Birmingham is a city that offers more than just industrial history and lively neighborhoods. It’s a place where you can experience family-friendly adventures, explore its rich culture, and even walk through the city’s gritty past. Many visitors love the Entry ticket to Hoo Zoo and Dinosaur World in Telford, which combines wildlife encounters with life-sized dinosaurs—an ideal outing for families. Meanwhile, the guided city center walking tour gives a thorough look at Birmingham’s architecture and history, perfect for those wanting a local perspective. A variety of experiences, from art walks to pub tours and even motorcycle museums, make Birmingham a destination with diverse ways to explore its story and spirit.
Quick Overview
Our list covers family-friendly outdoor adventures, such as the Hoo Zoo and Dinosaur World, city walks like the Birmingham guided tour, and immersive cultural activities like public art tours. For history buffs, there are nocturnal stories of gangs and crime, including the Birmingham Gangs Night Tour. Food lovers can savor the Shrewsbury food tour, which offers delicious tastings in intimate settings. For those interested in cars and motorcycles, the National Motorcycle Museum provides a fascinating display of British bikes.
1. Entry ticket to Hoo Zoo and Dinosaur World in Telford
Get set for a family day out at Hoo Zoo and Dinosaur World, where you can see over 100 animal species and marvel at 45 animatronic dinosaurs. This attraction is perfect for families with kids who love animals and prehistoric creatures. The tickets are best booked in advance to guarantee entry, especially during peak times. The zoo prides itself on conservation and education, making it more than just a fun zoo. You’ll encounter meerkats, lemurs, wolves, lynx, and even capybaras, with opportunities for close-up animal talks and feeding sessions. The dinosaur section features life-like animatronics that kids find astonishing—perfect for sparking imaginations. The zoo’s relaxed, family-run atmosphere makes it a good choice for a full day of activities, including play areas for children.
Bottom Line: If your family loves animals and dinosaurs, this full-day experience offers great value at around $27.47 per person. It’s ideal for kids and the young at heart, with plenty of interactive moments.
2. Birmingham: Guided City Center Walking Tour (10:30am & 2pm)
For a deeper understanding of Birmingham’s evolution, the guided city walk offers a 1.5-hour stroll through key sights like St Philip’s Cathedral, Victoria Square, and Symphony Hall. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, this tour is a fantastic way to see Birmingham’s architecture and learn about its industrial past. The guide’s stories about the city’s development, from its manufacturing roots to modern cultural hubs, make history come alive. The itinerary covers historic landmarks and vibrant public spaces, with stops at the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, Chamberlain Square, and the Hall of Memory. Its small-group format ensures personalized insights and plenty of photo opportunities. Reviewers appreciate the guide’s passion and the tour’s engaging storytelling.
Bottom Line: At just about 1.5 hours, this walk is a smart, informative way to get your bearings. It’s suited for history enthusiasts and culture seekers wanting an authentic Birmingham experience.
3. Digbeth, Public Art & Peaky Film
This colorful walking tour (duration: 2 hours 15 minutes) explores Digbeth, Birmingham’s bohemian district. Led by local writer and photographer Jonathan Berg, it uncovers public art, street murals, and the gritty history that inspired the Peaky Blinders series. The tour visits iconic spots like Centenary Square and the Custard Factory, revealing Birmingham’s Victorian industrial roots and its vibrant current arts scene. You’ll see graffiti art, learn about the city’s architectural evolution, and hear fun facts about the locale. The tour is perfect for art lovers and cinephiles keen to see where the Peaky Blinders was filmed. Remember to bring earphones so you catch every detail from your guide.
Bottom Line: This tour combines Birmingham’s street art and film history in a compact, engaging walk. It’s ideal for those interested in urban culture and the city’s creative pulse.
