Birmingham
Ready for an adventure you’ll remember for years? Step this way, the Birmingham Nicholson’s Ale & Gin trail starts right here…
Birmingham, the carefree city that once pounded to the rhythm of metal casting and pressing, owes its heritage to the great industrialists who brought canals, manufacturing, and prosperity to millions. Among them were philanthropists and visionaries who, like our own founder William Nicholson, believed that wealth creation and social duty were inseparable. They probably loved a cold pint or glass of gin, too.
For a free ale or gin with every 4th pub you visit, make sure The Nicholson’s app is in the palm of your hand.
For the best experience download The Nicholson’s app.
What to look out for when you get there
THE SHAKESPEARE INN
Famous for... goldsmiths, silversmiths and privacy
This glorious red-brick Victorian pub is where the goldsmiths and silversmiths from the nearby Jewellery Quarter quenched their thirsts. By 1880, there were 700 workshops employing the best-paid workers in the city. As well as the beer, they came for the privacy of The Shakespeare's seperate rooms.
THE SHAKESPEARE
Famous for... original Victorian features in the heart of the city
This Victorian pub retains many original features including the superb tiling round the bar area. The location on Lower Temple Street puts it at the heart of Birmingham. In the 18th and 19th centuries the area was redeveloped and went upmarket. A city guide from 1840 likened nearby New Street to Bond Street in London.
BACCHUS BAR
Famous for... standing on a street that dates back to 1398
Our name comes from Bacchus, the Greek and Roman god of wine. The ancient name is appropriate for a pub that stands on a street with a grand history that dates back to 1398. A 19th-century town guide described New Street as 'the Bond Street of Birmingham'.
THE OLD CONTEMPTIBLES
Famous for... an insult hurled at British Soldiers by Kaiser Wilhelm
The Old Contemptibles takes its name from a select band of British soldiers who served in France and Flanders in 1914. They adopted the nickname after Kaiser Wilhelm II gave the order to exterminate the "General French's contemtible little army". Recently, the last survivor passed away aged 104. And though they may all be gone now, there's no reason why we can't continue to drink to their name.
To avoid disappointment, please check individual pub pages for opening times before your visit.
Terms & Conditions
You must be over 18 or over
The free drink* in this offer is a Doom Bar or Nicholson's Pale Ale or a Tarquin’s gin
This isn’t valid with any other offer
The manager reserves the right to refuse the entry/and or service
This offer may be withdrawn without any prior notice
Soft drinks are offered as an alternative, please ask a member of our team