An ancient Birmingham suburb with origins dating back over a thousand years has been officially recognised as one of the coolest places to be in the entire United Kingdom.
From Medieval Roots to Modern Hub
Digbeth, confirmed as Birmingham's oldest suburb, has been named among the top seven 'coolest' neighbourhoods in the UK in a prestigious ranking by TimeOut magazine. It stands as the only location from the West Midlands to feature in this elite national list, which also includes areas of Brighton, Cardiff, and London.
The district's history is profoundly deep, with evidence of settlement from the Mesolithic period and its first establishment in the 7th century. While not in the Domesday Book of 1086 like neighbouring Aston, the land west of the River Rea was historically part of the parish of Birmingham. It is home to the city's oldest secular building, The Old Crown pub, a 14th-century structure that remains a beloved landmark.
The Heart of Birmingham's Creative Revolution
The 21st century has transformed Digbeth into the epicentre of Birmingham's cultural and artistic revival. The area is now celebrated for its vibrant street art, independent galleries, creative businesses, and a legendary nightlife and food scene. This artistic ascension was noted as far back as 2012, when the NME compared its indie music scene to London's Shoreditch.
Major developments are cementing its status. Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight has launched Digbeth Loc Studios, the city's first large-scale film and TV production facility. In a significant move, the BBC is relocating its Midlands headquarters to the former Typhoo Tea factory in 2026, and MasterChef is setting up a kitchen in a converted banana warehouse.
What Makes Digbeth So Special?
TimeOut's judges praised the area's unique aesthetic, describing a landscape of canals, railway arches, and warehouses—"haunted by the ghosts of industry but illuminated by iridescent street art." They also highlighted its dual role as Birmingham's Irish quarter, recommending the legendary St. Patrick's Day celebrations at pubs like Nortons and Hennessey's.
This accolade follows another major recognition earlier this year, when The Sunday Times also crowned Digbeth as the UK's coolest neighbourhood. With its blend of ancient history, industrial heritage, and a fiercely independent creative spirit, Digbeth is shining a powerful light on the cultural appeal of modern Birmingham.
