The Fountain is a pub and 'hotel' in the city centre of Birmingham, aimed at the gay, bi and open-minded male market, though women are welcomed. It's an old victorian building that has undergone extensive redevelopment, sadly losing some of its original charm, as it had a unique character, feeling like a local original pub yet with a city centre location. It still has some of its victorian character, but the carpets and softer aspects of its interior are long gone now, being replaced with hard flooring, and a large extension building that's occasionally used for visiting acts.
Its clientele are mostly 30's and upwards, and some real ale is provided, which is a great touch. The bar staff don't always strive that hard - or even at all - to treat you as a valued customer, and this can be more than good enough reason to go elsewhere: shame as this place has seen better days, with both its interior and staff attitude.
If you want to meet locals then this can be a reasonable venue to start or finish your night, as its serving hours are reasonably late into the night: though its doors may have closed, it's likely still to be serving inside. It does have a cruisy atmosphere, with rear rooms being the place to visit, if this is your thing. Otherwise, just hang out in one of their many bar areas. There's also an outdoors smoking courtyard, with seating, that's also good during the summer for 'fresh' air. read more