The End

The End forms part of the newly renovated, restored and reopened Birmingham Ballroom, formally the Academy, formally the Hummingbird and also formally the original Ballroom. It is the smallest and cosiest venue in this group and it is a great space to see smaller and local bands. Just like the other parts it has been completely refitted and has lovely wooden floors, a long bar and some settees down one end.
Early in the year I went to see Brum favourites Bluebeat Arkestra and the Young Runaways support a national touring act. Upstairs holds around 150 people but there is also a small bar downstairs if you fancy somewhere quieter to pick up a drink. The sound was very good.
As an independent there is no beer sponsor shoved down your throat. The drinks are reasonably prices and the staff, including security workers, are pretty friendly.

I’ve been to The End twice now, once to see Misty’s Big Adventure, and once to finally experience the 80s club night Only After Dark, which I’ve been meaning to go to since January.
The size of the venue room is great for me, not too big and not too small. It allows musicians to have space to perform, and the audience can still feel the intimacy and personal touch that the closeness of the stage provides.
The décor is based on a 60s style, especially the patterned wallpaper, adding to the retro feel of club nights that take place within the space. There was also a quirky retro arcade game in the corner of the upstairs room, containing the likes of Space Invaders and Pac-​man. But unfortunately, this games machine seems to have disappeared. Hopefully it makes a return, as it was certainly a highlight of the venue for me!
The downstairs area is great to relax in, but I’m not sure that the space currently used to its full extent. I’ve only ever waited in there for a taxi home, and most of the punters seem to spend their time in the main upstairs room, which is where the entertainment is held, whether it be club night, or music performance. Overall, The End is a great venue, and still maintains its previous legacy as the Bar Academy for bringing high quality music to Birmingham.

Birmingham always was known as a hotspot for bands, artists and performers in general. The city counts on some couple of great venues and sometimes it’s just impossible to catch up with all weekly events. We’re definitely spoiled for choice here!
The End is one of these very good choices. As a part of the Birmingham Ballroom complex, this venue has capacity for 300 people and the space is divided in two areas: one charming bar downstairs and stage and bar upstairs.
I have been there to watch some friends playing and I do recommend having some drinks downstairs before going upstairs for the gig. The beauty of this downstairs area is in its decoration based on 60’s themes. I just love the walls. And as well as upstairs, there are plenty of comfy seats if you fancy just drink and relax before, during and after the gig.
The fact stage and bar are really close makes easier grabbing some drinks without missing too much from the gig. Depending how packed the place is, you have a good perspective close or not to the stage, anyway. The prices are okay and the staffs are really nice at The End. If you are looking for a place to celebrate a party, this venue is also available for renting.

The End is definitely a good choice for a night out, spot new music, drinking or even just hang around.