Birmingham Slogging Gangs Walking Tour with Edward Shelby

Birmingham Slogging Gangs Walking Tour with Edward Shelby

Imagine walking through Birmingham’s streets, not just admiring its architecture but hearing tales of gangsters who once ruled its alleyways in the 19th and 20th centuries. For around $27.50, you’ll spend about two hours with a lively guide, Edward Shelby, exploring key sites tied to Birmingham’s gang culture—including stops at historic pubs and landmarks.

What stands out about this tour? First, the storytelling style by Edward, who dresses the part and brings local history alive with humor and research. Second, the mix of history and atmosphere—the stops at pubs and noteworthy sights help you feel what it was like to live amid the gang rivalries of Birmingham’s past.

One thing to consider? The walk covers quite a bit of ground, and at times, the commentary can be delivered quickly, which might be challenging if you prefer a more relaxed pace.

This tour is perfect for history buffs, fans of Peaky Blinders, or anyone curious about Birmingham’s gritty past who is comfortable with some walking and lively storytelling.

Key Points

• Authentic storytelling with a character guide dressed for the part
• Historic sites include police museums, pubs, and Chinatown
• Two-hour walk with pub stops, covering a lot of ground
• Insight into Birmingham’s gangs, both past and present
• Suitable for those with moderate physical fitness
• Great for fans of Peaky Blinders or local history lovers

Exploring Birmingham’s Gangster History: A Closer Look

If you’re interested in Birmingham’s gang culture, this tour offers a surprisingly detailed picture of the city’s underbelly. Led by Edward Shelby—who is praised for being knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and engaging—you’ll get insights that go beyond a typical city walk.

The tour begins at Costa Coffee on Aston Street, a convenient meeting point near public transit, setting a laid-back tone. From there, Edward leads you through noteworthy areas in the city, interspersing historical facts with entertaining anecdotes.

Stop 1: West Midlands Police Museum (Outside View Only)

While you don’t go into the museum, you’ll learn about the precise locations where gang members were held before trials, giving you a sense of Birmingham’s law enforcement history. This sets a serious tone early on, highlighting the size and significance of gang activity in the city’s past.

Stop 2: The Gunmakers Quarter

Here, you stop at a pub and learn about Birmingham’s history with weapons manufacturing and its connection to the slave trade. This stop is a favorite, with reviews praising the informative commentary and the chance to enjoy a drink while soaking in the local atmosphere.

One reviewer notes, “Loved our tour around Birmingham on The Slogging Gangs and learnt a lot.” The inclusion of pub stops gives the tour a convivial feel, making it easier to connect with the stories while enjoying some local ciders or beers.

Stop 3: Chinatown

A visit to Birmingham Chinatown offers a broader view of international gangs, emphasizing that Birmingham’s gang scene was not just about locals but also involved global influences. It’s a quick stop—about 10 minutes—but adds depth to understanding the city’s diverse criminal history.

Stop 4: High Street and the Tea Trade

The final stop explores Birmingham’s impact on the tea trade, tying the city’s commercial history with the gang stories. This segment helps you see how economic factors intertwined with the city’s darker tales, rounding out the tour’s narrative of Birmingham’s growth and challenges.

What’s the Experience Like?

Most reviews highlight the entertaining narration from Edward, who manages to balance education with humor. “Edward Shelby was funny, knowledgeable and researched this area thoroughly,” one reviewer says. His costume and lively delivery bring an extra layer of authenticity, making the stories more memorable.

However, some mention that at times, Edward speaks quite quickly, which could be tricky if you’re trying to catch every detail. The walk involves covering a fair amount of ground, with some reviews noting the length and pace—so be prepared for a good bit of walking, especially if you want to absorb all the stories.

The stops at pubs and key sights add a welcoming touch, giving you a chance to socialize and relax, while still learning about the city’s past. The tour feels like a lively storytelling session rather than a strict history lesson, which appeals to many.

Value for Money

At $27.54, this tour offers great value, considering the local knowledge, the engaging guide, and the chance to see parts of Birmingham you might overlook on your own. Since it lasts around two hours, you’ll get a substantial dose of history, atmosphere, and entertainment for a reasonable price.

