The Old Crown Pub
Birmingham's oldest pub, a 14th-century timber-framed inn offering historic charm, hearty food, and lively events.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for Sunday roast
The Old Crown Pub
Best Time
Best for Sunday roast
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Birmingham's oldest pub, a 14th-century timber-framed inn offering historic charm, hearty food, and lively events.
"A place steeped in history, The Old Crown is an absolute gem and a beauty you can't go wrong with."
🎯 Book Sunday Roast Ahead
Sunday roasts are popular! Book your table in advance to avoid disappointment.
🎶 Check Event Schedule
They host live music and DJs regularly. See what's on before you visit!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Historic Interior
Main pub area
Step back in time in this medieval timber-framed inn, steeped in centuries of history and charm.
Sunday Roast Feast
Dining area
Indulge in Birmingham's favorite Sunday lunch, with tender meats, crispy spuds, and all the trimmings.
Vibrant Beer Garden
Outdoor seating area
Enjoy drinks and food in a spacious beer garden, perfect for sunny days or evening gatherings.
Live Music & Events
Various areas
Experience a lively atmosphere with regular live music, DJs, and unique events throughout the week.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Events
Embrace the History
+4Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Sunday Roast Ahead
Sunday roasts are popular! Book your table in advance to avoid disappointment. +2
🎶 Check Event Schedule
They host live music and DJs regularly. See what's on before you visit! +2
🍺 Enjoy the Beer Garden
Spacious outdoor area, great for drinks and soaking up the atmosphere. +1
👻 Haunted History
Rumored to be haunted, adding an extra layer of intrigue to your visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Sunday Roast Ahead
Sunday roasts are popular! Book your table in advance to avoid disappointment. +2
🎶 Check Event Schedule
They host live music and DJs regularly. See what's on before you visit! +2
🍺 Enjoy the Beer Garden
Spacious outdoor area, great for drinks and soaking up the atmosphere. +1
👻 Haunted History
Rumored to be haunted, adding an extra layer of intrigue to your visit.
🚶♂️ Explore Digbeth
Located in the vibrant Digbeth area, perfect for a pub crawl or exploring street art. +2
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise The Old Crown for its incredible history and charming atmosphere, making it Birmingham's oldest pub a unique destination. The Sunday Roast is a major highlight, receiving rave reviews for its quality and generous portions. While the food and historical ambiance are big draws, some minor issues with toilet cleanliness have been noted.
"We ordered the Sunday Roast and the T-Bone Steak, and both were outstanding. The flavors were perfectly balanced — a wonderful mix of ingredients and sauces. From the tender pork to the crispy Yorkshire pudding, every bite stood out. The vegetables, potatoes, cherry tomatoes, rhubarb, fried pickles, and the rich gravy all came together beautifully. The Chimichurri sauce added a fresh, vibrant touch to the steak.
To finish, we had cheesecake, which was the perfect sweet ending to a truly memorable meal.
On top of the food, the setting makes it even more special — The Old Crown, dating back to 1368, is the oldest pub in Birmingham, full of charm and history, which adds to the whole experience. The staff were also very attentive and welcoming, making us feel right at home from the moment we arrived."
Ucha
"Arrived on Sunday for the record fair and decided to have a drink outside in the sun next to the kitchen window. From there I got to see the Sunday dinners being prepared and was impressed with the attention to detail in creating great looking roasts.
In the end after viewing the fair we decided to have a meal here which was the first time eating in the crown, only haven popped in for a quick drink previously. I was really impressed with how punctual staff were and offered great service. It didn’t take long for the food to arrive after ordering. The pork and beef roast I had tasted excellent. The pork and beef were cooked perfectly and loved the crackling on the pork. The roasties were nice and crispy with a soft centre and the vegetables tasted great also. One of the better roasts I've tried in a while! I was really impressed and pleased the pub is offering great food to go along with its character and history.
My partner had the Salmon and she loved it and thought it was one of the best cooked Salmons she had had. We would have had a dessert, but the food was filling enough for us both.
I would recommend anyone to come along to this great pub and sample the good selection of drinks and food. Thanks to all the staff also who are doing a great job here. I will return to try more of the menu soon."
T
"The aesthetic was perfection. The room was absolutely cosy, especially the pub below. The history of the building was definitely something we both have a niche for! The food at the pub was fantastic especially the pork belly chilli bites. Staff were all friendly and helped with any needs."
