Top West Midlands Arts & Design

Step into the world of 16th-century William Shakespeare with this entry to his former schoolroom and the Guildhall. The interactive experience lets you sit in the very room where Shakespeare studied as a boy, taking part in a Tudor-style lesson. Dress up in period costume for a selfie, and check out the council chamber where a young and aspiring Shakespeare watched actors perform. Fun for all the family, the experience includes a guide to give you the lowdown on the playwright and his history in Stratford-upon-Avon.

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.

Explore Shakespeare’s birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon without navigating the details on your own. Visit the house where he was born and raised, experience the immersive “Becoming Shakespeare” exhibition, and speak with guides who bring Tudor life to life. Enjoy live excerpts performed by costumed actors in the garden for a memorable and immersive way to connect with Shakespeare’s story.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!