The urban landscape of Birmingham is ever changing but some shops have weathered the tide of time and lasted through decades, and in some cases, centuries.
Birmingham residents fondly remember the shops on and off High Streets, that have come and gone, but this time, we tracked down the oldest surviving shops in the city. The city was the hub of innovation, craft and industry for a long period of time and businesses from long-gone eras still exist - if only we look for them.
From Birmingham city centre to the neighbourhoods, many local businesses have made it over time and are known for their unique products. Here are 15 shops that have been around in Birmingham for a long time, in chronological order:
1. Deakin & Francis, Jewellery Quarter - founded in 1786
Founded in 1786 by Benjamin Woolfield, Deakin & Francis this is England’s oldest manufacturing jewellers. The Deakin & Francis factory remains in the same building today as it began in, dating back to the Industrial Revolution. While they are open to the public, they need 24 hours notice for security reasons as they are still a working factory. Appointments can be made through their website. (Photo - Google Maps)
2. Westley Richards & Co, Aston - open since 1812
This gunmaking company was established in 1812 by the celebrated Birmingham gunmaker, William Westley Richards (1790-1865). Their flagship store is located on Pritchett Street - which people can still buy bespoke products. (Photo - Google Maps)
3. Cadbury, Bournville - open since 1879
Cadbury initially opened as a shop in Birmingham city centre in 1824. In 1879, when the business had grown, the factory was moved to Bournville - where it still remains. They have a chocolate shop inside CadburyWorld where customers can still buy teir favourite sweet treats. (Photo by Christopher Furlong/Getty Images)
4. John Hollingsworth & Son, Great Western Arcade- open since 1920
According to Companies House, this shop was incorporated in 1920, but it was acquired by Havana House in 2020. It is the oldest tenant at the GWA.