Birmingham Slogging Gang Evening Walking Tour with Pub Stops

Birmingham Slogging Gang Evening Walking Tour with Pub Stops: An Authentic Nighttime Exploration

If you’re curious about Birmingham’s gritty past and lively pub culture, the Slogging Gang Evening Walking Tour offers a compelling peek behind the city’s rough-and-tumble reputation. Led by Edward Shelby, a knowledgeable guide and a distant relative of a real Birmingham gang, this 2-hour walk takes you through the streets where gangs once ruled the night and into some of Birmingham’s most iconic pubs. For around £25, you get a chance to step into the world of late 19th-century gang life, learn about the infamous Peaky Blinders, and enjoy a few drinks at some atmospheric local watering holes.

What we really appreciate about this tour are two key things. First, Edward’s storytelling is engaging and rooted in real history, making the past come alive. Second, the pub stops aren’t just about having a drink; they’re woven into the story, giving you a taste of local culture and history in a very authentic way. The addition of some fun activities like drinking games and a pub quiz keeps the atmosphere lively and interactive.

A possible consideration is the tour’s focus on evening walking, which requires a moderate level of fitness and a bit of stamina—comfortable shoes are a must. Also, since the tour ends back at the starting point, it’s convenient for those staying nearby or planning to explore more of Birmingham afterward. This experience is best suited for history buffs, fans of British crime dramas like Peaky Blinders, and those interested in understanding how alcohol and gang culture shaped the city’s development.

Key Points

• Historical insight: Learn about Birmingham’s famous gangs like the Peaky Blinders and Gunquarter Gang.
• Authentic pubs: Visit real ale pubs, gin palaces, and cocktail bars, gaining a taste of local nightlife.
• Engaging storytelling: Edward Shelby brings the past to life with personal anecdotes and detailed history.
• Unique perspective: Explore parts of Birmingham not covered on typical daytime tours.
• Fun activities: Participate in drinking games and a pub quiz to deepen your experience.
• Convenience: The tour lasts just 2 hours, making it easy to include in a busy Birmingham itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Birmingham Slogging Gang Tour

Who Is This Tour For?

This tour appeals to travelers who enjoy stories about urban history, gangs, and local culture. It’s particularly suited for those who want to experience Birmingham’s nightlife in a relaxed, guided setting. If you’re a fan of Peaky Blinders or just curious how the city’s past influences its modern vibe, you’ll find this tour engaging. It’s also a good fit for travelers comfortable with walking and standing for a couple of hours, as it’s a moderate-paced tour.

Starting Point: Apple Birmingham

The tour kicks off outside the Apple store in Birmingham city center, where you’re greeted by Edward Shelby, dressed as a Peaky Blinder—a fun and atmospheric touch that sets the tone. From here, the walk begins, immediately immersing you in the city’s modern-day streets that are layered with history.

Exploring Birmingham’s Darker Past: Burlington Arcade & Beyond

As you stroll through Birmingham, Edward shares stories about the gangs that operated in the late 19th century, their territories, and how they used local waterways like the canals for their own purposes. The focus is on real historical locations, some of which are linked to the gangs’ activities and the city’s efforts to quell their influence.

The Burlington Arcade is a notable stop, offering a guided look at one of Birmingham’s historic shopping arcades—a place that, in its time, would have been frequented by both locals and gang members. It’s a reminder of how the city’s commercial heartbeats intertwined with its darker stories.

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The Pubs: Authentic Experiences and Local Flavors

The tour concludes at The Botanist Gas Street Basin, a lively pub known for its atmospheric setting and great drinks. Along the way, you’ll visit three other establishments—including real ale pubs, gin palaces, and cocktail bars—each chosen for their historical or cultural significance.

While drinks are not included in the price, you’re encouraged to order at your own expense. Reviewers mention that these stops add a “great sense of local flavor,” and the guide often incorporates fun activities like pub quizzes and drinking games, which enhance the social aspect of the experience.

What You’ll Learn and Do

Throughout the tour, Edward’s storytelling is peppered with fun facts and insights about how alcohol fueled gang conflicts, and what measures the city took to curb gang influence. You’ll hear about the Peaky Blinders—the real gangs, not just the fictionalized TV version—and how the Gunquarter Gang played a part in Birmingham’s history.

Participants have praised the guide’s knowledge and enthusiasm. One reviewer called him a “great guide,” noting how his personal connection to the past added authenticity to the stories. Another appreciated that the locations visited “actually had something to do with the Peaky Blinders or were more authentic to the series,” making the experience even more enjoyable for fans of the show.

The Practical Side: What to Know

The tour lasts for 2 hours, making it manageable for most visitors. It’s a walking tour, so comfortable shoes and moderate fitness are recommended. The meeting point outside the Apple store is easy to find, and the tour ends back at the starting point, convenient for further exploration or transportation.

Since it’s designed for adults 18 and over (no children under 18), it’s best suited for those with a genuine interest in history and local culture rather than young children or those with mobility challenges—wheelchair users, in particular, might find it restrictive.

The Sum Up: Who Should Take This Tour?

This Birmingham gang walk offers more than just a stroll through city streets. It’s a lively, engaging way to uncover the city’s lesser-known stories, with a guide who makes history feel personal and real. The pub stops serve as perfect spots to soak in local culture, and the activities keep the experience interactive and fun.

For those interested in urban history, crime dramas, or authentic pub experiences, this tour checks many boxes. It provides a genuine glimpse into Birmingham’s past, brought to life by a passionate guide, at a fair price—especially if you’re keen to combine storytelling with a bit of social fun.

If you’re ready to walk through Birmingham’s night-time streets and learn about gangs that once defined the city, this tour is well worth considering. It’s a memorable way to see a different side of Birmingham, making history accessible and entertaining.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s intended for adults 18 and over, mainly because of the pub stops and the nature of the stories.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, making it easy to fit into a larger day of sightseeing.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are at your own expense, but the pub stops are a highlight, offering a chance to sample local ales, gin, or cocktails.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users due to the walking nature and potentially uneven surfaces.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable walking shoes, and a sense of curiosity about Birmingham’s history.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there a dress code?
No specific dress code, but comfortable shoes are recommended for walking.

What time does the tour start?
Check the availability for specific starting times; generally, times are scheduled throughout the day.

Where does the tour end?
It ends back at the meeting point outside the Apple store, so you can easily continue exploring Downtown Birmingham afterward.

This Slogging Gang Evening Walking Tour offers a spirited look at Birmingham’s past, with the added bonus of lively pub stops. It’s perfect for history lovers, fans of crime series, or anyone interested in experiencing a side of Birmingham that’s often overlooked during daytime sightseeing.

You can check availability for your dates here: