St. Paul's Church, Birmingham: Georgian Heritage in the Jewellery Quarter
Explore St. Paul's Church, a Georgian architectural gem and historic spiritual heart of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter.
St. Paul's Church, located in Birmingham's historic Jewellery Quarter, is a distinguished Georgian-era Church of England building dating back to 1777–1779. Known for its elegant rectangular design, notable stained-glass windows, and a rich history of resilience and restoration, it serves both as a place of worship and a cultural landmark reflecting Birmingham’s industrial and architectural heritage.
A brief summary to St. Paul's Church
- St Paul's Church, St Paul's Square, Birmingham, B3 1QZ, GB
- +441212367858
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-2 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-2 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-2 pm
- Thursday 11 am-2 pm
- Friday 11 am-2 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekdays between 11am and 2pm to experience the church when it is open and less crowded.
- Take time to admire the east stained-glass window by Francis Eginton, depicting the Conversion of St Paul.
- Check the church’s event schedule for live music performances that showcase its vibrant community role.
- Explore the surrounding Georgian square and Jewellery Quarter to appreciate the historic industrial context.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Public Transport
Take the West Midlands Metro tram to Jewellery Quarter stop, located approximately 600 meters from St. Paul's Church. Trams run every 6-10 minutes, with a journey time of around 15-20 minutes from Birmingham New Street station. Tickets cost approximately £1.80-£2.50.
-
Bus
Several bus routes serve the Jewellery Quarter area, including routes 8, 10, and 16 from central Birmingham. The bus stop is roughly 500 meters from the church. Travel time from Birmingham city centre is about 15-25 minutes. Single fares are around £2.00.
-
Walking
From Birmingham city centre, walking to St. Paul's Church takes approximately 20-25 minutes over mostly flat, paved streets. The route passes through historic areas and is accessible for most visitors.
-
Car
Driving to St. Paul's Church is possible, but parking in the Jewellery Quarter is limited and often metered. Nearby public car parks are available within a 5-10 minute walk. Congestion charges do not apply. Travel times vary depending on traffic.
St. Paul's Church location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about St. Paul's Church
Origins and Architectural Foundations
St. Paul's Church was constructed between 1777 and 1779 on land donated by Charles Colmore from his Newhall estate, designed by Roger Eykyn of Wolverhampton. It was originally built as a chapel of ease for St Martin in the Bull Ring, serving Birmingham’s growing class of manufacturers and merchants. The church’s rectangular Georgian design, featuring round-arched windows and galleries, reflects the influence of St Martin in the Fields in London, yet it stands out as the only surviving 18th-century church in Birmingham’s city centre. The upper part of the tower and spire were added in 1822–1823, designed by Francis Goodwin and constructed by Standbridge and Company, enhancing its skyline presence.Artistic Highlights and Interior Features
One of the church’s most celebrated features is its east window, created by Francis Eginton in 1791. This stained-glass masterpiece depicts the Conversion of St Paul, based on Benjamin West’s altarpiece, and is considered Eginton’s finest work. Additional windows by artists such as Ward and Hughes, Pearce, and a modern piece by Rachel Thomas (2000) enrich the church’s interior with layers of artistic heritage. Inside, St. Paul's retains original box pews with enamel plaques and several 19th-century monuments, including memorials to the Hollins family and a bust of architect William Hollins.Historical Role and Community Significance
In 1841, St. Paul's became a parish in its own right, carved from the extensive parish of St Martin in the Bull Ring. The church has long been intertwined with Birmingham’s industrial community, especially the Jewellery Quarter, which once housed over 1,500 factories. Despite damage sustained during World War II, including chipped masonry and broken windows from bombing, the church was carefully restored between 1949 and 1951, with further restoration efforts from 1985 to 1994. The installation of a peal of 10 bells in 2005 renewed its auditory presence in the neighbourhood.Architectural Evolution and Preservation
The church’s structure has evolved through the centuries while maintaining its Georgian character. The roof was replaced during post-war restoration, and ongoing conservation has preserved its historic fabric amid the Jewellery Quarter’s regeneration. The church stands within Birmingham’s only surviving Georgian square, a rare urban setting that enhances its historic atmosphere. Its neoclassical elements, combined with the distinctive stained glass and period furnishings, offer a vivid window into 18th- and 19th-century ecclesiastical architecture and urban development.Contemporary Use and Cultural Impact
Today, St. Paul's Church continues to function as an active Church of England parish and a cultural venue, hosting live music events and community activities. Its location in the Jewellery Quarter makes it a focal point for visitors interested in Birmingham’s industrial past and architectural legacy. The church’s website and community outreach reflect a vibrant institution balancing heritage with contemporary relevance.Notable Features and Visitor Experience
Visitors can admire the intricate stained glass, historic box pews, and the elegant Georgian proportions that define the church’s interior. The church’s bells, installed in 2005, add a dynamic soundscape to the square. The surrounding area’s blend of historic workshops and modern regeneration projects provides a rich contextual backdrop, making St. Paul's a compelling destination for those interested in history, architecture, and local culture.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Jewellery Quarter Birmingham
0.5 km
Birmingham's glittering historic heart where Victorian workshops craft timeless jewels amid cobblestone charm and creative revival.
