One of Birmingham's 'greatest venues' closes its doors but vows 'not the end'
One of Birmingham's 'greatest' venues closed its doors this weekend - marking the 'end of an era'.
The Village Inn, also one of the city's oldest LGBTQ+ bars, shut on Saturday night, March 29 as fans gathered to say goodbye to the Hurst Street venue.
But the owners, who vowed it was 'not the end', confirmed the venue's 'legacy' would live on in a new home. Although it's not yet known where this will be.
Read more: The loved ones who vanished from the Midlands as teenagers - and still haven't been found years on
Comedian Joe Lycett paid tribute to the venue, hailing it as "one of the greatest" in the city as he branded it a "huge inspiration."
The Birmingham-born TV presenter and painter wrote to his Instagram story: "RIP The Village Brum. One of the greatest Birmingham venues, lost to Birmingham developers.
"A huge inspiration to me, particularly for the vibe we tried to create on Late Night Lycett. Plus we got absolutely wrecked there on numerous occasions."
The bar owners previously promised it would 'not miss a day' during the switch-over between the Hurst Street venue closing, and the new Village Inn opening.
It had said it was moving to a "shiny, brand new cabaret venue in the heart of Brum", although the exact location was not given.
In a final Facebook post from the Hurst Street venue, they wrote this weekend: "AND NOW THE END IS NEAR.
"And so, we gather to witness the end of an era. The Village Inn—more than a bar, more than a venue—has been a sanctuary, a place of joy, acceptance, and belonging.
"For years, it has welcomed all who sought refuge in music, laughter, and camaraderie. Within these walls, friendships have flourished, love has blossomed, and the art of drag has been celebrated in its most dazzling form.
"But as with all things, change is inevitable. Tonight, The Village Inn closes its doors—not as an end, but as a transformation. Its spirit, its people, its legacy—will live on in a new home, where it will continue to thrive.
"So, let us not mourn, but celebrate. Let us raise a glass to the laughter, the music, and the memories. The Village Inn is not just a place—it is a legacy. And legacies never fade."
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