St. Martin in the Bull Ring: Birmingham’s Historic Neo-Gothic Sanctuary
Discover Birmingham’s historic Neo-Gothic parish church, a serene sanctuary rich in medieval heritage and vibrant community life.
St. Martin in the Bull Ring is Birmingham’s original parish church, located in the heart of the city between the Bull Ring Shopping Centre and markets. This Grade II* listed Neo-Gothic church dates back to the 13th century, with its current Victorian structure built in 1873, preserving the iconic medieval tower and spire. Inside, visitors find stunning wooden roofs, medieval wall paintings, and historic monuments, all offering a peaceful sanctuary amid Birmingham’s bustling city centre.
A brief summary to St. Martin in the Bull Ring
- Edgbaston St, Birmingham, B5 5BB, GB
- +441216006020
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Tuesday 12 pm-5 pm
- Wednesday 2 pm-5 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-5 pm
- Friday 12 pm-5 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-4 pm
- Sunday 9:30 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays early afternoon to enjoy a quieter atmosphere and better lighting for the stained glass windows.
- Take time to admire the medieval monuments in the chapel, especially the de Bermingham family effigies.
- Look for the intricate wooden roof beams inspired by Westminster Hall, a highlight of the church’s interior.
- Check the church’s schedule for special services or civic events that showcase its active community role.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train and Walk
From Birmingham New Street Station, a central rail hub, it takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes to walk to St. Martin in the Bull Ring through pedestrian-friendly city streets. The route is flat and accessible, suitable for most travelers.
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Bus
Multiple bus routes serve stops near the Bull Ring Shopping Centre, including numbers 8, 11, and 63. Bus journeys from various parts of Birmingham typically take 15 to 25 minutes. Services run frequently during the day with standard single fares around £2.50.
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Car
Driving to the Bull Ring area is possible but parking is limited and often costly. Nearby public car parks charge approximately £3 to £5 per hour. Traffic congestion is common during peak hours, so plan accordingly.
St. Martin in the Bull Ring 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 St. Martin in the Bull Ring
Origins and Historical Significance
St. Martin in the Bull Ring stands on a site that has hosted a place of worship since at least the 13th century, with some evidence suggesting Saxon origins. The original medieval church was documented in 1263 and expanded over centuries to include a lofty nave, chancel, aisles, and a prominent tower with a spire. This church was central to Birmingham’s early community and parish life, serving as the original parish church for the city. It witnessed many historical events and family milestones, including baptisms and marriages from notable local families dating back to the 18th century.Architectural Evolution and Features
The current church building was constructed in 1873 by architect J. A. Chatwin, who preserved the medieval tower and spire, key visual landmarks of Birmingham’s skyline. The exterior is crafted from Grinshill stone, while the interior features sandstone walls and a magnificent wooden roof inspired by Westminster Hall, supported by intricately carved angelic beams. During reconstruction, medieval wall paintings were uncovered, including a notable depiction of Saint Martin sharing his cloak with a beggar. The church floor is adorned with Minton tiles bearing the de Bermingham family emblem, linking the site to its medieval founders.Art and Monuments Within
Inside, the church houses remarkable artworks such as the Burne-Jones and William Morris stained glass window, a rare and early example of Pre-Raphaelite craftsmanship. This window narrowly escaped destruction during World War II bombings. The chapel contains alabaster and sandstone monuments of the de Bermingham family, medieval lords of the manor who played a pivotal role in Birmingham’s early development. These monuments date back to the 14th century and bear symbolic features, such as crossed legs indicating participation in crusades.The Bells and Clock Legacy
St. Martin’s has a long tradition of bell ringing and clockkeeping, with records dating back to 1547. The church’s bells expanded from four in the 16th century to twelve by the late 18th century, playing a significant role in city life, including attempts to drown out John Wesley’s preaching in 1745. The church was the site of the first radio broadcast of church bells in 1924. Its clock and chimes have been maintained and restored over centuries, symbolizing the church’s enduring presence in Birmingham’s daily rhythm.Community and Contemporary Role
Today, St. Martin in the Bull Ring remains a vibrant place of worship and community gathering, welcoming a diverse, multi-ethnic congregation. It hosts civic events and special services throughout the year, continuing its centuries-old role at the heart of Birmingham. The church is also engaged in sustainability efforts, participating in the Church of England’s Net Zero Carbon Programme with initiatives like solar panels and energy-efficient upgrades, aiming to reduce its environmental impact.Atmosphere Amidst the Urban Landscape
Despite being surrounded by modern retail and commercial buildings, St. Martin’s offers a tranquil sanctuary with its blend of historic architecture, sacred art, and peaceful ambiance. Visitors can experience a sense of continuity and calm in the bustling city centre, appreciating both the church’s rich heritage and its ongoing spiritual mission.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Selfridges Building
0.1 km
A shimmering silver landmark in Birmingham’s Bullring, where shopping meets futuristic architecture and luxury retail in a sculptural masterpiece.
Workers Memorial
0.5 km
A solemn landmark in Birmingham honoring workers lost to workplace tragedy and inspiring the fight for safer labor conditions.
The Floodgate
0.6 km
Discover The Floodgate in Birmingham for a unique blend of drinks, indoor sports, and a lively atmosphere perfect for tourists.
The River
0.7 km
Iconic bronze fountain sculpture in Birmingham’s Victoria Square, blending art, poetry, and urban life since 1994.
Chamberlain Memorial
0.8 km
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
0.8 km
Explore Birmingham’s rich heritage through 20 iconic sites on this free, immersive city centre trail blending history, art, and urban renewal.
Clue HQ Birmingham - The Live Escape Game
1.1 km
Experience the thrill of escape at Clue HQ Birmingham, where adventure and mystery await in immersive escape rooms.
Boulton, Watt and Murdoch
1.1 km
Explore Birmingham's Boulton, Watt and Murdoch sculpture—an inspiring tribute to the city's industrial heritage and innovation.
The Coffin Works
1.1 km
Uncover the hidden history of coffin-making in Birmingham at The Coffin Works, a unique museum offering engaging insights into the trade's past.
Historic England
1.2 km
Uncover Birmingham's rich history and heritage at Historic England, a cornerstone of cultural preservation and education in the heart of the city.
Birmingham Walk of Stars
1.2 km
Explore the Birmingham Walk of Stars, an outdoor tribute celebrating the city's iconic figures from music, film, and sports along the vibrant Broad Street.
St Paul's Square
1.3 km
Discover the charm of St Paul's Square in Birmingham, where history meets modern culture in a picturesque setting.
New hall Hill - Historical Signature!
1.3 km
Explore New Hall Hill, a historical treasure in Birmingham, where captivating architecture and rich cultural history come together for an unforgettable experience.
National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham
1.4 km
Explore the National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham, a captivating aquarium experience featuring thousands of marine creatures and educational exhibits for all ages.
Newhall Hill
1.4 km
Experience breathtaking views and historical charm at Newhall Hill, a serene oasis in the heart of Birmingham for every traveler.
Unmissable attractions to see
Horatio Nelson Statue
0.1 km
Historic bronze statue honoring Admiral Horatio Nelson’s naval victories, located in Birmingham’s Bull Ring since 1809.
Bullring Rag Market
0.1 km
Explore Birmingham’s vibrant Bullring Rag Market, a bustling hub of fabrics, fashion, and diverse goods in the city centre.
Selfridges Birmingham
0.1 km
Discover Selfridges Birmingham, an architectural marvel and luxury shopping destination at the heart of the Bullring.
Bullring Shopping Centre Bullring
0.1 km
Iconic Birmingham shopping destination blending historic roots with modern retail and vibrant dining experiences.
Bullring & Grand Central
0.1 km
Experience Birmingham’s iconic shopping and dining destination blending modern design, diverse retail, and vibrant social life.
Ozzy the Bull
0.3 km
A towering mechanical bull named after Ozzy Osbourne, symbolizing Birmingham’s industrial might and musical heritage at New Street Station Forecourt.
Grand Central Shopping Centre
0.3 km
A stunning, modern shopping centre integrated with Birmingham’s New Street Station, offering diverse retail and dining in a light-filled, accessible space.
The Arcadian
0.4 km
A vibrant shopping and leisure complex in central Birmingham, combining retail, dining and entertainment in a modern, covered environment.
Hippodrome Square
0.4 km
A lively cultural square outside Birmingham Hippodrome, alive with performances, festivals, and the spirit of the Chinese Quarter.
The Grand Central Bull
0.4 km
Experience Birmingham's vibrant culture and rich history at The Grand Central Bull, a must-see tourist attraction in the heart of the city.
Birmingham Hippodrome
0.4 km
Birmingham's grand Victorian theatre where 125 years of entertainment history meets world-class performances.
National Trust - Birmingham Back to Backs
0.4 km
Step back in time at Birmingham’s last surviving 19th-century back-to-back houses, where history and community come alive through immersive guided tours.
Martineau Place
0.4 km
Birmingham's central shopping hub honoring a dynasty of mayors, blending retail buzz with echoes of Unitarian heritage and civic pride.
54 Inge Street
0.4 km
Step into Birmingham’s industrial past at the last surviving Back to Back houses, a vivid glimpse into 19th-century working-class life.
52 Inge Street
0.4 km
Step inside Birmingham’s last surviving back-to-back houses and explore the rich social history of its industrial working-class heritage.
Essential places to dine
Browns Birmingham
0.1 km
Stylish brasserie in St Martins Square offering classic dishes with a modern touch in Birmingham’s vibrant city centre.
Manzil Restaurant
0.2 km
Discover vibrant Indian flavors and a welcoming atmosphere at Manzil Restaurant, a Digbeth gem serving authentic dishes in Birmingham’s lively heart.
Original Patty Men
0.2 km
Discover Birmingham’s legendary burger joint in Digbeth, serving bold, flavorful patties and craft beers in a cool industrial setting.
Mowgli Street Food Birmingham
0.3 km
Whimsical Indian street food in a fairy-lit jungle setting, perfect for sharing bold flavours in the heart of Birmingham’s Grand Central.
TAPAS REVOLUTION (Birmingham)
0.4 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas with fresh flavors and lively vibes at Birmingham’s bustling Grand Central station.
Falafel Vegan Munch
0.4 km
Fresh, handmade vegan falafel wraps and vibrant juices in the heart of Birmingham’s creative Digbeth district.
The Meat Shack
0.5 km
Hand-smashed British beef burgers in a speakeasy-style dive bar with relaxed atmosphere and efficient service.
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.
The Botanist Birmingham
0.5 km
A vibrant botanical oasis in Birmingham city centre, blending fresh seasonal dining, inventive cocktails, and live music by the canal.
Riva Blu Italian Restaurant & Bar, Birmingham
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant taste and style of Southern Italy in the heart of Birmingham with Riva Blu’s authentic cuisine and chic atmosphere.
Las Iguanas - Birmingham - Temple Street
0.5 km
Vibrant Latin American dining with carnival energy, fresh cocktails, and shareable feasts in Birmingham's city centre.
The Oyster Club
0.5 km
A sophisticated oyster bar and seafood restaurant in Birmingham offering fresh oysters, creative cocktails, and seasonal dishes in a relaxed setting.
The ARK Birmingham
0.5 km
A vibrant fusion of authentic Indian cuisine and dynamic nightlife in Birmingham’s city center.
The Ivy Temple Row
0.5 km
A stylish British brasserie in Birmingham blending art deco elegance with classic dishes and impeccable service.
San Carlo - Birmingham
0.6 km
Classic Italian elegance and seafood delights in Birmingham’s stylish city centre dining destination.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Menkind
0.1 km
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.
KENJI Birmingham Bullring
0.1 km
Discover quirky Japanese-inspired gifts and immersive pop culture at KENJI Birmingham Bullring, a vibrant hub for unique shopping experiences.
Wornwell Vintage Clothing
0.2 km
Discover authentic vintage fashion and quality streetwear at Wornwell Vintage Clothing, a unique shop nestled inside Primark on Birmingham's High Street.
Primark
0.2 km
A huge, multi‑level flagship on Birmingham High Street offering fast, affordable fashion, homewares and themed in‑store concepts under one roof.
Beauty & the Button
0.2 km
Discover personalised gifts and colourful button frames at Beauty & the Button, Birmingham’s charming shop for meaningful celebrations.
The Works
0.3 km
Discover affordable arts, crafts, books, and stationery in the heart of Birmingham’s vibrant New Street shopping district.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.3 km
Discover quirky, affordable Scandinavian gifts and everyday essentials that bring joy and creativity to Birmingham’s city center.
Dark Bull Vintage
0.4 km
Handpicked retro treasures in Digbeth: affordable bombers, leathers, and Brummie merch await in this colorful vintage gem.
Cow Vintage
0.4 km
Unearth timeless threads in Digbeth's creative heart: Cow Vintage delivers curated retro fashion with sustainable flair.
Miniso
0.4 km
Bright, affordable design and collectable character goods — a family-friendly stop for pocket-money treats in Grand Central.
Urban Outfitters
0.4 km
Discover stylish apparel, unique homewares, and a vibrant shopping vibe at Urban Outfitters Birmingham in the city centre.
My Etsy Shop
0.4 km
Explore My Etsy Shop in Deritend, Birmingham, for unique handcrafted gifts that embody local artistry and culture, perfect for every occasion.
Simply Gifted
0.4 km
Explore Simply Gifted in Birmingham for unique gifts and local treasures that reflect the vibrant spirit of the city.
Funkybits4u Fair Trade - Birmingham
0.5 km
Discover ethically crafted gifts and inspiring interiors at Funkybits4u Fair Trade, a vibrant hub of sustainable artistry in Birmingham.
Thrifty Store
0.5 km
Unearth unique finds and incredible deals at Thrifty Store, Birmingham's prime destination for budget shopping and eclectic treasures.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Subside Bar
0.3 km
A late-night, no-frills rock and metal bar on Birmingham’s High Street — loud DJs, cheap drinks and an intense after-hours atmosphere.
All Bar One New Street Station
0.3 km
A stylish and sociable wine bar in Birmingham’s New Street Station, perfect for cocktails, casual dining, and lively gatherings.
Tilt
0.4 km
Pinball paradise meets craft pours in Birmingham's City Arcade – Tilt's retro magic blended games, beers, and beats until its 2025 farewell.
The Anchor Digbeth
0.4 km
A compact, characterful Bradford Street pub mixing real ales, vintage charm and a cosy multi-room layout in the heart of Digbeth.
Bacchus Bar
0.4 km
Discover Birmingham’s medieval-inspired basement pub, where historic charm meets lively atmosphere and quality British ales.
Tonight Josephine - Birmingham
0.4 km
Experience Birmingham’s boldest pink cocktail bar with creative drinks, vibrant events, and a party spirit inspired by Empress Joséphine.
The Loft
0.5 km
A lively and welcoming bar and grill in Birmingham’s Gay Village, renowned for premium drinks, casual dining, and a vibrant inclusive atmosphere.
The Bierkeller Birmingham
0.5 km
Experience authentic Bavarian beer hall vibes, live Oompah bands, and lively parties in the heart of Birmingham’s Southside.
Be At One - Birmingham
0.5 km
Lively cocktail bar in Birmingham city centre with 100+ drinks, expert bartenders, and a vibrant party atmosphere.
The Cocktail Club - Birmingham
0.5 km
Three floors of cocktail theatre, bottomless brunches, and Birmingham nightlife magic—where sexy sips meet wild vibes until 2am.
The Trocadero
0.5 km
Lively city-centre pub with great food, live sports, and a welcoming atmosphere in Birmingham’s Temple Street.
The Head of Steam Birmingham
0.5 km
A vibrant city-centre pub with craft beers, over 50% vegan menu, shuffleboard, live music, and private event spaces near New Street Station.
Flight Club Birmingham
0.5 km
Experience social darts like never before in Birmingham’s vibrant Victorian circus-themed bar with cocktails, brunch, and interactive games.
Revolución de Cuba Birmingham
0.5 km
Experience authentic Cuban vibes, vibrant cocktails, and lively salsa music in the heart of Birmingham’s city centre.
BrewDog Birmingham
0.6 km
Discover Birmingham’s craft beer haven with bold brews, industrial vibes, and lively events at BrewDog on John Bright Street.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Sobar
0.3 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.
Bambu Nightclub
0.3 km
Experience Birmingham’s chic nightlife hotspot with stylish vibes, eclectic music, and late-night dancing at Bambu Nightclub.
suki10c
0.4 km
Quirky Digbeth nightclub with local art, sustainable vibes, and eclectic beats in an intimate 180-capacity space powered by wind energy.
101 Night Club
0.4 km
Unleash your nightlife spirit at 101 Night Club, Birmingham's vibrant center for music, dancing, and unforgettable experiences.
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.
Sector 57
0.6 km
Experience Birmingham’s vibrant nightlife at Sector 57, where eclectic music and electric vibes create unforgettable nights in Deritend.
What do you mean
0.6 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.
Mango Night Club
0.6 km
A high‑energy Bristol Street nightclub serving Afrobeats, hip‑hop and R&B for late‑night dancers and party crowds in central Birmingham.
Next Door & Spotlight
0.7 km
Two adjoining Digbeth nightspots — a pulse-driven DJ room and an intimate bar space with street-food pop-ups and a raw, industrial vibe.
Club PST
0.8 km
Compact, bass-driven Digbeth club with reggae roots, stacked rooms and late-night underground parties.
Quantum Vnues
0.8 km
Dive into Digbeth's beating heart: Quantum Venues delivers electrifying nights of music, lights, and unbridled energy in Birmingham's creative core.
The Night Owl
0.8 km
A cozy Digbeth venue where soulful retro beats and friendly vibes create unforgettable nights for all music lovers.
VOID Nightclub
0.8 km
Dive into Digbeth's underground heartbeat at VOID Nightclub, where marathon raves and thunderous bass fuel Birmingham's rawest nightlife from dusk till dawn.
Disco Wonderland
0.9 km
Dive into Birmingham's dazzling disco haven, where retro beats, neon lights, and endless energy light up Deritend's nightlife.
Tunnel Club Birmingham
1.1 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
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
- Sustainable
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Mindfulness
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Day Trip
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
