Birmingham is loved by people all around the UK for its lively nightlife, and anyone familiar with the city will undoubtedly have their favourite spots. There is, however, a lesser-known scene in Birmingham, steeped in exclusivity, that only those in the know can enjoy. Join CrossCountry as we uncover the best secret bars in Birmingham for you to enjoy on your next trip.
Liquor Store Speakeasy
You don’t get much more secret than needing a password to get into a bar and at Birmingham’s secret Speakeasy Bar, this is exactly how you gain entry. The bar is in the city centre, but visitors can only get specific directions by calling the number and making a reservation. At this point, the bar will provide a secret password to gain entry on the night. Upon arrival, a buzzer at the venue will call a host who will ask for the password and show to you to the basement bar.
The atmosphere is inviting and cosy, with vintage posters on the walls, antique furniture, and a collection of old-fashioned radios. It's a perfect spot for those looking to escape the busy city above and step into a different era.
The extensive cocktail menu is a testament to the mixologists' skills, featuring a variety of classic and contemporary options. With no menu available online, visitors should arrive with high expectations and an adventurous spirit, ready to be surprised and delighted at the delicious drinks on offer.
40 St Pauls
With 140 gins and just 24 seats, 40 St Pauls offers an intimate experience where every gin is hand-picked for its unique taste and quality. The bar serves an exciting selection of show-stopping gin creations, complementing everything with high-quality garnishes. They even distil their own tonic with reduced bitterness, allowing the true essence of the gin to shine through.
40 St Pauls also boasts a handsomely formed list of cocktails served in quirky goblets and garnished with fresh fruits, herbs and spices.
Nestled in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, 40 St Pauls has no sign but there is a distinct black door wearing a proud ’40’ house number. The best part is, it’s just a fifteen-minute walk from Birmingham New Street station and close to a number of hotels to spend the night. Take Saint Pauls House for instance– a boutique hotel that guarantees a good night sleep.
Bacchus Bar
Visitors will feel as though they’ve travelled back in time when entering Bacchus Bar. This eccentrically styled space is one of the oldest bars in the city and its interior is reason enough to visit. Dating back to 1398, this is a pub that fully embraces medieval themes; think elegant oil paintings, suits of armour, imposing archways and rich woodwork.
The menu here offers a range of traditional pub grub. From their British Steak & Nicholson’s Pale Ale Pie to their Grilled Fillet of Sea Bass, there’s definitely something to suit all tastes. The drinks menu is equally impressive, featuring a selection of local ales, fine wines, and fun cocktails.
Those looking for something a little different in Birmingham will be enticed by this charming and quirky medieval hideaway. Bacchus Bar is located in the Burlington Arcade, a minute’s walk from Birmingham New Street.
The Lost and Found
The Lost and Found is beloved as one of the best date night restaurants in Birmingham, but it harbours a well-kept secret. Beyond the main bar lies a hidden gem: a private dining area, bar, and events space that can accommodate up to forty people. This exclusive room is decorated with impressive paintings and luxurious chandeliers, providing a truly first-class experience. The bar is completely personalised too, with a range of delicious beverages on offer.
The main restaurant is known for its deliciously innovative menu and equally ornate interior design, so we recommend booking a table for a nice evening out. The Lost and Found can be found on Bennett Street four minutes from the train station and close to a number of hotels for a weekend city break.
Simpsons Bar
Recently refurbished, Simpsons Bar is a great destination for relaxed, intimate drinks. Inside, the bar's modern vibe and comfortable seating create a welcoming environment for all. The mixologists at Simpsons are always out to impress, mixing cocktails that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. Once a month, the bar holds gin-tasting events where participants can sample new and exciting gins paired with delicious sharing boards.
Simpsons is a little further out of the city in Sutton Coldfield but still easily accessible from Birmingham New Street by train or taxi.
If you’re planning to visit a secret bar in Birmingham, don’t forget to book Advance rail tickets via our website or the CrossCountry app. Before you travel, make sure to check scheduled train times to find the best journey for you. If you need more information, you can contact us here.
Written by Abby