Birmingham Private Self-Guided Walking Tour

4.0 (13 reviews) 2–3 hours Private tour

out of 5

13 reviews

4.0

Birmingham Private Self-Guided Walking Tour — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Birmingham Private Self-Guided Walking Tour, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

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!

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At a glance

Duration: 2–3 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Your group only
People per booking: 1–15
Audio guide: English
Written guide: English
Operated by: Exploro Limited

Ages: Adults (4–99 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Audio guide, videos, pictures, recommendations and all the info you need
Included: Unlimited access to this Self-Guided Tour on the app
Included: Helen will guide you through an audio guide (no computer-generated voice!)
Included: Map, directions, GPS route and stops of each tour
Included: Check "BEFORE YOU GO" section of email confirmation!

Not included

Not included: In-person Guide

Itinerary

The Mailbox

Passing by

Nestled in the heart of the city, the Birmingham Mailbox stands as a testament to the city's industrial past and its vibrant contemporary spirit. It is not just a relic of the past but a dynamic symbol of the city's evolution.
Gas Street Basin

15 min

It’s often claimed that Birmingham has more canals than Venice. Whilst this isn’t entirely true, with 35 miles of waterways, Birmingham does have more miles of canal than Venice. The canals were dug out to transport goods and materials, like coal and iron.
Stop 3

5 min

This area is named after the renowned engineer James Brindley, who was an influential figure in the development of Britain's canal system during the 18th century. Born in 1716 in Buxton, Derbyshire, Brindley's visionary work revolutionized the transportation of goods and raw materials across the country.
Stop 4

Passing by

One of the architectural highlights of Brindley Place is the striking National Sealife Centre. Entrance isn't included in this tour but we will tell you all you need to know about it!
Roundhouse Birmingham

5 min

The Roundhouse is definitely a little off the beaten track and so it’s a true hidden gem. Designed by architect W.H. Ward and constructed in 1874, it is one of Birmingham’s most distinctive, but perhaps least-known buildings.
Utilita Arena Birmingham

Passing by

Arena Birmingham is a cutting-edge entertainment venue that has become a cornerstone of Birmingham's cultural landscape.
International Convention Centre Birmingham

Passing by

The International Convention Centre, or ICC a modern building that has played a pivotal role in shaping Birmingham's status as a global events destination.
Centenary Square

10 min

The history of Centenary Square dates back to the late 19th century when it was part of Birmingham's urban planning initiatives. It was originally named 'Congreve Square' in honour of Sir William Congreve, who was a prominent military figure. Congreve was a British Army Officer, a politician and an innovator.
Library of Birmingham

10 min

The roots of the Library of Birmingham trace back to the 19th century when the Birmingham Library, the predecessor, was established in 1861.
Chamberlain Square

10 min

Chamberlain Square was named after Joseph Chamberlain, a prominent political figure in the city. The square's origins date back to the late 19th century when it was initially named Corporation Street Square.
Victoria Square

10 min

Victoria Square dates back to the 19th century when it was initially known as Council House Square. In 1901, it was renamed Victoria Square in honour of Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee.
St Philip's Cathedral Garden

10 min

St. Philip's Cathedral, often referred to as Birmingham Cathedral is the third smallest cathedral in the UK. It is an Anglican church that can be traced back to the early 18th century.
Bullring & Grand Central Birmingham

15 min

Grand Central lies adjacent to Birmingham New Street Station. New Street Station is a railway hub dating back to the Victorian era. Now, Grand Central’s Atrium has over 60 shops and restaurants, offering a diverse range of experiences, from high-end fashion to local produce.
Stop 14

Passing by

The imposing Bull Statue represents a symbol of strength, resilience, and the industrious spirit that defines Birmingham.
Stop 15

10 min

St Martin's Church, or St Martin in the Bull Ring as it’s officially known, is Birmingham's oldest parish church. The church’s roots trace back over 800 years.
Birmingham Chinatown

10 min

Birmingham's Chinese Quarter is a vibrant and culturally rich tapestry of traditions, flavours, and history nestled in the heart of the city.
Stop 17

15 min

Birmingham's Gay Village is vibrant and inclusive. It is a kaleidoscope of colour, diversity, and celebration. This district, nestled in the city centre, is not only a testament to Birmingham's commitment to diversity but also a living chronicle of the LGBTQ+ community's resilience and triumphs.

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

All our tours are self-guided. You will be led by the GPS in the app and you will need to give permission to the app to access your location for getting instructions while walking guided by Helen.

End point

This is the end of the tour, you'll be free to wander around Birmingham City Centre at your leisure.

Using your ticket

Your Exploro Tour is Ready!

Thanks for booking your self-guided tour with Exploro — we’re excited to help you discover the city at your own pace!

Here’s everything you need to get started:

If you don’t have the Exploro app yet:

1. Download the Exploro app from our website (https://exploro.app)

2. Open the app and sign up for a free account.

3. Once you're signed in, come back to this email and click the link below — it will open your tour directly in the app.

4. Insert your order number (your booking reference)

Open My Tour: https://exploro.app/tours/e-y0CUMpJgRtQKUYpjgnBX?source=viator

Already have the app installed?

1. Make sure you're signed in to your account in the Exploro app!

2. Click the link below to open your tour in the app.

3. Insert your order number (you can find it under Order Summary)

Open My Tour: https://exploro.app/tours/e-y0CUMpJgRtQKUYpjgnBX?source=viator

*Note: if the link is not clickable, copy and paste it into your Chrome/Safari*

You have unlimited access to enjoy this tour. It is suggested opening the app a little earlier to familiarize yourself with the interface and to make sure you've given it access to your location. This will ensure you can fully utilize the map function for a seamless experience
If you encounter any issues or need help, please reach: [email protected] or drop a message via WhatsApp at +39 389 644 9134 (Europe) or +56942572988 (Americas).

Remember, you have the flexibility and freedom to explore at your own pace. So relax, have fun, and enjoy your self-guided tour!

PS: Don't forget to rate my tour, thanks! =)