Hall of Memory — Attraction in Birmingham

It is opened from 10 to 16 through Monday to Saturday and it’s free. It is a small but beautiful construction on Centenar Square. On the 12th June 1923, The Prince of Wales laid the foundation stone. He said that the building would stand to "symbolise to generations to come that Birmingham stood for, during a period of great national crisis - work of every kind unflinchingly given, compassion to the sick and wounded, courage and resource in adversity, and, above all, self-sacrifice in the face of death." Opened in 1925, stands as a memorial to the men and women of Birmingham who gave their lives in the First World War, Second World War and in active service since 1945. 12,320 Birmingham citizens died and 35,000 were wounded in the First World War.

Built of Portland Stone, and constructed almost entirely by Birmingham craftsmen, it was paid by public donations. Around the exterior on granite pedestals stand four larger than life bronze statues by local artist Albert Toft. They represent the Army, Navy, Air Force and Women's Services. Visitors enter the Hall of Memory through huge cast bronze doors. Inside the Hall, a sarcophagus-shaped dais of Siena marble sits in the centre of the marble floor. On top of the shrine rests a glass and bronze casket containing two books: the First World War and Second World War...

A beautiful and peaceful memorial right in the heart of Birmingham. The Hall of Memory is a striking piece of architecture with impressive bronze statues on each corner, representing the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Women’s Services. It’s a meaningful place to pause and reflect, while also offering a fascinating contrast against the city’s modern skyline. Worth a visit if you’re...

This peaceful building used to be open regularly. A real shame Birmingham Council don’t open it more often nowadays. Last time I visited, it was Remembrance Sunday 2024 although I walk past it regularly. It’s a beautiful place to take a moment to remember the fallen. We will...