The Colmore - Birmingham - Pub Reviews

The Colmore is a relatively new addition to Birmingham’s city centre pub scene – a Thornbridge Brewery and Pivovar collaboration that opened in late 2019 – yet it already feels like a fixture of the Colmore Business District. Housed in Victoria House (114–116 Colmore Row, B3 3BD), the pub seamlessly blends historic architectural charm with a contemporary beer and food experience. It’s known for its extensive beer selection (especially Thornbridge’s award-winning ales) and excellent pizza, drawing a diverse crowd of local office workers, beer aficionados, and visitors in search of great food and drink. The current customer ratings are stellar (hovering around 4.5–4.7/5 on average), reflecting high praise for the atmosphere, offerings, and service. Opening hours are 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM Monday to Thursday, 12:00 PM – 11:30 PM on Friday and Saturday, and 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM on Sundays, making it a reliable spot for lunch, after-work pints, and evening gatherings alike.

Facilities & Entertainment

The Colmore offers a luxurious yet comfortable setting with a focus on quality time over gimmicks. Don’t expect any on-site parking (typical for a central Birmingham pub) – instead, the venue encourages arriving by foot, train or tram given its prime location. Inside, you won’t find the usual array of pub games like dartboards or loud arcade machines, and notably there are no TV screens blaring sports matches on the walls. This deliberate absence of televisions helps maintain a relaxed, conversation-friendly environment rather than a rowdy sports bar vibe. On major national game days the management might make exceptions, but generally The Colmore eschews big screens to keep the ambience civil and focused on good beer and company.

That said, there is still some fun to be had beyond eating and drinking. A highlight in the basement level is a well-kept pool table nestled among classic wood-and-velvet panelling – perfect if you fancy a friendly game with friends in the evening. This games area downstairs, along with additional seating, provides a bit of extra space to unwind (and it’s where you’ll also find the restrooms). For more low-key entertainment, the pub sometimes provides board games behind the bar (or you can bring your own), underscoring the easygoing, communal feel. There isn’t a dedicated beer garden due to the urban location, but on pleasant days patrons often spill out front with a pint in hand, enjoying the city atmosphere. Dog owners will be pleased to know the pub is pet-friendly – staff happily offer water bowls and even the occasional treat for canine companions, making well-behaved dogs welcome and adding to the venue’s inclusive charm. Overall, The Colmore’s facilities are about creating a welcoming, convivial space: it may lack TVs and loud music, but it compensates with cosy corners, a pool table for fun, and a general vibe that invites conversation and relaxation.

Food on Offer

If you come hungry, The Colmore has you covered with a menu centred on Milanese-style pizza done right. In fact, pizza is a point of pride here – the pub’s chefs craft their dough fresh each morning using fine Italian flour and a splash of Thornbridge’s Green Mountain IPA as a secret ingredient. The result is a thin, crispy-yet-chewy crust that forms the base of some seriously delicious pies. The menu offers around a dozen different pizzas, from classics to creative specials. For example, you can’t go wrong with a traditional Margherita (topped with buffalo mozzarella and fresh basil), but you might be tempted by more unique house creations like “The Brummie” pizza, which comes with a curried tomato sauce, tandoori chicken, chillies, and a drizzle of mint-yogurt dressing. It’s a bold, spicy homage to Birmingham’s love of curry – one reviewer dubbed the pizzas here “very well made and ‘banging’,” advising that The Brummie in particular packs quite the spicy kick. In short, these aren’t run-of-the-mill pub pizzas; they’re flavourful, satisfying meals that have locals raving.

