The Night Owl brings more than a decade of soul to Digbeth

When The Night Owl opened its doors in Digbeth in July 2015, it set out to do something few venues had tried for years: bring the spirit of the classic Northern Soul scene back to Birmingham. More than a decade on, it remains one of the city's most distinctive nights out.

Time Out reported at the time that the launch Northern Soul Allnighter had already sold out before opening night. The club claimed to be the first Northern Soul and Motown venue in the Midlands this century, aiming to revive the community and atmosphere of the scene from the 1960s to the 1980s. Even its name is a nod to the music, taken from a record by soul singer Bobby Paris.

The details were designed to please purists. The club installed a sprung wooden dance floor, and its Friday Northern Soul nights played only original vinyl, with the DJ showing each record's label on camera.

Today The Night Owl sits at 17-18 Lower Trinity Street, with a capacity of around 250. It describes itself as a soul and retro live music venue, bar and nightclub, and the music has broadened over the years to include Motown, disco, funk, 1960s garage and psych, and 1990s Britpop and indie, alongside live bands, tribute acts and DJs.

Past events give a flavour of its playful side, from a Sgt Pepper's 50th anniversary party to a Tarantino-themed Halloween night and a Definitely Maybe 25th anniversary celebration. Reviewers regularly describe the venue as friendly, well run and welcoming, with a 1970s-inspired look complete with a glitter ball.

The autumn 2026 calendar is as lively as ever. Listings include a 70's Prom Night on 23 October, Digbeth Jazz sessions on 27 October and 3 November, Season of the Witch on 30 October and The Monster Mash Halloween Party on 31 October.

The venue is also available for private hire, from weddings to parties, for anyone who fancies celebrating to a soul soundtrack.

For the latest events and tickets, visit The Night Owl website.