17 & 19 Newhall Street, Birmingham

Visiting 17 & 19 Newhall Street, Birmingham, United Kingdom: A Comprehensive Guide

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

Standing proudly at 17 & 19 Newhall Street, Birmingham, The Exchange—formerly the Bell Edison Telephone Building—represents a remarkable chapter in the city’s industrial and architectural history. These iconic Grade I listed buildings exemplify Birmingham’s Victorian-era innovation and are celebrated for their ornate terracotta façades and historic significance as the city’s first central telephone exchange. Located within the Jewellery Quarter, a district renowned for its vibrant heritage and creative industries, 17 & 19 Newhall Street are a must-visit for history lovers, architecture enthusiasts, and cultural explorers alike (Historic England).

This guide provides detailed insights into the buildings’ history, architectural significance, visitor information, accessibility, nearby attractions, and practical tips to make the most of your visit to these iconic Birmingham historical sites.

Introduction
Historical Background
Origins and Early Development
Construction and Architectural Significance
Role in Telecommunications History
Heritage Status and Conservation
Architectural Features
Exterior Design and Ornamentation
Notable Details
Cultural and Urban Context
The Jewellery Quarter and Urban Fabric
Social and Economic Role
Visiting Information
Visiting Hours and Tickets
Accessibility
Getting There
Guided and Virtual Tours
Photography and Events
Nearby Attractions
Practical Visitor Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Conclusion and Call to Action
References and External Links

Historical Background

Origins and Early Development

17 & 19 Newhall Street occupy land once part of New Hall, the Colmore family estate. As Birmingham transitioned from aristocratic roots to a thriving industrial city, Newhall Street became a central artery in the city’s commercial development (Birmingham City Council).

Construction and Architectural Significance

Commissioned by the National Telephone Company and completed in 1896, the Bell Edison Telephone Building was designed by Frederick Martin of Martin & Chamberlain. The building is a masterpiece of Birmingham’s “terracotta school,” featuring red brick, terracotta ornamentation, Dutch gables, turrets, and intricate wrought-iron gates. Its design reflects the confidence and innovation of the Victorian era and has been praised as the “finest commercial building of Birmingham’s brick and terracotta period” (Historic England).

Role in Telecommunications History

Originally housing Birmingham’s Central Telephone Exchange, the building enabled up to 5,000 subscribers to connect via manual switchboards, a pioneering achievement at the time. It played a central role in the city’s rapid industrial and technological development, remaining a vital hub even after the National Telephone Company was absorbed by the Post Office in 1912.

Heritage Status and Conservation

The building’s Grade I listing recognizes its exceptional historic and architectural importance. It forms part of both the Jewellery Quarter and Colmore Row Conservation Areas, ensuring protection and careful management of its character and features (Birmingham City Council Conservation Areas).

Architectural Features

Exterior Design and Ornamentation

Façade: The building’s prominent corner location is marked by six main bays separated by tall buttresses and topped with decorative turrets. An angled seventh bay creates a striking transition along the street.
Materials: Deep red brick, terracotta ornamentation, and a tiled roof define the structure’s distinctive Victorian character (Historic England).
Windows & Gables: Canted bay windows, arched window heads, ornate gables, and robust chimney stacks add vertical rhythm and visual drama.
Entrance: The main entrance features stone steps and original wrought-iron gates with the “NTC” (National Telephone Company) initials—a direct link to its past.

Notable Details

Decorative Brickwork: The continuous band of intricate brickwork at the second floor showcases Victorian craftsmanship.
Corner Bow Window: A two-storeyed bow window at the intersection of Newhall and Edmund Streets provides a unique focal point.
Wrought-Iron Gates: Intricately designed gates by the Bromsgrove Guild are a rare surviving feature from the building’s original function (Flickr: ell brown).

