Top West Midlands Art & Culture - page 4

Beat the Birmingham traffic and explore local sights with ease by opting for this private guided walking tour. As you stroll past key city landmarks—such as Centenary Square, St. Philip’s Cathedral, and Birmingham Town Hall, a guide entertains you with stories about their history to enhance your understanding of the city and its many highlights.

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.

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 :)

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!

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.

Take Birmingham at your own pace with your own dedicated guide on this special 3 hour Birmingham City & Jewellery Quarter Tour. Choose any start time, and we can pick you up at your hotel in the city centre. Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the city as you travel back through the centuries to discover how our city exploded from a small market town, to the second largest city in the UK. On our longest private tour, see everything you need to see in Birmingham, from the key sights in the city centre to the historically-important jewellery quarter area of the city. You'll not only see and learn about our history, but you’ll also gain an authentic insight into modern life in the city today and explore some hidden gems along the way! From Birmingham’s boom during the industrial revolution, to our iconic canals, and of course, the home of Cadbury chocolate! There’s something for everyone on this unique experience.

Birmingham is a city of contrasts that reveals itself best through local stories. Discover it with a local guide on a private walking tour. This personalized tour allows you to discover the exterior of monuments, including museums, while learning about the city’s history and culture. Museum visits can be arranged upon request prior to the tour. Your guide contacts you in advance to shape the experience around your preferences, making this tour perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers.

Explore the highlights of Birmingham and exercise at the same time with this guided running tour. Covering around 7.4 miles (12 kilometers), the tour is a great way to get your bearings of the city. Along the way, hear entertaining stories about Birmingham sights, and check off lots of key landmarks, including the Roundhouse Birmingham, Centenary Square, and Victoria Square.

On this self-guided walking tour, you’ll hear the surprising story of a city without natural resources or a major river, which ended up flourishing because of the ingenuity of its people, and its central position in the nation’s transport networks. Starting at the beautifully preserved Edwardian-era train station, Birmingham Moor Street, you’ll wander through the city’s historic heart and hear about centuries of innovation and transformation. You’ll hear fascinating stories about its industrial heritage, and the people who shaped this proudly forward-looking city. The tour concludes at Centenary Square, where the Golden Boys statue honors three industrial titans whose partnerships helped power the Industrial Revolution. Throughout the tour, you’ll follow the evolution of Birmingham’s commercial landscape while exploring quiet cathedral grounds, grand civic spaces, and bustling market areas that have sustained the city’s economy for over 850 years.

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.

Step into the shadows of Stratford-Upon-Avon, where the town's darkest secrets and sinister past come to life. From chilling unsolved murders and whispered tales of witchcraft to the horrors of Plague and Civil War, this 1.5-hour tour will reveal the eerie side of the town best known for its famous poet and playwright. But beware—what lurks in the history of Stratford is far darker than you might expect. This is no ordinary walk through Stratford-Upon-Avon. As you tread through haunting graveyards and along its spooky, cobbled streets, your local guide will unravel spine-chilling stories of mystery, death, and terror. Forget the rosy tales of Shakespeare—here, the ghosts of Stratford's tragic past await you.

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.

This 3-hour city orientation tour offers a perfect introduction to Birmingham’s history, culture, and architecture. Starting with Victoria Square, you’ll explore the iconic Birmingham Town Hall and public art, like the "Iron: Man" statue. Visit the Library of Birmingham, a modern architectural marvel with panoramic city views, and stroll through Centenary Square’s historic landmarks. Discover Birmingham’s industrial past at Gas Street Basin, home to the city’s historic canal network. Drive through the Jewelry Quarter, known for its rich craftsmanship. With a knowledgeable guide, this tour provides an insightful, hassle-free experience, covering the essential sights of Birmingham in just a few hours.

This tour offers a seamless and enriching exploration of Birmingham’s cultural and historical gems in a short time. Start with the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, home to exquisite Pre-Raphaelite art and industrial history. Stroll through Victoria Square, admiring the architectural grandeur of the Town Hall and public art. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, either contemporary or traditional. Afterward, explore the scenic Gas Street Basin and learn about Birmingham’s vital canal system during the Industrial Revolution. With an expert guide and comfortable transportation, this tour provides a perfect introduction to Birmingham’s heritage and beauty, all while offering personalized convenience and a relaxing experience.

Private walking tour in Birmingham reveals Historic Old Town atmosphere shaped by centuries of Cultural Heritage. You explore Ancient architectural landmarks that reflect Medieval and Classical influence across the city center. The journey brings you through civic squares where stories of civilization and transformation unfold naturally. At Birmingham Town Hall you experience neoclassical grandeur and acoustic heritage. The Council House introduces ceremonial tradition and civic identity shaped through time. St Philip’s Cathedral offers peaceful reflection with stained glass artistry and spiritual legacy. St Chad’s Cathedral reveals early Gothic revival influence within sacred architecture. St Martin’s Church connects Georgian design with long-standing community heritage. Please note: The program and attractions may vary based on booking date/time and crowd conditions, ensuring each visit is a unique experience.

