Top West Midlands Cultural Tours

Many Stratford-upon-Avon visitors only see the obvious Shakespeare sights. Go deeper when you join this award-winning tour that pairs Stratford history with Shakespeare’s life and work to dramatic effect. See theaters, statues, and places from Shakespeare’s family life as you learn how the town has grown and developed since the Bard’s time. Learn about everything from Georgian actors to the medieval remedies his son-in-law would have practiced as you stroll.

This informative tour is a fun and immersive way to find out about the slogging gangs who operated in Birmingham in the 19th and 20th centuries. As you stroll around the streets of Birmingham, discover stories that you wouldn’t have heard if exploring alone. Learn about notorious gang members as portrayed in “Peaky Blinders”, such as Billy Kimber and Alfie Solomon, with stops at local pubs and historical sights along the way.

Get an intimate glimpse into Birmingham’s vibrant city center on a walking tour that reveals aspect of the city’s culture and history that you might otherwise miss. Get the inside scoop on city life from your guide, and discover hidden gems and backstreets that even some locals don’t know about.

Birmingham gave the world Cadbury’s chocolate, lawn tennis, and a fountain locals call the “Floozie in the Jacuzzi.” This self-guided audio walking tour takes you through the stories you won’t find on a plaque. Start at a Baroque cathedral that survived the Blitz, walk through Victorian squares where Prince Charles once compared a public library to a place where “books are incinerated.” Follow the waterways that gave Birmingham more canal miles than Venice. Peek into Back to Back houses where a family of ten shared a single room, and end at a medieval bull ring turned modern shopping mecca, overlooked by a church with 900 years of history and a Selfridges building covered in 15,000 aluminium discs. This tour is the perfect orientation for those who are first time visitors to Birmingham. It is available in 9 languages and works offline. Listen at your own pace – pause for coffee, photos, or a canal-side lunch.

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!

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.

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.

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!

Get shown around the town famous for being William Shakespeare’s birthplace by a friendly local guide. Spend 1.5 hours learning all about Stratford-Upon-Avon’s rich history, from its ancient origins to today, and explore its canals, theatres, pubs, and much more with your tour leader. You’ll learn things even some of the locals might have never heard before.

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, Nash's House, Shakespeare's Schoolroom & Guildhall, Hall's Croft, Holy Trinity Church and the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. 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 with your self-guided walking tour, including a written PDF and interactive Google Maps link. We recommend downloading the tour while you have access to 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 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.

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.

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!

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

Find the gothic soul and Tudor architecture of Warwick in your own, personalized way on this private walking tour of the ancient city. With your guide, discover the historic streets and find hidden gems down every alley — traditional pubs, churches, wattle and daub houses and shops are all waiting to be discovered. Then, of course, there is the impressive Medieval Castle to appreciate.

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.

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.

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!

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.