Cultural and Urban Context

The Jewellery Quarter and Urban Fabric

The Jewellery Quarter, where 17 & 19 Newhall Street are located, is internationally recognized for its contribution to the jewelry industry—producing over 40% of British jewelry (Jewellery Quarter Business Improvement District). The area is characterized by a blend of Victorian and Edwardian architecture, cobbled streets, and a lively mix of creative businesses, independent shops, and museums. The conservation status ensures that new development respects the historic fabric while supporting urban regeneration (Heritage Fund).

The buildings have adapted over time, housing everything from metalworking workshops to creative studios and modern offices, reflecting Birmingham’s shift from heavy industry to a knowledge-based economy (Barrera-Fernández et al., 2016). Their adaptive reuse is a model of heritage-led urban regeneration.

Visiting Information

Visiting Hours and Tickets

General Access: 17 & 19 Newhall Street are operational office buildings and typically not open to the public. However, the exterior can be viewed at any time.
Special Events: Occasional heritage open days and guided tours offer rare opportunities for interior access. Tickets may be required for such events and should be booked in advance (Jewellery Quarter Visitor Centre).

Accessibility

The area around the buildings is pedestrian-friendly and accessible. Step-free routes and nearby public transport make exterior viewing easy for all visitors.
For interior access during special events, check with organizers for accessibility arrangements.

Getting There

By Train/Tram: Jewellery Quarter and Snow Hill stations are within a 10-minute walk.
By Bus: Multiple bus routes run along Newhall Street and surrounding roads.
By Car/Bike: Public parking is limited; cycling and public transport are recommended.

Guided and Virtual Tours

Walking Tours: Several guided walking tours and scavenger hunts, such as the Let’s Roam Birmingham Scavenger Hunt, include 17 & 19 Newhall Street as a highlight (Let’s Roam).
Virtual Tours: Explore interactive maps and virtual tours via local tourism and heritage websites.

Photography and Events

The ornate façade, turrets, and corner windows make the site ideal for photography, especially during daylight.
Look out for heritage festivals and open studio events in the Jewellery Quarter for a richer experience.

Nearby Attractions

Combine your visit with other Birmingham historical sites:

Museum of the Jewellery Quarter (Jewellery Quarter Visitor Centre)
Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery
Victoria Law Courts
St. Paul’s Square
Gas Street Basin
The Library of Birmingham

Practical Visitor Tips

Best Time to Visit: Late morning to early afternoon provides the best lighting for photography.
Respect the Site: As the buildings are operational offices, respect property boundaries and avoid blocking entrances.
Combine Your Visit: Plan to explore other Jewellery Quarter attractions for a comprehensive experience.
Accessibility: Most external areas are step-free, but some older features may limit full accessibility inside during events.
Safety: The area is generally safe, but remain aware of your surroundings, particularly after dark.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I go inside 17 & 19 Newhall Street?
A: Interiors are not generally open to the public but may be accessible during special heritage events or guided tours.

Q: Are tickets required to visit?
A: No tickets are needed for exterior viewing. Special events and tours may require advance booking.

Q: Is the site accessible for wheelchairs?
A: The exterior is accessible; check with event organizers for interior access arrangements during special openings.

Q: What are the best ways to get there?
A: The site is easily accessible by train, tram, bus, or by foot from Birmingham city centre.

Q: Are there any nearby attractions?
A: Yes, the Jewellery Quarter itself, Museum of the Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, and more are within walking distance.

Conclusion and Call to Action

17 & 19 Newhall Street are enduring symbols of Birmingham’s industrial ingenuity and architectural excellence. Their rich legacy as the city’s first telephone exchange and as Victorian masterpieces continues to inspire visitors and locals. While access to the interiors is restricted, the buildings’ striking exteriors, context within the Jewellery Quarter, and inclusion in walking tours make them a vital part of any exploration of Birmingham’s heritage (Historic England; Jewellery Quarter Visitor Centre).

Before your visit, check local heritage event listings for special opportunities to explore inside. For guided audio tours, up-to-date information, and exclusive insights, download the Audiala app. Stay connected with Birmingham’s dynamic cultural scene by following us on social media and exploring more guides on historical sites.