Top West Midlands Art & Culture - page 2

Discover Birmingham at your own pace with our immersive audio experience—no rushing, no crowds, just pure exploration freedom. Uncover hidden stories and historical secrets that even locals don't know, narrated by authentic Brummie voices who bring the city's rich heritage to life. Unlike rigid group tours, you choose which attractions to visit and how long to spend at each, creating your personalized Birmingham adventure. Our professionally produced audio features crystal-clear narration, subtle sound effects, and atmospheric music that transports you through time as you walk the city streets. Access exclusive insights about Birmingham's transformation from industrial powerhouse to cultural hub, with fascinating details that guidebooks miss. Whether you have two hours or two days, this audio experience delivers Birmingham's essence on your terms.

Explore Stratford-upon-Avon like a local with this self-guided tour that blends iconic Shakespeare landmarks with hidden gems across the town. Discover highlights such as Shakespeare's Birthplace, Shakespeare's Schoolroom & Guildhall, and Holy Trinity Church. With an easy-to-use digital guide, you can pause for a coffee, linger in historic spaces, or dive deeper into stories and insights that traditional tours often overlook. Perfect for independent explorers, this tour invites you to experience Stratford-upon-Avon not just as a visitor, but as someone in on the secret. After purchasing the tour, you’ll receive an email within 24 hours with everything you need to begin your self-guided walking experience. We recommend downloading the tour in advance while you have access to a reliable Wi-Fi connection. Please note that entry tickets to any attractions are not included and must be purchased separately on-site if you wish to visit them.

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.

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.

Unlock the best of Stratford-upon-Avon and Warwickshire with The Explorer Pass by Shakespeare's England. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or family adventurer, this versatile pass lets you create your own perfect itinerary, explore at your own pace, and save money as you go. The more you experience, the more you save! From the iconic Warwick Castle to the charming Shakespeare's Birthplace and Schoolroom, the Explorer Pass grants access to some of the region's top attractions. Discover the magic of Stratford Butterfly Farm, step back in time at Kenilworth Castle, or marvel at the classic cars at the British Motor Museum—there’s so much to see and do! Simple to use and available as a 1, 2, or 3-day pass, all you need to do is scan the pass QR code at participating attractions to gain free entry. Plus, with the Explorer Pass app, you can easily book your visits, manage admissions, and find special offers—all in one 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.

Discover Birmingham's soul through our self-guided tour, where history and modern vibrancy fuse into an enthralling journey! Unveil the city's industrial might, its green revolution, and hidden cultural treasures, all at your own pace. With expert insights from a Chartered Geographer, this tour is an odyssey through time, showcasing Birmingham's architectural marvels and the stories behind them. Start at the iconic Mailbox, meander along historic canals, and conclude in the lively gay village. It's not just a tour; it's your gateway to the heart of Birmingham!

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”!

Appreciating Birmingham’s unique architectural heritage can be tricky on a self-led excursion. Explore Birmingham’s canals and landmarks on a walking tour, and discover the Georgian, Victorian, and modern influences on the cityscape. Gain intimate insight into Brindleyplace, Broad Street, and beyond as you explore with your live guide or audio guide, and gain a comprehensive overview of the history and heritage of the English industrial city.

Combine the freedom of independent travel with the structure of a guided tour with a private audio-guide walking tour through Stratford-Upon-Avon. Download the tour to your device so you can listen without an internet connection, and follow the prompts. Learn all about Shakespeare’s hometown, his life and times, and landmarks associated with the playwright. Go at your own pace, pausing where you like, and avoid the risk of getting lost.

Journey back to the Middle Ages with this full-day admission ticket to Warwick Castle. Explore the historic castle, brought to life by actors and interactive displays, and wander across some 64 acres (26 hectares) of parkland. Take in the views from the ramparts, enjoy the spectacular Flight of the Eagles show, and see one of the world’s largest fireball catapults.

Solve a self-guided ghost walking quest through Warwick. You're the new apprentice of Warrane Worthington, dark investigator. Warwick has been hiding its worst crimes, spirits, and legends behind tricky puzzles. Help crack them and expose the truth. Use the Questo app on your phone to follow the trail across 12 real Warwick landmarks: Lord Leycester Hospital, Warwick Castle, Caesar's Tower, St Marys Church, and the old gaol. Solve riddles, decode passwords, and meet headless knights, hellhounds, and Gunpowder Plot conspirators. Each chapter has its own historical mystery, from a 1605 Catholic conspirator's escape to the 1694 Great Fire and a 19th-century witchcraft trial. Start anytime, pause whenever, and pick up where you left off. Allow around 60 minutes for the full 2.6 km route. Perfect for ghost story fans, history buffs, families with brave kids, or anyone visiting Warwick Castle who wants more than a guided tour.

