The Actress & Bishop, Jewellery Quarter
Two floors, live music every night and a split personality — cosy downstairs, sweaty upstairs — in the Jewellery Quarter.
A two‑storey pub and live‑music venue in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, The Actress & Bishop pairs a roomy ground‑floor bar and DJ area with an intimate upstairs stage for bands and gigs. Housed in a converted historic building near St Paul’s Square, it’s known for late closing times, regular live music and a lively, welcoming atmosphere that suits students, musicians and evening crowds.
A brief summary to Actress & Bishop
- 36 Ludgate Hill, Birmingham, B3 1EH, GB
- +441212367426
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-2 am
- Tuesday 12 pm-2 am
- Wednesday 12 pm-2 am
- Thursday 12 pm-2 am
- Friday 12 pm-2 am
- Saturday 12 pm-2 am
- Sunday 12 pm-2 am
Local tips
- If you want live bands, check the upstairs schedule in advance; the stage is low and the room is intimate, so early arrival helps secure a good spot.
- Downstairs is more spacious and DJ‑led — better for groups who want seating and a quieter drink.
- The venue stays open late; expect busy, louder evenings on weekends and during advertised gigs.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Information Boards
Actress & Bishop location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Actress & Bishop
A building with two characters
The Actress & Bishop occupies a corner plot close to St Paul’s Square and feels like two venues under one roof: a broad, well‑lit ground floor with a long bar, DJ booth and scattered seating, and a smaller, darker upstairs room dominated by a low stage and close‑packed standing space. The contrast is deliberate — the downstairs area is sociable and roomy, the upstairs raw and intimate, each offering a distinct mood for different nights.Music, programming and atmosphere
Live music is at the heart of the venue’s identity, with a programme that ranges from acoustic open‑mic nights to loud, high‑energy bands; DJs keep the downstairs lively until the early hours. The upstairs stage sits just above floor level so performers are close to the audience, creating sweaty, immediate shows where the sound is unvarnished and the connection between band and crowd feels direct.Interior details and quirks
Inside you’ll find warm timber finishes and exposed brick downstairs, with sofas and intimate seating upstairs beside a sticker‑scarred stage. Lighting tends toward amber tones on the ground floor and stubby coloured stage lights upstairs; the result is a pub that can feel cosy and refined one moment, then grubby and gloriously chaotic the next. A mix of posters, flyers and band stickers gives the place an improvisational, lived‑in look.Food, drink and late‑night rhythm
The bar keeps a varied but approachable drinks list and runs regular promotions and themed nights, making it affordable for students and local music fans. Opening into the small hours means the venue functions as both a pre‑show hangout and a post‑gig party spot; staff and a compact service area upstairs support shorter queues even on busy evenings.Community role and hire options
Over time the Actress & Bishop has established itself as a support hub for local musicians and small promoters. The upstairs area is often hired for private events, meetings or music nights; the venue’s willingness to host eclectic line‑ups and fringe acts keeps its programme unpredictable and locally focused.What to expect on a visit
Expect an energetic, unpretentious experience: lively crowds at night, varied music styles and a venue that thrives on contrasts. The Actress & Bishop is best experienced with an ear for live performance — whether you come for a DJ set, a quiz night or a sweaty band upstairs, the building’s split personality ensures there’s always something happening.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Best of Birmingham Trail
0.4 km
Explore Birmingham’s rich heritage through 20 iconic sites on this free, immersive city centre trail blending history, art, and urban renewal.
Chamberlain Memorial
0.5 km
A striking neo-Gothic monument in Birmingham’s Chamberlain Square honoring Joseph Chamberlain’s legacy of public service and city transformation.
The River
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Iconic bronze fountain sculpture in Birmingham’s Victoria Square, blending art, poetry, and urban life since 1994.
Chamberlain Clock
0.6 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
0.6 km
Birmingham's glittering historic heart where Victorian workshops craft timeless jewels amid cobblestone charm and creative revival.
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.