Beyond pizza, the pub serves a handful of bar snacks and sides to complement your drink. You’ll find things like garlic pizza bread (stone-baked with garlic herb butter), mixed olives, and even fresh salads if you’re after something lighter. Notably, The Colmore aims to be inclusive in its food offerings – vegetarian and vegan options are usually available (such as a veggie-loaded pie or the ability to swap in vegan cheese), and they even offer gluten-free pizza bases on request. So whether you’re a carnivore craving a loaded “Carnivore” pizza (topped with ham, salami, pepperoni and spicy ’nduja), or a vegan seeking a cheeseless veggie pie, you’ll find something to enjoy. The kitchen typically serves food until around 9:00 PM (8:00 PM on Sundays), making The Colmore a solid choice for either lunch or dinner. One standout tradition here has been their occasional one-off special pizzas tied to events – for instance, during a collaboration with local Indian street food restaurant Bundobust, they offered a limited-time “Onion Bhaji Pizza” to pair with a special beer launch. These fun twists keep the menu interesting for regulars. Overall, while you won’t find a huge menu of pub classics like fish and chips or burgers, the focus on quality pizza pays off – portions are generous, ingredients are fresh, and nearly every visitor seems to leave impressed by the food. It’s comfort cooking with a crafty twist, perfectly suited to enjoying alongside a pint.

Beers on Tap

Beer is undeniably the star of the show at The Colmore. As a Thornbridge Brewery tap-house (run in partnership with beer specialists Pivovar), this pub boasts an exceptional line-up of brews. There are up to 24 draft beers on tap at any given time – typically 8 hand-pulled cask ales and 16 keg beers spanning a wide range of styles. The majority of the rotation features Thornbridge’s acclaimed beers, meaning you’ll often find their flagship Jaipur IPA, a perfectly balanced West Coast-style IPA, pouring fresh alongside favourites like the crisp Lukas lager or seasonal releases. One frequently praised brew here is Thornbridge’s Green Mountain (a hazy New England pale ale) – fans note it’s always served in top condition, “fresh and full of flavour,” and often becomes a fast favourite. But The Colmore isn’t just a one-brewery show: they make a point to showcase other notable craft breweries from Birmingham and across the UK. It’s not unusual to see guest taps featuring anything from a local Midlands microbrewery’s stout or a Yorkshire pale ale to an inventive sour or porter from farther afield. The bar even keeps a fridge stocked with bottled and canned beers for additional variety, including rare finds and international options. In short, choice is plentiful – whether you’re an ale aficionado seeking a well-kept cask bitter or an adventurous drinker hunting for the latest hazy IPA or fruity sour on keg, chances are you’ll find something new and interesting to try.

Importantly, beer quality is top-notch here. The pub takes great care of its pints – many a real ale fan has noted that the cask ales are beautifully kept and served at their best. One visitor remarked that the beers (Jaipur in particular) are “superb” and “beautifully kept”, indicating proper cellarmanship and line maintenance. Every pint I’ve had was poured perfectly with the right amount of head, and tasted fresh, which speaks to the staff’s diligence in looking after the beer. And speaking of the staff: they are very knowledgeable about the beers on offer. The bartenders clearly have a passion for craft beer and are happy to offer recommendations or a small taster if you’re unsure what to choose. Whether you ask about the difference between two IPAs on draft or need a suggestion for a light brew to pair with your pizza, they’ve got you covered – multiple reviewers have praised the team for being “passionate about their beers” and offering guidance. Traditionalists will appreciate that pints of real ale (like Thornbridge’s own Lord Marples or a rotating guest bitter) are usually available, and served via hand-pump in tip-top form. Meanwhile, those seeking something different can opt for a chilled craft keg beer – maybe a stout, a sour, or a trendy hazy pale – the variety from IPA to porter to cider is impressive. The Colmore truly lives up to its reputation as a beer lover’s paradise. And if by chance beer isn’t your drink of choice, don’t worry: the bar also offers an extensive wine selection (with some organic and sustainable picks), over 20 types of gin, quality spirits, and even locally roasted coffee and specialty teas. But it’s the well-curated beer program that shines brightest – The Colmore’s tap list is one of the best you’ll find in Birmingham, and the pub’s commitment to serving a great pint is second to none.

