeth's eclectic spirit. From Galactic Grooves to launch parties, the pub transforms into a haven for music lovers and night owls. Open late into the weekend—until 2am on Fridays and Saturdays—the venue buzzes with energy, drawing locals and visitors alike. The courtyard offers al fresco drinking, blending indoor intimacy with outdoor vibrancy under Birmingham's skyline.

Atmosphere and Community Vibe

Step inside to find a space where history meets hedonism: exposed brick walls, cozy nooks, and a stage-lit basement create a welcoming yet edgy vibe. The Rainbow fosters community through its events, becoming a gathering point for Digbeth's creative crowd. Whether catching a gig, brunching with friends, or watching a match, the pub delivers an authentic slice of Birmingham's nightlife soul.

Practical Charms of a Neighborhood Gem

With street parking nearby and a central location, The Rainbow integrates seamlessly into Digbeth explorations. Its moderate pricing keeps it accessible, while features like takeout and reservations enhance flexibility. Over centuries, it has mirrored the city's transformations, remaining a reliable anchor amid flux.

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