Harley Widdowson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Old Crown is located in Digbeth, Birmingham. It's easily accessible by public transport, with many bus routes stopping nearby. If driving, be aware that parking in Digbeth can be limited and may require payment. +2
Yes, The Old Crown is a prominent landmark in Digbeth, known for its historic timber-framed exterior. It's hard to miss! +1
Yes, it's a pleasant walk from Birmingham city centre to The Old Crown, taking approximately 15-20 minutes.
For evening events, consider public transport or taxis as parking may be restricted. Check local transport options for late-night services.
While the historic nature of the building presents challenges, the pub strives to be accommodating. It's best to contact them directly to discuss specific accessibility needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the pub itself is generally free. However, for special events like live music, comedy nights (e.g., Roy Walker), or DJ sets, tickets are usually required and can sell out quickly. +2
Opening hours can vary, especially on weekends and for events. It's always best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information. +1
Yes, booking is highly recommended, especially for Sunday lunch and during peak times or events. You can usually book via their website. +1
The beer garden is part of the pub, so there's no separate entry fee. However, you'll need to purchase drinks and food.
Typically, pubs have age restrictions for certain times or areas, especially if alcohol is served. It's advisable to check their policy if you are unsure.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Old Crown serves classic pub grub, with a strong reputation for its delicious Sunday roasts. They also offer other dishes like steak and ale pie, halloumi kebabs, and Korean BBQ chicken wings.
Reviews consistently praise the Sunday Roast, highlighting tender meats, crispy potatoes, and excellent trimmings. Many consider it one of Birmingham's best. +2
Yes, they offer a range of food options, including vegetarian and even pudding choices for those with dietary needs.
The Sunday Roast is a standout, but dishes like pork belly chilli bites and steak and ale pie also receive high praise.
Absolutely! As a historic pub, they offer a good selection of drinks, including beers, ales, and other beverages.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of the medieval timber-framed building is iconic. Inside, the cozy pub atmosphere and historical details offer many charming shots. +3
Yes, visitors are generally welcome to take photos to capture the historic ambiance. Be mindful of other patrons and staff. +1
Look for the original timber beams, the historic architecture, and any preserved elements that speak to its 14th-century origins. +1
Daylight hours are best for capturing the exterior details. For interior shots, consider times when the lighting is warm and atmospheric, perhaps during evening events. +1
For professional shoots or commercial use, it's always best to contact the pub management in advance to inquire about their policy.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🍻 Pub Enthusiasts & History Buffs
+4 Explore the interior, learn about its storied past, and enjoy a pint in a setting that has stood for over 650 years. The pub's reputation for good food and a lively atmosphere further enhances the experience for any pub aficionado. 🎶 Music & Event Goers
+1 Check their schedule for DJ nights, live bands, and unique happenings. Booking tickets ahead is highly recommended for popular events to secure your spot. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Time: The Old Crown's History
+4 Its timber-framed structure has witnessed an incredible sweep of British history, surviving monarchies, wars, and the constant evolution of Birmingham. It has served as a guild hall, a school, and even a wartime shelter before becoming the beloved pub it is today. Parts of the original inn still exist, though most of the current structure dates from modifications made in the early 1500s.
Beyond its age, the pub is also rumored to be haunted by several spirits, adding a layer of paranormal intrigue to its already rich narrative.
Culinary Delights at The Old Crown
Beyond Sunday, the menu offers a satisfying range of pub classics. Expect dishes like steak and ale pie, halloumi kebabs, and Korean BBQ chicken wings, showcasing a blend of traditional and contemporary flavors.
The pub also caters to various dietary needs, with vegetarian and even pudding options available for those with specific requirements. Complementing the food is a good selection of drinks, making The Old Crown a perfect spot for a relaxed meal and a pint.
Events and Entertainment at The Old Crown
+2 Keep an eye on their schedule, as they feature local bands, tribute acts, and even well-known personalities like Catchphrase host Roy Walker for special appearances. Music lovers will find plenty to enjoy, with genres ranging from house music to rock and jazz.
+1 The pub is conveniently located near music venues like the O2 Institute, making it an ideal spot for pre- or post-gig drinks. Booking tickets in advance is crucial for popular events, as they can sell out quickly.
Social
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