Gem Buildings
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Historic Gem Buildings on Key Hill showcase Birmingham's rich jewelry industry heritage and early 20th-century industrial architecture.
Eleven Brindley Place
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Discover the vibrant Eleven Brindley Place in Birmingham, where modern architecture meets cultural experiences along scenic canalside views.
The Cube
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Discover The Cube in Birmingham – a unique blend of leisure, dining, and entertainment that creates unforgettable experiences for every visitor.
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.
The Selfridges Building
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A shimmering silver landmark in Birmingham’s Bullring, where shopping meets futuristic architecture and luxury retail in a sculptural masterpiece.
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.
National Trust - Birmingham Back to Backs
1.2 km
Experience Birmingham's rich history at the iconic Back to Backs, a unique museum showcasing 19th-century urban life through preserved homes.
Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum
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Unleash your curiosity at Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum, where science comes to life through interactive exhibits and engaging experiences for all ages.
Millennium Point
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Explore Millennium Point, Birmingham's architectural marvel and vibrant venue for conferences, exhibitions, and community events.
Unmissable attractions to see
St Paul's Square
0.2 km
Birmingham’s last Georgian square, blending historic elegance with vibrant modern culture in the heart of the Jewellery Quarter.
Clue HQ Birmingham - The Live Escape Game
0.2 km
Experience thrilling, immersive escape rooms in Birmingham’s iconic railway arches, blending puzzles, technology, and storytelling for unforgettable group adventures.
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.
Birmingham & Midland Institute
0.4 km
Historic cultural landmark fostering education, arts, and science in Birmingham since 1854, with a renowned library and vibrant programs.
St Chad's Catholic Cathedral
0.4 km
A Gothic Revival masterpiece and spiritual heart of Birmingham, home to the relics of St Chad and a symbol of Catholic resurgence in England.
Newhall Hill
0.4 km
Discover Newhall Hill’s scenic views and historic charm in Birmingham’s vibrant Soho & Jewellery Quarter district.
Jewellery Quarter
0.4 km
Discover Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, a historic and creative hub where centuries-old craftsmanship meets vibrant culture and modern design.
Chamberlain Square
0.5 km
Birmingham’s iconic public square blending Victorian grandeur with modern vibrancy and cultural celebration.
New hall Hill - Historical Signature!
0.5 km
Explore the historical charm of New Hall Hill in Birmingham, a captivating tourist attraction rich in heritage and local culture.
Pen Museum
0.5 km
Discover where 75% of the world's pen nibs were made in a beautifully restored Victorian factory.
Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery
0.5 km
Explore Birmingham’s rich heritage and world-class art in a stunning historic museum with free entry and family-friendly galleries.
Lock 3, Farmers Bridge Locks
0.5 km
Discover the historic Lock 3 within Birmingham’s iconic Farmers Bridge Locks, a captivating canal engineering marvel in the city centre.
The Old Joint Stock Pub & Theatre, Birmingham
0.5 km
Historic Victorian pub and vibrant studio theatre in Birmingham’s city centre, blending rich heritage with live entertainment and refined British dining.
Birmingham Cathedral
0.5 km
Discover Birmingham Cathedral, a stunning Baroque masterpiece and vibrant community hub in the heart of Birmingham, rich in history and artistry.
Chamberlain Sq
0.5 km
Where Victorian grandeur meets modern Birmingham – a lively civic square with museums, markets, and great architecture.
Essential places to dine
Locanta italian restaurant
0.0 km
Authentic Italian dining in a historic Victorian setting with fresh seafood, handmade pasta, fine wines, and live music in Birmingham’s city centre.
Cucina Rustica
0.0 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors crafted with passion in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter at Cucina Rustica.
Somewhere in Brum
0.1 km
A vibrant bar and brunch spot in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, blending diverse cuisine with a lively social atmosphere.
Pasta Di Piazza
0.2 km
Authentic Italian dining with generous portions and warm service in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter.
Lasan Indian Restaurant & Cocktail Bar
0.2 km
Experience Birmingham’s premier fine dining Indian restaurant blending authentic flavors with modern culinary artistry in the stylish Jewellery Quarter.
Restaurant Folium
0.2 km
Intimate modern British fine dining with seasonal tasting menus in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter.
Purnells
0.3 km
Experience Michelin-starred British innovation and exquisite flavors at Purnell's, Birmingham’s premier fine dining destination.
Opheem
0.4 km
Experience Michelin-starred Indian cuisine reimagined with British seasonal flair in Birmingham’s elegant Opheem.
Decorum Restaurant Birmingham
0.4 km
Elegant steakhouse in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter blending refined dining with stylish ambiance and cultural charm.
Gaucho Birmingham
0.4 km
Experience authentic Argentinian steakhouse luxury with premium cuts and elegant ambiance in Birmingham’s vibrant city centre.
The Rolling Mill
0.4 km
A vibrant gastropub in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter blending traditional British charm with modern culinary delights and lively atmosphere.
Tattu Birmingham
0.4 km
Ancient philosophy meets modern cuisine in Birmingham's most architecturally audacious Chinese restaurant.
Orelle
0.5 km
Sophisticated French fine dining on the 24th floor with panoramic views across Birmingham’s skyline.
Dishoom Birmingham
0.5 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.
Gusto Italian
0.5 km
Stylish Italian dining beneath Birmingham’s Grand Hotel, blending classic flavors with a lively city centre atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Buff Jewellery
0.4 km
Timeless minimalist jewellery handcrafted in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter—personalised birthstone designs blending sentiment, subtlety, and modern British elegance for everyday sparkle.
Ivy and Rose Gift Shop
0.4 km
Discover handmade UK treasures at Ivy and Rose, Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter boutique for unique jewelry, candles, and artisanal gifts from local makers. (162 characters)
Fine Jewellery Collections & Bespoke Design Service
0.5 km
Discover bespoke brilliance in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, where custom gems and fine collections craft heirlooms with personal stories etched in gold.
Artfull Expression
0.5 km
Discover independent jewelry artistry in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter at Artfull Expression, where unique handcrafted designs blend historic craft with modern flair.
SACET
0.5 km
Ethical elegance awaits at SACET, Birmingham's sustainable jewellery gem in the heart of the Jewellery Quarter—where timeless craft meets modern conscience.
Quarter Jewellery
0.5 km
Independent jeweller on Warstone Lane offering commissions, valuations and attentive, workshop‑minded service in the heart of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter.
Adamas Antique Jewellery
0.5 km
A boutique Jewellery Quarter shop offering curated antique and estate jewels with specialist appraisal and bespoke care.
Top Jewellery UK
0.6 km
Discover bespoke brilliance in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter at Top Jewellery, where family expertise crafts diamonds, gold, and silver into timeless treasures.
Designer Exchange
0.6 km
Discover authenticated preloved luxury fashion in Birmingham’s elegant Victorian Great Western Arcade.
Community Gift Shop
0.6 km
Discover unique products and support diverse entrepreneurs at Birmingham’s Black Pounds Project Community Gift Shop in the historic Great Western Arcade.
Arnett Creations - Unique Quality Jewellery
0.6 km
Discover bespoke Sterling Silver and hallmarked gold jewellery in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, where expert craftsmanship meets personalized service at Arnett Creations.
A&N Jewellery
0.6 km
Discover family-crafted silver treasures and bespoke brilliance in Birmingham's legendary Jewellery Quarter, where 50 years of expertise meets timeless elegance.
The Alice Boutique
0.6 km
Discover timeless vintage-inspired fashion in a charming boutique nestled within Birmingham’s historic Great Western Arcade.
Design Centre
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Family-crafted diamonds and luxury watches in Birmingham's historic Jewellery Quarter since 1977—timeless elegance for life's milestones.