Chamberlain Clock
0.5 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 Best of Birmingham Trail
0.5 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
0.6 km
A striking neo-Gothic monument in Birmingham’s Chamberlain Square honoring Joseph Chamberlain’s legacy of public service and city transformation.
The River
0.7 km
Iconic bronze fountain sculpture in Birmingham’s Victoria Square, blending art, poetry, and urban life since 1994.
Workers Memorial
0.7 km
A solemn landmark in Birmingham honoring workers lost to workplace tragedy and inspiring the fight for safer labor conditions.
Gem Buildings
0.9 km
Historic Gem Buildings on Key Hill showcase Birmingham's rich jewelry industry heritage and early 20th-century industrial architecture.
Historic England
1.1 km
Uncover Birmingham's rich history and heritage at Historic England, a cornerstone of cultural preservation and education in the heart of the city.
The Cube
1.2 km
Discover The Cube in Birmingham – a unique blend of leisure, dining, and entertainment that creates unforgettable experiences for every visitor.
The Selfridges Building
1.2 km
A shimmering silver landmark in Birmingham’s Bullring, where shopping meets futuristic architecture and luxury retail in a sculptural masterpiece.
St. Martin's
1.2 km
Explore St. Martin's Church, a serene Anglican landmark in Birmingham, where architectural beauty and rich history await every visitor.
Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum
1.3 km
Unleash your curiosity at Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum, where science comes to life through interactive exhibits and engaging experiences for all ages.
Millennium Point
1.3 km
Explore Millennium Point, Birmingham's architectural marvel and vibrant venue for conferences, exhibitions, and community events.
National Trust - Birmingham Back to Backs
1.3 km
Experience Birmingham's rich history at the iconic Back to Backs, a unique museum showcasing 19th-century urban life through preserved homes.
Kids' Park
1.4 km
Discover Kids' Park in Birmingham, where adventure meets learning in a family-friendly environment filled with fun activities and lush greenery.
Unmissable attractions to see
St Paul's Square
0.1 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
0.3 km
Experience thrilling, immersive escape rooms in Birmingham’s iconic railway arches, blending puzzles, technology, and storytelling for unforgettable group adventures.
Jewellery Quarter
0.3 km
Discover Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, a historic and creative hub where centuries-old craftsmanship meets vibrant culture and modern design.
The Coffin Works
0.4 km
A Victorian coffin factory preserved as a time-capsule museum, revealing the craftsmanship behind royal funerals and industrial Birmingham.
Pen Museum
0.4 km
Discover where 75% of the world's pen nibs were made in a beautifully restored Victorian factory.
Newhall Hill
0.4 km
Discover Newhall Hill’s scenic views and historic charm in Birmingham’s vibrant Soho & Jewellery Quarter district.
New hall Hill - Historical Signature!
0.4 km
Explore the historical charm of New Hall Hill in Birmingham, a captivating tourist attraction rich in heritage and local culture.
Birmingham & Midland Institute
0.5 km
Historic cultural landmark fostering education, arts, and science in Birmingham since 1854, with a renowned library and vibrant programs.
J. W. Evans Silver Factory
0.5 km
Step into Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter to explore the remarkably preserved J. W. Evans Silver Factory, a century-old industrial treasure of silversmithing heritage.
St Chad's Catholic Cathedral
0.5 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.
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.
Chamberlain Square
0.5 km
Birmingham’s iconic public square blending Victorian grandeur with modern vibrancy and cultural celebration.
Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery
0.6 km
Explore Birmingham’s rich heritage and world-class art in a stunning historic museum with free entry and family-friendly galleries.
Chamberlain Sq
0.6 km
Where Victorian grandeur meets modern Birmingham – a lively civic square with museums, markets, and great architecture.
The Old Joint Stock Pub & Theatre, Birmingham
0.6 km
Historic Victorian pub and vibrant studio theatre in Birmingham’s city centre, blending rich heritage with live entertainment and refined British dining.
Essential places to dine
Locanta italian restaurant
0.1 km
Authentic Italian dining in a historic Victorian setting with fresh seafood, handmade pasta, fine wines, and live music in Birmingham’s city centre.
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
0.1 km
Authentic Italian dining with generous portions and warm service in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter.
Cucina Rustica
0.1 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors crafted with passion in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter at Cucina Rustica.
Restaurant Folium
0.1 km
Intimate modern British fine dining with seasonal tasting menus in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter.
Lasan Indian Restaurant & Cocktail Bar
0.1 km
Experience Birmingham’s premier fine dining Indian restaurant blending authentic flavors with modern culinary artistry in the stylish Jewellery Quarter.
Decorum Restaurant Birmingham
0.3 km
Elegant steakhouse in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter blending refined dining with stylish ambiance and cultural charm.
The Rolling Mill
0.3 km
A vibrant gastropub in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter blending traditional British charm with modern culinary delights and lively atmosphere.
24 Carat Bistro
0.4 km
Hidden gem serving slow-cooked goat curry and Punjabi fusion in Birmingham's historic Jewelry Quarter.
Purnells
0.4 km
Experience Michelin-starred British innovation and exquisite flavors at Purnell's, Birmingham’s premier fine dining destination.
The Wilderness
0.4 km
Experience bold British fine dining with innovative tasting menus in a moody, industrial-chic setting at Birmingham’s Wilderness.
Opheem
0.4 km
Experience Michelin-starred Indian cuisine reimagined with British seasonal flair in Birmingham’s elegant Opheem.
The Button Factory
0.4 km
A stylish blend of industrial heritage and modern dining, The Button Factory offers vibrant food, drinks, and rooftop vibes in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter.
Cappadocia Restaurant
0.5 km
Authentic Turkish flavors and warm hospitality await you in Birmingham’s Cappadocia Restaurant on Frederick Street.
Kopitiam
0.5 km
Discover authentic Malaysian street food and warm family hospitality in Birmingham’s vibrant Jewellery Quarter at Kopitiam.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Buff Jewellery
0.3 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
0.3 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)
Artfull Expression
0.4 km
Discover independent jewelry artistry in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter at Artfull Expression, where unique handcrafted designs blend historic craft with modern flair.
Fine Jewellery Collections & Bespoke Design Service
0.4 km
Discover bespoke brilliance in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, where custom gems and fine collections craft heirlooms with personal stories etched in gold.
SACET
0.4 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
0.4 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
0.4 km
A boutique Jewellery Quarter shop offering curated antique and estate jewels with specialist appraisal and bespoke care.
Top Jewellery UK
0.5 km
Discover bespoke brilliance in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter at Top Jewellery, where family expertise crafts diamonds, gold, and silver into timeless treasures.
Arnett Creations - Unique Quality Jewellery
0.5 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
0.5 km
Discover family-crafted silver treasures and bespoke brilliance in Birmingham's legendary Jewellery Quarter, where 50 years of expertise meets timeless elegance.
Design Centre
0.6 km
Family-crafted diamonds and luxury watches in Birmingham's historic Jewellery Quarter since 1977—timeless elegance for life's milestones.
