The Victoria - Birmingham - Pub Reviews

The Victoria is a 19th-century pub (built in 1883) near New Street Station (48 John Bright Street, B1 1BN), known for blending old-fashioned pub charm with a vibrant, music-driven atmosphere. This Grade II-listed pub – which dates back to the late 1800s – exudes character (there’s even a local legend about a resident ghost haunting its halls) while catering to modern tastes in drinks and entertainment. It’s a popular haunt for gig-goers, local creatives, and after-work crowds alike, drawn by the unique combination of well-kept ales, creative cocktails, and live music performances. The pub currently holds a strong customer rating (around 4.3/5), reflecting a positive reputation for its atmosphere, drinks, and service. Opening hours are modest on weekdays (4:00 PM – 11:00 PM Monday to Wednesday, 3:00 PM – 11:00 PM Thursday), with late-night service on Fridays (3:00 PM – 2:00 AM) and Saturdays (12:00 PM – 2:00 AM), and usually closed on Sundays.

Facilities & Entertainment

The Victoria offers a cosy yet lively setting with a focus on its distinctive entertainment options rather than typical pub games. Don’t expect on-site parking (standard for a city-centre pub) or a row of dartboards and pool tables – space is at a premium, and The Victoria chooses to fill it with atmosphere and events instead. In fact, big-screen sports are not a main feature here; the pub generally favours music and conversation over loud match days. Instead, the entertainment centrepiece is the pub’s upstairs function room, often referred to as the Jack Daniels Room, which can accommodate around 80–90 people for private events. This space doubles as a venue for live performances – anything from up-and-coming band gigs and indie showcases to stand-up comedy nights and quirky themed parties. I was intrigued to learn that the venue hosts an eclectic mix of events throughout the week, leveraging that upstairs area to bring in local talent and niche gatherings. For example, there’s a popular weekly pub quiz (a mid-week staple that draws a crowd of trivia buffs), and the pub has been known to hold comedy nights and even intellectual talks (the Birmingham Skeptics society has held events here on Wednesdays, adding to the pub’s community vibe).

For more low-key fun, The Victoria occasionally provides board games that patrons can play at their tables – though on busy nights most people are too engaged in chatting or enjoying the music to break out Monopoly. Instead of traditional pub games, you’ll more likely find people clustering around for open-mic sessions, toe-tapping to an acoustic set, or gearing up for one of the pub’s themed music nights. Notably, The Victoria embraces its identity as a music venue: there are regular live music nights spanning a wide range of genres (just about every musical style gets a chance to shine in this Grade II-listed building), and on weekends especially, it can feel like a gig venue that happens to have a bar. DJs also make appearances – in fact, there’s a monthly 80’s night upstairs that has become something of a local legend for fans of retro tunes. During these events the pub transforms into a mini nightclub with a vintage twist, complete with a glitterball overhead. It’s worth noting that The Victoria’s layout, a classic Victorian corner pub design, once featured multiple snug rooms, but after refurbishments in late 2022 the interior is now more open-plan around a central bar (great for flow, though it means the buzz of activity is shared throughout the space). There’s limited outdoor space – just a couple of tables out front on the pavement for those who want some fresh air with their drinks – but inside you’ll find plenty of nooks and crannies to tuck yourself into when it’s not too crowded. Overall, while it forgoes sports TVs and typical pub sports, The Victoria compensates with a culturally rich slate of entertainment and a friendly, music-loving ambience to relax in before, after, or in lieu of a show.

Food on Offer

The Victoria serves up a tasty menu of pub fare, balancing hearty classics with modern, inventive twists. In years past, the kitchen gained a following for its stone-baked pizzas and juicy burgers, which were anything but fancy yet consistently hit the spot – I recall the thin-crust pizzas being particularly delicious and made fresh to order. These days, the pub has teamed up with local street-food gurus BA-HA to offer an award-winning vegetarian menu under the moniker “Chik’n Chaat”. This means you’ll still find indulgent comfort food, but now much of it is plant-based, catering brilliantly to vegetarians and vegans (and frankly, even carnivores won’t miss the meat once they taste the flavour packed into these dishes). Think crispy oyster mushroom “chicken” burgers stacked in brioche buns, rich vegan mac ‘n’ cheese topped with spicy Bombay mix crunch, and shareable plates of cauliflower “wings” with tangy chutney dips. Traditionalists need not worry – the menu still covers the pub classics in spirit, from loaded fries to hearty Sunday roasts on special occasions. One standout offering, when available, is the Sunday roast: historically, The Victoria’s roasts have been a must-try, coming out as generous plates with all the trimmings (when they do host a roast, it often draws a crowd and can even sell out due to popularity, much like other top Birmingham pubs). Even if you visit mid-week, you can expect well-executed grub that complements your pint – whether it’s a basket of seasoned fries to snack on or a full dinner. The kitchen keeps things interesting with occasional specials or themed menus, especially during events; for instance, on a live music night you might find a bespoke menu item or two to match the vibe. Importantly, the pub has options for various diets: everything on the current menu is vegetarian, and many items are vegan or can be made vegan, but there’s enough hearty, fried goodness that no one will feel it’s just health food.

In my experience, the quality of the food is high for a casual pub – ingredients taste fresh and the dishes are prepared with care rather than just thrown in a microwave as can happen elsewhere. Regulars have raved about items like the “Brum Balti” burger (a cheeky nod to Birmingham’s culinary heritage, featuring a delicious balti curry sauce on a crispy mushroom fillet) and the rotating selection of homemade desserts (if you have a sweet tooth, keep an eye out for the cheesecake cups from local bakery NÜD, they’re scrumptious). The menu manages to balance pub tradition with creative flair, and it’s inclusive enough that both meat-lovers and vegans will leave satisfied. If you’re visiting towards the end of the week, check if they’re doing a Sunday menu – on those days, a proper roast with all the trimmings might be on offer in a warm, welcoming atmosphere (the ultimate comfort meal to round out your weekend). And no matter the day, rest assured that The Victoria’s food will keep you happily fuelled, whether you’re settling in for a long night of music or grabbing a quick bite before a show at the theatre next door.

Beers on Tap

Beer enthusiasts will find plenty to love at The Victoria. This pub reflects a dedication to quality real ales and interesting craft brews, leveraging its independence (it’s not tied to any big brewery chain) to curate an appealing selection. On any given visit, you’ll typically see a mix of beloved British cask ales and rotating guest beers on draught. One reliable fixture is usually a classic ale – for instance, it’s not uncommon to find a Wye Valley Butty Bach or a similar staple bitter as the house hand-pull. Beyond that, the pub’s five or so cask pumps are often occupied by more adventurous offerings. During one of my recent visits, the line-up included a hoppy pale ale from a local Birmingham microbrewery alongside a richer stout from out of town. The selection changes regularly, meaning there’s often something new to try if you’re an ale aficionado. On the keg taps, you’ll find craft lagers and the occasional trendy brew – The Victoria isn’t a specialist craft beer bar per se, but it definitely keeps up with the craft beer scene. I’ve spotted brews from Magic Rock, Northern Monk, and Thornbridge on tap here in the past, and they maintain a predominantly UK-focused bottled beer menu that’s unusually extensive for a pub of this type. Expect to see the likes of Beavertown or BrewDog in the fridge, alongside some lesser-known gems (the team clearly put thought into their beer ordering, so it’s a discerning selection).

Crucially, The Victoria takes good care of its beer. The cask ales are maintained in prime condition – many a real ale fan (myself included) has noted that pints here are poured properly, at the right temperature and freshness. The pub was even listed among top craft beer pubs in Birmingham by one publication, a nod to its beer quality despite the slightly “hipster” vibe of the decor. The bartenders know their stuff; I’ve found them quite knowledgeable about what’s on tap and ready to offer recommendations. Unsure which ale to pick? They’ll happily chat about the differences and let you sample a sip, which is a welcome touch. Traditional beer drinkers will recognise some well-known names on the pumps (it wouldn’t be unusual to see a Marston’s or Purity brewery ale cameo on the list), while the more adventurous can delve into the rotating guest options or the curated canned craft beers. And of course, if beer isn’t your drink of choice, The Victoria has you covered with the usual array of lagers, wines, and spirits. In fact, it’s worth highlighting their whisky collection – the pub boasts an impressive shelf of whiskies (harking back to its days as a “theatre bar” where a fine whisky might be the order of the day). Moreover, the cocktail menu here truly shines. The Victoria has made a name for itself with creative cocktails, from well-made classics like a proper Dark & Stormy to their own inventive concoctions featuring local twists and playful ingredients. The bartenders mix a mean drink, and they even host cocktail masterclasses for those wanting to learn some tricks themselves. So whether you’re a CAMRA card-carrying ale lover or a cocktail enthusiast, you’ll find that drinks at The Victoria are taken seriously, with quality and variety as the guiding principles. It’s a pub that can satisfy the beer geek without alienating the cocktail crowd – a rare and delightful balance.

