A Moment in Heavy Metal History: Tuesday, 21st July
Some days at Merlin’s Café Bar are busy, some are legendary—and then there are days that become an indelible part of Birmingham’s rock history.
On Tuesday, 21st July 2026, on the eve of the citywide Ozzy Day celebrations, we had the profound honor of welcoming a very special guest to Merlin’s: Sharon Osbourne.
Her visit wasn’t just a brief appearance—it was a warm, emotional, and unforgettable afternoon shared with the people, fans, and community who love Ozzy and Black Sabbath the most.
🍾 Tasting & Enjoying “Patient Number 9”
During her visit, Sharon became one of the very first people to officially sample Patient Number 9—the first official Ozzy Osbourne beer, brewed in collaboration with Hobsons Brewery.
This crisp, light-golden 4.3% ABV English ale received the ultimate stamp of approval. Served in collectible bottles at Merlin’s Café Bar, it means you can enjoy a drink in the bar and keep the official bottle as a unique piece of rock memorabilia to take home with you!
🖤 Hugs, History, and Heartfelt Moments
What made the day truly extraordinary was Sharon’s warmth and generosity toward everyone in the venue.
She spent time taking photos, chatting, and sharing emotional hugs with:
- The family and friends of the Merlin’s, the city of Birmingham institutions including the Birmingham Children’s Hospital
- The dedicated team here at Merlin’s
- Lucky patrons and lifelong metalheads who were invited to be in the venue during this special day
Sharon also took time to inspect our permanent Ozzy Osbourne & Black Sabbath Memorial Wall, which features unique items gifted directly by the family from the iconic Ozzy bench. Seeing her connect with our tribute to the Prince of Darkness was a moment none of us will ever forget.
🎙️ The BBC Interview with Ed James
Merlin’s served as the backdrop for media coverage throughout the day, including an exclusive BBC interview hosted by Ed James.
Surrounded by the atmosphere of Merlin’s and the overwhelming support of Birmingham’s rock community, Sharon spoke passionately about Ozzy’s legacy, the city that birthed heavy metal, and what this enduring love means to their family.
Listen on BBC Sounds using this link: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p0p02sqt
Visit the Legacy at Merlin’s
While Sharon’s visit was a once-in-a-lifetime afternoon, her presence remains woven into the fabric of our venue.
Come down to Merlin’s Café Bar to:
- View the permanent Ozzy Osbourne & Black Sabbath Memorial Wall.
- Pick up a bottle of Patient Number 9 English Ale (4.3% ABV by Hobsons Brewery) to enjoy and take home as a memento.
- Leave your personal message for Ozzy to be preserved for eternity.
“Birmingham isn’t just where heavy metal started—it’s home.”
📍 Find Us: Merlin’s Café Bar, 18-20 Martineau Place, Corporation Street, Birmingham, B2 4UU
🍾 Available at Bar: Patient Number 9 Bottled English Ale (Take your memento bottle home!)
🎟️ Admission: Always Free Entry
