Top West Midlands Art & Culture - page 3

See where evolutionist Charles Darwin grew up and found so much inspiration on this self-guided walking tour in Shrewsbury • Find out the historic significance of Shakespearean characters like Harry Hotspur and Prince Hal • Hear from producer Owen Bowles, a Blue Badge Tourist Guide for the Heart of England region • Do it all in two hours or linger at stops along the way with complete control over when you start and finish • Get unlimited use before your booking date and after it • Use the virtual tour option at home Once you’ve booked, you’ll receive a ticket with instructions and a unique code listed under “Before You Go”. Then simply install the VoiceMap app and enter your code. The app displays directions to the starting point, and when you’re in the right place, just pop in your headphones and tap start. VoiceMap has automatic GPS playback, with turn-by-turn directions. It also works offline.

Considered the UK's most multicultural city, Birmingham is a fascinating place to discover the waves of migrants who have made Britain what it is today. Join this small-group walking tour from vibrant Stratford Road to sample food from around the world, learn about Yemeni, Irish, and Somali immigration, and visit Asian stores. Stops include a Hindu temple, a wedding superstore, abandoned pubs, and a Yemeni restaurant.

Engage in a unique artistic journey at the Museum of Royal Worcester during the workshop. Under the guidance of former Royal Worcester artist Jim Skerrett, participants will learn essential painting techniques as they create their own English scene on a plate or canvas. This intimate session, designed for up to eight people, includes delightful stories from factory life, fresh coffee or tea, and a slice of cake served on exquisite Royal Worcester porcelain. Perfect for anyone, regardless of artistic skill, this workshop promises a memorable creative experience.

Come and Uncover Birminghams Beautiful, Inspiring, Unknown and Ever-Changing Street Art. We’ll take you on a 5km walk (2 hours) or run (1.5 hours) to the most striking murals - with even better stories behind them. Drawing on History from around the World, we specifically look at Birmingham’s scene and the Home-Grown Artists behind it.

Learn about the legend of Lady Godiva on this small-group walking tour of Coventry’s Cathedral Quarter on this small-group guided walking tour. Along the way, hear how the dissolution of the Monasteries led to the loss of St. Mary’s Priory and Cathedral, the role Coventry was supposed to play in the infamous Gunpowder Plot, and the curious history of Coventry Castle.

Explore the enchanting Cotswolds on a full-day tour from London, featuring historic towns, picturesque villages, and stunning landscapes. Visit the medieval market town of Burford, stroll through the beautiful village of Bibury, and soak in panoramic views from Cleeve Hill. Discover the charming Bourton-on-the-Water, known as the Venice of the Cotswolds, and explore the historic wool town of Stow-on-the-Wold. Finally, delve into the literary history of Stratford-upon-Avon, birthplace of William Shakespeare, before returning to London after a day of exploration. - Full-day private tour from London to the scenic Cotswolds - Enjoy a personalized experience with a private driver-guide and vehicle - Relax with hassle-free hotel pickup and drop-off from London Your tours can be conducted in multiple languages, ensuring every guest enjoys a truly personalized experience!

Interactive Workshop: A hands-on, sensory experience led by a professional fragrance stylist. Expert Guidance: Learn the "Fragrance Pyramid" and how to balance base, heart, and top notes. Personalised Souvenir: Take home a 5ml bottle of a scent that exists nowhere else in the world. Extensive Scent Library: Experiment with a curated collection of premium accords, from fresh florals to deep musks. Perfect for All: An ideal activity for solo travellers, couples, or groups looking for a unique indoor experience.

Explore Birmingham's vibrant nightlife with our exclusive Party Passes. Our Party Passes offer a flexible way to experience popular weekend nightlife venues. Designed for both small and large groups, they provide pre-arranged guestlist access to selected bars and clubs across the UK. You are free to visit as many or as few of the included venues as you wish, at your own pace, making this a great option for those who prefer an independent night out rather than a fixed itinerary. This experience is not a guided tour. There is no host and no timetable to follow. Instead, your group is placed on the guestlist at each participating venue. On arrival, simply give your name at the door to receive guestlist entry. Where a standard door charge applies, entry is included at no additional cost.

Birmingham is the most misunderstood great city in England. For two hundred years it was the workshop of the world — a place where, as the saying went, anything from a pin to a steam engine could be made, and usually was. Three-quarters of everything written with a metal pen in the Victorian world was written with a nib made within half a mile of where we’ll be walking. By the early twentieth century it was also one of the toughest places in Britain — and that is where the Peaky Blinders come in. The real gang were violent, territorial young men from the slums of Small Heath and Cheapside who fought over street corners and racecourse pitches from the 1890s. The BBC series gave them twenty-first century glamour — but the real history beneath it is every bit as fascinating, and this tour tells you both.

On this one-day tour, you'll get out of the minibus and into the glorious countryside! Experience the Cotswolds' celebrated walking trails with a fun, friendly local guide. You'll enjoy up to three glorious walks on this tour. Walks may vary according to the group, weather and trail conditions, but we can promise you peaceful Cotswold villages, gloriously scenic views and quiet footpaths away from the crowds of the ‘touristy’ parts of the Cotswolds - heaven! The day will round off with a visit to the gorgeous village of Broadway (with the option to see Broadway Tower), where you can explore, shop, or grab some refreshment after your day of walking the Cotswolds! Tours depart from Shakespeare's Stratford-upon-Avon, or from Moreton-in-Marsh in the Cotswolds. Travelling from London or Oxford? Take the train to Moreton-in-Marsh! You'll skip all the traffic, enjoy a charming, scenic train ride, and get to spend even longer in the beautiful Cotswolds!

Enjoy a private, exclusive tour with your own local guide. Embark on a captivating 2.5-hour private walking tour of Coventry, where you’ll journey through the city’s history, culture, and architecture. Your tour begins at the iconic Lady Godiva Statue, symbolizing Coventry’s transformation. You’ll explore the historic Golden Cross area, admire St. Mary’s Guildhall, and discover architectural marvels like the Council House and Drapers’ Hall. Witness the grandeur of Holy Trinity Coventry and the resilience of Coventry Cathedral, concluding at the hidden gem, St. Osburg’s Church. Throughout the tour, a local guide will share intriguing stories that bring Coventry and its history, culture, and heritage closer to you. Discover the past and become familiar with the modern times of this captivating city.

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.

Explore the enchanting streets of Stratford-upon-Avon in a fun-filled scavenger hunt that combines the excitement of an amazing race with the thrill of discovery. Navigate through historic landmarks like the Jester Statue, Shakespeare Center, and Holy Trinity Church while solving intriguing puzzles and answering questions that reveal the town's fascinating history, from its Anglo-Saxon roots to its haunted Tudor tales. Gather your team for a playful challenge, complete a Shakespearean scene for bonus points, and capture unforgettable selfies along the way. Perfect for families, friends, or a unique date night.

Prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey and peel back the layers of time to explore Shakespeare's life outside of Stratford-upon-Avon. We invite you to step into the very footsteps of the world's greatest playwright! Our comfortable minibus will pick you up from Market Square, Rother Street, Stratford Upon Avon CV37 6LT (opp. One Stop shop) every Sunday 11:00-14:30 Visiting eight villages described in his rhymes, poems, and quotes, gaining a fresh and unique insight into Shakespeare's social life outside of Stratford Upon Avon. After the 6 village Wixford we will stop for food (90mins) for a traditional 3 course English carvery Enjoy the beautiful Warwickshire countryside as we tour Shakespeare's favourite drinking establishments, where he loved to gamble, laugh with his friends, and find muses for his timeless works. Uncover the villages that whispered inspiration into Shakespeare's ears, inspiring many of his poems and plays, with every play laced with references to alcohol!

A tour which takes a gentle walk in the leafy suburbs of Edgbaston, which presents the influence of the British Quaker and African American Civil Rights leaders who resided in Edgbaston, Birmingham in the 18th Century. Ida B Wells - African American, investigative journalist and campaigner for the abolishment of lynching George and Richard Cadbury chocolate manufacturers and the reliance of coca harvested by enslaved Africans to boost their economic might. Joseph Sturge - Birmingham based Industrialist who founded The British and Foreign Ant-Slavery Society

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.

Enjoy a private, exclusive tour with your own local guide. Explore the fascinating history and vibrant culture of Coventry on a private walking tour. Your journey begins at the iconic Lady Godiva Statue in Broadgate, a symbol of Coventry’s post-war transformation. Over the course of this guided exploration, you’ll visit Coventry’s hidden gems, discover the birth of the bicycle industry at Lady Herbert’s Garden, and hear the tale of the Coventry City Wall’s preservation. Delve into the city’s rich motor industry heritage at Millennium Place and learn about its enduring landmarks, such as Greyfriars Spire. Coventry’s legacy of famous plays, historical markets, and extraordinary architecture will unfold as you meander through this dynamic city.