Price Range & Value

By Birmingham city centre standards, The Victoria falls into a reasonable mid-range (££) price category. A night out here won’t break the bank, especially considering the central location and the quality on offer. Expect roughly typical prices for the area: a pint of beer around the £4–5 mark (with some of the stronger or craft options edging a bit higher). In fact, during early evening happy hours, they often knock a pound off select pints, bringing some prices down nearer to £4 – a welcome deal if you arrive before the post-work rush. Most main dishes on the menu tend to sit in the £8–£12 range, which is quite fair for the hearty portions and city location. For example, a loaded vegan burger and fries might come in around a tenner, and a basket of mushroom “wings” to share is under £10. A couple of years ago, I remember two of us dining on pizzas with sides and enjoying a cocktail each, and the bill was about £30 all in – we walked away feeling it was money well spent. Today, those prices might have nudged up slightly with inflation, but not by much; The Victoria clearly tries to keep things accessible for regulars.

Value for money is a consistent theme in customer feedback here. You get what you pay for – in a good way – as the ingredients are fresh, the portions generous, and the pints are well looked-after. There aren’t many gimmicks or sneaky upsells at The Victoria; it feels like honest pub pricing. For instance, service charge isn’t tacked on automatically; you’ll simply order at the bar as usual, and any tipping is at your discretion. Drink deals do pop up: as noted, there’s a Happy Hour (famously, they’ve done two-for-one cocktails on certain evenings, which draws a younger crowd looking for quality cocktails on a budget), and they often have a Quiz Night special where participating teams get a pitcher or platter deal. Given the pub’s independent nature, they’ve been quite savvy about offering these little incentives that add value without cheapening the experience.

Overall, while you might find slightly cheaper pints in a no-frills chain pub or student bar down the road, the consensus is that The Victoria offers a satisfying experience at a fair price. You’re paying for more than just a drink – it’s the character, the entertainment, and the quality that come with it. A well-poured ale or expertly mixed cocktail here feels worth every penny when combined with the lively atmosphere. Many patrons appreciate that you can have a full evening out (dinner, drinks, and a show or quiz) without feeling overcharged. In short, The Victoria hits that sweet spot in value: it’s neither a pricey upscale bar nor a dirt-cheap dive, but comfortably in the middle, delivering bang for your buck (or perhaps “pint for your pound” is more appropriate).

Customer Service

Walk into The Victoria and you’re likely to be greeted with a warm welcome – it’s the kind of place where the staff help set a genial tone from the get-go. The pub is part of a small Birmingham-based pub group rather than a faceless corporation, and that pride of ownership comes through in the service. Regulars often note the friendly, down-to-earth nature of the team behind the bar. Whether it’s the long-standing manager or the younger bartenders, they tend to be chatty (when the rush allows) and genuinely welcoming, making newcomers feel like they’ve been coming for ages. I found that from the moment I sidled up to the bar, I was looked after promptly and with a smile. The staff here know their products well – ask about the latest guest ale or what cocktail might suit your taste, and they’ll give an honest recommendation rather than a hard sell. There’s a palpable sense of community; many of the bartenders and door staff have been at The Victoria for years, and they recognise the returning patrons by name or at least by “usual order.” That local pub familiarity really elevates the customer service experience.

Service is generally efficient and attentive. Even during a busy gig night or the Friday evening cocktail rush, the team manages to keep queues moving at a decent clip. They work well together – you’ll see a kind of choreography behind the bar as one person pulls pints while another shakes cocktails, all while exchanging banter with the customers. On one of my visits, I was impressed that even as a crowd three-deep lined up at the bar, the bartenders remained unflustered and made sure to serve in turn, occasionally calling out a friendly joke to keep the mood light. Empty glasses are cleared from tables fairly regularly and, if you’ve ordered food, the servers will bring it out to your table (they’ll even hunt you down by those little wooden spoon number stands if you’ve wandered off). If you happen to spill a drink or need something extra, they’re quick to help – I once saw a staff member deftly assist a customer who had dropped their pint, replacing it without fuss.

Of course, as with any popular venue, if you catch the pub at its absolute peak (say, right after a big show lets out next door, when dozens of theatre-goers flood in at once, or late on a Saturday when the DJ set has the place hopping), you might wait a touch longer for that pint or for your food to arrive. The Victoria can get crammed on weekend nights, and the bar area is not huge, so a bit of patience is sometimes required. However, those moments of slow-down are the exception rather than the rule. By and large, The Victoria’s crew handles the crowds well. They also seem to genuinely enjoy what they do, which comes across in interactions – I’ve had bartenders there chat about the history of the pub during a lull, and on another night one of them taught me a thing or two about mixing a cocktail properly. It’s the sort of personal touch that turns first-timers into repeat visitors.

Another noteworthy aspect is how the staff embrace the pub’s quirky character – they might regale you with the story of Charlie, the resident ghost, if you show interest (some say he’s a mischievous spirit upstairs – all in good fun, of course). Far from being standoffish, the team at The Victoria seem to foster the inclusive, creative vibe of the place. Whether it’s dressing up in theme for an event night or simply remembering your last drink order, the staff go the extra mile to make you feel at home. In summary, you know you’re in good hands at The Victoria: the service combines efficiency with genuine friendliness, leaving a strong impression on patrons. It’s the kind of pub where you might come for the beer or music, but end up praising the staff just as much as the pints.

Events & Special Nights

True to its reputation, The Victoria shines when it comes to events – particularly those with a musical or cultural flair. This pub is as much a social hub as it is a drinking hole, and its calendar is usually brimming with diverse happenings. The headline attraction is often the live music. Throughout the year (and especially on weekends), The Victoria hosts an array of bands and solo artists, showcasing everything from indie rock and acoustic folk to funk, soul, and blues. They’re passionate about supporting up-and-coming talent – it’s not uncommon to catch a local band’s EP launch or a touring singer-songwriter making their Birmingham debut on The Victoria’s modest stage. The atmosphere on live music nights is electric: the upstairs room or sometimes a corner of the downstairs fills with music lovers, the lights dim, and the pub takes on an intimate concert vibe. In fact, the pub proudly advertises its commitment to live music and has in the past been a springboard for artists (their website touts how they showcase emerging acts from Birmingham and beyond). If you’re a music fan, it’s worth checking their listings in advance – one week you might stumble into a grungy garage band, the next a funky DJ set that has everyone dancing by the bar.

But music is just one part of the story. The Victoria also keeps things engaging with weekly events. Every Tuesday night (as of my last visit) is Quiz Night, and it’s a good one – the questions can be surprisingly challenging, and the quiz master often infuses a bit of comedy into the proceedings. It’s popular enough that teams stake out tables early. Then there are the comedy nights: the pub has hosted stand-up comedy events periodically, featuring local comedians or travelling acts looking for an intimate crowd to test new material. Laughter, beer, and a cosy room full of people – it fits right in with The Victoria’s convivial spirit. Additionally, I’ve seen listings for themed movie nights, open mic evenings, and even the occasional karaoke night (the pub’s private hire karaoke parties are a hit for birthdays – belt out some 80s classics in the upstairs room and you’ll quickly see why the space is nicknamed a “theatre bar”!).

One particularly unique regular event is the Birmingham Skeptics in the Pub talk (often on a Wednesday). It’s essentially a casual lecture/Q&A on science, skepticism, and philosophy, held right in the pub – imagine sipping a pint while listening to a talk about the latest space discoveries or debunking urban legends. It’s niche, sure, but it exemplifies how The Victoria welcomes a broad community and isn’t afraid to mix things up beyond the typical pub fare. On weekends, when there isn’t a band, you might find a DJ night. These are often themed – besides the aforementioned monthly 80s Night, there have been 90s Britpop nights, reggae evenings, and more. The music policy is quite eclectic across different nights, which keeps the crowd varied and the vibe fresh.

