Top West Midlands Culture - page 2

If you like to walk but hate being tied down to a schedule, these self-guided audio walking tours are the perfect way to discover Shakespeare's birthplace and nearby Warwick, with its dramatic castle. First, spend an hour or so discovering Warwick's Celtic and Saxon history and learning about medieval warfare; next, make your own way to Stratford-upon-Avon to discover the places that played such a huge part in Shakespeare's life.

Discover the town of Stratford-Upon-Avon as it was when Shakespeare lived and worked here. Find the house where the playwright was born, and visit the schoolhouse where he learned to read and write. Wander the historic streets of the town, walk alongside the picturesque river, and find hidden gem gardens and historic buildings all in your own time.

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.

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.

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.

There is no other tour like this in Shrewsbury. It's a great way to explore this historic town and sample food/drink from many 'hidden gems' -independent cafes, bars and restaurants 'off the beaten track'. It's like enjoying a full meal over 4 courses in 4 different venues across Shrewsbury. Whilst visiting the 4 local independent venues, you will get to meet passionate business owners and hear their stories and learn about them and their businesses. Photos will be taken on route and shared with guests post tour. You’ll be shown around by your expert local guide throughout the tour. They’ll provide some amazing insight about the rich history of this Tudor town.

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.

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.

Peek behind the scenes of Stratford upon Avon’s only working distillery on this guided afternoon tour of the Shakespeare Distillery. Learn the secrets of gin making, find out how the spirits are influenced by Tudor-period distillery techniques, and discover all the varied ingredients that create the award-winning Stratford Gin.

With this guided walking tour, you can learn about the history of the African Caribbean community in Birmingham and visit local haunts that are off the usual tourist trail. As you follow your guide, enjoy fascinating commentary to learn about the diverse communities that make up the city, and check off fascinating local sights, such as the art trails of Handsworth Park.

See a side of the Cotswolds that many visitors miss on this day-long tour from Stratford-on-Avon or Moreton-in Marsh. You’ll check off popular villages like Burford and Broadway, but also discover the villages and landmarks that fly under the tourist radar for a crowd-free experience. An ancient stone circle is among the highlights.

Follow in the footsteps of ex-convicts during a tour of Shrewsbury Prison, home to over 200 years worth of history. You’ll explore the former jail with a prison office who once managed the wings, for the inside scoop on what used to occur within the walls. You’ll hear tales about capital punishment and see the spots on which executions took place.

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.

The Warwick History Walk offers a captivating 90-minute journey through over a millennium of fascinating history. Delve into the tales of the Normans, the Tudors, and the Victorians while exploring historic sites around Warwick. This engaging guided tour reveals connections between famous figures like JRR Tolkien and Frank Sinatra, and uncovers secrets from Warwick’s past. Enjoy a unique photo opportunity at the iconic Warwick Castle, capturing its beauty from the postcard-perfect vantage point. Perfect for history buffs and casual explorers alike. - 90-minute walking tour covering 1000 years of Warwick's history - Visit key historic sites and learn about notable figures - Opportunity to photograph Warwick Castle from a famous viewpoint - Ideal for history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike

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.

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.

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.

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.

Think of this as the easiest way to get from Stratford-upon-Avon to London — without wasting a day. We’ll pick you up at 10:30am in Stratford, load your luggage on the bus once, and then simply enjoy the journey. Instead of rushing straight back to London, we take a scenic drive through the Cotswolds, stopping along the way for beautiful villages, photos, and a relaxed lunch. It’s unhurried, small-group, and guided by a local who knows the area inside out. By early evening, we’ll drop you off at London Paddington at around 6pm — no train changes, no dragging bags, just a memorable day that feels like part of your holiday, not a transfer.

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.

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.

Discover Birmingham’s vibrant food scene with a guided tour that takes you to six unique venues, from a Desi pub to the oldest wine merchant in the city. This immersive experience highlights the city's culinary heritage as you savour a variety of delicious dishes and drinks, including three alcoholic beverages. Stroll through the charming Jewellery Quarter and along the canals, concluding your journey in the city centre. Led by a passionate local guide, this intimate tour welcomes a maximum of 12 guests for a personal touch. - Enjoy six curated tastings - Learn a little about Birmingham's rich culinary history - Maximum group size of 12 for an intimate experience - 4-hour duration perfect for food enthusiasts This tour is a fixed menu experience with a curated selection of dishes. We are now able to offer vegetarian alternatives but please contact us at least 12 hours in advance of your tour to arrange this.

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.

Journey back to the Middle Ages with this full-day admission ticket to Warwick Castle. Explore the historic castle, brought to life by actors and interactive displays, and wander across some 64 acres (26 hectares) of parkland. Take in the views from the ramparts, enjoy the spectacular Flight of the Eagles show, and see one of the world’s largest fireball catapults.