Designer Exchange
0.7 km
Discover authenticated preloved luxury fashion in Birmingham’s elegant Victorian Great Western Arcade.
Community Gift Shop
0.7 km
Discover unique products and support diverse entrepreneurs at Birmingham’s Black Pounds Project Community Gift Shop in the historic Great Western Arcade.
The Alice Boutique
0.7 km
Discover timeless vintage-inspired fashion in a charming boutique nestled within Birmingham’s historic Great Western Arcade.
Gingermegs Vintage
0.7 km
Discover timeless style and impeccable vintage finds at Gingermegs Vintage, Birmingham’s boutique for authentic retro fashion and antiques.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Actress & Bishop
0.1 km
Two floors, live music every night and a split personality — cosy downstairs, sweaty upstairs — in the Jewellery Quarter.
40 St Paul's
0.1 km
Discover Birmingham's hidden gin speakeasy: 100+ global varieties, intimate vibes, and masterful cocktails in the heart of 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)
1000 Trades
0.4 km
A vibrant neighbourhood bar celebrating Birmingham’s industrial heritage with craft beers, local food, and a quirky artistic vibe.
Lucky7
0.4 km
Precision mixology meets playful vibes in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter—a relaxed haven for cocktail lovers seeking crafted perfection.
The Rose Villa Tavern
0.5 km
Classic British pub in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, serving hearty meals, diverse drinks, and warm hospitality amid historic streets.
Madeleine
0.6 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 Pig & Tail
0.6 km
Victorian charm with a punchy, colourful gastropub vibe — British small plates, rotating craft beer and lively evenings in the Jewellery Quarter.
The Alchemist Colmore Row
0.6 km
Experience Birmingham’s iconic Grand building transformed into a theatrical cocktail haven blending molecular magic with vibrant city nightlife.
The Jewellers Arms
0.6 km
Traditional Birmingham boozer in the Jewellery Quarter: exceptional real ales, hearty pies, and cosy fireside chats since the 1830s.
Theatrix Birmingham
0.6 km
Historic charm meets vibrant nightlife at Theatrix Birmingham, a stylish multi-floor bar and entertainment venue in the city centre.
Purecraft Bar & Kitchen
0.6 km
A vibrant gastropub in Birmingham blending craft beer culture with modern British cuisine in a spacious, welcoming setting.
Dirty Martini - Birmingham
0.6 km
Trendy cocktail bar in Birmingham’s city center, known for stylish decor, expertly crafted drinks, and a lively party atmosphere.
Revolución de Cuba Birmingham
0.7 km
Experience authentic Cuban vibes, vibrant cocktails, and lively salsa music in the heart of Birmingham’s city centre.
The Red Lion
0.7 km
Traditional Hockley pub fusing heritage, modern art, and hearty British fare in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter gem on lively Warstone Lane.
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
0.4 km
Vibrant African fusion lounge and nightclub in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, where bold flavors meet electrifying beats until 4am on weekends.
Dreams Night club and Shisha
0.5 km
Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter gem fusing aromatic shisha clouds with thumping club beats until 5am—pure late-night energy on Barr Street.
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.
DIAMOND SPARKLEZ
0.8 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.
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.
Rosies - Birmingham
1.0 km
Birmingham's ultimate super club: five themed rooms, killer cocktails, and non-stop beats on Broad Street for epic nights out.
King of clubs
1.0 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.
Popworld - Birmingham
1.0 km
Broad Street's ultimate pop party hub: 90s-00s hits, neon dance floors, cocktails, and celebration packages until 3am.
Snobs
1.2 km
Birmingham's 40-year indie-retro nightclub legend: cheap drinks, themed dance floors, and non-stop beats on Broad Street.
Bambu Nightclub
1.3 km
Experience Birmingham’s chic nightlife hotspot with stylish vibes, eclectic music, and late-night dancing at Bambu Nightclub.
101 Night Club
1.3 km
Unleash your nightlife spirit at 101 Night Club, Birmingham's vibrant center for music, dancing, and unforgettable experiences.
Sobar
1.3 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.
suki10c
1.4 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
1.5 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
- Historic
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
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
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