4. Birmingham Gangs Nighttime Historical Walking Tour with Pub Stops
Step into Birmingham’s less-glamorous past with this 3-hour evening tour, which explores the city’s infamous gangs and their influence on local crime history. You’ll visit historic pubs, hear stories about slogging gangs, and learn how these groups shaped Birmingham’s identity. The itinerary includes stops at Birmingham Canalside, where gangs once used waterways for smuggling, and Burlington Arcade, linked to gang influence. Guided by a knowledgeable storyteller, you’ll get a vivid picture of how crime, alcohol, and community intertwined. The pub stops add a social dimension, making this a fun, immersive experience for true crime fans and history buffs alike.
Top reviews praise the knowledgeable guide and the engaging storytelling. It’s a lively way to experience Birmingham’s darker side after sunset.
Bottom Line: For a different perspective on Birmingham, this tour offers a mix of history, crime, and pub culture—best suited for adults interested in true stories and local legends.
5. Taste of Shrewsbury Food and Drink Tour with Guide
While technically in Shrewsbury, this 4-hour food tour is worth mentioning for travelers wanting a culinary experience. It takes you through five local venues—cafes, bars, and restaurants—that showcase independent artisans and regional specialties. You’ll meet passionate owners, learn their stories, and sample dishes across different settings, turning a meal into a full culinary journey. This tour is a real treat for food lovers who want to explore off the main drag and discover hidden gastronomic treasures. It’s priced at $157.66 per person, reflecting its focus on quality and local flavor. Reviewers love the connection they make with the business owners and the variety of tastes.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting to combine sightseeing with culinary delights, especially if you value authentic local experiences over tourist spots.
6. Best of Birmingham 12km Running Tour
For active travelers, the 12km running tour offers a fast-paced way to see Birmingham’s top sights—covering approximately 7.4 miles in 2.5 hours. Led by an England Athletics licensed guide, you’ll run past landmarks like Roundhouse Birmingham, Centenary Square, and Victoria Square. The tour blends sightseeing with exercise, making it ideal if you’re short on time but keen to burn calories while exploring. The guide provides interesting stories and insights along the way, and snacks keep your energy up. The tour has excellent reviews, with runners praising the friendly leader and the engaging route.
Bottom Line: Best suited for active travelers who want a quick, energetic overview of Birmingham’s highlights.
7. Birmingham Slogging Gang Evening Walking Tour with Pub Stops
If you’re curious about Birmingham’s criminal past and gang lore, this 2-hour evening tour takes you through the city’s slogging gangs history. Led by Edward Shelby, the tour visits pubs linked to gang activity and tells stories of Peaky Blinders-style characters. It’s an engaging way to learn about Birmingham’s less-glamorous side while enjoying local pub culture. The stops include Apple Birmingham, Burlington Arcade, and The Botanist Gas Street Basin, giving a well-rounded picture of Birmingham’s underground life. Reviewers mention the guide’s charm and knowledge as highlights.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those interested in crime stories, Birmingham’s nightlife, and local legends. It’s a fun, social experience for adults.
8. On the Origins of Charles Darwin: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Shrewsbury
Explore Darwin’s hometown with this flexible self-guided audio tour. Starting at Shrewsbury Castle, you’ll hear about Darwin’s childhood and his inspirations. It takes you past Shrewsbury Library, St Mary’s Church, and the Lion Inn Hotel, where Darwin set out on his famous voyage. The tour lasts about 2 hours, giving you the freedom to linger or move quickly. All the narration is from Owen Bowles, a knowledgeable Blue Badge guide. It’s perfect for history lovers wanting a personalized experience and the flexibility to explore at their own pace.
Bottom Line: A convenient and rich way to learn about Darwin’s early life, especially suited for self-directed travelers or families.
9. Birmingham: The National Motorcycle Museum Ticket
If motorcycles are your thing, don’t miss the National Motorcycle Museum, home to over 1,000 British bikes. The museum features everything from vintage pioneers to modern superbikes, with many rare models on display. Entry is valid for a full day, giving you plenty of time to browse at your leisure. The museum is praised for its extensive collection and the opportunity to see iconic bikes up close. It’s especially appealing for motorcycle enthusiasts or anyone interested in British engineering.
Bottom Line: For motorcycle lovers or tech buffs, this museum offers an impressive showcase of British two-wheeled innovation and history.