The pub also rises to the occasion for big events and holidays. For example, on Halloween, The Victoria usually goes all out with decorations (think cobwebs on those Victorian lampshades and staff in spooky costumes) and a special “Halloweekend” party featuring appropriate tunes and perhaps a themed cocktail or two (black vodka, anyone?). Christmas season sees festive sing-alongs and an ugly jumper party, and on New Year’s Eve they’ve been known to host a ticketed bash that still retains that friendly pub feel. While The Victoria doesn’t regularly show sports, they have made exceptions for major national events – a World Cup or Euro football match involving England may prompt them to pull down a projector screen, though it’s done with the understanding that it’s a one-off communal experience rather than a permanent shift to sports bar mode.

In general, if you’re coming to The Victoria, you’re either there to enjoy whatever event is on or to soak up the lively, creative atmosphere that these events cultivate. It’s a pub that wears its cultural heart on its sleeve. The “special nights” it offers – be it a live gig, a quiz, or a themed dance party – align with that spirit and give the pub its unique identity in Birmingham’s nightlife scene. I’d recommend keeping an eye on their social media or chalkboard for announcements, because there’s often something interesting on the horizon. But rest assured, even on a “normal” evening with no specific event, The Victoria’s mix of background music, buzz, and friendly faces provides all the entertainment you might need. It’s the kind of place where there’s always a bit of a buzz – and you might walk in on a quiet night only to find yourself singing along to an impromptu jam session or participating in a jovial debate at the bar.

Atmosphere & Accessibility

Atmosphere: Step inside The Victoria and you’re greeted by an ambiance that strikes a delightful balance between vintage charm and vibrant energy. The pub’s Victorian heritage is evident as soon as you look around: from the patterned carpets underfoot to the stained-glass windows above the entrance, original touches abound, giving the place the shabby-yet-grand appeal of a true British pub. Dark wood panelling and an ornate wooden bar counter hark back to the late 19th century when the pub first opened its doors. In one corner, you’ll notice a pair of old-fashioned street lamps (indoors!), casting a warm glow over a snug seating area. In another, a cluster of tasselled lampshades hangs from the ceiling, illuminating walls adorned with eclectic art. During a past refurbishment, the owners leaned into an eccentric Victoriana theme – you might spot quirky decor like ivy-wrapped birdcages hanging in the corners or whimsical portraits of animals in Victorian attire gazing down at you. It could easily tip into kitsch, but somehow it all works, lending a fun, bohemian character to the pub.

Despite these retro touches, The Victoria never feels stuffy or museum-like. By day, it’s actually quite cosy and relaxed. There’s often soft indie or classic rock music playing in the background at a conversational volume, and you might find a few patrons quietly chatting over a pint or camped out with a laptop (yes, it’s the kind of pub where daytime coffee drinkers or remote workers sometimes linger – they do a decent flat white alongside those ales). By early evening, the volume of both music and conversation ramps up to a cheerful murmur. As showtime nears at the neighbouring theatre or as the workday crowd filters in, the place livens up considerably. On a busy night, The Victoria is warm, loud, and full of life – you’ll hear clinking glasses, laughter, and music all melding into that quintessential “buzzy” pub atmosphere. It stops short of being rowdy or chaotic; even when packed, there’s a friendly, inclusive vibe rather than the aggressive edge you might find in a rougher bar. In fact, I’ve struck up many a random conversation here with folks I’d never met – the crowd is generally welcoming and mixed. You’ll see a table of artsy types discussing a play they just saw, next to a group of office colleagues unwinding after work, next to a couple of older regulars sipping their usual ale. This diverse clientele gives The Victoria an all-comers feel. You don’t have to dress a certain way or be part of a particular scene to fit in; the common denominator is just people looking to have a good time in a pub with character.

One of my favourite spots is near the front windows, especially in winter: there’s a little fireplace nook that, when lit, makes that section of the pub extra snug. It’s a treat to grab that spot, nursing a stout while the wind blows outside, with the glow of the fire and the hubbub of the bar behind you. Conversely, in the summer, those few outdoor tables on John Bright Street are prime real estate – on a warm evening they fill up with folks enjoying some fresh air and people-watching (the street gets a nice foot traffic of theatre patrons and city centre strollers). The layout of The Victoria, as mentioned, is mostly open plan now, centring on the triangle-shaped bar. There are still distinct zones you can occupy: the main bar area with high stools is great if you like being in the thick of it; a side room (once separate, now partially open) has more tables and often where you’ll find the quieter corners; and of course the upstairs lounge when open for events offers a change of scene with its own bar and seating. The décor upstairs is a bit simpler but still carries the vintage theme – plus, there’s often band memorabilia or gig posters giving it a proper venue vibe.

