Top Birmingham Culture in 2026

Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter has mysteries beneath its glittering surface. On this self-guided walking tour, you’ll discover the unexpected Birmingham Catacombs: dramatic two-tiered burial chambers carved into an old sandstone quarry. As you explore two historic Victorian cemeteries, you’ll hear stories about remarkable Brummies whose innovations shaped not just the city, but the modern world. You’ll weave through Warstone Lane Cemetery (also called Brookfields Cemetery) with its striking gatehouse and unusual tiered catacombs built into former quarry walls. Along the way, you’ll encounter the mysterious grave of an Arch Druid and a memorial to a Titanic victim. I’ll show you Key Hill Cemetery, Birmingham’s first nonconformist burial ground, where industrial pioneers and social reformers lie beneath leafy pathways. You’ll find out how these burial grounds were ingeniously built above old sand mining tunnels.

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.

Escape the city's hustle and bustle for the tranquil Cotswolds on this full-day tour from Birmingham—no need to tackle the rural roads yourself. Hop aboard an air-conditioned coach, take in the region’s green rolling hills as you travel, and visit four different quaint English villages, each with its own unique history and cultural heritage.

Birmingham has more canal miles than Venice. It gave the world the electric kettle, custard powder, lawn tennis, and a sound so heavy it needed a new name. Not bad for a city most people skip on the way to somewhere else. This self-guided audio walking tour covers fifteen stops, from a Baroque cathedral with stained glass that survived the Blitz to a mechanical bull named after Ozzy Osbourne. In between, cross Victorian squares, walk canal towpaths where Cadbury once shipped chocolate, and peer into a lane whose name nobody can quite explain. New to Birmingham, or seeing it fresh? This Birmingham audio tour is a great place to start. Start whenever you like. Pause for coffee, take a photo, resume when ready. Everything works offline, with a map, photos, and audio at every stop. No group, no guide, no fixed schedule. Over 25,000 travelers have used our self-guided tours across Europe, and every booking comes with a full refund guarantee.

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.

Swap the bustling city for two of England’s heritage landmarks on this full-day tour to Stonehenge and Bath from Birmingham. Hear illuminating commentary as you zip between destinations by air-conditioned vehicle, leaving more time to explore each landmark at your own pace, with entry to Stonehenge and return transfer included in the price.

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.

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

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.

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.

Shrewsbury is packed with history, but exploring alone often means you miss out on the hidden details. Get an in-depth look—without committing to a crowded group tour—on this self-led tour that traces Charles Darwin’s connections to the city via a handy audio guide app. Pass by the school and church Darwin attended, walk through the park said to inspire the naturalist, and hear about his life.

Step into the eerie shadows of Birmingham's past with The Haunted Mile: Dark Secrets of Birmingham. This chilling walking tour takes you on a journey through the heart of the city’s most haunted quarter, where every step brings you closer to the city’s dark and mysterious history. Starting at the grand St. Philip's Cathedral, where the spirits of the past still whisper through the halls, this walking tour experience will guide you through the haunted streets of Birmingham, uncovering stories of restless souls, tragic events, and supernatural occurrences that have left their mark on the city.

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.

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.

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?

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.

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.

Discover Birmingham's soul through our self-guided audio 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!

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.

Join an exciting 60-minute walking journey through Birmingham. Learn all the key facts about the city, dive into the local lifestyle, and feel its unique culture. From Birmingham Cathedral to Brindleyplace, 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 Birmingham to ensure you get the most out of your stay. • See Birmingham through a local's eyes, uncovering the city's true essence. • Discover Birmingham's striking architecture and vibrant cultural districts. • Get top local tips on the best bars, cafes, and restaurants to visit. • Maximize your time, discovering more of Birmingham in less time. • Enjoy the intimacy of a small group, with a maximum of 8 travellers.

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.

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 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.