Restoration Begins at Birmingham’s Historic Lad in the Lane Pub Six Years After Closure

The owner of Birmingham’s Lad in the Lane, believed to be the city’s oldest pub, has commenced essential repair work to halt the ongoing decline of this 14th-century landmark. After closing its doors permanently in 2019, the historic Erdington pub has stood empty and vulnerable, worsening in condition over six years.

In 2024, a fire damaged the Grade II-listed building, although it did not cause significant visible external harm. Despite the blaze, the pub—a rare relic from around 1400, rivaling The Old Crown in Digbeth for the title of Birmingham’s oldest public house—has remained a treasured site within the community.

Recognizing the urgency, the owner has now taken steps to repair the leaking roof to prevent further damage. Because of the pub’s listed status, any comprehensive restoration will require official planning permission.

Councillor Basharat Mahmood, representing Pype Hayes, shared that residents had raised concerns about the building’s deteriorating state. He confirmed that the owner is actively carrying out essential roof repairs while preparing a formal planning application and liaising with the council’s heritage officer. Mahmood emphasized that the current repairs involve like-for-like replacements, aiming to preserve the pub’s historic character.

Historian Carl Chinn described Lad in the Lane as a “special building” and an important Erdington landmark, noting its enduring medieval features despite many changes over the centuries.

Former landlady Helen Morgan, who ran the pub between 2011 and 2013, reflected on its vibrant past atmosphere. She recalled it as a bustling community hub, complete with weekend crowds, function rooms, a beer garden, and even a burger van outside—qualities now sorely missed.

With restoration work now underway, locals remain hopeful that Lad in the Lane will once again be saved from decay and continue to be a cherished piece of Birmingham’s heritage.