Price Range & Value

By city-centre standards, The Colmore falls into a reasonable mid-range (££) price category – a visit here won’t break the bank, especially considering the quality and location. Expect to pay around the £5 mark for a pint of most beers (give or take, depending on strength and rarity), which locals will recognise as fair for central Birmingham. Craft keg beers or higher-ABV specials might be a bit more, and cask ales often a bit less, but in general prices are in line with other specialty beer bars. A full pizza typically ranges from about £11 to £14, which feels like good value given the size and ingredients – one pizza can make a hearty meal. For example, a classic Margherita comes in around £11.50, while a loaded creation like The Brummie (with its meat and spicy toppings) is about £14 – comparable to, if not cheaper than, similar sit-down pizzerias in town. Sides and snacks are just a few pounds (garlic bread around £6–£7, olives for £2.50, etc.). Considering the high standard of both the food and drink, most patrons feel they get excellent value for money here. As one review put it, “prices are very reasonable for such a central location”, and another highlighted the “quality cask and craft lines at very reasonable prices considering the location.” There aren’t many gimmicks or upsells – you’re paying for quality and consistency, and that’s exactly what’s delivered.

Importantly, there’s no pretension or nickel-and-diming in how The Colmore operates. Service charge isn’t tacked on to your bill; you simply order at the bar, pay as you go, and tipping is at your discretion (as is customary in UK pubs). That straightforward approach is appreciated by customers. Value for money is a common theme in feedback – pints are well looked after, pizzas are made fresh with quality ingredients, and portions are generous. You might find slightly cheaper beer in a no-frills chain pub nearby, or 2-for-1 pizza deals at generic restaurants, but the consensus is that The Colmore is worth every penny. The combination of reasonable pricing and top-notch experience means you leave feeling like it was money well spent. In short, The Colmore offers a high-quality pub experience without an exorbitant price tag, which in itself is a big draw.

Customer Service

Walk into The Colmore and you’ll likely be greeted with a smile – the customer service here tends to be genuinely warm and attentive. Despite being part of a larger partnership, the pub has the feel of a well-run independent, and that comes down to the people running it day-to-day. The staff behind the bar are generally friendly, knowledgeable, and happy to chat, which helps set a genial tone. Regulars will tell you that after a few visits, the team may very well remember your face (or even your preferred pint). Even new visitors comment on how welcome they feel. For instance, one solo patron noted “as a solo drinker it’s always important to feel welcomed and I did here” – a testament to the inclusive hospitality. The bartenders are passionate about their beer (understandably, given the selection) and they’re quick to recommend something you might enjoy, or explain the differences between the latest IPAs on tap. If you’re unsure what to order, don’t hesitate to ask – they might offer you a little taste first, and they’ll happily guide you to a brew that suits your palate.

Beyond beer knowledge, the team also seems to handle the practical side of service efficiently. Even during busy spells – say a weekday post-work rush or a packed Friday night – the bar staff work fast and keep things moving with professionalism. When there’s a line at the bar, they’re pretty good at acknowledging everyone and serving in turn, so you’re not left feeling ignored. If you grab a table and order food, the wait times for pizza are reasonable given the fresh preparation, and staff will bring your pies out hot with a smile. On that note, multiple reviews praise the crew for being attentive and helpful – whether it’s promptly cleaning up an empty glass, checking on your food order, or even providing water for your dog without being asked. There’s a personal touch to the service; the manager (or “gaffer”) is often around, engaging with customers and ensuring things run smoothly – one social media comment even highlighted that management “gets some fabulous guest beers in” and clearly cares about the pub’s offering.

Crucially, the attitude of the staff consistently comes across as down-to-earth and welcoming rather than stuffy. The Colmore might have a chic interior, but it’s got the soul of a friendly local pub thanks to the people. If it’s not too hectic, bartenders will chat about the beers or the story of the building’s conversion, and they seem genuinely proud of the place – rightfully so. During my visits, I noticed how quickly empty plates were cleared and how the staff made an effort to ask if everything was good when I finished my pint. Little things like this leave a strong impression. Of course, as with any popular venue, there might be rare occasions when service is slower (perhaps if it’s absolutely jam-packed or if a staff member is new and learning the ropes), but those instances are the exception. The overwhelming majority of patrons report very positive service experiences, often using words like “fantastic staff” and “really helpful” to describe the team. In sum, The Colmore’s staff combine efficiency with genuine friendliness, which makes you feel well looked after. It’s the kind of service that turns first-time visitors into repeat customers.

