Birmingham Slogging Gang Evening Walking Tour with Pub Stops

Birmingham Slogging Gang Evening Walking Tour with Pub Stops: A Deep Dive into the City’s Dark Side

If you’re interested in exploring Birmingham beyond its modern skyline and bustling streets, the Slogging Gang Evening Walking Tour with Pub Stops offers a fascinating look into the city’s notorious past. Led by Edward Shelby—who, interestingly, is a distant cousin of the real Birmingham gangs—this tour promises a mix of history, authentic local pubs, and a bit of spirited fun. It’s a chance to walk through Birmingham’s shadowy streets while learning about gangs like the Peaky Blinders and Gunquarter Gang, all with a lively pub crawl thrown into the mix.

Two things we particularly like about this experience are its authentic storytelling by a knowledgeable guide and the opportunity to visit real pubs that give you a taste of local Birmingham life. The tour’s focus on gangland history adds an intriguing edge that sets it apart from typical city tours. That said, the tour involves walking at night, so it might not be suitable for those with mobility concerns or those preferring daytime exploration.

This experience suits history buffs, fans of the Peaky Blinders series, and anyone curious about Birmingham’s gritty past. It’s also perfect for those who enjoy a relaxed social atmosphere, with pub stops designed to enhance the storytelling and give you a real taste of local drinking culture.

Key Points

• Authentic stories from a guide with personal ties to Birmingham’s gang history
• Visit multiple pubs, from traditional real ale spots to cocktail bars, for a genuine Birmingham experience
• Learn how gangs like the Peaky Blinders influenced the city’s development
• Explore parts of Birmingham not covered on daytime tours
• Includes fun activities like drinking games and a pub quiz
• Moderate walking involved, so good footwear and fitness help
• A cost-effective way to combine history and local pub culture
• Limited to ages 18+ and not wheelchair accessible

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Birmingham’s Gangs and Their Legacy

This tour is more than just a walk. It’s a chance to step into Birmingham’s past, seeing streets where gangs once ruled the night and canals that played parts in their activities. What makes this experience stand out is the balance between historical insight and lively pub visits. You’ll learn how alcohol and nightlife contributed to gang culture—something that’s often glossed over in generic city guides.

Our guide, Edward Shelby, is praised for his knowledgeable and engaging narration. As a distant cousin of Birmingham’s real gangs, he brings personal and authentic stories to life, making the historical details feel both credible and compelling. His storytelling is complemented by visits to real pubs, not just tourist spots, but places that have served locals for generations.

One reviewer highlights, “Several locations could be visited that actually had something to do with the Peaky Blinders or felt more authentic to the series,” which suggests that these stops aren’t just for show—they’re rooted in Birmingham’s genuine history. The tour allows you to see the city through a different lens, one where crime, class, and community intersected in ways that shaped modern Birmingham.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Apple Birmingham
Your journey begins outside the Apple store, where your guide, dressed as a Peaky Blinder, sets the tone for the evening. It’s a fun visual cue that immediately immerses you into the theme of Birmingham’s gang history. From here, the route takes you through the city’s streets, with each stop revealing a different facet of gang life.

Stop 2: Burlington Arcade
This part of the tour is guided, providing context about the area’s significance to Birmingham’s gang culture. You’ll walk through parts of the city that are rich in history but often overlooked by daytime visitors, adding a layer of intrigue to your experience.

Finish at: The Botanist Gas Street Basin
The final stop is at The Botanist, a popular pub in a picturesque location along Gas Street Basin. Here, you can relax, reflect on what you’ve learned, and enjoy a drink at your own expense. The tour’s ending point is conveniently close to the starting location, making it easy to continue exploring Birmingham afterward.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At about 2 hours, the tour is a manageable length that combines walking, storytelling, and pub visits without feeling rushed. The cost covers the guiding service and the experience, making it quite reasonable considering the depth of insight offered. Drinks are not included, which gives you flexibility to choose what suits your taste and budget—whether you prefer real ale, gin, or cocktails.

The tour’s small group size enhances the personal feel of the experience. Visitors consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, which elevates this beyond a typical sightseeing stroll. One reviewer noted, “It was a great walking tour through Birmingham. And a great guide,” reaffirming the importance of having a skilled storyteller lead the way.

Practical Details for Your Visit

Since the tour involves walking at night, comfortable footwear and moderate fitness are recommended. While the stops are at historic and local pubs, you’ll need to pay for your drinks separately, so budget accordingly. The meeting point outside the Apple store is easy to find and the guide will be dressed as a Peaky Blinder, adding a bit of fun to the start.

Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak times, and you can cancel for a full refund if your plans change, up to 24 hours beforehand. The tour is conducted in English, and since it’s not suitable for children under 18 or wheelchair users, it’s best suited for adult history enthusiasts and social drinkers.

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Authentic Experiences and Authentic Stories

One of the tour’s key strengths is its authentic storytelling. Our source mentions that the guide’s personal connection to the gangs lends credibility and passion to his narration. You’ll also enjoy the variety of pubs visited, which range from traditional real ale establishments to more modern cocktail bars—each offering a different glimpse into Birmingham’s vibrant drinking culture.

Several reviews emphasize how the tour visits locations connected to the Peaky Blinders series or authentic to Birmingham’s gangster history, making it ideal for fans of the show or history buffs eager to see where these stories played out.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adults interested in Birmingham’s lawless past, especially those who enjoy guided storytelling combined with social drinking. It’s also ideal for Peaky Blinders fans wanting to explore the real Birmingham behind the fictional series. If you’re looking for a unique evening activity that blends history, culture, and pub hopping, this tour is an excellent choice.

However, if you prefer daylight sightseeing or have mobility issues, this may not be the best fit. The walking involves typical city navigation at night, and the tour is not wheelchair accessible.

The Sum Up

The Birmingham Slogging Gang Evening Walking Tour with Pub Stops offers an engaging, authentic glance at the city’s often overlooked gangster past. Led by a passionate and knowledgeable guide, you’ll learn about the gritty streets and real stories behind Birmingham’s notorious gangs while visiting some of the best local pubs. It’s a balanced mix of history, entertainment, and socializing that provides genuine value for those interested in Birmingham’s darker history.

This tour shines particularly for its authentic storytelling and well-chosen pub stops. It’s perfect for history buffs, Peaky Blinders enthusiasts, or anyone wanting to see Birmingham from a different perspective—and to do so while enjoying some excellent drinks. For those open to a slightly nocturnal adventure, it’s a lively, informative, and memorable way to spend an evening in Birmingham.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s intended for adults 18 and over, mainly because it involves pub visits and alcohol consumption.

Can I join the tour if I have mobility issues?
This tour involves walking at night and isn’t wheelchair accessible, so it’s best suited for those with moderate fitness and mobility.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, drinks are not included. You’ll purchase your own drinks at each pub during the stops.

What should I bring?
A passport or ID card is recommended, especially if you plan to buy alcohol. Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for about two hours, depending on the group and stops. Check the availability for specific start times.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins outside the Apple Birmingham store and finishes at The Botanist Gas Street Basin, close to the starting point.

Is the guide knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews consistently praise the guide for being engaging and well-informed about Birmingham’s gang history.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Would I enjoy this if I’m not a Peaky Blinders fan?
Absolutely. While the series adds flavor, the historical insights and pub visits stand strong on their own as a fascinating glimpse into Birmingham’s past.

In summary, the Birmingham Slogging Gang Evening Walking Tour with Pub Stops is a lively, authentic journey into the city’s less-glamorous past, balanced with social fun and historical depth. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers who want to combine storytelling with a taste of Birmingham’s vibrant pub culture, all led by a passionate guide with genuine personal ties to the stories.

You can check availability for your dates here: