Digbeth, Public art and Peaky Film Guided Walking Tour

Exploring Birmingham’s Digbeth: A Walk Through Art, Film, and Local Charm

Starting at just $20.20 per person for a 2-hour guided walk, this Digbeth, Public Art, and Peaky Film tour offers an appealing mix of culture, history, and modernity. Led by Jonathan Berg, a knowledgeable author and photographer, the tour takes you from the famous Bull statue in the Bullring to the gritty, artistic streets of Digbeth—an area that combines Birmingham’s bohemian spirit with its cinematic fame.

What makes this tour stand out? First, we love how it connects Birmingham’s past as a humble market town with its current artistic revival. Second, the chance to see stunning murals and street art that reflect the city’s creative pulse is truly memorable. The inclusion of a visit to the Peaky Blinders film studios—with its iconic mural wall perfect for selfies—adds a pop culture thrill.

A possible consideration is the walk’s length and pace—covering just over 4 km on foot, some with mobility issues might find it a bit brisk. But if you’re comfortable with light walking, this tour offers a vivid look at one of Birmingham’s most dynamic neighborhoods.

This experience suits history buffs, film fans, and art lovers alike, especially those eager to explore beyond the typical tourist spots and discover Birmingham’s edgy, artistic side.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Neighborhoods: Walk through Digbeth’s bohemian streets and vibrant markets.
• Cultural Insights: Learn how Birmingham evolved from a market hamlet to an industrial hub.
• Public Art: See stunning murals and street art, with insights from an expert on Birmingham’s public art scene.
• Film Location: Visit the Peaky Blinders film studios and admire murals that celebrate Birmingham’s cinematic fame.
• Modern Developments: Discover how new infrastructure projects like HS2 and the Metro tram are shaping Digbeth’s future.
• Informed Guides: Enjoy the passionate storytelling of Jonathan Berg, enhance your understanding of Birmingham’s local culture.

A Walk Through Birmingham’s Bohemian Heart: The Digbeth Experience

A Quick Overview of What to Expect

When we arrive at The Bull statue in the Bullring, the tour promptly begins its journey from Birmingham’s bustling city center into the more edgy, artistic districts of Digbeth. Over the next two hours, you’ll explore areas that former travelers might bypass, but which are bursting with public art, history, and modern grit.

Led by Jonathan Berg, whose background as an author and street art enthusiast shines through, this tour promises insightful commentary and a genuine enthusiasm for Birmingham’s lesser-known treasures. You’ll carry a headset to clearly hear the guide, a thoughtful addition that ensures you don’t miss a word, especially in lively street scenes.

The Route and Key Stops

The walk is approximately 4 km, taking you through pedestrian-friendly pavements, footpaths, and towpaths—an easy route that balances sightseeing with comfortable pacing. Our journey begins at the Bull statue, a familiar Birmingham landmark, and proceeds down the historic streets of Digbeth & Deritend.

One of the highlights is the Custard Factory, a thriving hub of creative businesses, artists, and cafes. Visitors often find this area lively and inspiring, with its industrial heritage blending seamlessly into modern street art. The Red Brick Market offers a snapshot of Digbeth’s commercial past, now transformed into a vibrant marketplace with shops, food stalls, and local crafts.

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Public Art and Murals

A key feature of this tour is the stunning murals—some created by renowned street artists, others reflecting Birmingham’s local stories. Jonathan Berg’s book on Birmingham’s street art underpins this part of the tour, giving you a deeper understanding of the messages and artists behind these works.

Guests have shared glowing reviews about this aspect: “The guide is very knowledgeable and passionate about the public street art and artists,” one remarked. We loved how the murals bring color and life to what might otherwise be overlooked brick walls, and how they serve as visual storytellers of Birmingham’s diverse community.

Peaky Blinders and Modern Film Culture

For fans of the hit series, the Peaky Blinders film studios are a major draw. Here, you can admire amazing murals depicting the infamous Birmingham gang and, if timing aligns, take selfies in front of murals that echo the gritty 1920s setting of the show.

The studios, currently hosting film production, add a cinematic vibe to the area. The tour mentions the Digbeth LOC studios, which are actively involved in film work, making this part of the walking experience more than just sightseeing—it’s a glimpse into Birmingham’s thriving film industry.

Modern Transformation and Future Outlook

The area’s modernity is highlighted by ongoing projects like HS2 and the Metro tram, which are reshaping Digbeth’s landscape. These developments symbolize Birmingham’s push to balance its industrial roots with modern urban renewal.

Tour guests often find this aspect fascinating, as it shows how Digbeth is becoming an increasingly integrated part of the city’s future—a place where history, art, and innovation meet.

What Tour Participants Say

Feedback from past guests underscores the quality of this experience. One reviewer noted, “I discovered an area I wouldn’t have seen if I just followed the typical recommendations,” highlighting the tour’s ability to reveal hidden gems. Another praised the knowledge and enthusiasm of the guide, calling him “a wealth of knowledge,” which significantly enhances the experience.

Practicalities: What You Need to Know

• The tour is conducted in English and is not suitable for people with mobility impairments due to the walking involved.
• Starting point: The Bull statue in the Bullring.
• End point: Returns to the starting location, making it easy to plan your day.
• You’ll receive a headset—bringing your own earphones with a 3.5mm jack would be helpful, but replacements are provided.
• Reservations are flexible, with full refunds available if canceled 24 hours in advance.
• The tour is perfect for those interested in exploring Birmingham’s offbeat neighborhoods, public art, film history, and urban transformation.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

If you’re someone who likes authentic local scenes, appreciates street art, or is a film enthusiast, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s especially suited for travelers who prefer walking tours that reveal a city’s hidden character, rather than just the main sights. People who enjoy cultural stories and modern urban renewal will find plenty to love here.

It’s also a great choice if you want a affordable, insightful introduction to the bohemian side of Birmingham, especially if you’ve already explored the city center and want a deeper sense of its creative spirit.

Final Thoughts

This Digbeth, Public Art, and Peaky Film Guided Walking Tour offers a balanced mix of history, art, and modern Birmingham. For $20.20, you get an engaging walk with a passionate guide that uncovers layers of Birmingham’s identity—from its industrial past to its contemporary street art and pop culture fame.

The tour’s highlights—stunning murals, historic markets, and the buzz of filming studios—offer authentic, visual stories that connect you with Birmingham’s vibrant local scene. The pace and route make it accessible for most travelers, especially those eager to explore beyond the usual tourist stops.

Overall, it’s a value-packed experience that will appeal most to art lovers, history buffs, and fans of Birmingham’s film industry. It’s a chance to see a different side of the city—one full of color, creativity, and stories worth telling.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is family-friendly, the walking distance and pace might be best suited for older children or teenagers comfortable with light walking.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking, a water bottle, and if possible, your own earphones with a 3.5mm jack to connect to the provided headset.

Can I join the tour if I have mobility issues?
This tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments due to the walking involved, but you might find some parts accessible—check with the provider for specific concerns.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, covering just over 4 km, making it a manageable walk with plenty of interesting stops.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended. You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket includes a headset to hear the guide clearly. Replacements are provided if needed, no extra charges.

This walking tour provides a chance to truly see Birmingham’s creative side—perfect for those eager to explore street art, film history, and emerging neighborhoods. With its blend of history, modernity, and culture, it’s an authentic experience that’s worth every penny for curious travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here: