Top West Midlands Art & Culture - page 2

This Birmingham walking tour offers a unique blend of historical and cultural insights, showcasing the city's rich heritage and vibrant present. Starting at the iconic Victoria Square, you'll delve into Birmingham's civic and cultural heart. The tour continues to St. Philip's Cathedral, where the stunning English Baroque architecture and intricate stained glass windows provide a glimpse into the city's religious and architectural history. The Jewellery Quarter reveals Birmingham's industrial past and artisan craftsmanship, offering a charming blend of Victorian architecture and modern creativity. The Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery enriches the experience with its vast collection of art and historical artifacts. Finally, Brindleyplace and the canals highlight Birmingham's transformation into a lively, contemporary urban space, combining leisure, history, and scenic beauty. This tour encapsulates the essence of Birmingham, making it an enriching and memorable experience.

The only museum dedicated to the Tudor era. Interact with the exhibits (such a lying on a Tudor bed, watching a video or writing with a quill). Walk down the only remaining cobblestone courtyard in Stratford upon Avon. Set within a genuine 16th century building visited by William Shakespeare.

Enjoy a playful and and creative day out with the whole family at Birmingham’s recently unveiled LEGOLAND Discovery Centre. Book your tickets in advance to guarantee your admission to this in-demand attraction, and, once inside, explore the various play areas at your own pace. Birmingham’s LEGOLAND Discovery Centre offers everything from a 4D cinema and rides to play areas where visitors can create their own LEGO cities, so you have your pick of attractions.

Make the most of your time in Stratford-upon-Avon with this engaging 60 minute guided walk. It’s the perfect way to experience the essence of the town—its Shakespearean legacy, historic architecture, and captivating stories—without feeling rushed. Stratford-upon-Avon is a place where history feels alive. Charming half-timbered buildings seem to whisper stories from centuries past, while the picturesque riverside and historic streets create an authentic glimpse of England’s heritage. As you stroll past boutique shops and quaint cafés, you’ll discover Stratford’s deep literary connections, most famously linked to William Shakespeare. In just one hour, you’ll experience Stratford’s literary magic, riverside charm, and beautiful historic architecture—enough to inspire you to return and explore the town’s stories in greater depth. Whether you’re a literature enthusiast or a curious traveller, this walk ensures you won’t miss Stratford’s highlights. Wheelchair friendly. Dogs welcome.

The industrial city with a dark and grimy past, discover Birmingham's secrets and skeletons on this 1.5 hour private tour. Uncover the public hangings, the ghost of Henry Skinner, the gangs that ruled Birmingham and much more. This special tour will bring our grimy past into light as you discover a unique side to our iconic city. Walk in the footsteps of murderers, ghosts & executioners; some centuries ago, some decades ago, and some still happening in the city today (ok, maybe not the executioners…). You never know what or who you might encounter! Tour highlights: Infamous gangs of Birmingham The ghost of Henry Skinner Town Hall riots …& much more!

Swap the bustling city for two of England’s heritage landmarks on this full-day tour to Stonehenge and Bath from Birmingham. Hear illuminating commentary as you zip between destinations by air-conditioned vehicle, leaving more time to explore each landmark at your own pace, with entry to Stonehenge and return transfer included in the price.

Experience Birmingham through the eyes of a local during a walking tour that takes you off the beaten path. Ideal for first-time visitors looking for an introduction to the industrial city, this tour includes personal headphones to ensure you hear the guide clearly at all times. Explore Birmingham’s medieval origins, Industrial Revolution roots, and modern transformation, including the Jewellery Quarter and Canal City.

If you like to walk but hate being tied down to a schedule, these self-guided audio walking tours are the perfect way to discover Shakespeare's birthplace and nearby Warwick, with its dramatic castle. First, spend an hour or so discovering Warwick's Celtic and Saxon history and learning about medieval warfare; next, make your own way to Stratford-upon-Avon to discover the places that played such a huge part in Shakespeare's life.

Peek behind the scenes of Stratford upon Avon’s only working distillery on this guided afternoon tour of the Shakespeare Distillery. Learn the secrets of gin making, find out how the spirits are influenced by Tudor-period distillery techniques, and discover all the varied ingredients that create the award-winning Stratford Gin.

On this small group tour, embark on a journey through the wilder, sparser southern Cotswolds. Admire countryside views, discover ‘royal’ Tetbury, and step back in time in tiny Castle Combe. You'll explore the amazing World Heritage City of Bath, too! After collecting our guests from Stratford-upon-Avon (08.50) or Moreton-in-Marsh (09.30), we'll travel to Tetbury. This small, pretty and typically Cotswold market town is known for its quaint streets, historic market hall and great shopping - especially if you're into antiques. King Charles III lives at the nearby Highgrove Estate! From Tetbury, it's on to the UNESCO World Heritage City of Bath. First, we’ll make a quick photo stop at the iconic Royal Crescent. Then, we’ll drop you in the centre of Bath for 2 hours 45 minutes of free time to explore with maps we’ll provide. Grab lunch on the go so you can see as much as possible! Lastly, explore idyllic Castle Combe, consistently ranked as the “prettiest village in England”!

Stratford-upon-Avon, famously known as the birthplace of William Shakespeare, is a town with more than 800 years of history. In this entertaining tour, hear tales about Shakespeare and life in the town, alongside stories of plague, murder, ghosts, and witches. You’ll learn the history of Stratford-upon-Avon and its residents and see the town’s main attractions in a tour that goes beyond Shakespeare.

Take Birmingham at your own pace with your own dedicated guide on a private tour. See Birmingham through a true Brummie’s eyes on this 1.5-hour walking tour. Immerse yourself in the city's sights and sounds as you journey through centuries of our history, uncovering the truth of the city of a thousand trades. During the tour, you’ll discover roots of Norman nobility to titans of the Industrial Revolution, charting Birmingham's path as a city of innovation to its place today as the UK’s second-largest city. See key historic sights like Birmingham Cathedral, Chamberlain Square and the canals, while uncovering the stories and people behind them. You’ll also gain real insight into life in Birmingham today, with every guide bringing their own stories of the city.

This walking tour explores Birmingham’s musical heritage, tracing how heavy metal and diverse genres emerged from its industrial heart. Starting at Ozzy the Bull, you’ll journey through sixty years of rock history. Key Highlights: Visit The Crown, where Black Sabbath debuted, and sites hosting icons like Nirvana and The Clash. Discover how local artists birthed grindcore and global anthems while navigating political lawsuits and societal discontent. Browse tenured record stores and see the Black Sabbath Bench. Uncover the Brummie roots of Fleetwood Mac and how factory life shaped the "metal" sound.

Lots of tourists come to Stratford-Upon-Avon to learn about William Shakespeare, but there’s so much more to this town than just The Bard. With this walking tour, you learn all about the darker side of Stratford-Upon-Avon’s history, from crimes to scandals and more. But don’t worry—your guide leaves plenty of time to cover Shakespeare too.

Follow in the footsteps of ex-convicts during a tour of Shrewsbury Prison, home to over 200 years worth of history. You’ll explore the former jail with a prison office who once managed the wings, for the inside scoop on what used to occur within the walls. You’ll hear tales about capital punishment and see the spots on which executions took place.

Discover the multicultural city of Birmingham at your own pace during a self-guided treasure hunt that reveals the rich history of the midlands city. Listen to engaging stories and facts that you won’t find in the guide book, and spot things that even locals miss—all you need is your smartphone.

Think of this as the easiest way to get from Stratford-upon-Avon to London — without wasting a day. We’ll pick you up at 10:30am in Stratford, load your luggage on the bus once, and then simply enjoy the journey. Instead of rushing straight back to London, we take a scenic drive through the Cotswolds, stopping along the way for beautiful villages, photos, and a relaxed lunch. It’s unhurried, small-group, and guided by a local who knows the area inside out. By early evening, we’ll drop you off at London Paddington at around 6pm — no train changes, no dragging bags, just a memorable day that feels like part of your holiday, not a transfer.

Dive into Warwick’s dark past on this spooky evening tour. Hear terrifying tales about the city’s haunted history as you lurk around landmarks including the Lord Leycester Hospital and Warwick Castle. Perfect for visitors looking for something off the beaten track, this immersive walking tour offers a thrilling start to your night out in Warwick.

Take Stratford-Upon-Avon at your own pace with a dedicated local guide on your very own private tour. You can choose any date or time for your private tour in the booking form. Wander through picturesque streets lined with beautifully preserved, authentic buildings—many of which stood during Shakespeare’s time—as the story of Stratford unfolds before you. From ancient origins and Viking invasions to the rise of the world-renowned Royal Shakespeare Company, this tour brings centuries of history to life. Along the way, explore the scenic canals, admire Stratford’s iconic theatres, and uncover hidden local secrets that most visitors miss!

Don’t miss out on the rich history of Warwick the way lots of other tourists do—instead, enlist a guide’s help to walk you through not just the town’s sightseeing highlights, but also 1,000 years of Warwick’s past. It’s a condensed but comprehensive experience, leaving you with lots of time for independent exploring afterwards.

Located in Warwickshire and close to Birmingham, you don’t want to miss this rare opportunity to see Warwick Castle in the evening. As the trail glistens and glows, you’re sure to see the castle and its grounds in a different light. Watching the winter sun set beneath the walls of Warwick Castle is one of the most enchanting sights you will see. The night sky is filled with an array of twinkling lights. From a Nutcracker inspired entrance to displays of dancing light on the castle walls, there is something for the entire family, young and old alike. With a fully accessible route, you won’t want to miss the best Christmas experience in the Midlands. As dusk arrives, immerse yourself in breathtaking surroundings lit up with larger-than-life illuminations. Wander the beautiful gardens with twinkling trees and projections that light up the sky. Whatever your age, our castle Light Trail is sure to bring the real magic of Christmas to life

We step inside one of Birmingham’s most important Victorian buildings on this guided tour of the Birmingham's Council House. Discover how the city has been run for over 140 years as your guide brings its architecture, people and municipal government to life. The tour gives rare access to key rooms, including the Council Chamber, this tour offers a clear and engaging insight into Birmingham’s civic past and present. Highlights 1½-hour guided tour of the Birmingham Council House. Visit the Council Chamber and selected historic rooms. Learn how local government has shaped the city, then and now.

Enrich your knowledge of local gin in Stratford-upon-Avon by visiting the award-winning Shakespeare Distillery. Learn about how the Tudor period influenced spirit production and enjoy a guided tour around the distillery. No need to worry about paying for each tasting, as at least three Shakespeare Distillery spirit tastings are included, as well as a gin and tonic to end the experience.

Enjoy a budget-friendly, one-of-a-kind way to explore Birmingham: this self-led smartphone game will bring the city’s spooky history to life. After signing up, download the app and set off at a time that suits you best. You’ll solve clues and discover top landmarks, from the Birmingham Town Hall and the Gas Street Basin to the Hall of Memory. You’ll also hear ghost stories and creepy lore during your tour.