Given that The Victoria resides in a Victorian-era building, there are a few quirks to be aware of, but overall they do alright in making it as accessible as possible. The main entrance on John Bright Street has a very small step (almost level with the pavement), so wheelchair access into the ground floor is feasible (I’ve seen patrons using wheelchairs inside, so it is doable). Once inside, the ground floor is all one level, which is helpful. The recent interior remodel means more open space to manoeuvrer than before, although it can still get snug in the crowd during peak times – navigating through a packed bar with mobility aids or a pram could be challenging simply due to the volume of people and furniture. The bar itself is an old design and thus a bit high; staff are attentive though, and I’ve noticed them come around to hand drinks over to those who couldn’t easily reach the counter. Unfortunately, like many historic pubs, The Victoria’s restroom facilities are limited and not fully accessible – the toilets are located toward the rear of the ground floor, up a couple of narrow steps, which could be a hurdle for some. It’s worth asking staff for assistance or alternatives; sometimes, venues will have an arrangement with a nearby facility for accessible toilets, though I’m not certain in this case.

The upstairs function room is only reachable by a set of steep stairs (no lift), which is an obvious limitation for those with mobility issues. It’s something the pub likely can’t change due to the building’s structure. If you have difficulty with stairs and there’s an event upstairs you wanted to catch, it would be best to contact the pub ahead of time – occasionally they might host similar events on the ground floor or be able to reserve a suitable spot for you downstairs. On the plus side, the pub is quite friendly to those with other needs: the lighting is generally gentle (not harsh or seizure-inducing), the music, while loud at peak times, isn’t via massive booming speakers but rather a more distributed sound, and they do allow well-behaved dogs in the bar. In fact, it’s not uncommon to see a pup or two curled up under a table, especially earlier in the day – the staff usually have a water bowl handy for furry friends.

As for getting there, accessibility is excellent in terms of public transport. New Street Station (with its lifts, ramps, etc.) is just around the corner, so those coming by train or tram (which also stops at New Street) have an easy roll/walk to the pub. Buses drop off on Navigation Street and Hill Street close by, and those are flat routes into John Bright Street. If you’re driving, note that John Bright Street itself is pedestrianised at the end where The Victoria sits, and street parking in the immediate vicinity is scarce. There are paid car parks at the Mailbox or Town Hall within a short distance, but you might still end up a few streets away. As mentioned earlier, no on-site parking or designated disabled bays are right outside, unfortunately.

The Victoria’s atmosphere is one of its greatest assets – warm, inviting, and richly infused with character. It manages to feel like a historic pub without feeling old-fashioned in its attitude. People of all stripes mingle here, united by an appreciation for good drink and good company. And while the building’s age does present a few accessibility challenges, the pub staff seem committed to being helpful and accommodating wherever they can. If you have specific needs, they won’t hesitate to lend a hand (I once saw a bartender carry drinks over to a group with mobility issues so they wouldn’t have to stand at the bar). The combination of that approachable attitude and the inherently charming setting means that most anyone – local or visitor – can appreciate The Victoria as soon as they step through its doors. It’s a place where the past and present coalesce: Victorian tiled exterior, modern inclusive welcome.

Location & Nearby Attractions

Location: The Victoria enjoys a prime spot in the heart of Birmingham. Situated on John Bright Street, it’s literally a stone’s throw from Birmingham’s main rail hub, New Street Station – we’re talking a 2-minute walk, give or take, from station to pub door. In fact, if you exit the station via the Victoria Square/New Street exit, you simply round the corner past the Electric Cinema and you’ll find John Bright Street and The Victoria waiting for you (tucked just next to The Alexandra Theatre). This makes it extremely convenient to reach via public transport. I often use The Victoria as a meeting point when gathering friends coming from various parts of the city or country – you really can’t miss it, and everyone appreciates not having to trek far from the trains. The pub’s central location also means that if you’re out shopping or sightseeing in Birmingham’s city centre, it’s easy to pop in for a break (and many do exactly that).

