Known as the birthplace of heavy metal, The Crown pub on station street remains a key landmark in Birmingham.
But the pub where Black Sabbath played their first gig has been left empty for a decade. The Crown has seen some of the greatest names in Rock’n’Roll take to its stage, including Led Zeppelin and UB40.
Station Street is also home to The Old Rep, Britain's oldest rep theatre which opened in 1913. It is Grade II listed, along with The Crown which closed in 2014.
Projects to restore the pub - which was built in 1881 - such as a live music venue have been unsuccessful to date, with the venue, located opposite New Street station in the heart of the city, remaining derelict for 10 years.
Here are some photos of the legendary pub as it stands today.
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1. The abandoned Crown pub today
The abandoned venue fortunately received listed status in 2024 | BW
2. Top floors
The bands used to play upstairs in what was known as Henry's Blueshouse. | Birmingham World
3. The Crown pub in 2024
It was built in 1881, and many bands have been played there including the Who, Status Quo, UB40, Duran Duran, Thin Lizzy, Marc Bolan and Sabbath | BW
4. Graffiti on the walls
It's certainly in need of some TLC | BW