Built in 1793, Shrewbsury Prison stands today as a key example of Georgian and Victorian architecture and heritage. Pick a start time that works best for you, make your own way to the landmark, and then spend as long as you’d like discovering its highlights. While exploring, you can take in its interactive elements, learn about its history, and discover its spooky lore on a self-guided tour.

Walk where Shakespeare walked, on a self-guided app created by , a local who grew up in Stratford-upon-Avon. From the school where young Shakespeare studied to the church where a mysterious curse guards his grave, this self-guided audio tour reveals the real Stratford that most visitors walk right past. Across 15+ stops, you will discover the oldest pub in town, the tragic story of Shakespeare's forgotten daughter Judith, the reason his grand house no longer stands, and the hidden connection between a Stratford timber-framed house and Harvard University. Unlike group tours, start whenever you want, take as long as you like, and pause to duck into a 500-year-old pub or Shakespeare's Birthplace along the way. Think you know the Bard? Take the optional Shakespeare quiz as you walk and put your knowledge to the test. Ideal for those who are here for a day, this walking tour allows you to discover the famous sights and some hidden gems all of which you can experience at your own pace.

See a side of the Cotswolds that many visitors miss on this day-long tour from Stratford-on-Avon or Moreton-in Marsh. You’ll check off popular villages like Burford and Broadway, but also discover the villages and landmarks that fly under the tourist radar for a crowd-free experience. An ancient stone circle is among the highlights.

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.

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!

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.

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.

Feast your eyes and fill your camera roll with postcard-perfect English countryside on this private tour of the Cotswolds’ most adorable villages. There’s no need to stress about left-side driving or worry about parking, which can be challenging, especially in high season. Simply meet your private driver/guide at the pickup point of your choice and soak up delights such as Bourton on the Water, Chipping Campden and Stow-on-the-Wold.

Stratford-upon-Avon is famous for one thing… but there’s an entire town of stories waiting to enthral you — long before we even mention Stratford's most famous son! Join our expert guides, for a small-group journey through scandal, crime, and curious characters — all meticulously researched and told exactly where the history happened. By the time Shakespeare finally takes the stage, you’ll see him in a whole new light: not just a legend, but the man, the town, and the tales that shaped them both. This isn’t a walking tour. It’s a curated, dynamic immersive adventure through Stratford’s hidden stories — twisted, true, and unforgettable. - Duration: ~90 minutes - Price: £12 per adult / £6 per child (8-12 years) / under 8s go free - When: Thursday–Saturday (seasonal) - Meeting Point: The Windmill Pub, Church Street - Extra: Walks are fully accessible, paced for ease and enjoyment. Guests participate at their own discretion. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

There is no other tour like this in Shrewsbury. It's a great way to explore this historic town and sample food/drink from many 'hidden gems' -independent cafes, bars and restaurants 'off the beaten track'. It's like enjoying a full meal over 4 courses in 4 different venues across Shrewsbury. Whilst visiting the 4 local independent venues, you will get to meet passionate business owners and hear their stories and learn about them and their businesses. Photos will be taken on route and shared with guests post tour. You’ll be shown around by your expert local guide throughout the tour. They’ll provide some amazing insight about the rich history of this Tudor town.

The Lord Leycester is one of the most remarkable medieval sites in Britain — and still home to a community of veterans today. Located on Warwick’s High Street beside the West Gate, the site has over 900 years of history, centred on the Chapel of St James the Great, built in 1123 above the town’s original gateway. Founded in 1571 by Robert Dudley, 1st Earl of Leicester, it remains a working charitable home for former soldiers, known as the Brethren. Unlike a traditional museum, the Lord Leycester is a living community. Visitors can explore the medieval buildings, courtyard and gardens, and join guided tours led by the Brethren themselves. With a café and gift shop open to all, it offers a rare chance to experience history still being lived.

Your adventure begins at the grand hotel Birmingham, where you'll rendezvous with your knowledgeable guide. Delve into the heart of the city as you meander through its streets, pausing first at the Roundhouse Birmingham, nestled along the canals. From there, immerse yourself in the splendor of Centenary Square, where architectural marvels like the Birmingham Library and The Hall of Memory stand as testaments to the city's resilience and innovation. Journey into the historic Jewellery Quarter, where Victorian cemeteries and charming residential apartments hold secrets of a bygone era. Continue your exploration in Digbeth, a vibrant hub celebrated for its independent shops and dynamic street art, showcasing Birmingham's contemporary flair. Traverse through Gay Village pulsating with cultural significance and vibrant energy, before encountering iconic landmarks like The Bull, Victoria Square, and The Mailbox, each weaving their own tale of history and charm.