John Bright Street itself has undergone a bit of a renaissance in recent years. What was once a somewhat overlooked back street has become a little destination in its own right, particularly for food and drink. The Victoria was one of the early pioneers here, and now it’s in good company: just up the block you’ll find Cherry Reds, a beloved café-bar, and across the way the neon glow of BrewDog (a craft beer bar) beckons beer nerds. There’s also a popular tiki-themed bar and a couple of restaurants on the same stretch. This means the immediate area has a convivial, almost mini-neighbourhood feel despite being smack in the city centre. The pedestrianised end of the street (by The Victoria’s entrance) often has people milling about on weekend evenings, deciding which venue to hit first – it’s a fun little hotspot. Despite that, it never feels overly rowdy or unsafe; the crowd here is generally more relaxed than the party-goers on Broad Street. Speaking of which, if you are looking to make a night of it, Birmingham’s Broad Street entertainment district (with its clubs, bars, and music venues) is only about a 10-15 minute walk away, as is the Mailbox (upscale bars and canal side restaurants) in the other direction. So The Victoria can either be the start, middle, or end of a city bar crawl quite easily.

One of The Victoria’s biggest draws is its proximity to The Alexandra Theatre (the Alex) – they are literally next-door neighbours. The Alex is one of Birmingham’s notable theatres, hosting touring West End shows, comedians, and concerts. Many theatre-goers consider The Victoria the perfect pre-show or post-show spot for a drink. On show nights, you’ll notice a delightful mix of patrons in the pub: some dressed up for a night of drama or musical theatre, grabbing a quick gin and tonic before curtain call, and later on, the same folks returning to discuss the performance over a nightcap. The pub even times its service well – they’re used to the rush at 7pm and again at 10pm when theatre audiences pour out, and they handle it gracefully. If you’re attending a performance at The Alex, I highly recommend scheduling in time to drop by The Victoria; it really complements the evening out.

Nearby Attractions: Beyond the theatre, The Victoria is advantageously placed near several of Birmingham’s attractions. Right around the corner on Station Street is the Electric Cinema, Britain’s oldest working cinema, known for its art house films and quirky charm – another cultural gem where you could catch a film and then dissect it over pints at The Victoria after. A short walk (5-7 minutes) will bring you to Birmingham’s Hippodrome (the city’s largest theatre, home to the Birmingham Royal Ballet and big musicals) in the Chinese Quarter, as well as the lively Gay Village around Hurst Street, if you’re looking to explore nightlife in that direction. For shopping enthusiasts, the Bullring & Grand Central shopping centres are literally next to New Street Station, so you’re 5 minutes from retail therapy – The Victoria can be your haven after navigating the busy shops. Likewise, the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery and Town Hall are about a 10-minute stroll away, near Victoria Square (no relation to the pub’s name, though a fun coincidence). If you head slightly further, you can reach the Canal Networks around Gas Street Basin in about 12-15 minutes – lovely for a daytime wander or an evening canal side drink at another pub for a change of scenery.

For those staying in Birmingham’s hotels, many are within walking distance. The Grand Central New Street Station complex hosts a premium hotel, and there are several others dotted around within a 5-10 minute radius (the Comfort Inn is literally across the street, and the fancy Grand Hotel is up on Colmore Row about 12 minutes away). This means The Victoria often gets tourists or business travellers who found it via a quick search for “best pubs near New Street” – and it doesn’t disappoint. It’s indeed one of the city centre’s hidden gems (albeit not so hidden now) for an authentic pub experience.

If you’re driving, as mentioned earlier, parking requires a bit of strategy. The nearest car park I’d suggest is the NCP car park on New Street (under the Grand Central mall) or the Q-Park at The Mailbox. Both are a short walk but can be pricey for extended stays. Street parking in the evening is possible on some nearby roads like Hill Street or around the corner by the old Eye Hospital, but it’s limited and often full. Honestly, given The Victoria’s location in the Clean Air Zone and the city’s traffic, using the train or a taxi is a stress-free option. Taxis and ride shares themselves are plentiful – you can usually hail one within a minute or two on Navigation Street or outside the station.

