Two new entertainment venues have opened within days of each other on Cannon Street in Birmingham city centre, bringing a fresh wave of activity to the often overlooked thoroughfare. The former Windsor pub has been transformed into an O'Neill's following a £1m investment, while Escape Hunt has relocated to the street with four immersive escape rooms and three outdoor experiences.
Cannon Street runs parallel to Corporation Street, connecting New Street to Cherry Street. It is a key part of the city centre's ongoing regeneration, though the lower end is currently undergoing major public realm works. Existing traders on the street include Forward Gallery, Bravissimo and Suit Direct.
Escape Hunt's Return to Birmingham
Escape Hunt had previously operated at Priory Square before closing suddenly. It reopened on Cannon Street on Thursday, July 23. The venue offers four indoor themed rooms: Curse of the Pharaoh, Aladdin and the Magic Vault, and Journey to Atlantis. Outdoor experiences include Return to Wonderland, Time Cops and Vampire Hunters.
CEO Richard Harpham expressed excitement: "We're absolutely thrilled to be opening a new venue in Birmingham city centre, alongside our second venue in Resorts World. The venue houses four of our five escape rooms and is the perfect activity for friends, family, parties or work events. We can't wait to welcome guests through our doors for their next adventure."
O'Neill's Pub: A Transformed Landmark
The old Windsor pub has undergone a complete transformation into a branch of O'Neill's, with a £1m investment. For the first time in years, the upper floor is open to the public. The venue offers live music three nights a week, a food menu, large screens for sports, and interactive dart boards.
This opening marks a significant boost for Cannon Street, which has seen limited commercial activity in recent years. The new venues are expected to draw more footfall to the area, supporting the wider regeneration plans for the city centre.
Regeneration Context
Birmingham City Council has been pushing for the revitalisation of the area, with Cannon Street previously identified as a zone for improvement. The public realm works at the lower end are designed to create a more welcoming pedestrian environment. Additionally, plans have been revealed for two towers on nearby High Street as part of redevelopment of a shopping centre deemed unfit for modern age. The arrival of O'Neill's and Escape Hunt aligns with these goals, adding leisure and entertainment options in a central location.
Both venues are now open to the public. Escape Hunt is accepting bookings for its escape rooms and outdoor experiences, while O'Neill's is serving customers daily. Local businesses and residents have welcomed the openings, hoping they will encourage more visitors to explore Cannon Street.