The tour is limited to 20 travelers, ensuring it remains intimate enough for questions and personal interaction. Plus, the included pub stops mean you can enjoy some local drinks without extra hassle, adding to the overall experience.

In Practice: What to Expect

• Duration: Approximately 2 hours, with walking and stops
• Meeting Point: Costa Coffee on Aston Street—easy to find, near public transit
• Tour Style: Walking tour with a character guide, engaging and lively
• Group Size: Max 20 travelers, keeping it personal and interactive
• Price: Around $27.50, representing good value for the depth of stories and experiences

Accessibility & Practical Tips

Travelers should be reasonably fit, as the tour involves a fair amount of walking, including in sometimes uneven city streets. The commentary, while generally clear, can be delivered quickly, so if you’re a slow listener or non-native English speaker, consider that.

Parking fees vary from £5 to £30, and since the tour is near public transport, using transit might be the easiest way to join. If you’re a fan of Peaky Blinders, you’ll find the stories and settings especially engaging, though no prior knowledge of the show is necessary.

Authenticity and Entertainment: What Do Travelers Say?

Reviews praise the guide’s knowledge and storytelling skills, with many noting the entertainment factor. One says, “Edward Shelby was funny, knowledgable and researched thoroughly,” while another notes, “Edward did a fantastic job of keeping our group engaged.” These comments highlight that this isn’t just a history lesson but a fun, theatrical experience.

Some reviews mention the atmosphere—especially the pub stop—as a highlight, with one saying “going to the pub was very atmospheric.” This makes the tour feel like a step back in time, with authentic sights and sounds that help you imagine what Birmingham’s gangs and citizens experienced.

A Few Caveats

A handful of reviews mention that some facts aren’t explained as clearly as they could be, or that the commentary sometimes moves a bit too fast. If you’re a detail-oriented person or unfamiliar with local history, you might want to listen carefully or ask questions during stops.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits history enthusiasts eager to explore Birmingham beyond its modern visage. Fans of Peaky Blinders will find it especially relevant, though prior knowledge isn’t required. It’s also ideal for those who enjoy interactive storytelling and local atmosphere, thanks to the pub stops and lively guide.

Travelers looking for a relaxed pace and a chance to socialize will appreciate the small group size and friendly tone. However, if you prefer a more leisurely walk or have mobility limitations, be prepared for some brisk segments.

The Sum Up

The Birmingham Slogging Gangs Walking Tour delivers a combination of history, entertainment, and local flavor at a reasonable price. Led by the charismatic Edward Shelby, you’ll get a vivid picture of Birmingham’s often gritty past, layered with stories that stay with you long after the tour ends.

It’s perfect for urban explorers, Peaky Blinders fans, or anyone curious about how Birmingham’s streets have been shaped by crime and commerce. The mix of pub stops, storytelling, and historic sites makes this a lively and memorable way to see the city’s darker side.

If you’re after an interactive, authentic experience that goes beyond just sightseeing, this tour is well worth your time. Just be ready to walk, listen, and enjoy some local drinks along the way.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
This tour is best suited for adults or teenagers who can handle some walking and enjoy storytelling. It involves a lot of walking and historical talk, so younger children might find it less engaging.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately two hours, covering multiple sites and stops with some walking involved.

Is there an age limit?
While not explicitly stated, the tour is geared toward adults and those comfortable with moderate physical activity.

Where does the tour start and end?
The meeting point is Costa Coffee at 12-13 Aston Street, Birmingham. The tour ends back at the starting point.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Less than 24 hours, and your money is non-refundable.

Are parking fees included?
No, parking fees vary from £5 to £30, and you’ll need to arrange your parking separately.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves a fair amount of walking, so those with mobility challenges should consider this before booking.

Does the guide dress up?
Yes, Edward Shelby dresses in costume, adding an authentic touch to the storytelling.

Are food and drinks included?
No, you need to buy your own snacks or drinks, but stops at pubs are included in the tour price.

Is prior knowledge of Peaky Blinders necessary?
Not at all. While fans will enjoy the references, the stories are accessible to everyone interested in Birmingham’s history.