Birmingham , United Kingdom

Birmingham Council House Tour

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About this experience

We step inside one of Birmingham’s most important Victorian buildings on this guided tour of the Birmingham's Council House.
Discover how the city has been run for over 140 years as your guide brings its architecture, people and municipal government to life. The tour gives rare access to key rooms, including the Council Chamber, this tour offers a clear and engaging insight into Birmingham’s civic past and present.

Highlights

1½-hour guided tour of the Birmingham Council House.

Visit the Council Chamber and selected historic rooms.

Learn how local government has shaped the city, then and now.

Available options

Birmingham Council House Tour

What's included

Copy of tour guide; 'Discovering Birmingham' may be available for a charity donation

Audio System to Hear the Guide

Detailed itinerary

At the heart of Victoria Square stands Birmingham's Council House, one of Birmingham’s finest Victorian buildings and still the seat of local government today. Built from 1874 and opened in 1879 during the era of Joseph Chamberlain, it remains a powerful symbol of the city’s civic life and the reminds us of Birmingham's role in preaching the civic gospel as part of the municipal revolution.

The guided tour begins outside the main entrance, introducing the building’s history, architecture and role in Birmingham’s development. Inside, you’ll climb the grand staircase past statues of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, beneath an impressive dome.

You’ll visit a selection of historic rooms and get to sit in the Council Chamber itself. We look at how local democracy has evolved. The tour concludes in the courtyard, uncovering the building’s lesser-known wartime role.

This visit offers rare access to a working civic building and a clear insight into Birmingham’s past and present.

What's not included

Earphones with 3.5mm jack OR we provide a new pair for as donation

Available languages

Written guide

DE ZH-CN IT PL FR UR RO ES

Guide guide

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

We meet under the main entrance to the Council House in the centre of Victoria Square.

About Birmingham

Birmingham, the second-largest city in the UK, is a vibrant hub of culture, history, and innovation. Known for its industrial heritage, it offers a dynamic mix of modern attractions, historic landmarks, and a thriving food and arts scene.

Top Attractions

Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery

A must-visit for art and history enthusiasts, featuring a wide range of exhibits from prehistoric times to the present.

Museum 2-3 hours Free (some exhibitions may charge)

Cadbury World

A chocolate lover's paradise, offering a self-guided tour through the history of Cadbury chocolate.

Entertainment 2-3 hours £20-£30

Jewellery Quarter

A historic area known for its jewelry-making heritage, featuring museums, shops, and workshops.

Historical Half-day Free to explore, workshops may charge

Must-Try Local Dishes

Balti

A spicy curry cooked and served in a thin steel bowl, a specialty of Birmingham.

Dinner Vegetarian and vegan options available

Pork Scratchings

Crispy fried pork rinds, a traditional British pub snack.

Snack Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Birmingham Chip Butty

A sandwich made with fried chips and butter, a local favorite.

Lunch Vegetarian if made with vegetable oil

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Cotswolds Cycling in Sutton Park Afternoon tea at a historic hotel Spas and wellness centers Visiting museums and galleries Attending theater performances Christmas markets and events Ice skating at the city center

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the warmest and sunniest time of the year, perfect for outdoor activities and festivals.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Punjabi, Urdu, Polish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

British Pound (GBP)

Time Zone

GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Birmingham is generally safe, but like any major city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Stay aware of your surroundings
• Keep valuables secure
• Use licensed taxis

Getting there

By air

Birmingham Airport • 13 km from city center

By train

Birmingham New Street, Birmingham Moor Street

By bus

National Express Coach Station

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and frequent, covering most of the city and surrounding areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Birmingham Taxis

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Jewellery Quarter Digbeth Harborne

Day trips

Stratford-upon-Avon

35 km • Half-day to full-day

The birthplace of William Shakespeare, offering historic sites, theaters, and charming streets.

The Cotswolds

50-100 km • Full-day to overnight

A picturesque area known for its rolling hills, charming villages, and historic sites.

Coventry

25 km • Half-day

A historic city with a rich industrial heritage and notable landmarks.

Festivals

Birmingham International Dance Festival • Biennial, typically in June Birmingham Heritage Week • September Birmingham Christmas Market • November to December

Pro tips

Visit the Jewellery Quarter for unique souvenirs and a glimpse into Birmingham's industrial past.
Try a traditional balti at one of the many restaurants in the Balti Triangle.
Explore the city's vibrant street art scene in Digbeth.
Take advantage of free entry to many museums and galleries.
Use contactless payment for easy and convenient transactions.