Chamberlain Clock

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.

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Standing proudly at the heart of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, the Chamberlain Clock is a striking Edwardian cast-iron clock tower erected in 1903 as a memorial to Joseph Chamberlain. Located at the junction of Vyse Street and Warstone Lane, this Grade II listed landmark has long served as a familiar meeting point and symbol of the area’s rich industrial and civic heritage. Recently restored to its former glory, the clock combines ornate Victorian-era craftsmanship with a deep connection to Birmingham’s history, making it a must-see for visitors exploring the city’s historic core.

A brief summary to Chamberlain Clock

168 Warstone Ln, Birmingham, B18 6NP, GB
Visit website
Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
Free
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 5 out of 5

Local tips

Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the ornate cast-iron details and clock faces; the surrounding streets are also great for photography.
Look for the nearby information panel that explains the clock’s history and Joseph Chamberlain’s connection to the Jewellery Quarter.
Combine your visit with a walk through the Jewellery Quarter to explore its workshops, galleries, and historic streets.
Check local event listings; the area often hosts markets and heritage events that make a visit even more engaging.

Getting There

On foot from Birmingham city centre

From Birmingham New Street station or the Bullring, it takes about 15–20 minutes to walk to the Chamberlain Clock through the city centre and into the Jewellery Quarter. The route is mostly flat and follows well‑lit streets and pedestrian paths, suitable for all ages and mobility levels.
By bus from central Birmingham

Several local bus routes serve stops within a 5–10 minute walk of the clock, with journey times from the city centre typically 10–20 minutes depending on traffic. The area is well connected, and buses run frequently during the day.
By train to Jewellery Quarter station

Jewellery Quarter station is about a 5–10 minute walk from the Chamberlain Clock. Trains from Birmingham New Street and other regional stations serve this stop, making it a convenient option for visitors arriving by rail.

Chamberlain Clock location weather suitability

Any Weather
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about Chamberlain Clock

A Landmark of Civic Pride

Rising from the crossroads of Vyse Street and Warstone Lane, the Chamberlain Clock is an elegant Edwardian clock tower that has watched over Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter since 1903. Built as a memorial to Joseph Chamberlain, the influential politician and former mayor of Birmingham, the tower commemorates his tour of South Africa at the end of the Second Boer War. Its presence at this key junction reflects Chamberlain’s strong ties to the area, where he lived on nearby Frederick Street and championed local jewellers by campaigning to abolish the Plate Duties tax that affected their trade. The clock’s original clockwork mechanism, later converted to electric operation, once kept time for generations of workers and residents, embedding it deeply in the daily rhythm of the Quarter.

Design and Craftsmanship

The Chamberlain Clock is a fine example of early 20th-century cast-iron architecture, crafted by Birmingham firm W. F. Evans & Sons of Handsworth. Its ornate, four-sided tower features decorative detailing typical of Edwardian civic monuments, with a prominent clock face on each side and a distinctive bell that once chimed the hours. The structure stands on a stone plinth at a busy junction, where historic routes into the Jewellery Quarter converge, reinforcing its role as both a timepiece and a symbolic gateway to the area. In recent years, the clock underwent a comprehensive conservation project led by the Jewellery Quarter Development Trust, with specialist work carried out by historic clockmakers Smith of Derby, restoring its mechanism, faces, and bell to working order.

Restoration and Community Memory

By the late 2010s, the Chamberlain Clock had fallen into disrepair, with corrosion, damaged paintwork, and a non-functioning mechanism. In 2020, it was carefully dismantled and removed for restoration, funded by the Jewellery Quarter Townscape Heritage and the Jewellery Quarter Business Improvement District. Alongside the tower, the four original cast-iron directional bollards were also conserved. The restored clock was returned to its original site in early 2021, accompanied by a new information panel that explains its history and Chamberlain’s legacy. A parallel oral history project invited local residents, workers, and visitors to share personal stories and photographs, creating a living archive that captures how the clock has served as a meeting place for dates, shifts, and shopping trips over more than a century.

