Birmingham's Rise to Modernity: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

2 hours to 2 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
Offered in: English and 1 more

On this self-guided walking tour, you’ll hear the surprising story of a city without natural resources or a major river, which ended up flourishing because of the ingenuity of its people, and its central position in the nation’s transport networks.

Starting at the beautifully preserved Edwardian-era train station, Birmingham Moor Street, you’ll wander through the city’s historic heart and hear about centuries of innovation and transformation.

You’ll hear fascinating stories about its industrial heritage, and the people who shaped this proudly forward-looking city. The tour concludes at Centenary Square, where the Golden Boys statue honors three industrial titans whose partnerships helped power the Industrial Revolution.

Throughout the tour, you’ll follow the evolution of Birmingham’s commercial landscape while exploring quiet cathedral grounds, grand civic spaces, and bustling market areas that have sustained the city’s economy for over 850 years.

What's Included

Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it
Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
App for Android and iOS
Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start
Smartphone and headphones
Personal expenses for attractions not included during the tour
Food and drink
Transportation

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

This tour starts at the entrance of Moor Street Station. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

End point

Itinerary

Duration: 2 hours to 2 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
  • (Pass by)

    You’ll pass by the Great Western Arcade, a Victorian-era shopping gallery known for its elegant architecture and boutique shops. Please note that experiences in arcade are not included in this tour.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    You’ll catch a glimpse of Birmingham Cathedral, renowned for its stunning stained-glass windows and Baroque architecture. Please note that entry to the cathedral is not included in this tour.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    You’ll pass by Birmingham Town Hall, an iconic concert hall celebrated for its grand neoclassical design. Please note that entry to the Town Hall is not included in this tour.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    You’ll catch a glimpse of the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, known for its impressive collection of art, history, and cultural artifacts. Please note that entry to the museum is not included in this tour.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    You’ll pass by the Hall of Memory, a striking monument honoring those who lost their lives in conflict. Please note that entry to the Hall of Memory is not included in this tour.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    You’ll catch a glimpse of Baskerville House, a historic building with ties to Birmingham’s rich printing heritage. Please note that entry to Baskerville House is not included in this tour.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    You’ll pass through Centenary Square, a vibrant public space surrounded by some of Birmingham’s most iconic landmarks. Please note that entry to any attractions in the square is not included in this tour.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    You’ll catch a glimpse of the Library of Birmingham, renowned for its striking modern architecture and vast collection of books. Please note that entry to the library is not included in this tour.

    Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by VoiceMap Audio Tours

Tags

Private Sightseeing Tours
Audio Guides
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Walking Tours
New Product
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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