Birmingham is a city that packs more into its streets than most cities twice its size. With its industrial past, lively arts scene, and vibrant neighborhoods, it offers a variety of tours that reveal the city’s character from different angles. Whether you’re interested in walking through historic squares, exploring Birmingham’s gritty gang history, or even jogging past landmarks, there’s something here for everyone. We especially like how some tours, like the Guided City Center Walking Tour, dive deep into Birmingham’s story while others, such as the Nighttime Gang Tour, add a fun twist with pub stops and true crime tales.
Birmingham’s mix of history, culture, and fun makes it an excellent city for touring, whether on foot, by running shoes, or even with a self-guided audio. Our list below covers the best options, from classic sightseeing walks to unique themed experiences.
1. Birmingham: Guided City Center Walking Tour
Rating: 4.8/5 (152 reviews)
Price: Check availability
Duration: 1.5 hours
Location: West Midlands, United Kingdom
At number one, this guided city center walking tour offers a perfect introduction to Birmingham’s core. The tour is designed to be lively and informative, with local guides sharing their passion for the city’s history and modern life. You’ll stroll through iconic sights like St Philip’s Cathedral, Victoria Square, and Symphony Hall, soaking up the atmosphere and stories behind each landmark. The route includes stops at Birmingham Town Hall, Museum & Art Gallery, Chamberlain Square, and the Hall of Memory, offering a well-rounded view of the city’s development.
What sets this tour apart is the personal touch — guides like Dee and Pam bring Birmingham’s streets alive with tales about its transformation from an industrial hub to a vibrant city. Reviews praise the guide’s knowledge and friendly demeanor, with one saying, “Dee made our visit very special.” It’s a balanced mix of history and contemporary culture, making it ideal for first-time visitors or those wanting a quick yet thorough overview.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a walking tour with a friendly guide who can answer your questions and show you the essentials, this is a top choice. It’s a great way to orient yourself, and the 1.5-hour duration fits easily into most schedules.
2. Birmingham Gangs Nighttime Historical Walking Tour with Pub Stops
Rating: 5.0/5 (46 reviews)
Price: $34.51 per person
Duration: About 3 hours
Location: Birmingham, England
For those interested in Birmingham’s less-glamorous side, the Nighttime Gang Tour offers a darkly entertaining look at the city’s gang history. Focused on Birmingham’s infamous Peaky Blinders and other local gangs, this tour weaves together stories of crime, rivalry, and the city’s rougher past. Starting at the Birmingham Canalside, you’ll learn how gangs used the waterways for smuggling and visit historic pubs where these stories come to life.
The tour also visits Burlington Arcade, where the influence of 20th-century skinhead gangs is discussed, and ends near Birmingham New Street Railway Station, where a colorful gang art installation awaits. Not only do you get fascinating history, but you also visit several pubs to sample local drink culture, making it a lively, social experience. Reviewers highlight the guide’s charm and knowledge, with one calling it “a great night.” Because it’s about three hours long, it’s perfect if you want an evening packed with stories and a bit of pub crawl fun.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect if you’re interested in true crime, TV shows like Peaky Blinders, or just want a different perspective on Birmingham’s rough-and-tumble past. It’s an engaging, social way to discover the city’s darker side.
3. Taste of Shrewsbury Food and Drink Tour with Guide
Rating: 5.0/5 (21 reviews)
Price: $157.66 per person
Duration: Around 4 hours
Location: Birmingham, England
While technically a bit outside Birmingham, the Taste of Shrewsbury Food Tour is worth mentioning if you’re visiting the area. This four-hour experience invites you to sample local food and drink at five different independent venues, from cafes to small restaurants. It’s a full meal in multiple courses, allowing you to meet passionate business owners and learn about their craft.
What makes this stand out is the focus on local, off-the-beaten-path eateries that you might not find on your own. Tours include insights into the stories behind each venue, and the chance to enjoy everything from savory bites to sweet treats. It’s perfect for food lovers or those wanting to experience the town’s charm with a guide who reveals its culinary secrets. Reviewers are delighted, praising the quality of food and the personable guide.
Bottom Line: If you’re a foodie eager to explore local specialties and meet passionate owners, this tour offers a relaxed, tasty way to spend your time in Shrewsbury.
4. Best of Birmingham 12km Running Tour
Rating: 5.0/5 (12 reviews)
Price: $548.37 per person
Duration: About 2.5 hours
Location: Birmingham, England
For active travelers, the Best of Birmingham Running Tour combines sightseeing with exercise. Covering roughly 7.4 miles (12 km), this guided run takes you through key landmarks like the Roundhouse Birmingham, Centenary Square, and Victoria Square. Led by a licensed England Athletics coach, the tour is designed for a range of fitness levels and includes a warm-up and in-depth commentary on Birmingham’s history as you move.