Symbol of the Jewellery Quarter

Today, the Chamberlain Clock is more than just a timepiece; it is an enduring icon of the Jewellery Quarter’s identity. Its Grade II listing recognises its architectural and historical significance, while its prominent location makes it a natural focal point for walks through the area’s workshops, galleries, and historic streets. The clock’s restoration is part of a broader effort to celebrate the Quarter’s diverse heritage, including stories of local tradespeople, immigrant communities, and figures like Warrulan, an Aboriginal Australian buried nearby. As a result, the site now offers not only a beautiful piece of Edwardian engineering but also a thoughtful, layered narrative about Birmingham’s past and the people who shaped it.

Visiting the Clock

The Chamberlain Clock is easily accessible on foot from central Birmingham and sits in a lively part of the Jewellery Quarter, surrounded by independent shops, cafes, and historic buildings. There are no formal opening hours, as the clock is an outdoor monument, but it is best appreciated during daylight hours when the details of its cast-iron structure and clock faces are clearly visible. Nearby interpretation panels provide historical context, and the area is well served by public transport, making it a convenient stop on any exploration of Birmingham’s industrial and civic heritage. Whether you’re drawn by its architecture, its connection to Joseph Chamberlain, or its role as a community landmark, the Chamberlain Clock offers a quiet but powerful reminder of the city’s layered history.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Chamberlain Clock

0.0 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

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Birmingham's glittering historic heart where Victorian workshops craft timeless jewels amid cobblestone charm and creative revival.

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.

The Best of Birmingham Trail

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Explore Birmingham’s rich heritage through 20 iconic sites on this free, immersive city centre trail blending history, art, and urban renewal.

Chamberlain Memorial

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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.

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.

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.

Soho House Museum

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Explore Soho House Museum, the elegant Georgian home of industrial pioneer Matthew Boulton and a birthplace of the Industrial Revolution.

Bullring & Grand Central

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Explore Birmingham's Bullring & Grand Central: a shopping and dining paradise that blends modern architecture with an unforgettable experience.

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.

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.

National Trust - Birmingham Back to Backs

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Experience Birmingham's rich history at the iconic Back to Backs, a unique museum showcasing 19th-century urban life through preserved homes.

National Trust - Birmingham Back to Backs

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

J. W. Evans Silver Factory

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Step into Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter to explore the remarkably preserved J. W. Evans Silver Factory, a century-old industrial treasure of silversmithing heritage.

The Jewellery Quarter

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Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter: a vibrant hub of craftsmanship, culture, and creativity since the 18th century.

Pen Museum

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Discover where 75% of the world's pen nibs were made in a beautifully restored Victorian factory.

Museum of the Jewellery Quarter

0.4 km

Explore a time capsule jewellery workshop and discover Birmingham’s rich 200-year heritage of craftsmanship in the heart of the Jewellery Quarter.

Newhall Hill

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Discover Newhall Hill’s scenic views and historic charm in Birmingham’s vibrant Soho & Jewellery Quarter district.

St Paul's Square

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Birmingham’s last Georgian square, blending historic elegance with vibrant modern culture in the heart of the Jewellery Quarter.

St. Paul's Church

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Explore St. Paul's Church, a Georgian architectural gem and historic spiritual heart of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter.

New hall Hill - Historical Signature!

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Explore the historical charm of New Hall Hill in Birmingham, a captivating tourist attraction rich in heritage and local culture.

Lock 3, Farmers Bridge Locks

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Discover the historic Lock 3 within Birmingham’s iconic Farmers Bridge Locks, a captivating canal engineering marvel in the city centre.

The Coffin Works

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A Victorian coffin factory preserved as a time-capsule museum, revealing the craftsmanship behind royal funerals and industrial Birmingham.

Lock 1, Farmers Bridge Locks

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Historic flight of 13 canal locks showcasing Birmingham’s industrial heritage and vibrant urban waterways.

Springhill Interchange Birmingham

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Explore Springhill Interchange, a vibrant hub in Birmingham, where culture, history, and modern urban life converge for an unforgettable experience.

Clue HQ Birmingham - The Live Escape Game

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Experience thrilling, immersive escape rooms in Birmingham’s iconic railway arches, blending puzzles, technology, and storytelling for unforgettable group adventures.

Clue HQ Birmingham - The Live Escape Game

The Secret Garden

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Discover a peaceful rooftop oasis with stunning city views atop Birmingham’s iconic Library of Birmingham.

Birmingham & Midland Institute

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Historic cultural landmark fostering education, arts, and science in Birmingham since 1854, with a renowned library and vibrant programs.

Essential places to dine

Cappadocia Restaurant

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Authentic Turkish flavors and warm hospitality await you in Birmingham’s Cappadocia Restaurant on Frederick Street.

The Wilderness

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Experience bold British fine dining with innovative tasting menus in a moody, industrial-chic setting at Birmingham’s Wilderness.

The Button Factory

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A stylish blend of industrial heritage and modern dining, The Button Factory offers vibrant food, drinks, and rooftop vibes in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter.

24 Carat Bistro

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Hidden gem serving slow-cooked goat curry and Punjabi fusion in Birmingham's historic Jewelry Quarter.

Kopitiam

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Discover authentic Malaysian street food and warm family hospitality in Birmingham’s vibrant Jewellery Quarter at Kopitiam.

The Rolling Mill

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A vibrant gastropub in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter blending traditional British charm with modern culinary delights and lively atmosphere.

Decorum Restaurant Birmingham

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Elegant steakhouse in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter blending refined dining with stylish ambiance and cultural charm.

Lasan Indian Restaurant & Cocktail Bar

0.4 km

Experience Birmingham’s premier fine dining Indian restaurant blending authentic flavors with modern culinary artistry in the stylish Jewellery Quarter.

Restaurant Folium

0.4 km

Intimate modern British fine dining with seasonal tasting menus in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter.

Pasta Di Piazza

0.4 km

Authentic Italian dining with generous portions and warm service in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter.

Locanta italian restaurant

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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

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A vibrant bar and brunch spot in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, blending diverse cuisine with a lively social atmosphere.

Cucina Rustica

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Experience authentic Italian flavors crafted with passion in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter at Cucina Rustica.

Opheem

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Experience Michelin-starred Indian cuisine reimagined with British seasonal flair in Birmingham’s elegant Opheem.

Purnells

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Experience Michelin-starred British innovation and exquisite flavors at Purnell's, Birmingham’s premier fine dining destination.

Discover timeless vintage-inspired fashion in a charming boutique nestled within Birmingham’s historic Great Western Arcade.

Lively cocktail bar and restaurant at Brindley Place offering vibrant drinks, tasty bites, and late-night fun in Birmingham’s city centre.

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Chamberlain Clock

A brief summary to Chamberlain Clock

Local tips

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

Getting There

On foot from Birmingham city centre

By bus from central Birmingham

By train to Jewellery Quarter station

Chamberlain Clock location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Chamberlain Clock

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Chamberlain Clock

A Landmark of Civic Pride

Design and Craftsmanship

Restoration and Community Memory

Symbol of the Jewellery Quarter

Visiting the Clock

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Chamberlain Clock

The Jewellery Quarter Birmingham

Gem Buildings

The Best of Birmingham Trail

Chamberlain Memorial

The River

Workers Memorial

Historic England

Soho House Museum

Bullring & Grand Central

St. Martin's

The Selfridges Building

National Trust - Birmingham Back to Backs

Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum

Millennium Point

Unmissable attractions to see

J. W. Evans Silver Factory

The Jewellery Quarter

Pen Museum

Museum of the Jewellery Quarter

Newhall Hill

St Paul's Square

St. Paul's Church

New hall Hill - Historical Signature!

Lock 3, Farmers Bridge Locks

The Coffin Works

Lock 1, Farmers Bridge Locks

Springhill Interchange Birmingham

Clue HQ Birmingham - The Live Escape Game

The Secret Garden

Birmingham & Midland Institute

Essential places to dine

Cappadocia Restaurant

The Wilderness

The Button Factory

24 Carat Bistro

Kopitiam

The Rolling Mill

Decorum Restaurant Birmingham

Lasan Indian Restaurant & Cocktail Bar

Restaurant Folium

Pasta Di Piazza

Locanta italian restaurant

Somewhere in Brum

Cucina Rustica

Opheem

Purnells

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Top Jewellery UK

SACET

Quarter Jewellery

Design Centre

Adamas Antique Jewellery

Artfull Expression

Arnett Creations - Unique Quality Jewellery

A&N Jewellery

Buff Jewellery

Ivy and Rose Gift Shop

Fine Jewellery Collections & Bespoke Design Service

Gingermegs Vintage