This self-guided tour offers a diverse and immersive experience of Birmingham, showcasing its rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Start with the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, exploring Pre-Raphaelite masterpieces and the city’s industrial heritage. Stroll through Victoria Square and admire the iconic Town Hall, then head to the striking Library of Birmingham for panoramic city views. Discover the historic Jewellery Quarter and enjoy a local lunch. Visit Aston Hall to step back in time, explore the lush Birmingham Botanical Gardens, and end with the serene St. Philip’s Cathedral. This tour allows you to explore Birmingham’s best landmarks at your own pace, making it the perfect way to experience the city's vibrant essence.

Experience Coventry exactly your way on this private, customizable walking tour. Whether you're drawn to the 1940 Blitz history, medieval timber-framed streets, or the legend of Lady Godiva, your local guide will tailor the route entirely to your interests. Wander at your own pace, ask questions, and enjoy exclusive attention as you discover the heart of the West Midlands. Choose your duration: Opt for a brisk 2-hour overview or a deep 4-hour exploration. Select your historical focus: Discover WWII resilience at the Cathedral Ruins or medieval history at St Mary's Guildhall. Pick your cultural stops: Choose between the artistic heritage at the Herbert Art Gallery or ancient Spon Street. Tailor the pace: Enjoy a completely private experience where you set the walking speed. Please note: The itinerary below provides options for each stop; your final route depends on your choices.

This tour offers an immersive journey through Oxford’s rich history, stunning architecture, and academic heritage. Explore the iconic Radcliffe Camera and Bodleian Library, two of the world’s most prestigious learning centers. Step into the enchanting Divinity School, a filming location for Harry Potter. Enjoy a delightful lunch at a historic pub once frequented by literary legends like Tolkien and C.S. Lewis. Discover the grandeur of Christ Church College, home to awe-inspiring architecture and the famous dining hall that inspired Hogwarts. With guided visits to key landmarks and seamless travel from Birmingham, this tour provides a perfect blend of history, culture, and literary charm in just one unforgettable day.

This tour blends history, culture, and architecture, offering a dynamic exploration of Birmingham and Manchester in just 10 hours. Begin in Birmingham with a visit to its renowned Museum and Art Gallery, admire the grandeur of Victoria Square, and enjoy panoramic city views from the Library of Birmingham. After lunch, travel to Manchester, where you’ll discover the neo-Gothic elegance of Manchester Town Hall, the breathtaking John Rylands Library, and the vibrant creativity of the Northern Quarter. This itinerary seamlessly combines historical landmarks, artistic treasures, and modern city vibes, providing an engaging and well-rounded experience of two of England’s most exciting cities in a single day.

This tour offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and iconic landmarks in two of England’s most vibrant cities. Begin in Liverpool, exploring The Beatles Story, the historic Albert Dock, and the stunning Liverpool Cathedral. Dive into the city’s rich heritage at the Museum of Liverpool before heading to Manchester. Discover Manchester’s industrial and cultural past at Albert Square and the magnificent Town Hall. Football fans will love the National Football Museum, celebrating England’s favorite sport. With scenic waterfront views, legendary music history, and striking architecture, this tour provides a diverse and immersive experience. A seamless journey from Birmingham, it’s the perfect way to explore two legendary cities in just one day.

This tour offers a perfect blend of history, architecture, and classic Cambridge experiences. Begin with a visit to the iconic King’s College Chapel, renowned for its breathtaking Gothic design. Stroll through The Backs, where you’ll enjoy picturesque views of Cambridge’s prestigious colleges. After a relaxing lunch, experience the city’s charm with a guided punting tour along the River Cam, passing landmarks like the Bridge of Sighs and Trinity College. End the day at the Fitzwilliam Museum, exploring masterpieces from Titian to Picasso and ancient artifacts. With its mix of stunning architecture, scenic beauty, and cultural treasures, this tour provides an unforgettable journey through one of England’s most historic university cities.

This immersive history experience called the Heroes Tour, offers participants the opportunity to explore iconic figures and their respective locations while being guided by costumed, in-character historical interpreters. The tour includes 4-star hotel accommodations, three-course dinners at themed venues, and exclusive storytelling sessions. Participants will encounter Robin Hood in Nottingham, Tommy Shelby in Birmingham, Robert Dudley at Warwick Castle, William Shakespeare in Stratford-upon-Avon, and Abraham Darby in Ironbridge

Explore one of Birmingham’s best-kept secrets on a fascinating two-hour walking tour around the historic catacombs and cemeteries of the Jewellery Quarter. Led by heritage guide Kevin Thomas, whose walking tours were named by The Times as one of the top five things to do in Birmingham, discover the remarkable people, forgotten stories and secrets hidden in these extraordinary cemeteries. Hear tales of Birmingham’s inventors, industrialists and radicals, alongside connections to the Titanic, Druids, and unusual love stories and some of the city’s more curious characters. An independent, story-led tour for history lovers, curious locals and visitors looking for a different side of the city. Please note: the tour explores the catacombs from the cemetery grounds and does not enter them. Two-hour guided walking tour The Times recommended Minimum age 12 Basic fitness required Comfortable, sturdy footwear recommended