Events & Special Nights

While The Colmore isn’t a pub that relies on weekly quiz nights or loud DJ sets to draw a crowd, it does host its share of special events – usually centred around its craft beer ethos. True to form, many of the events here involve showcasing breweries or unique beers. For example, the pub frequently arranges Tap Takeovers, where a guest brewery’s beers dominate the lines for an evening. These tap takeover nights give patrons a chance to explore a new range of brews and often chat with brewery reps. A notable event was the “Colmore X Bundobust” Tap Takeover in May 2023, when The Colmore teamed up with Indian street food gurus Bundobust to launch a new Thornbridge-brewed golden ale – the first 50 attendees even got a free half-pint, and Bundobust provided sample snacks plus that one-off Onion Bhaji Pizza for the occasion. It was a big hit and exemplifies the kind of collaborative, beer-centric happenings the pub is known for. Similarly, they’ve hosted evenings featuring trendy craft brewers like Vault City (known for their sour ales) and local up-and-coming breweries, giving Birmingham’s beer geeks something to mark on their calendars. These events usually don’t require tickets or bookings – it’s a “come one, come all” approach, just show up and enjoy the specials.

In addition to tap takeovers, The Colmore has participated in the city’s beer festivals and ale trails. Being located in the Business District, it sometimes ties into broader Colmore Business District events – for instance, during city-wide festivals or food weeks, you might find The Colmore offering a special beer flight or serving as a stop on a “Birmingham Beer Tour.” (They even ran their own “Taster Tours” in 2026 for enthusiasts to sample different brews in a guided format.) The focus is certainly more on beer and tasting events than on, say, live music, but occasionally the pub has fun with seasonal themes. Around Christmastime, they’ve been known to tap some rare winter ales and decorate festively, creating a warm holiday atmosphere. On very rare occasions – perhaps a World Cup match or similar – if demand is high, they might screen a big game using a projector or temporary TV, but this is infrequent and not a core part of The Colmore’s identity.

For the most part, entertainment at The Colmore is the organic kind – lively conversation, the clink of glasses, and the enjoyment of whoever you’re with. They do keep a stash of board games that can be borrowed, which is great for groups who want to add a bit of fun to their night (nothing like some Jenga or cards over a pint). And if you have a larger party or celebration, the pub can accommodate: there’s a semi-enclosed area toward the back that can be reserved for private gatherings, as one reviewer noted using it for a leaving party with great success. In summary, you won’t find karaoke Tuesdays or pub quiz Wednesdays here – The Colmore’s events calendar is more about special beer releases and collaborations, which aligns perfectly with its character. Keep an eye on their social media or chalkboard for announcements of any upcoming tap takeovers or tasting nights. Those tend to be memorable evenings for craft beer fans, and they add a nice dynamic element to what is already a fantastic pub.

Atmosphere & Accessibility

Inside The Colmore, the atmosphere strikes a wonderful balance between historic elegance and modern comfort. The interior is truly stunning – a result of the careful refurbishment of the early 20th-century bank hall that once occupied this space. You’ll immediately notice the original Edwardian Baroque design elements that have been preserved: a decorative marble frieze running along the ceiling, soaring high ceilings clad in glossy green ceramic tiles, and dark wooden panelling up to three-quarter height on the walls. These heritage features give the pub a sense of grandness and character that you just can’t fake. At the same time, the designers have added contemporary touches to make it feel warm and inviting. There’s a magnificent 30-foot-long bar in the main room, topped with marble, and above it hang spectacular chandeliers that cast a soft glow in the evenings. Scattered around are a mix of seating options – tall stools by the bar, leather-upholstered booths along the sides, and marbled-topped tables with comfy chairs. In one corner you might even find a cozy nook that was once part of a bank manager’s office, now perfect for intimate chats. Despite the opulence of the decor, the pub doesn’t feel stuffy or museum-like; it’s chic yet relaxed. The ambiance is often filled with a pleasant buzz of conversation and laughter. Light background music plays (often at a modest volume), but it never overpowers the space – you’ll typically hear the clink of pint glasses and happy patrons talking long before you notice any soundtrack. In fact, the acoustics of the building are surprisingly good – even when it’s busy, the high ceilings and layout mean you can carry on a conversation without shouting, a rare and welcome quality in a bustling bar.

