Ever wondered about the origins of street names in Birmingham? Why is “Moor Street” is called that? Or what about the Bullring or New Street.
Often overlooked, these names are historical echoes, marking the presence of notable individuals, locations, and event shifts through the ages. Consider the Bullring: originally “Corn Cheaping,” denoting the area’s corn market.
The term “Bull Ring” emerged from a green space within Corn Cheaping designated for bull-baiting. The ‘ring’ in question was an iron hoop in Corn Cheaping where bulls were tethered for baiting prior to being slaughtered, hence the name “Bull Ring” for Birmingham’s city centre. But what does other street names in the city centre mean?
So many street names in Birmingham city centre gives an insight into Brum's history - and can help us trace its journey from market town to one of the biggest cities in Europe. Here are the fascinating stories behind some of these street names in Birmingham city centre:
1. New Street
New Street is steeped in history, dating back to a 1397-1398 deed reference to ‘le Newestret.’ It likely originated shortly after Birmingham’s inaugural market in the 12th century, serving as a direct path from the burgeoning Bull Ring area to the Colmore family’s residence at Dudley Castle. (Image - New Street, Birmingham', circa 1896 by Getty Images)
2. Moor Street
Known in earlier times as Molle or Mole Street, this name is taken from the Latin ‘molendum,’ meaning ‘grist’ or grain designated for milling. A mill once operated here until the late 17th century, leaving its mark on the street’s identity, which is now recognized as Moor Street.
3. Spiceal Street
Once the bustling hub for textile traders, Spiceal Street, originally known as Mercer Street, was lined with shops owned by silk and linen merchants. Over time, as the trade in spices began to flourish, the street’s name evolved to reflect its new specialty. Today, it stands as a charming pedestrian walkway beside St Martin’s Church in the Bullring, echoing the commercial vibrancy of its past. (Image - Spiceal Street, Bull Ring Centre, Birmingham, 24/05/1961, by Getty Images)
4. Congreve passage
Originally named, Priors Conyngre Lane, this lane, adjacent to a rabbit warren, was once a site where rabbits were bred for their meat and fur. Although the original field is long gone, the legacy lives on in Congreve passage, which is set to be revitalised as part of the Paradise development.