Lastly, it’s worth noting how well-positioned The Victoria is as a meeting point. Because it’s centrally located, roughly equidistant from many Birmingham districts (the Jewellery Quarter, Digbeth, Edgbaston etc. are all a short hop away), I often find locals from different sides of town will convene here. If you’re exploring Birmingham, The Victoria can be a great lunch stop or evening kick-off before venturing to other boroughs like the Colmore Business District for swanky cocktail bars or Digbeth for its creative scene. And if you’re just sticking around the immediate vicinity, you’ve got plenty: aside from the bars and theatres, Chinatown with its plethora of Asian restaurants is 5 minutes away (perfect if you fancy a late-night Chinese meal post-pub), and the Mailbox/Canalside area offers everything from comedy clubs to upscale dining.

In short, The Victoria benefits from and contributes to a fantastic, bustling location. It’s central, well-connected, and surrounded by an array of attractions and amenities. Whether you’re a Birmingham native or a visitor, you’ll appreciate that you can step out of this pub and almost literally stumble onto a train home, or into a show, or back to your hotel, with minimal fuss. The convenience is just the cherry on top of what is already a great pub experience.

Overall Impression

The Victoria Pub delivers a truly special pub experience by seamlessly combining the best of old-school Birmingham pub tradition with a streak of contemporary, artistic flair. It’s rare to find a place where you can enjoy a perfectly pulled pint of ale, savour a hearty meal (now with a modern veggie twist), and then stick around for a live band or themed party – all under one ornately decorated Victorian roof. Yet here, it all feels natural, as if pubs and performances were always meant to coexist. The pub itself has heaps of appeal even without the events: over 140 years of history in its walls, a cosy-yet-quirky interior that sparks conversation, flavourful pints and cocktails served with care, and friendly staff who make you feel like part of the family. Add on the vibrant music and cultural scene that The Victoria nurtures, and it elevates this pub into a league of its own. It’s no wonder The Victoria is often touted as one of Birmingham’s most beloved independent pubs – it captures both the city’s heritage and its creative present in one delightful package.

Of course, no pub is perfect, and The Victoria has a few minor quirks. Its popularity and limited floor space mean it can get very crowded at peak times; snagging a table on a packed Friday or before a sold-out theatre show next door might require either timing or tact (I’ve done the hover-near-a-table-waiting-for-the-first-sign-of-leaving dance a couple of times myself). Those who prefer expansive, modern bars with lots of elbow room might find it a tad tight and noisy on a big night. Additionally, if you’re specifically seeking a sports bar atmosphere with giant TVs or a place with pub games galore, this isn’t it – the absence of permanent sports screens and things like pool tables is notable (though in line with the pub’s character and focus). And while the all-vegetarian food menu is fantastic in my view, if you must have a meat pie or fish and chips, you won’t find it here at present (the flip side is you might discover a new favourite in their jackfruit curry or spicy “wings”). However, these are relatively small quibbles when weighed against the many positives. The consistent praise The Victoria earns for its welcoming ambiance, quality offerings, and unique entertainment speaks volumes. Any occasional inconvenience (like a wait at the bar) tends to be overshadowed by the genuinely good time had by the end of the night.

In my own many visits, I’ve collected fond memories at The Victoria – from an amazing Halloween live set by a local band, to an impromptu dance when the DJ played my song, to simply a great heart-to-heart chat with a friend in a quiet afternoon corner over pints. It’s the kind of pub that invites you to linger and soak in the atmosphere, and many patrons (myself included) find themselves returning again and again. As one guide put it, The Victoria remains a “timeless favourite, seamlessly blending history, great food, and an electric social scene.” I wholeheartedly agree.

The Victoria is a gem in Birmingham’s city centre that’s well worth a visit, whether you’re a local or just passing through. It offers a warm, community vibe and a taste of true Birmingham pub heritage, all while keeping things fresh and exciting with music, art, and laughter. If you appreciate pubs with soul – the kind of place where the bartender might join your conversation, where the walls could tell stories, and where you might arrive for one drink and end up staying for three (and a gig) – then The Victoria should be high on your list. Just be prepared to immerse yourself in its lively culture and, if you’re lucky, catch an unforgettable show or two along the way.