The crowd at The Colmore is as varied as it is friendly. On a given afternoon, you might see a cluster of professionals from nearby offices having a lunchtime meeting over pizza and soda, while at the next table a group of beer enthusiasts are working through a paddle of tasting glasses. Come early evening, the after-work contingent files in – you’ll spot suits and ties mingling comfortably with T-shirts and jeans. Tourists and weekend shoppers find their way here too, drawn by the pub’s reputation, and they mix right in with the local Brummies. This diversity gives the place a welcoming, “all are welcome” vibe. It’s the kind of pub where a group of old friends catching up can sit next to a solo traveller at the bar, and both will feel at ease. There’s often a few CAMRA (real ale society) members about, noses in their pint glass appreciating the brew, and you might overhear one of them strike up a friendly chat with a newbie about what’s on tap – that’s just the kind of communal atmosphere it is. Everyone seems to be enjoying the space together, whether they came for the beer, the pizza, or just the company. The staff’s approachable nature contributes to this atmosphere as well, as they’ll joke and converse with patrons, further dissolving barriers. Even dogs add to the scene occasionally – as noted, pups are welcome, and you might see one or two contentedly snoozing under a table while their owners enjoy a drink. All these elements combine to create an atmosphere that’s both lively and laid-back: there’s a vibrant energy especially during peak times, but it remains a comfortable place where you can relax and socialise without feeling overwhelmed.

In terms of layout and comfort, The Colmore makes good use of its multi-room setup. The main bar area is where much of the action is, and it can get packed at peak periods (expect a healthy crowd on Fridays after 5 PM, for example). However, thanks to some clever design, the space is segmented by glass partitions and archways (a nod to the original bank offices) into a few distinct sections. This means if the front area by the bar is noisy, you can often find a slightly quieter corner in one of the side rooms or towards the back. There’s an alcove with additional seating that can feel almost private when it’s not reserved – perfect if you’re on a date or just want a calmer spot. Downstairs, besides the pool table, there are a couple of pub tables and stools; not many people venture down except to play pool or use the loo, so if you truly need a quiet hideaway on a busy night, the basement could be your secret spot (bearing in mind it’s a bit less atmospheric than the beautiful main floor). The pub’s furniture is a mix of classic and modern – sturdy wooden chairs, plus some high-top tables – all generally comfortable for a drinking/dining session. If you prefer to stand and mingle, the long bar and a ledge or two provide space for that as well. Cleanliness is well-maintained: staff bus tables regularly, and even with the vintage wood and brass around, everything looks polished and cared for.

Accessibility is a consideration given the building’s age, and The Colmore does its best within those constraints. The main entrance is almost level with the pavement – there might be a small step or threshold, but no big staircase or anything dramatically prohibitive to entry. Once inside, the entire ground floor is on one level, which is great for those with mobility aids (there’s sufficient space between tables in most areas, though it can become a tighter squeeze when very crowded). The challenge comes with facilities: the toilets are located down a flight of stairs in the basement, and unfortunately there isn’t an elevator or a ground-floor WC in this historic layout. This means wheelchair users or anyone who can’t do stairs would have difficulty accessing the restrooms. It’s an aspect to be aware of; the pub staff are helpful and might be able to suggest alternatives (for instance, a nearby accessible toilet in another establishment), but it’s not ideal and is one downside of the venue’s heritage architecture. On the flip side, service is very accommodating – if you have any difficulty carrying drinks or navigating, the team will gladly assist (I’ve seen staff carry pints over to someone with crutches so they didn’t have to struggle through the crowd). Guide dogs are allowed, as are regular dogs as mentioned, which is a plus for accessibility in a broader sense. For those with hearing sensitivities, note that while it can get loud with chatter at busy times, the absence of blaring music or TVs actually makes it easier to converse than in many pubs. Lighting is moderate – bright enough to read a menu, but soft enough to be cozy in the evening. There aren’t flashing lights or anything harsh. If you prefer a bit of fresh air, there isn’t a dedicated beer garden, but in decent weather some outdoor seating or standing room right outside the door is typically occupied by patrons – just be mindful that’s essentially the street on Colmore Row. In summary, The Colmore’s atmosphere is one of warmth, character, and conviviality. It looks upscale and historic, yet it feels comfortable and unpretentious, inviting everyone to relax and enjoy. The accessibility has a limitation with the stairs, but in most other ways the pub tries to be as welcoming as possible to all. Walk in, soak up the gorgeous surroundings, and you’ll likely feel at home within minutes.

