Birmingham, the second-largest city in the United Kingdom, is popular for its industrial heritage, striking architecture, and welcoming Brummie vibe. With so much to discover, walking tours are a perfect way to explore the city’s culture, history, and hidden gems. Birmingham offers a variety of tours to suit all interests, from food to street art. In this post, we’ll be sharing our top two walking tours in Birmingham that are an absolute must-try. These tours will take you off the beaten path and provide a new perspective on this fascinating city. So, put on your comfortable shoes and get ready to explore Birmingham like a local!
The 2 Best Walking Tours in Birmingham
- Birmingham Walking Tour: Migration Stories from the Stratford Road
- Birmingham Slogging Gangs Walking Tour with Edward Shelby
The 2 Best Walking Tours in Birmingham
1. Birmingham Walking Tour: Migration Stories from the Stratford Road
Embark on a fascinating journey of Birmingham’s Stratford Road, a bustling street that has seen numerous waves of immigrants, each leaving their unique mark. Accompanied by a local community guide, explore the cultural landmarks of the area, including a Hindu temple, abandoned pubs, and a Yemeni restaurant. Along the way, taste some delicious food from different corners of the world, adding to the immersive experience. This small-group journey only takes up to 10 people, allowing ample time for questions and discussion. The meeting point is at the car park behind the Bordesley Centre, conveniently located on Stratford Street North. Come and discover the fascinating migration stories of the Stratford Road.
2. Birmingham Slogging Gangs Walking Tour with Edward Shelby
This walking tour is a great way to see Birmingham and learn about the city’s history. Led by Edward Shelby, you’ll explore the streets and neighborhoods where the notorious slogging gangs once roamed.
The tour includes snacks and alcoholic beverages, but parking fees ranging from £5 to £30 are not included. The meeting point is at Costa Coffee on 12-13 Aston St in Birmingham. Look for the slogging gang member in the flat cap and cravat.
This activity is not wheelchair accessible but strollers can be accommodated. It’s also near public transportation, and travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level. The tour/activity will have a maximum of 20 travelers.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund. Cancellation less than 24 hours before the start time is non-refundable. Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
Frequently Asked Questions About Birmingham
Birmingham is a city in the West Midlands region of England that has a rich history and culture, famous for its manufacturing heritage, Cadbury chocolate, and the Bullring shopping center. But, like any city, visitors and locals alike have some questions about what to expect when they visit or live in Birmingham. In this post, we’ll address some of the most frequently asked questions about Birmingham, from its transportation options to its top tourist attractions.1. What Are The Best Things To Do In Birmingham?
Birmingham offers a range of activities for visitors and locals. Here are some of the most popular:- Visit the Bullring shopping center: This modern shopping center offers a wide range of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.
- Experience the city’s industrial heritage: The Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, the Coffin Works, and the Black Country Living Museum are all great places to learn about Birmingham’s manufacturing heritage.
- Explore the city’s green spaces: Birmingham has plenty of parks and green spaces, such as Cannon Hill Park and Lickey Hills Country Park.
- Visit Cadbury World: Learn about the history and production of Cadbury chocolate at this interactive museum.
- See a show at the Symphony Hall: The Symphony Hall is a world-class venue for concerts, comedy shows, and other performances.
- Take a canal boat tour: Birmingham has more miles of canal than Venice and a canal boat tour is a great way to see the city from a unique perspective.
2. What Are The Transportation Options In Birmingham?
Birmingham has a range of transportation options, including:- Bus: National Express West Midlands operates the bus system in Birmingham and the surrounding area.
- Tram: The West Midlands Metro is a tram system that connects Birmingham with Wolverhampton and the surrounding areas.
- Train: Birmingham has three main train stations – Birmingham New Street, Birmingham Moor Street, and Birmingham Snow Hill – which provide connections to other cities in the UK.
- Taxi: Taxis are widely available in Birmingham, with licensed black cabs and private hire taxis both operating in the city.
- Car: Birmingham is well connected to other cities via motorways such as the M6, M5, and M42. However, traffic can be a problem during rush hour periods.
3. What Are The Best Areas To Stay In Birmingham?
Birmingham has a range of neighborhoods to choose from, depending on your interests and budget. Here are some of the most popular:- Birmingham City Centre: This is the heart of the city, with attractions such as the Bullring shopping center, the Symphony Hall, and the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery.
- Edgbaston: This leafy suburb is home to the University of Birmingham and the Edgbaston Cricket Ground.
- Moseley: This suburb is known for its independent shops, cafes, and restaurants.
- Digbeth: This trendy area is home to several music venues and street art murals.
4. What Is The Weather Like In Birmingham?
Birmingham has a temperate maritime climate, with mild summers and cool winters. Average high temperatures in the summer months (June to August) range from 18°C to 22°C, while average low temperatures in the winter months (December to February) range from 1°C to 3°C. Rain is possible throughout the year, so make sure to pack an umbrella.5. What Is The Best Time To Visit Birmingham?
Birmingham can be visited year-round, with each season offering its own unique experiences. Summer is the most popular time to visit, with long days and warm temperatures. However, spring and autumn offer milder weather and fewer crowds. Winter can be cold, but the city is decorated for Christmas and there are plenty of indoor activities to enjoy.6. What Is The Local Cuisine In Birmingham?
Birmingham has a vibrant food scene, with a range of international cuisines available. Some local specialties to try include:- Balti: A curry dish that is said to have been invented in Birmingham.
- Pork scratchings: These crispy snacks are a popular pub food in Birmingham.
- Cadbury chocolate: The world-famous chocolate brand was founded in Birmingham and the company’s headquarters are still located in the city.
7. What Are The Top Festivals And Events In Birmingham?
Birmingham hosts a range of festivals and events throughout the year. Here are some of the most popular:- Birmingham International Dance Festival (June): A two-week celebration of contemporary dance from around the world.
- Flatpack Film Festival (April): A festival of independent and avant-garde cinema.
- Birmingham Pride (May): A festival celebrating the LGBTQ+ community that includes a parade and live music performances.
- St. Patrick’s Day Parade (March): A parade celebrating Irish culture in the city.
- Birmingham German Christmas Market (November-December): A traditional German-style Christmas market.
Conclusion
Birmingham is a vibrant and diverse city that has plenty to offer visitors and locals. Whether you’re interested in the city’s manufacturing heritage, its green spaces, or its vibrant food scene, there’s something for everyone. With a range of transportation options and plenty of neighborhoods to choose from, it’s easy to explore all that Birmingham has to offer.Table of Contents
