Birmingham Heritage Week is back from 6-15 September 2024, offering an array of fascinating events that celebrate the city’s rich history and vibrant culture! From exploring hidden catacombs to enjoying historical concerts and unique guided tours, there is so much to dive into. The events are a huge hit every year, so make sure you get your tickets before they go.

Here are some of our top picks!

 

 

1. Women’s History Tour - Birmingham Back to Backs

Experience a captivating journey through Birmingham’s past with a special Women’s History Tour of the Back-to-Back houses. This guided exploration shines a spotlight on the women who shaped Birmingham in the 1800s, revealing their stories and the broader social history of the era. You are invited to discover their lives and contributions in these well-preserved historical homes.

  • Date and time: Friday 13 September | 5:30pm - 7pm and 6pm - 7:30pm

  • Location: Birmingham Back to Backs, 61 Hurst Street, B5 4TE

  • Cost: £9.50

  • Booking: Booking required. Book here or call 0344 249 1895

  • Accessibility: A short walk from Birmingham Grand Central Train Station. Nearest car park at the Arcadian Centre

 

 

2. Selly Manor Museum

Step back in time at Selly Manor Museum, home to two of Birmingham’s oldest buildings, Selly Manor and Minworth Greaves. Rescued by George Cadbury and relocated to Bournville, these Tudor and medieval structures offer a hands-on history experience with interactive activities, games, and Tudor dressing up. Meet historical figures brought to life by the Regal Roses re-enactment group and delve into Bournville’s heritage through the ‘Museum of Us’ project.

  • Date and time: Saturday 14 September| 10am - 4pm

  • Location: Selly Manor Museum, Maple Road, Bournville, B30 2AE

  • Cost: Free

  • Booking: Booking not required

  • Accessibility: Historic building with steep stairs; accessible toilet on site. For more information, visit the website or call 0121 472 0199

 

 

3. Explore Blakesley

Celebrate Birmingham Heritage Week with a visit to Blakesley Hall, a beautifully preserved Tudor house built in 1590 by Richard Smalbroke, a prominent merchant. Join an immersive tour that brings to life the rich history of this iconic building and its stunning gardens, discover the stories of the Hall’s past residents, and get a rare glimpse into 17th-century Birmingham.

  • Date and time: Friday 13 September | 11am - 4pm

  • Location: Blakesley Hall, Blakesley Road, Yardley, B25 8RN

  • Cost: Free

  • Booking: Booking required. Book here

  • Accessibility: Grounds and Visitor Centre are fully accessible; first floor of the Hall is not wheelchair accessible

 

 

4. Kayak Special | Bustling Birmingham by Night

Experience Birmingham from a whole new perspective with a nighttime kayak tour! Glide through the city’s illuminated canals, passing landmarks such as Oozles Loop and Brindleyplace. This 90-minute tour offers a serene and unique way to explore Birmingham’s waterways under the stars - and you don’t even need any prior kayaking experience!

  • Date and time: Thurs 12 Sept | 8pm - 10pm

  • Location: Roundhouse Birmingham, The Roundhouse, 1 Sheepcote St, B16 8AE

  • Cost: £35 - £40

  • Booking: Booking required. Book here

  • Accessibility: This event is not wheelchair accessible.

 

 

5. Hildegard to Haydn - A Concert by Sounds Historical

Delight in a musical journey spanning 600 years with Sounds Historical’s concert, ‘Hildegard to Haydn’. Experience a diverse range of historical instruments and compositions from Hildegard von Bingen to Haydn at the amazing Bishop Vesey’s Grammar School, offering a rich auditory experience in a historic setting.

  • Date and time: Monday 9 September | 7:30pm - 9pm

  • Location: Bishop Vesey’s Grammar School, Lichfield Rd, Sutton Coldfield, B74 2NH

  • Cost: £10 (Adult); Full-time students and under 18s free

  • Booking: Booking required. Book here

  • Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible with reserved easy-access seats available

 

 

6. 8km Street Art Running Tour

Discover Birmingham’s vibrant street art scene on a thrilling 8km run! This tour takes you through the city’s decorated canals and street art hotspots like Digbeth and Southside. This tour is perfect for street art enthusiasts and runners alike, with plenty of stops to admire and learn about the artworks and artists.

  • Date and time: Friday 13 September | 6pm - 8pm

  • Location: Start/End point: Eagle & Ball Pub, Gopsal St, Birmingham B4 7RJ

  • Cost: £18

  • Booking: Booking required. Book here

  • Accessibility: Outdoor run on uneven pavements and off-road surfaces. Participants should be able to run 2km

 

 

7. History of Key Hill Cemetery and Exterior Catacombs

Join an immersive tour of Key Hill Cemetery, a hidden gem in Birmingham's ancient Jewellery Quarter. Discover the rich history and intriguing stories behind its gravestones, including notable figures like Joseph Chamberlain and J.R.R. Tolkien, while exploring the mysterious exterior catacombs.

  • Date and time: Sunday 8 Sept | 2pm - 3.45pm

  • Location: Key Hill Cemetery, Icknield St., Jewellery Quarter, B18. Meeting point is at the small island inside the cemetery

  • Cost: £8

  • Booking: Booking required. Reserve your spot here

  • Accessibility: This event is not wheelchair accessible

 

 

8. Divine Beauty Stained-Glass Window Tour

Explore Birmingham Cathedral’s stunning stained-glass windows and historic baroque architecture on a free 30-minute tour. Discover the significance of these remarkable windows and the cathedral’s place in Birmingham’s history through a fascinating guided commentary.

  • Date and time: Tuesday 10 September | 12:30pm - 1:15pm and 1:15pm - 2pm

  • Location: Birmingham Cathedral, Colmore Row, B3 2QB

  • Cost: Free

  • Booking: Booking required for specific tour times. Book 12:30pm tour here. Book 1:15pm tour here

  • Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible. No accessible toilet available

 

 

9. Behind the Scenes at The Alexandra

Take an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of The Alexandra Theatre, an iconic Birmingham landmark for 123 years. Explore the theatre’s rich history, including its star-studded past and architectural details. The tour includes access to dressing rooms, the chandelier, and even the chance to step into the spotlight on stage!

  • Date and time: Friday 13 September | 11am - 12pm, 12pm - 1pm, 1pm - 2pm and 2pm - 3pm

  • Location: The Alexandra Theatre, Suffolk Street Queensway, B5 4DS

  • Cost: £10

  • Booking: Booking required. Book here

  • Accessibility: The tour involves many stairs

 

 

10. Coffin Works Taster Tours

Discover the unique history of the Newman Brothers’ Coffin Works with an incredible Taster Tour! Explore the fascinating world of Victorian funerary craftsmanship and the factory’s historical significance with shorter, free tours throughout the day.

  • Date and time: Sun 8 Sept | 11am - 3pm

  • Location: The Coffin Works, 13-15 Fleet Street, Jewellery Quarter, B3 1JP

  • Cost: Free

  • Booking: Booking not required

  • Accessibility: Ground floor accessible; upper floors not accessible

 

 

11. The Grand Hotel Birmingham: Sparkling Afternoon Tea

Indulge in a luxurious afternoon tea in The Grand Hotel’s opulent ballroom! Enjoy a selection of finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries while enjoying live music and learning about the hotel's rich history. This elegant event offers a taste of Birmingham’s heritage and a chance to appreciate the grandeur of a historic venue.

  • Date and time: Sunday 15 September | 3pm - 6:30pm

  • Location: The Grand Ballroom, The Grand Hotel Birmingham, Church Street, B3 2FE

  • Cost: £40

  • Booking: Booking required. Book here

  • Access: Accessible entrance and facilities available; details provided upon booking

 

 

12. Warstone Lane Cemetery Tour and Exterior Catacombs

Embark on a captivating journey through Warstone Lane Cemetery, where you'll explore the extensive history and notable residents of this historic site. Discover stories of influential figures like John Baskerville and Major Harry Gem, and delve into the eerie exterior catacombs with insights from an expert guide.

  • Date and time: Sunday 8 September | 12pm - 1:45pm

  • Location: Warstone Lane Cemetery, Vyse Street, Jewellery Quarter, B18. Meeting point is inside the cemetery, above the catacombs

  • Cost: £8

  • Booking: Booking required. Reserve your spot here

  • Access: This event is not wheelchair accessible

 

 

Birmingham Heritage Week offers a unique chance to uncover the layers of the city’s rich history, and you won’t want to miss out! Whether you're drawn to historic tours, artistic experiences, or exploring hidden gems, get involved with all things history and discover more about the wonderful city of Birmingham during Heritage Week. 

So what are you waiting for? Book your experiences before they sell out!