Overview
Find out more about Birmingham with a walking tour starting and ending at the Library of Birmingham in Centenary Square. We look at the canals, Birmingham’s industrial Georgian pioneers our Victorian heritage and the more recent architecture all around us.
Current redevelopments taking place right in front of our eyes are explained and the directions that the city is taking into the future considered. The tour is based loosely on the book Positively Birmingham, currently available at the special price of £12 in the Library shop (normally £20) at tour end.
Starting and ending at the Library of Birmingham in Centenary Square this 2 hour walking tour gives a great introduction to the city and is of interest to local people and visitors alike. We support the charity Sifa Fireside who work on acute and longer term homeless issues in Birmingham, with at least 10% of all ticket sales going to their work and donations are clearly stated on our website.
- Recommended by 98% of travelers
- Badge of Excellence
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Mobile ticket
What's included
We use a live audio system. Each guest is loaned a receiver to hear the guide who wears a radio transmitter. Guest bring their own earphones with a 3.5mm socket or we provide a new pair.
This tour may use an audio system - but not always.
Meeting and pickup
Travelers meet at the meeting point.
Meeting point
We start and end at the main entrance of the Library of Birmingham in Centenary Square, B1 2EA
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
Good to know
Tours start promptly at 13:30 so please arrive 5-10 minutes early. Tour duration is approximately 1 3/4 hours.
What to expect
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Library of Birmingham
10 min
We start and finish at this amazing new liibrary that is one of the major tourist attractions of Birmingham
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International Convention Centre Birmingham
10 min
We look at Symphony Hall ad the ICC and it's role in the city.
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Brindleyplace
10 min
We look at the history of Brindleyplace as well as the modern day.
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Gas Street Basin
15 min
We consider the coming of the canals and look at this amazingly atmospheric centre of the Country's canal network.
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Victoria Square
10 min
We consider public art and also the development of Birmingham during the Victorian period. We look at the developments in the up to date city
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Chamberlain Square
10 min
We look at the way Birmingham is moving into the future.
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Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery
2 min
We pass the entrance and see the amazing 1880s design of the double portico.
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The Mailbox
5 min
We see the conversion of the former post office sorting office into a mixed use development which includes the Birmingham headquarters of the BBC.
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The Cube
1 min
The cube is major development at the back part of the Mailbox development. Views from the upper floors are among the best in the city.
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Ikon Gallery
1 min
The Ikon Gallery was originally built as a school and is one of over forty built by the architects Martin & Chamberlain.
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Hall of Memory
5 min
Art Deco style memorial built originally in 1925 to remember the fallen of the First World War but now includes WW II and more recent conflicts. Houses some fantastic art deco features including William Bloye tablets.
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ICC Mall
10 min
The main route from Centenary Square to the canalside.
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Birmingham Town Hall
5 min
The oldest building in Victoria Square dating from 1834.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
Times are local to the experience (Europe/London).
Additional Information
- Our route can be accessible for wheelchairs but we do need to modify the route and would appreciate an email from you if you intend to bring a wheelchair. Our Access Policy is clearly stated on the Positively Birmingham Walking Tours website.
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Each booking must include at least one adult.
FAQs about From Canals and Victorians to Today's City: Birmingham Walking Tour
Can I cancel From Canals and Victorians to Today's City: Birmingham Walking Tour for free?
Yes. For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
How long does it take?
It takes about 2 hours.
Where does it start?
We start and end at the main entrance of the Library of Birmingham in Centenary Square, B1 2EA
What's included?
- We use a live audio system. Each guest is loaned a receiver to hear the guide who wears a radio transmitter. Guest bring their own…
What's not included?
- This tour may use an audio system - but not always.
Which places does it visit?
It visits Library of Birmingham, International Convention Centre Birmingham, Brindleyplace, Gas Street Basin, Victoria Square, Chamberlain Square, Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, The Mailbox.
Which languages is it offered in?
It is offered in English.
Is it suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Operated by Positively Birmingham Walking Tours
