The former Royalty Bingo Palace building in Birmingham

The Royalty

The Royalty Birmingham: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The Royalty in Birmingham, United Kingdom, is a name deeply woven into the city’s historical and cultural tapestry. Anchored by sites such as the iconic Royalty Cinema in Harborne—an outstanding example of 1930s Art Deco architecture—and the once-thriving Royalty Theatre in the city centre, “The Royalty” encapsulates Birmingham’s journey from industrial might to cultural vibrancy. These venues, emblematic of both architectural ingenuity and community spirit, continue to inspire efforts in heritage conservation and urban revitalization.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of The Royalty’s significance, practical visiting information, and its enduring legacy within Birmingham’s rich heritage. Whether you are a history enthusiast, culture seeker, or planning a family outing, you will find essential guidance on ticketing, accessibility, nearby attractions, and the ongoing restoration efforts shaping The Royalty’s future.

For current details, ticket bookings, and immersive audio tours, visitors are encouraged to consult official resources and heritage platforms, and to enhance their experience through the Audiala app. (Historic England, Birmingham Mail, Visit Birmingham)

Introduction
Origins and Historical Evolution
Architectural Significance
Cultural Impact
Practical Visitor Information
Preservation and Community Engagement
The Royalty’s Role in Birmingham’s Heritage
Royal Connections and Celebrations
Visual & Interactive Experiences
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Planning Your Visit
Additional Visiting Information
Conservation and Future Prospects
References

Origins and Historical Evolution

The Royalty Cinema, designed by Horace G. Bradley and opened in 1930, quickly became a landmark in Harborne with its bold Art Deco style and prominent tower. It was built to seat over 1,300 guests in a column-free auditorium, equipped with then-state-of-the-art technology. Meanwhile, the Royalty Theatre, rooted in the late Victorian era, played a pivotal role in the city’s performing arts scene, catering to Birmingham’s burgeoning population with a mix of live shows and community events.

Architectural Significance

The Royalty Cinema stands as a rare and remarkably intact example of early 20th-century cinema architecture, distinguished by its geometric façade and Art Deco interiors. Its Grade II-listed status, awarded in 2011, underscores its historical value and the importance of preserving its unique design elements. The former Royalty Theatre, with its ornate Victorian features, contributed to Birmingham’s identity as a city of culture and entertainment.

Cultural Impact

Throughout the 20th century, The Royalty venues were central to Birmingham’s social life. The cinema hosted film premieres, wartime newsreels, and community gatherings, while the theatre staged plays, musicals, and local productions. These venues nurtured local talent, supported community cohesion, and reflected the broader evolution of Birmingham from an industrial hub to a vibrant cultural centre.

Practical Visitor Information

Visiting Hours

Royalty Cinema: As of June 2025, the building is closed to the public due to fire damage and restoration work. Updates on reopening will be posted on official channels (Birmingham Mail).
Other Royalty-related venues (e.g., Birmingham Hippodrome/Ballet): Typically open Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM, with extended hours for performances.

Tickets and Booking

Royalty Cinema: Ticketing information will be released upon reopening. In the meantime, nearby heritage sites and performing arts venues offer online and in-person ticket sales, with concessions available for students, seniors, and families.
Birmingham Royal Ballet at the Hippodrome: Tickets range from £15–£65, with discounts for groups and advance bookings recommended (mjtravelguides.com).

Accessibility

Major venues in Birmingham, including the Hippodrome and university heritage sites, feature step-free access, accessible restrooms, and support services for visitors with disabilities. Assistance dogs are welcome, and audio/visual support is available on request (Visit Birmingham).

Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions

Transport: Birmingham is well-connected by train (New Street Station), bus, and tram. Parking is available near most central venues.
Nearby Attractions: Explore the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, Black Country Living Museum, Warwick Castle, Symphony Hall, and historic canal walks (Visit Birmingham).

Preservation and Community Engagement

The Royalty Cinema’s Grade II listing protects its architectural integrity, making any redevelopment subject to heritage oversight (Historic England). Community groups and local historians actively campaign for its restoration, envisioning a future as a community arts venue or cinema. Public consultations and academic research support these initiatives, highlighting the building’s potential role in local regeneration (Cinema Treasures).

The Royalty’s Role in Birmingham’s Heritage

The Royalty exemplifies the city’s blend of innovation and tradition, standing alongside Jacobean mansions, Victorian institutions, and contemporary landmarks. Its story is integral to understanding Birmingham’s transformation and the ongoing dialogue between heritage preservation and urban development.

Royal Connections and Celebrations

While The Royalty itself has not hosted major royal ceremonies, Birmingham frequently welcomes members of the Royal Family, and local venues participate in national celebrations such as jubilees and coronations. These events foster civic pride and underscore the monarchy’s influence on Birmingham’s cultural identity (Firstpost).

Visual & Interactive Experiences

High-quality images, virtual tours, and archival materials of The Royalty are available on heritage websites and local archives, offering insight into its Art Deco features and social history. These digital resources enhance the visitor experience, especially while the physical site remains closed (Cinema Treasures).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I visit The Royalty Cinema now?
A: No, the building is currently closed to the public due to fire damage. You can safely view the exterior from Harborne High Street.

Q: Are guided tours or events available?
A: Not at present. Guided tours and events may resume after restoration.

Q: How much will tickets cost when The Royalty reopens?
A: Ticketing details will be announced post-restoration.

Q: Is The Royalty accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Future plans include full accessibility features.

Q: How can I stay updated on restoration progress?
A: Follow official websites, social media, and the Audiala app for updates.

Planning Your Visit

Check official websites for the latest on opening hours and ticketing (Visit Birmingham).
Consider nearby venues such as the Birmingham Hippodrome for live performances or the University of Birmingham for heritage tours.
Book tickets in advance for popular attractions, especially during festivals and holidays.

Additional Visiting Information

Dining and Shopping

The city centre and Southside district offer a wide range of dining—from casual cafés to Michelin-starred restaurants—and shopping at Bullring & Grand Central (VisitBritain).

Accommodation

Options range from luxury hotels (Radisson Blu, The Cube) to budget hostels, all within easy reach of main attractions (mjtravelguides.com).

Safety and Useful Tips

English is the primary language; most venues offer free Wi-Fi and accept major credit cards.
Standard security screenings are in place at major venues. For emergencies, dial 999.

Conservation and Future Prospects

The Royalty’s restoration hinges on heritage grants, private investment, and community advocacy. Adaptive reuse, integrating modern cultural and environmental priorities (such as green retrofitting), is seen as essential for sustaining its legacy. The building’s journey from cinema to cultural icon remains a focal point for Birmingham’s collective memory and urban renewal (Historic England, Cinema Treasures, Naturally Birmingham).