Great First Date Bars in Birmingham, UK

Inspired by iconic engineer James Brindley, this canal-side pub has one of the largest selections of drinks in the city. The Canal House sees the team behind The Botanist branch further out into Birmingham with this 18th-century-inspired pub and restaurant, complete with study, drawing room, various lounges and Brindley’s Brewing Room.

One of the more unique offerings in the city, Bacchus Bar is a hidden gem right where you’d least expect it. Turn off from New Street, one of the oldest streets in Birmingham, and head underground into this Greek-inspired hangout complete with character, busts, pottery and paintings everywhere you turn. Think Hogwarts meets Ancient Greece.

Step back into the 1920s with this prohibition-era style bar just a stone’s throw from Birmingham’s lively John Bright Street. Expect intimacy in this laid-back vintage bar with exposed brick walls and a real focus on serving up classic cocktails in their own quirky style. Bourne & Co is perfect if you want to venture somewhere mysterious with a real focus on mixology.

One of the city’s newest cocktail bars, 18/81 is the brainchild of Independent Birmingham founder Joe Schuppler and leading city bartender Robert Wood. Part of the fun is actually finding 18/81; it’s hidden away on Thorp Street, and visitors must find the unmarked doorbell and ring it to be granted entry. You and your date will then be able to enjoy an eclectic mix of luxury pre-batched cocktails, which are perfect as they mean less time waiting, more time talking.

Can’t keep that competitive side away from a date? Serve is one of the most unique bars in Birmingham. At this underground ping-pong bar in the city centre, you can either impress your date or embarrass yourself with your ping-pong skills (or lack of). After you’re done playing, DJs will keep the vibes going until the early hours.

As the name suggests, kicking back and relaxing is on the cards at The Cosy Club. With a regal facade and a vintage interior, this is the place to be if you want to impress your date without breaking the bank. Furthermore, Cosy Club’s menu is based around quintessentially British items, such as the Earl’s Breakfast (Earl Grey) or Cherry Bakewell cocktails. Its walls are full of quirky material, such as vintage Victorian-style artwork and taxidermy, if you’re looking for a way to break the ice.

To make an extra-special impression, you may want to head to The Edgbaston. This boutique hotel and cocktail lounge boasts some of the country’s most recognised bartenders and mixologists, including Thomas Matthews, recent winner of Emerging Bar Tender of the Year at the 2018 Class Bar Awards. If you fancy pushing the boat out, The Edgbaston’s award-winning team also host cocktail masterclasses.

Last but not least is Lane7, a stylish bar that revolves around a contemporary version of everyone’s favourite childhood game. Perfect for breaking the ice, this multipurpose venue is home to luxury walnut bowling lanes, beer pong, retro arcade machines and some of the best cocktails in town. Break the norm and take your first date here – they’ll love it.