Location & Nearby Attractions

Situated in the heart of Birmingham’s city centre, The Colmore benefits from a fantastic location that’s both convenient and surrounded by notable attractions. As its name implies, the pub is on Colmore Row, the city’s premier business street lined with impressive historic buildings. This puts it squarely in the Colmore Business District, meaning it’s an easy stroll for the many professionals working in the area and extremely well-connected for visitors. In fact, getting to The Colmore is a breeze: Birmingham New Street Station – the city’s main rail hub – is only about a 5-minute walk away (roughly 300 meters), and Birmingham Snow Hill Station (handy for local trains and the tram) is equally close by, about 3–4 minutes on foot. With two major stations so near, anyone coming from out of town or hopping off a train can find their way here with ease (head towards the Cathedral or Town Hall, and you’re basically there). Bus connections in the area are plentiful as well, and if you’re using the Midland Metro Tram, the Colmore Row stop by Snow Hill is just down the street. For those driving, be aware that while there’s no on-site parking, there are a few public car parks around (Snow Hill Station has a multi-storey car park, and there’s one on Livery Street), but traffic in the centre can be dense and many streets are bus-only. If possible, it’s better to use public transport or a taxi/rideshare to reach this pub. Cyclists will find some bike racks along Colmore Row and neighbouring streets, so locking up a bicycle is doable too.

Being in the city core, The Colmore is surrounded by things to see and do. Just a block west is Victoria Square, home to the grand Birmingham Council House and Town Hall. This is a lovely public square often animated with art installations or seasonal markets (like the Christmas Frankfurt Market), and it’s worth passing through on your way to or from the pub. Around the corner you’ll also find the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery (currently undergoing refurbishment, but typically a must-visit for art and local history) – it’s only about a 3-4 minute walk from the pub. A couple minutes east of The Colmore is St. Philip’s Cathedral and its surrounding churchyard park. On a nice day, you might see people relaxing on the grass there; it’s a nice spot to sit if you have time to spare before your train. If you fancy a bit of shopping, the bustling Bullring & Grand Central shopping malls are about 10 minutes walk south (or one stop on the tram) – so it’s very feasible to drop into The Colmore for a restorative pint after a shopping spree. Likewise, the Mailbox (another shopping/dining destination) and Symphony Hall / ICC (for concerts and conferences) are a short stroll or quick hop away, making the pub a good pre- or post-event meeting point.

For those on a pub crawl or beer tour, The Colmore’s location is ideal as well. It’s very close to a number of other notable pubs and bars. Just up Bennetts Hill and Waterloo Street you have options like The Wellington (famed for its real ale selection) and Purecraft Bar & Kitchen (another craft beer haven), among others – so this area of Birmingham is something of a beer enthusiast’s playground. The Colmore itself is often included in “best of Birmingham pubs” lists and was even ranked among the top craft beer bars in the country (finalist for UK’s Best Independent Craft Beer Bar – City Category in 2022). So if you’re exploring the city’s beer scene, this is a must-stop location.

