The Village Inn and The Loft Announce New Birmingham Home... Together?!
The Village Inn and The Loft have revealed their new location, and it's a big change for Birmingham's Gay Village.
Where are The Village Inn and The Loft Moving To?
Remember when The Village announced it was moving to a new location? Well, surprise! They're not going alone. The Loft is joining them at the Nightingale Club complex! This means that three of Birmingham's iconic LGBTQ+ venues will now be housed under one roof. The Village Inn will be taking over the ground floor, with a planned opening date of Thursday 3rd April, while The Loft will be moving into the first floor, opening on Friday 16th May.
Why the Move Makes Some Sense
This move has been anticipated for a while now. The parent company behind these venues has been facing financial challenges, and condensing their operations into one location is a strategic move to save costs. It also reflects an investment in the Nightingale complex, which will be getting a revamp to accommodate these new additions.
What Does This Mean for Birmingham's Gay Village?
This move marks a significant change for Birmingham's Gay Village. While it's exciting to see these venues coming together, it also means the loss of two standalone spaces with their own unique vibes. The Village Inn was known for its cabaret shows and lively atmosphere, while The Loft offered a more relaxed setting with a focus on cocktails and conversation. It remains to be seen how these different vibes will coexist within the Nightingale complex.
The Loft was also a popular spot for food, with many people attending their Drag Race UK viewing parties or their Dinner & Drag nights (now replaced with Cocktails & Cabaret). The Loft quietly stopped serving food a few months ago, and it's unclear whether a food offering will return in the new location.
A New Chapter for Birmingham's LGBTQ+ Scene
With The Village Inn and The Loft joining Nightingale Club, Birmingham's Gay Village is entering a new era. We're hopeful that this move will bring new energy and excitement to the scene, while still preserving the unique character of each venue.
