Remember when £5 pints were the norm? Those were the days, and they don’t even feel that long ago. In these super-inflationary times, the cost of living (and drinking) is going up every day, and the pubs still don’t seem to be making any profit. That’s why this new 17th-century-style tavern opening on Colmore Row is changing tactics.
“We started with a simple idea, bring the £5 pint back to British cities,” said Martin Williams, CEO of The Evolv Collection, who is behind Birmingham’s “elevated” rooftop restaurant with 360° views of the city, 24 Stories. The Tavern concept has already launched in London and is coming to Birmingham this month.
The multi-award-winning hospitality group will transform 24 Stories’ downstairs bar into Stories Tavern, which is opening in Birmingham on April 27, 2026. Taking inspiration from original 17th and 18th-century taverns, Stories Tavern has been designed in partnership with historian Ron Cregan.
The space will feature dark wood pallets, a deep red and blue colour scheme, elegant brass and gold detailing, and walls adorned with nautical and historical flags alongside antique prints, as well as a new outdoor terrace. Plus, making quality beer genuinely accessible, it will serve £5 pints all day, every day, in traditional tankards.
“We’re delighted that 24 Stories has been chosen as the latest destination in the Tavern family, giving our guests more reasons to come and visit us,” said Richard Chiswell, General Manager at 24 Stories. “Whether it’s for an after-work drink or catch-up in the Tavern, or joining us for a cocktail or dinner with a view upstairs in the restaurant.”
The announcement follows the launches of Liverpool Street Chop House & Tavern and Paternoster Tavern in London’s St Paul’s district, while Queens Tavern in New York’s Hudson Yards is opening on May 4, 2026, bringing a taste of the UK’s tavern culture to America for the first time.