In terms of nearby dining, if for some reason you’re not eating at The Colmore (though their pizzas are excellent), you’re spoiled for choice. The Business District and nearby Jewellery Quarter have everything from upscale restaurants to casual cafes. For instance, just across the street there’s a steakhouse and a trendy Indian tapas place, and a short walk lands you at the famed Pigeon Park (cathedral square) area which has coffee shops and sandwich spots aplenty. Cultural sights like the Birmingham Repertory Theatre and Library of Birmingham (with its stunning architecture and rooftop garden) are also within a 10–15 minute walk westward. Essentially, The Colmore sits in an enviable location for anyone looking to experience Birmingham’s city centre – it’s central, easy to reach, and surrounded by attractions. Whether you’re meeting friends coming from different parts of the city or you’re a traveller with only an afternoon in town, convening at The Colmore is both practical and rewarding. You can soak in some Birmingham history and architecture on your way, enjoy top-notch food and drink at the pub, and have plenty of options for what to do next, all within walking distance.

Overall Impression

The Colmore has quickly established itself as one of Birmingham’s truly special pubs, and my overall impression is exceedingly positive. In just a few years of operation, it has managed to combine the best elements of a traditional pub – friendly service, a cosy atmosphere, quality ales – with a modern craft beer bar’s innovation and culinary flair. The setting is exceptional: sipping a pint under those chandeliers, surrounded by elegant old architecture, gives a sense of occasion to even a casual drink. Yet nothing about it feels contrived or touristy – it’s an authentic pub experience at heart. The beer selection is world-class for a pub of this size, and the team’s dedication to keeping those beers in top condition is evident in every pour. The food, especially the pizzas, not only lives up to the hype but actually adds a whole new reason to visit (how many pubs can you say have outstanding pizza that competes with stand-alone pizzerias?). The Colmore has managed to carve out a niche where it excels on all fronts: it’s a beer lover’s destination, a lunch spot, an after-work hangout, and a weekend chill-out space all at once.

Of course, no pub is perfect for everyone. The Colmore’s focus on craft beer and a quiet-ish atmosphere means you won’t find loud music gigs or sports viewing parties here on a regular basis – those seeking a rowdy sports pub or a late-night dance venue will need to look elsewhere. Similarly, because it’s so popular and not the largest venue, it can get quite crowded at peak times, and you might have to be patient to snag a table on a busy Friday evening. A few patrons have mentioned it can be a bit too packed at times (a consequence of its success), but personally I’ve always felt the buzz added to the charm – still, if you only like pubs when they’re half-empty and silent, plan your visit for an off-peak hour or earlier in the week. The only other “negative” to mention is the accessibility issue of the toilets being downstairs, which is a limitation for those who can’t manage stairs. But these are relatively minor quibbles in an otherwise shining picture.

The pros far outweigh any cons. The consistent praise this place earns for its beer quality, food, and ambiance speaks volumes. Many patrons, myself included, have remarked that they’ve “never ever had a bad beer or food” at The Colmore – a statement that’s quite remarkable and reassuring. The pub has even won accolades like a CAMRA Pub Design Award for its beautiful conversion, and it was a finalist in a national competition for best craft beer bar, underscoring that it’s not just loved locally but recognised more broadly for its excellence. After multiple visits, I can confidently say that The Colmore delivers on what it promises: an extensive, top-quality beer selection, delicious pizzas, and a welcoming environment, all set in a gorgeous venue that gives a nod to Birmingham’s heritage. It’s the kind of place where a casual “quick pint” can easily turn into an evening of enjoyable conversation and tasting “just one more” new beer because the offerings are too interesting to pass up.

The Colmore is a gem of a pub that adds something special to Birmingham’s pub landscape. It manages to be both trend-setting and timeless – a craft beer haven that respects the tradition of what makes pubs great. Whether you’re a local looking for your next favourite pint, or a visitor wanting a memorable Birmingham pub experience, The Colmore should be high on your list. It’s rare to find a pub that fires on all cylinders like this: atmosphere, drinks, food, and service all coming together in harmony. But The Colmore achieves it, and does so seemingly with ease. I highly recommend stopping by to see (and taste) for yourself – chances are you’ll leave as impressed as I have been, already planning your next visit to this brilliant city-centre pub.