La MC Vintage
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Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures in Birmingham’s charming North Western Arcade at La MC Vintage.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Actress & Bishop
0.0 km
Two floors, live music every night and a split personality — cosy downstairs, sweaty upstairs — in the Jewellery Quarter.
Queen's Arms birmingham
0.2 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)
40 St Paul's
0.2 km
Discover Birmingham's hidden gin speakeasy: 100+ global varieties, intimate vibes, and masterful cocktails in the heart of the Jewellery Quarter.
Madeleine
0.5 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.
The Alchemist Colmore Row
0.5 km
Experience Birmingham’s iconic Grand building transformed into a theatrical cocktail haven blending molecular magic with vibrant city nightlife.
1000 Trades
0.5 km
A vibrant neighbourhood bar celebrating Birmingham’s industrial heritage with craft beers, local food, and a quirky artistic vibe.
Lucky7
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Precision mixology meets playful vibes in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter—a relaxed haven for cocktail lovers seeking crafted perfection.
Theatrix Birmingham
0.5 km
Historic charm meets vibrant nightlife at Theatrix Birmingham, a stylish multi-floor bar and entertainment venue in the city centre.
Dirty Martini - Birmingham
0.5 km
Trendy cocktail bar in Birmingham’s city center, known for stylish decor, expertly crafted drinks, and a lively party atmosphere.
Purecraft Bar & Kitchen
0.5 km
A vibrant gastropub in Birmingham blending craft beer culture with modern British cuisine in a spacious, welcoming setting.
The Rose Villa Tavern
0.6 km
Classic British pub in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, serving hearty meals, diverse drinks, and warm hospitality amid historic streets.
Revolución de Cuba Birmingham
0.6 km
Experience authentic Cuban vibes, vibrant cocktails, and lively salsa music in the heart of Birmingham’s city centre.
Flight Club Birmingham
0.6 km
Experience social darts like never before in Birmingham’s vibrant Victorian circus-themed bar with cocktails, brunch, and interactive games.
The Head of Steam Birmingham
0.6 km
A vibrant city-centre pub with craft beers, over 50% vegan menu, shuffleboard, live music, and private event spaces near New Street Station.
Fox and Chance
0.6 km
An award-winning independent cocktail bar in Birmingham, blending creative drinks with a cozy, sophisticated atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Tunnel Club Birmingham
0.2 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.
PAVO Birmingham
0.5 km
Vibrant African fusion lounge and nightclub in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, where bold flavors meet electrifying beats until 4am on weekends.
What do you mean
0.5 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.
Dreams Night club and Shisha
0.6 km
Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter gem fusing aromatic shisha clouds with thumping club beats until 5am—pure late-night energy on Barr Street.
Reflex - Birmingham
0.8 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.
King of clubs
0.9 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.
DIAMOND SPARKLEZ
0.9 km
Ignite your night in Birmingham's diamond district at this glittering nightclub, where top DJs, stunning lights, and electric crowds create pure nightlife magic.
Rosies - Birmingham
0.9 km
Birmingham's ultimate super club: five themed rooms, killer cocktails, and non-stop beats on Broad Street for epic nights out.
Popworld - Birmingham
1.0 km
Broad Street's ultimate pop party hub: 90s-00s hits, neon dance floors, cocktails, and celebration packages until 3am.
Bambu Nightclub
1.1 km
Experience Birmingham’s chic nightlife hotspot with stylish vibes, eclectic music, and late-night dancing at Bambu Nightclub.
101 Night Club
1.2 km
Unleash your nightlife spirit at 101 Night Club, Birmingham's vibrant center for music, dancing, and unforgettable experiences.
Sobar
1.2 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
1.2 km
Birmingham's 40-year indie-retro nightclub legend: cheap drinks, themed dance floors, and non-stop beats on Broad 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.
Mango Night Club
1.4 km
A high‑energy Bristol Street nightclub serving Afrobeats, hip‑hop and R&B for late‑night dancers and party crowds in central Birmingham.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Retro Vibes
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nightlife
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