Join an exciting 120-minute walking journey through Stratford-upon-Avon. Learn all the key facts about the city, dive into the local lifestyle, and feel its unique culture. From Holy Trinity Church to Bancroft Gardens, get to discover the city's most defining landmarks. Your Local will also share insider tips on the best cafes, restaurants, and lively bars in Stratford-upon-Avon to ensure you get the most out of your stay. • See Stratford-upon-Avon through a local's eyes, uncovering the city's true essence. • Explore Stratford’s historic streets and scenic riverbanks, rich in Shakespearean heritage. • Get top local tips on the best bars, cafes, and restaurants to visit. • Maximize your time, discovering more of Stratford-upon-Avon in less time. • Enjoy the intimacy of a small group, with a maximum of 8 travellers.

This walk has been designed by the owner of Wales Outdoors to take in the best of the Wye Valley in the Symmonds Yat area. From the start at the wonderful village store we regularly take in wonderful places of interest such as the viewpoint from Symmonds Yat Rock that looks down upon the almost unbelievable Huntsham Oxbow. The woodland is mostly ours as we are, mostly, off the beaten track throughout. This is a skilfully designed day with plenty of interest for the young and the young at heart alike :)

Discover the rich history of Kenilworth Castle and its stunning Elizabethan Garden. Kenilworth’s greatest period began when Elizabeth I’s childhood friend, Robert Dudley took possession of the castle in 1563. He spent fortunes turning it into a showpiece mansion to impress the queen. Climb up to the queen’s apartments for fantastic views over the castle and surrounding countryside. Explore the spectacular garden Dudley created just for his 1575 visit, including a Renaissance aviary, plant beds full of scent, colour and fruit, and an imposing fountain.

This tour zig-zags through the city centre away from the cathedrals, and takes participants on a walk through a city which has kept making history by inventing the future. It’s a history that fits together like a jigsaw, come and explore it with us. Highlights include: The industrial booms which saw Coventry as the centre of weaving, watch making, bikes and cars. The most complete part of the City Wall, and learn where the Civil War really started. The Royal Palace in the city centre where the King and Queen stayed when Coventry was the capital of England. The story of the inventors who brought us the bicycle and the jet engine. Different theories as to where the phrase “Sent to Coventry” came from. Explanations and information about of dozens of artworks around the city centre. Details of the rich cultural history of Coventry. Stories of the Phoenix City, the 'City of Tomorrow', risen from the ashes of the Blitz.

Turning the streets of Shrewsbury into an adventure playground! Get a unique perspective of this historical town on this self-guided, interactive treasure hunt with an escape room twist. It's the best way to discover Shrewsubry! On your adventure, unlock a hidden trail, find clues, solve puzzles, and complete challenges, earning points along the way. Discover the town's highlights, explore hidden gems, learn some fun facts, and see things that most people just pass by. As the activity is all self-guided through the app, you can start your Quest when you want and go at your own pace, stopping for breaks. It's an ideal activity for couples, families, and groups of friends. You can use the Quests as a Team Building activity too! Will you conquer the Quest?

Discover Industrial Revolution-era landmarks of Birmingham which are hidden among picturesque water canals. Follow your guide to meet highlights and discover surprising facts and fascinating history! See St. Martin’s Church, Gas Street Basin or Jewelry Quarter. HIGHLIGHTS: -Discover Birmingham city, see modernity and old greatness and listen to the story from your own 5-stars Private Guide -By amazed by impressive architecture of Town Hall, Bullring or Library of Birmingham -Step inside the fantastic St. Martin’s Church and St. Philip’s Cathedral -Experience real traditions and craft works inside Museum of Jewelry and see whole Quarter -Explore “Venice site” of Birmingham, follow Gas Street and admire Canal Old Line Visible future and sacred past! Here in Birmingham you will see how strongly modernity comes to a very historical city. Meet fascinating history thanks to a private guide and see new fascinating buildings and old greatness!

It's here, it's Queer. It's Birminghams only Pride History Tour. Step back in time with us, as we’ll tell you the story of how Birmingham’s Gay Village came to be. It’s a fabulous tale…but one of exclusion, acceptance and uncertainty. Starting in 1969, just 2 years after the decriminalisation of homosexuality, we’ll start at the original Nightingale Club Site. We’ll take you on a 5km walk (2 hours) or run (1.5 hours) through the most influential venues and moments from our cities LGBTQ+ scene. Drawing on Pride History from around the World, we specifically look at Birmingham’s journey to becoming one of the UK's most thriving scenes. We’ll also spin around Smithfield’s, home of Birmingham Pride, before finishing our story with a look ahead to a future of increased uncertainty for the survival of the village itself. You’ll leave not only with a sense of pride in our glorious gay village, but you’ll know what jugs, rhinos and foxes have got to do with it all!