The Mclaren Building

McLaren Building Birmingham: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Information

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Centrally located in Birmingham’s vibrant Eastside District, the McLaren Building stands as a testament to the city’s post-war ambitions and ongoing urban regeneration. Since its completion in the early 1970s, this iconic modernist office tower has undergone several transformations, adapting its design and amenities to serve the evolving needs of Birmingham’s dynamic business community. With its prominent 69-meter height and distinctive 21-storey profile, the McLaren Building remains a central figure in the city’s skyline, reflecting both Birmingham’s industrial heritage and its forward-looking spirit.

Strategically positioned at 46 Priory Queensway, the building is within easy walking distance of key transport hubs such as Birmingham New Street, Moor Street, and Snow Hill stations. Its prime location places it adjacent to major regeneration projects, including the Masshouse and Martineau Galleries, and the forthcoming HS2 railway terminal. This connectivity underlines the building’s status as a focal point in Birmingham’s urban landscape (Bruntwood SciTech; We Love Brum; Savills).

The McLaren Building has benefited from significant investments, most notably a £7.5 million refurbishment in 2011 and a comprehensive transformation completed in 2024. These upgrades have introduced energy-efficient triple-glazed windows, reimagined internal layouts to support collaborative workspaces, and added amenities such as wellness rooms, fitness studios, and communal lounges. Sustainability and accessibility are central to the building’s design, with features like smart building management systems, step-free access, and facilities that encourage eco-friendly commuting.

While the building is primarily a commercial office space, it periodically opens its doors to the public through guided architectural tours and special events, offering a unique opportunity to engage with Birmingham’s modernist legacy and its role in urban regeneration. Visitors can further enrich their experience by exploring nearby attractions, including the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, Victoria Law Courts, and the bustling Digbeth and Colmore Row districts.

This guide provides comprehensive information about the McLaren Building’s history, architectural significance, practical visitor details, and its role in Birmingham’s ongoing transformation.

Historical Background
Architectural Significance and Features
Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets & Accessibility
Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The McLaren Building’s Role in Birmingham’s Urban Evolution
Conclusion & Call to Action
References and Official Links

Historical Background

The McLaren Building was completed in 1972, designed by Paul Bonham Associates. Originally intended as a staff training center for Midland Bank (now HSBC), its construction reflected Birmingham’s post-war push toward modernization and commercial expansion. Early occupancy was challenging due to its location on the edge of the traditional business core, but over time, the area has become a hub for legal and professional services.

By the late 1970s, tenants like the West Midlands Health and Safety Executive played a significant role in the building’s occupancy. In 2008, Bruntwood acquired the property, initiating a cycle of upgrades to meet modern standards for office space, sustainability, and tenant comfort (Bruntwood SciTech; Savills).

Architectural Significance and Features

Modernist Roots

The McLaren Building is a prime example of post-war modernist architecture, characterized by its functional design, clean lines, and striking verticality. Its brown-clad façade and expansive glazing have made it an instantly recognizable feature on the Birmingham skyline (We Love Brum).

Refurbishments and 2024 Transformation

Major refurbishments in 2011 and a landmark transformation in 2024 have revitalized the McLaren Building:

Façade and Energy Efficiency: Installation of high-performance triple-glazed windows and façade enhancements improved insulation, energy efficiency, and visual appeal.
Interior Upgrades: Flexible, open-plan offices, modular meeting rooms, and collaborative lounges have replaced traditional layouts.
Amenities: New facilities include a fitness studio, wellness and contemplation rooms, secure bike storage, showers, a ground-floor café, and a co-working hub.
Sustainability: The building incorporates smart management systems, solar panels, green roofs, and promotes sustainable commuting (Business Live).
Accessibility: Step-free access, accessible restrooms, upgraded lifts, and tactile wayfinding systems ensure inclusivity for all visitors.

Urban Integration

Its Eastside location places the McLaren Building at the heart of a rapidly regenerating district, immediately adjacent to major projects like Masshouse, Martineau Galleries, and the future HS2 terminal. Enhanced pedestrian and cycling infrastructure, new public spaces, and art installations further embed the building into Birmingham’s evolving urban fabric (Savills; NDLA).

Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets & Accessibility

Visiting Hours

General Access: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM (office hours).
Public Areas: The ground-floor café and co-working hub are open to the public during these times.
Guided Tours: Free weekly architectural tours are available by advance booking via the Bruntwood official website.

Tickets and Entry

No General Tickets: The building is not a traditional tourist attraction; access to non-public spaces is by appointment or tour booking.
Special Events: Occasionally, open days and networking events are held—check the official website for updates.

Accessibility

Step-free access and accessible facilities throughout.
Assistance available at the main reception.
Tactile wayfinding and accessible lifts for visually impaired visitors.
Secure bike storage and showers encourage sustainable commuting.

Transport and Connectivity

Rail: Five-minute walk from New Street, Moor Street, and Snow Hill stations.
Bus & Taxi: Multiple routes serve Priory Queensway.
Parking: Limited on-site parking for tenants and pre-arranged visitors; public car parks nearby.
Airport: Birmingham International Airport is 20 minutes away by car or direct train (ChooseWhere Visitor Guide).

Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips

Cultural Sites: Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, Victoria Law Courts, Aston University, and the Jewellery Quarter.
Shopping & Dining: Bullring and Grand Central shopping malls, Colmore Row cafés, and Digbeth’s creative venues.
Green Spaces: Eastside City Park and St. Philip’s Square.
Travel Tip: Plan visits during weekdays and check for special events or tours; public transport is recommended due to limited parking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I visit the McLaren Building without an appointment?
A: Public access is largely restricted. Guided tours and special events are available by advance booking.

Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM (office and public areas).

Q: Are there tickets or entry fees?
A: No tickets are required for public spaces or tours, but tours must be booked in advance.

Q: Is the building accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, step-free access, accessible restrooms, and assistance at reception are available.

Q: Are photos allowed?
A: Photography is permitted in public areas and during tours, but restricted in tenant spaces.

Q: What are the nearest transport links?
A: New Street, Moor Street, and Snow Hill stations are within a short walk.

The McLaren Building’s Role in Birmingham’s Urban Evolution

The McLaren Building’s journey from a 1970s office block to a sustainable, community-focused business hub encapsulates Birmingham’s broader trajectory of urban regeneration. Its adaptive reuse, modern amenities, and integration with wider city initiatives make it a model for sustainable urban development. Hosting a diverse mix of tenants—from legal firms to tech startups—the building fosters innovation and supports the city’s economic growth.

As part of the Eastside Quarter’s transformation, the McLaren Building is not only a witness to Birmingham’s evolving cityscape but also a catalyst for its future. The arrival of HS2 and ongoing regeneration projects will further enhance its connectivity and significance, ensuring its continued role as a city landmark (Business Live; NDLA).

Conclusion & Call to Action

The McLaren Building stands as a compelling symbol of Birmingham’s modernist heritage and its thriving future. While primarily a commercial office space, its open, flexible design and periodic public events offer unique opportunities to engage with Birmingham’s architectural evolution. Visitors are encouraged to plan ahead, arrange access through tours or events, and explore the surrounding cultural and historic landmarks.

For the most current information on tours, visiting hours, and events, consult the official Bruntwood website. To further enhance your visit to Birmingham’s historical and architectural sites, download the Audiala app for guided tours, insider tips, and exclusive content. Stay connected by following us on social media for the latest news on Birmingham’s ever-evolving cityscape.