The Old Crown in Digbeth unveils biggest ever birthday plans at it turns 654 years old

Birmingham’s oldest pub - The Old Crown - is getting ready to host its 654th birthday, with an events programme that’s bigger and better than ever before.

The legendary pub has a rich history being Birmingham’s oldest non-religious building in the entire second city. Founded in 1368, The Old Crown has hosted Queen Elizabeth I on her way home from Kenilworth Castle in 1575 and has fought off attacks from Prince Rupert in the Battle of Camp Hill in 1643.

It was the only structure still standing after the Battle of Camp Hill - also called the Battle of Birmingham - on April 3 (Easter Monday) in 1643.

Many parts of the original pub remain, with its iconic black and white timber exterior still standing. These days the Old Crown is still one of Birmingham’s greatest pubs to visit. It’s got one of the city’s best beer gardens, and doubles up as a cozy 11-bed hotel offering a relaxed stay in the heart of Digbeth.

What’s happening when The Old Crown turns 654 years old?

You can come and discover it all for yourself at the huge party planned to mark its landmark 654th birthday on September 17. The free birthday party will feature live music performances, DJs and a high wire performance across the freshly renovated garden courtesy of Circus Mash.

Circus performer Ellis Grover, who has previously done a high wire walk over a quarry with a 150 metre drop, will be attempting to walk across The Old Crown’s terrace and onto the roof during the evening. There will also be party bags containing lots of treats and goodies, and of course plenty of cocktails to celebrate the big occasion properly.

Guests can also enjoy delicious food served up from their everyday menu, as well as their brand new Hatch Menu, which includes light bites and street food such as wings and tacos.

It follows a host of other successful takeovers at the pub with some of Brum’s most famous brands such as The Night Owl and Cow Vintage, as well as legendary quizzes featuring celebrities from The Chase, Peep Show, The Father Teds and more.

What have The Old Crown owners said about the birthday bash?

Ciaran Healy, the owner of the pub, has said: “I am so excited to be celebrating another birthday with The Old Crown! Every year, we try to outdo the previous year’s celebrations and this year is going to top them all! We can’t wait to welcome talented performers from Circus Mash for a night to remember.’’

Tickets to The Old Crown’s birthday party are free and available here.

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