Birmingham: Slogging Gangs Walking Tour & Pub Stops

Summary

Walk Birmingham’s gangland past with stories, laughter, and a pint or two

You’ll step into Birmingham’s real-life gangland past with Edward Shelby as your guide, hear stories outside historic sites like the Police Museum, share laughs over pints in local pubs, and walk streets once ruled by slogging gangs. Expect unexpected details (and maybe sticky pub floors) as you see another side of Birmingham you probably never imagined.

What’s the experience like?

We started off weaving through the streets near Aston University — not the prettiest bit of Birmingham, but there’s something about the brick and drizzle that sets the scene. Edward Shelby was waiting for us, looking like he’d stepped out of a sepia photo. He cracked a joke about “new recruits” for his slogging gang, which I didn’t expect to laugh at so much this early. The air smelled faintly of wet concrete and fried onions from some food cart nearby. We set off, boots echoing on the pavement while Edward pointed out where the gangs used to roam — apparently right where we were walking.

The first stop was outside the West Midlands Police Museum. We didn’t go inside (Edward said it’s more fun imagining what went on behind those doors anyway), but he told us about how the Birmingham slogging gangs ended up here before trial. I could almost picture them — nervous or cocky or both — shuffling past these same steps. Someone in our group asked about Billy Kimber and Alfie Solomon; Edward grinned and launched into a story that had everyone listening, even the guy who kept checking his phone.

Later on, we ducked into a pub in the Gun Quarter. The floor was sticky and the air thick with old beer and something spicy — maybe pickled eggs? Edward talked about weapons in Birmingham and their weird link to the slave trade (I honestly hadn’t known that). A couple of locals at the bar nodded along; one even chimed in with his granddad’s story about hiding brass knuckles under floorboards. I tried to take notes but gave up after my second half-pint. You know how it goes.

After another stretch through narrow lanes (the kind you’d never walk alone at night), we heard about international gangs and even Birmingham’s odd role in tea trading — didn’t see that coming. The wind picked up, carrying this mix of rain and city grit, but nobody seemed to mind by then. I still think about that last story Edward told outside an old warehouse — something about loyalty gone wrong — and how quiet everyone got for a second before we headed back toward Aston University, shoes muddy but heads full of wild old tales.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Birmingham gang history and culture

• Start at Aston University
• Learn about gang holding locations
• Stop for a drink at local pub
• Discover weapons and slave trade links
• Learn about international gangs
• Explore Birmingham's tea trade impact
• End at Aston University

Top questions

Where does the Birmingham Slogging Gangs Walking Tour start?

The tour begins at Aston University in Birmingham.

How long is the walking tour?

The tour lasts approximately two hours.

Are drinks included during the pub stops?

No, guests are welcome to buy their own drinks at two local pubs during the tour.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with limited mobility?

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; travelers should have moderate physical fitness.

Does the tour enter any museums?

No, you will not enter any museums during this tour.

What historical figures are discussed on this tour?

The tour covers figures like Billy Kimber, Alfie Solomon, and members of the Italian Mob.

Is public transportation available near the starting point?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby Aston University.

Are service animals allowed on this walking tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour.

What’s included

Your afternoon includes a guided walk through historic gang territories around Birmingham with Edward Shelby leading the way, two stops at local pubs where you’re welcome to buy a drink while hearing more stories from centuries past, plus all kinds of wild tales (and city tips) along the route before looping back to Aston University.