10. Birmingham: Delicious Healthy Cooking Classes
Learn to cook nutritious and tasty dishes with this healthy cooking class. Led by a vegan/vegetarian chef, you’ll discover how to combine ingredients for maximum health benefits while creating delicious meals. The 3-hour session is hands-on, and you’ll get practical tips for cooking at home. Perfect for health-conscious travelers or anyone wanting to improve their culinary skills with a focus on wellness. The class emphasizes high-nutrition ingredients and techniques, making it more than just a cooking lesson—it’s a healthy lifestyle boost.
Bottom Line: Ideal for foodies who want to learn new skills and enjoy a nutritious meal, especially if you’re interested in plant-based cuisine.
11. Birmingham: Guided Painting Class with Materials
Unleash your artistic side with this guided painting class. Under the instruction of a resident artist, you’ll create your own artwork, choosing from various styles and techniques. The 2-hour session is relaxed, with music and a bar to keep things fun. All materials—canvas, paint, easel—are provided, and you get to take home your finished piece. This experience suits beginners and seasoned painters alike, especially those looking for a creative break from sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a relaxed, creative afternoon, especially for travelers who want a tangible souvenir of their Birmingham trip.
12. Birmingham Historical Tour
This popular 2-hour historical tour covers Birmingham’s main sights, including sites from its Industrial Revolution days. Its focus is on the city’s transformation from a manufacturing hub to a vibrant modern city. Led by a local guide, you’ll see iconic locations and hear stories that connect Birmingham’s past to its present. It’s a no-frills, straightforward way to gain context for your visit and understand what makes Birmingham tick.
Bottom Line: Great for first-time visitors who want a quick historical overview of Birmingham’s key sites.
13. Birmingham’s Unique Corners Private Walking Tour for Couples
This personalized tour (price: $1,715 for groups up to 4) offers an intimate way to explore Birmingham’s architectural and scenic spots. Highlights include Victoria Square, Town Hall, Brindleyplace and St. Martin’s Church. It’s a private, 2-hour experience perfect for couples or small groups seeking a romantic yet informative walk. The guide customizes the route based on your interests, making it flexible and personal. You’ll enjoy the mix of historic buildings and lively waterside views, making it a memorable experience for those wanting a deeper connection to Birmingham.
Bottom Line: Best suited for couples or small groups who appreciate private, tailored experiences with a focus on architecture and scenic spots.
14. Munich: Walhalla Odin’s Immortal Hall + Regensburg Day Trip
While outside Birmingham, this full-day Munich day trip visits the Walhalla—a neoclassical hall honoring German-speaking figures. The journey also includes a visit to Regensburg, with its well-preserved medieval architecture. The tour combines history, architecture, and scenic drives, making it suitable for travelers interested in culture and history outside the city. The Walhalla features over 130 busts and is inspired by the Parthenon, giving it a grand, mythic feel. Reviewers note that it’s a comprehensive and educational experience, perfect for those wanting to combine sightseeing with cultural insights.
Bottom Line: Ideal for history and architecture buffs eager to expand their understanding of European heritage beyond Birmingham.
How to Choose Your Birmingham Experience
When selecting a tour, consider your interests, physical activity level, and travel style. If you’re traveling with family or kids, the Hoo Zoo offers a full day of fun. For history lovers, the city walking tours and Free Birmingham tour provide context and local stories. If you’re after a creative or culinary experience, the painting and healthy cooking classes are perfect. For active travelers, the running tour combines sightseeing with fitness. And for those interested in Birmingham’s darker stories, the gangs nightlife tour adds a unique twist.
Booking early is advisable, especially for popular guided walks and special experiences. Think about timing—some tours run only at certain times of day or year—so check availability and plan accordingly.
Birmingham’s rich mixture of history, culture, and fun makes it a perfect city for exploring in many ways. Whether you prefer a family zoo day, an art-filled walk, or a lively pub tour, the options here cater to all interests. For a well-rounded trip, consider mixing a guided city tour with a specialty experience like the motorcycle museum or a food tasting. Don’t forget to book in advance, and enjoy discovering Birmingham’s many sides—there’s something for all.