Opening its doors in 2018, The Mill has been an iconic venue for warehouse raves and events in the midlands. Located in Digbeth, Birmingham, it’s the city’s go-to rave district. Far from a glamorous night out, yet people from the surrounding areas travel to Birmingham for its rave scene, particularly at The Mill.
Speaking ahead of their opening in 2018, Operations Director Benjamin Newby told Birmingham Mail:
Benjamin Newby
“We have carefully created an events programme that will attract concert goers from all over the country, and we’re proud to host them in Digbeth, one of the most vibrant creative quarters in the UK. Following our launch of Digbeth Arena back in May, we’re really excited to further contribute to this eclectic community and the city of Birmingham, when we open our doors later this month.”
Situated against Victorian railway arches, The Mill is very unassuming and almost easy to miss. When an event is on, it’s usually the heavy bass heard streets away that points attendees in the right direction. Formerly known as the Rainbow Venues, the new owners have invested £500,000 renovating the beloved rave space.
Rooms
There’s three areas to choose from in The Mill :
The Mill Warehouse, with a capacity of 1000 people is where you’ll find most of the raves and live music performed. It’s an entirely empty space which means it can be decorated and transformed for each event, with the option of an upstairs balcony for an even better view of the stage.
The Mill Blackbox, with a capacity of 400 people, is the perfect intimate side room for deeper tech and underground music.
The Mill Roof Terrace has a capacity of 250 people, and has helped to put The Mill onto other people’s radars. Its open rooftop terrace is the perfect spot to catch some fresh air, whilst overlooking the skyline of Birmingham.
Drinks & Food
There’s two bars in each area with a variety drink options, and plenty of free water is given out to rave attendees.
Each event has a variety of food options, but here’s two examples as featured by The Mill.
Payment: Card and contactless only.
Events and Times
Previous events have included Foliée, Weird Science, Renaissance meets FACE and Carnival Magnifico. Featuring artists such as Amelie Lens, Rich NxT, Chase & Status and Solomun.
The Mill’s events can run in the day and through the night, with some finishing at 5AM.
Accessibility
The Mill welcomes deaf and disabled customers to the venue. They are open to accessibility emails and queries from customers, stating they are “keen to promote equality of opportunity for people with disabilities and to take the necessary steps to meet their requirements.”
Dress Code
There’s never been any formal dress code listed. Shorts, trainers and tracksuits have all been spotted inside the venue.
Getting to The Mill
The Mill is a 15 minute walk from Birmingham New Street, click here for directions, and a 5 minute walk from Birmingham Coach Station, click here for directions. By bus you can take the 13, 17, 57, 58, 60, and 97 to Digbeth High Street. More information available here.
Upcoming Events
Upcoming events include Digbeth Disco Festival with The Shapeshifters and Mousse T, UKG Brunch, and headline shows from Hybrid Minds, Paul Van Dyk & Joel Corry.
Some iconic music moments from The Mill:
Words: Elle Farrell-Kingsley
Cover image: Monica Martini
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