Birmingham's forgotten music hall reopens after sign discovery, where rock and comedy legends started careers
An historic Birmingham music hall, once home to performances by legends like Ozzy Osbourne and Frank Skinner, reopens its doors with a modern twist and exciting new acts.
A forgotten Victorian music hall has been brought back to life above the iconic Bartons Arms pub, creating a bold new live venue for Birmingham’s north side.
When the owners uncovered an old “Palace of Varieties” sign above the pub’s 120-seat upstairs room, they knew they’d stumbled onto something special.
That discovery sparked the revival of the venue under its original name - bringing back a touch of vintage glamour with a modern twist.
The Bartons Arms played host to the likes of Charlie Chaplin and Laurel and Hardy, Ozzy Osbourne and Frank Skinner. That showbiz tradition now continues—with fresh acts, famous tributes, and maybe even a few surprise VIPs.
Friday nights are now dedicated to live music, giving emerging local bands a much-needed platform. Saturdays serve up a real mix—stand-up comedians, established vocalists, and themed tribute nights.
The Bartons Arms was rescued from closure last year by a group of local entrepreneurs who refused to let another historic venue go under.
Co-owner Angela Nelson explained, “We always knew the upstairs room was special, but once we uncovered that sign, there was no question—we had to bring the Palace of Varieties back.”
Fittingly, the venue sits in the heart of Black Sabbath country. With Ozzy Osbourne set to perform one final time at Villa Park this July, the Palace is going all in. They’ve secured top tribute act Sabbra Cadabra for the night before Ozzy’s farewell show.
Angela hinted: “With every rock legend in town that weekend, don’t be surprised if a few big names drop in to catch Sabbra Cadabra before the main event.”
Follow the Palace of Varieties at the Bartons Arms on Facebook for full listings and updates.