Birmingham Slogging Gang Evening Walking Tour with Pub Stops

If you’re curious about Birmingham’s darker side and want to see a different angle of this vibrant city, the Birmingham Slogging Gang Evening Walking Tour promises a mix of history, mystery, and lively pub culture. Led by Edward Shelby, a guide with a personal connection to the local gangs, this tour offers a rare glimpse into the city’s notorious past—think Peaky Blinders and other infamous gangs—paired with some well-chosen pub stops.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the insider storytelling that brings Birmingham’s gang history to life. Second, the authentic pub visits that let you sample local drinks and enjoy a lively atmosphere. Third, the small group setting ensures a more intimate, engaging experience. A potential drawback? Since it’s a walking tour, you’ll want to be comfortable on your feet and prepared for some moderate exertion.

This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, fans of the Peaky Blinders series, or anyone interested in Birmingham’s gritty past combined with a taste of its modern pub scene. If you’re after an authentic, story-rich evening, this tour could be a highlight of your visit.

Good To Know

• Authentic Gang History: Learn about Birmingham’s infamous slogging gangs and their impact on the city’s development.
• Engaging Guide: Led by Edward Shelby, a guide with personal ties to the gang era, offering insights you won’t find in textbooks.
• Unique Pub Experience: Visit four different pubs, from real ale spots to gin palaces, with opportunities to participate in fun drinking games and quizzes.
• Historical & Cultural Insights: Discover how gangs used canals, alcohol, and the city’s streets, gaining a richer understanding of Birmingham’s past.
• Two-Hour Duration: A compact yet comprehensive look at Birmingham’s more shadowy history, perfect for an evening activity.
• Suitable for Adults Only: Not appropriate for children under 18 or wheelchair users, as it involves walking and pub visits.

You can check if your dates are available here:

What to Expect from the Birmingham Gang Tour

This two-hour evening walk is a balanced mix of history, storytelling, and socializing. The tour kicks off outside the Apple Birmingham store, where you’ll find your guide dressed as a Peaky Blinder, setting the tone for the night. From there, your journey takes you through parts of Birmingham that aren’t typically covered in daytime tours, revealing the city’s dark, gritty past.

Edward Shelby—who’s a distant cousin of the real gangs—takes you through key locations like the Burlington Arcade and finishes at the lively The Botanist Gas Street Basin. Throughout the tour, he shares stories about the Peaky Blinders and the Gunquarter Gang, weaving in details about how these groups used canals for smuggling and their influence on local society.

First Stop: Apple Birmingham

Starting outside the Apple shop, the guide introduces you to Birmingham’s gang landscape with a quick overview of the period. This spot is perfect for snapping a quick photo and getting your bearings. Edward’s lively storytelling immediately pulls you into the atmosphere, promising an evening of intrigue.

Second Stop: Burlington Arcade

As you walk through Birmingham’s streets, Edward shares tales of how gangs operated at night, the role of alcohol in fueling violence, and how the city attempted to crack down on these groups. During this part, you’ll learn about the gangs’ use of canals and how they cleverly exploited city infrastructure. Reviewers have appreciated the authenticity of the locations visited, noting that some sites have direct links to the gang era, providing a tangible connection to the stories.

Final Stop: The Botanist Gas Street Basin

The tour concludes at this bustling pub, where you can relax, participate in pub quizzes or drinking games, and reflect on what you’ve learned. These pub stops are thoughtfully chosen for their atmosphere and history, offering a genuine taste of Birmingham’s pub culture. Keep in mind, drinks are at your own expense, but the fun activities and lively environment make it well worth it.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Pubs and Activities

Participants visit four distinct pubs, giving a good variety of atmospheres—from traditional real ale pubs to elegant gin palaces and modern cocktail bars. Reviewers highlight that these stops aren’t just about drinking; they’re about experiencing local culture and engaging in fun activities like quizzes and drinking games, which add an interactive element to the tour.

One reviewer, Bernhard, specifically appreciated that the locations had authentic ties to the Peaky Blinders series or Birmingham’s gang history, making the experience more immersive. Such details elevate the tour from a basic pub crawl into a journey through Birmingham’s turbulent past.

Guide and Tour Dynamics

Edward Shelby stands out as a knowledgeable and personable guide. Reviewers praise him for his engaging storytelling and the way he effortlessly connects historical facts with modern Birmingham. His personal connection as a distant relative of the gangs lends authenticity and a touch of personal insight that enriches the experience.

The tour is designed for small groups, which enhances interaction and allows for a more tailored experience. It’s important to note that the walk involves moderate physical activity, so comfortable footwear is recommended.

Practical Considerations

• Duration: Two hours, making it an accessible evening activity.
• Start Time: Check availability for specific start times, usually later in the day to suit the evening vibe.
• Price: The tour price covers the guide and walking but not drinks. Considering the inclusivity of the stories and pub visits, it’s a good value for history lovers and social butterflies.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchair users, so plan accordingly if mobility is an issue.
• Age Limit: Not suitable for children under 18, given the adult themes and pub stops.

Overall Value and Who Should Consider This Tour

This walking tour offers a rare mix of history, local culture, and lively pub experiences. For those interested in Birmingham’s gangster lore, it’s an engaging way to see different parts of the city while learning about its past underworld. The stories told by Edward Shelby are a highlight, bringing authenticity and depth to the experience.

Travelers who enjoy interactive activities like quizzes and drinking games will find this tour particularly enjoyable. The small-group format fosters a friendly environment where questions and stories can flow easily, giving the tour a personalized touch.

However, if you’re not a fan of walking or prefer daytime sightseeing, this might not be the best fit. The experience is also geared toward adults, with no provision for children or those with mobility challenges.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The Birmingham Slogging Gang Evening Walking Tour is a compelling choice for history buffs or anyone curious about Birmingham’s less-glamorous past. The guide’s storytelling skills, the authentic pub visits, and the chance to explore off-the-beaten-path sites make this tour stand out. At around two hours, it offers a balanced mix of storytelling, atmosphere, and social fun, making it an excellent addition to an evening itinerary.

For a reasonable price, you receive more than just a walk—you get a vivid, immersive experience that connects you with Birmingham’s gritty history in a relaxed, social setting. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy storytelling and the lively pub scene, confidently blending education with entertainment.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
Yes. While it includes pub stops, participation in drinking activities is optional. You can enjoy the stories and atmosphere without drinking.

How fit do I need to be?
Since it’s a walking tour with moderate activity, comfortable shoes are recommended. The tour covers parts of Birmingham that may involve some walking, but it’s generally manageable for most.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, drinks are at your own expense. The tour includes the guide and the walking but not the beverages.

Can I join the tour if I am under 18?
No. The tour is not suitable for children under 18 due to the adult themes and pub visits.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users because of the walking routes involved.

What is the meeting point?
You meet the guide outside the Apple Birmingham shop, where they will be dressed as a Peaky Blinder.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a perfect short evening activity.

What makes the guide special?
Edward Shelby’s personal connection to Birmingham’s gangs and his engaging storytelling make the tour more authentic and memorable.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, booking in advance is recommended. You can cancel up to 24 hours before and receive a full refund, providing flexibility for your plans.

To sum it up, if you’re looking for an evening that combines history, local culture, and a bit of fun, this Birmingham Gang Tour is a standout choice. It offers a unique look at the city’s gritty past through engaging storytelling and lively pub visits—perfect for curious travelers eager to see Birmingham from a different perspective.

You can check if your dates are available here: