The Roundhouse in Birmingham

A uniquely curved building

The Grade II * listed building had stood quietly for 140 years as the city developed around it and was on Historic England's “at risk” register.

Originally designed and built in 1874 by Birmingham based architect W.H. Ward as stabling and stores for the Public Works Department and as part of a massive city improvement plan.

Imagine 40 or more horses delivering stone, lamplighters, who would take their carts and horses out to light the streets of Ladywood and the nightsoil brought from the city to be sent out via the canal to city allotments and farms. It's position tucked next to the Birmingham Old Mainline Canal close to the City centre meant area acted as a wharf and was at the industrial heart of the city.

Owned by the Canal & River Trust, the building has been restored in partnership between us and National Trust. This work has been made possible thanks to funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund and from Historic England.

Now been transformed, The Roundhouse building offers not only office space for local businesses, but into a place which people can use as a base to explore the city and the region's historic canals.

Roundhouse Birmingham

Roundhouse Birmingham is now breathing life into the building, offering something different to see and do in Birmingham.

Roundhouse Birmingham is a heritage enterprise and independent charity with a mission to #SeeTheCityDifferently. Why not try kayaking or paddleboarding along the canal outside, take a trip on a heritage boat, learn about this unique shaped building or see the city on a guided tour.

For a full list of ways to #SeeTheCityDifferently visit roundhousebirmingham.org.uk