Birmingham Walking Tour: Canals, Victorians & Today (1:30pm)
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover Birmingham’s past, present, and future on this two-hour walking tour starting at the Library of Birmingham. Explore canals, the city’s Georgian industrial pioneers, Victorian-era social and structural change, and today’s striking architecture. We reflect on the modern city’s diverse population and ongoing transformation. Tours are led by local experts including Jonathan Berg, author and photographer of Discovering Birmingham, and Michael Harrison, a specialist in 20th-century architecture. Each household receives a free copy of the book as a lasting memento. We also support Sifa Fireside, helping Birmingham’s homeless community.
Available options
Birmingham Walking Tour: Canals, Victorians & Today (1:30pm)
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.
Detailed itinerary
1
We start and finish at this amazing new liibrary that is one of the major tourist attractions of Birmingham
2
We look at Symphony Hall ad the ICC and it's role in the city.
3
Stop 3
We look at the history of Brindleyplace as well as the modern day.
4
We consider the coming of the canals and look at this amazingly atmospheric centre of the Country's canal network.
5
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
6
Stop 6
We look at the way Birmingham is moving into the future.
7
We pass the entrance and see the amazing 1880s design of the double portico.
8
We see the conversion of the former post office sorting office into a mixed use development which includes the Birmingham headquarters of the BBC.
9
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.
10
The Ikon Gallery was originally built as a school and is one of over forty built by the architects Martin & Chamberlain.
11
Stop 11
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.
12
The main route from Centenary Square to the canalside.
13
Stop 13
The oldest building in Victoria Square dating from 1834.
What's not included
This tour may use an audio system - but not always.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
30 reviews
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Tripadvisor
4.9
314 reviews
5★
293
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
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.
Meeting point
We start and end at the main entrance of the Library of Birmingham in Centenary Square, B1 2EA
Important notes
Tours start promptly at 13:30 so please arrive 5-10 minutes early. Tour duration is approximately 1 3/4 hours.
About Birmingham
Birmingham, the second-largest city in the UK, is a vibrant hub of culture, history, and innovation. Known for its industrial heritage, it offers a dynamic mix of modern attractions, historic landmarks, and a thriving food and arts scene.
Top Attractions
Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery
A must-visit for art and history enthusiasts, featuring a wide range of exhibits from prehistoric times to the present.
Museum
2-3 hours
Free (some exhibitions may charge)
Cadbury World
A chocolate lover's paradise, offering a self-guided tour through the history of Cadbury chocolate.
Entertainment
2-3 hours
£20-£30
Jewellery Quarter
A historic area known for its jewelry-making heritage, featuring museums, shops, and workshops.
Historical
Half-day
Free to explore, workshops may charge
Must-Try Local Dishes
Balti
A spicy curry cooked and served in a thin steel bowl, a specialty of Birmingham.
Dinner
Vegetarian and vegan options available
Pork Scratchings
Crispy fried pork rinds, a traditional British pub snack.
Snack
Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans
Birmingham Chip Butty
A sandwich made with fried chips and butter, a local favorite.
Lunch
Vegetarian if made with vegetable oil
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Cotswolds
Cycling in Sutton Park
Afternoon tea at a historic hotel
Spas and wellness centers
Visiting museums and galleries
Attending theater performances
Christmas markets and events
Ice skating at the city center
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the warmest and sunniest time of the year, perfect for outdoor activities and festivals.
15-25°C
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Punjabi, Urdu, Polish
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
British Pound (GBP)
Time Zone
GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Birmingham is generally safe, but like any major city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Stay aware of your surroundings
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use licensed taxis
Getting there
By air
- Birmingham Airport • 13 km from city center
By train
Birmingham New Street, Birmingham Moor Street
By bus
National Express Coach Station
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and frequent, covering most of the city and surrounding areas.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Birmingham Taxis
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Jewellery Quarter
Digbeth
Harborne
Day trips
Stratford-upon-Avon
35 km • Half-day to full-day
The birthplace of William Shakespeare, offering historic sites, theaters, and charming streets.
The Cotswolds
50-100 km • Full-day to overnight
A picturesque area known for its rolling hills, charming villages, and historic sites.
Coventry
25 km • Half-day
A historic city with a rich industrial heritage and notable landmarks.
Festivals
Birmingham International Dance Festival • Biennial, typically in June
Birmingham Heritage Week • September
Birmingham Christmas Market • November to December
Pro tips
- Visit the Jewellery Quarter for unique souvenirs and a glimpse into Birmingham's industrial past.
- Try a traditional balti at one of the many restaurants in the Balti Triangle.
- Explore the city's vibrant street art scene in Digbeth.
- Take advantage of free entry to many museums and galleries.
- Use contactless payment for easy and convenient transactions.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