What makes this tour special is how it blends physical activity with cultural discovery — you’ll see many highlights in a short amount of time, making it ideal for runners or active visitors. The guide keeps the pace lively and shares interesting anecdotes about each site. The tour also includes snacks, which is a nice touch to keep your energy up.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want a fast-paced, energetic way to see Birmingham’s central sights, and you’re comfortable running. It’s a different perspective and a memorable experience for fitness-minded travelers.
5. Birmingham Slogging Gang Evening Walking Tour with Pub Stops
Rating: 4.7/5 (19 reviews)
Price: Check availability
Duration: 2 hours
Location: Greater London, United Kingdom
This Slogging Gang Evening Tour offers a condensed evening look at Birmingham’s gang history, led by guide Edward Shelby. Starting at Apple Birmingham, the tour visits key sites associated with gang lore and includes pub stops to experience local drinking culture. You’ll learn about the Peaky Blinders, Gunquarter Gang, and other notorious groups.
The tour emphasizes the authentic side of Birmingham’s past, with visits to locations that had significance to gang activities. It’s a friendly walk that balances storytelling with socializing in pubs, perfect for those wanting a relaxed yet engaging experience. Reviewers mention the authenticity and fun atmosphere, saying it’s “a great tour to learn about Birmingham’s underworld.”
Bottom Line: Best suited for history and crime enthusiasts who want a shorter, social evening experience. It’s a lively way to explore Birmingham’s darker stories.
6. On the Origins of Charles Darwin: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Shrewsbury
Rating: 4.5/5 (16 reviews)
Price: $11.99 per person
Duration: 2-2.5 hours
Location: Birmingham, England
This self-guided audio tour in Shrewsbury takes you through the streets where Darwin grew up. It’s perfect for those who like exploring at their own pace. Starting at Shrewsbury Castle, the tour covers key sites like the library (once Darwin’s school), St Mary’s Church, and Lion Inn Hotel, where Darwin set out on his famous voyage.
What’s great about this tour is the flexibility — you can stop and linger, or speed through if you’re short on time. The narration offers interesting insights into Darwin’s early life and the town’s connection to his evolution theories. Reviewers appreciate the value and ease of use, noting it’s a good way to connect with Darwin’s roots without a guide.
Bottom Line: Ideal for independent travelers interested in Darwin or local history, and who prefer to explore at their own rhythm.
7. Birmingham Historical Tour
Rating: 4.8/5 (reviews)
Price: Check availability
Duration: 2 hours
Location: West Midlands, United Kingdom
Our Birmingham Historical Tour offers a deep dive into the city’s role in the Industrial Revolution. This free tour (tips suggested) focuses on main sites and stories that shaped Birmingham’s industrial rise. The tour is operated by a Spanish company, so it’s also a good choice for Spanish-speaking visitors.
You’ll learn about Birmingham’s transformation from a small market town to a manufacturing powerhouse, with visits to historic sites and landmarks along the way. The tour is praised for its engaging storytelling and local insights, making it suitable for history enthusiasts who prefer a flexible, no-cost option.
Bottom Line: Best for those interested in Birmingham’s industrial past and seeking an economical, guided experience with a different language perspective.
8. Birmingham’s Unique Corners Private Walking Tour for Couples
Rating: N/A
Price: $1,715 per group (up to 4 people)
Duration: 2 hours
Location: West Midlands, United Kingdom
Finally, if you’re after an intimate, romantic exploration of Birmingham, this private walking tour for couples offers a tailored experience. Covering highlights like Victoria Square, St Martin’s Church, Brindleyplace, and Gas Street Basin, it combines architecture, scenic spots, and cultural landmarks.
Designed for small groups or couples, the tour offers a personalized approach led by a local guide. It’s perfect for celebrating special occasions or just enjoying a private, relaxed stroll through Birmingham’s most charming corners. The itinerary includes detailed stops, making it more than just a quick walk — it’s a curated experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for couples or small groups seeking a private, romantic overview of the city’s best sights with a knowledgeable guide.
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
When selecting a tour in Birmingham, consider your interests, fitness level, and time constraints. If you’re after a rundown, the City Center Walking Tour offers a concise introduction. For those fascinated by Birmingham’s gangster past, the Nighttime Gang Tour is a lively option, while history buffs curious about Darwin’s early days can enjoy the self-guided audio tour.
Budget-conscious travelers looking for a free experience should consider the Birmingham Historical Tour, especially if interested in the city’s industrial roots. For active visitors, the Running Tour combines sightseeing with exercise, while couples seeking intimacy might enjoy the Private Corner Tour. Booking early is advisable, especially for popular guided walks and special experiences.
Birmingham’s variety of tours means there’s something to match every traveler’s curiosity and pace. Whether you want to walk, run, explore the city’s gritty past, or indulge in local flavors, these options will help you see Birmingham in a way that suits your style. Pick one or combine a few for a well-rounded visit, and don’t forget to book ahead — Birmingham’s best tours fill up quickly!