29/04/2026
Upcoming Events in May: Birmingham Walking History Tours & Interior Catacomb Tours
The Meeting points for events differ
Events: INTERIOR CATACOMB TOURS
Here is you chance to view INSIDE the Birmingham Catacombs, for one day only, which one will you choose?
DATE: Saturday 9 May
A chance to view INSIDE the empty Victorian Catacomb Chambers, or the single Underground Tunnel, inside the catacombs.
These two events are taking place at the same time, in different locations, the meeting point for both tours is in the same place.
LOCATION: For both tours meet inside Warstone Lane Cemetery, Vyse Street.
MEETING POINTS: The Gazebo inside Warstone Lane Cemetery to register and collect your admission badge.
TIME: Victorian Catacomb Chambers Tour. 10.40am for 11am start
TIME: Single Underground Tunnel Tour 10.45am for 11am start.
TOUR Guides: Richard & Lizee.
These tours involve walking, and the venues have uneven ground and steps.
We recommend that you and your guests take a moment to read through the F.A.Q.s located at the bottom of each booking page prior to purchasing tickets. This will help ensure you are fully informed about event details, terms, and any important updates.
Event: Birmingham Extraordinary Lives Tour 2
Date: Sunday 10 May
Time: 11.50 for a 12pm start
Venue: Warstone Lane Cemetery, Vyse Street, Birmingham Jewellery Quarter.
Meeting Point: inside the cemetery near the benches in the memorial garden.
Tour Guide: Richard
We will gather inside the cemetery at 11:50 AM to embark on a captivating exploration of the cemetery and its residents. Our knowledgeable guide will regale you with fascinating tales, bringing the cemetery's rich history to life. From prominent figures to unsung heroes, you'll uncover the stories that form the tapestry of Birmingham's past.
What to Expect
During this tour, we'll delve into the stories hidden within the tombstones of this historic Birmingham location. Our guide will share the secrets and stories from the stones, shedding light on the lives of those who rest here.
We will also view the exterior catacombs and uncover the story of John Baskerville, the renowned printer who has an intriguing history of being buried several times. Additionally, we will learn about Major Harry Gem, the co-founder of Lawn Tennis, whose final resting place is also within the cemetery.
Highlights of the Tour
· Discover the Final Resting Place of John Baskerville: Delve into the legacy of a significant figure in the printing world, whose innovations left a lasting impact on typography.
· Learn About Major Harry Gem: Gain insights into the life of the co-founder of Lawn Tennis, an influential figure in the history of sports.
· View the War Stone: Witness a boulder from the Ice Age, a remarkable natural landmark within the cemetery.
· View the exterior Semi-Circular Tiered Catacombs: Marvel at the architectural design of these unique structures in this Church of England cemetery, along with the accompanying lodge.
· Explore the Rich History and Architecture: Traverse the cemetery and admire its historical and architectural significance, reflecting the city's storied past.
· Hear Tales of Prominent Figures and Unsung Heroes: Listen to captivating stories about Birmingham's notable individuals and those who made significant yet lesser-known contributions to society.
Notable Figures Buried Here
· George William Manley: A distinguished gentleman from the Ancient Order of the Druids, whose life and contributions are commemorated here.
· James Cooper: A recipient of the Victoria Cross, the highest military decoration, honoured for his valour.
· Edward Warrulan: The son of an Aboriginal Chief, whose resting place highlights a unique cultural heritage.
· William Edward Hipkins: The Managing Director of Avery's Scale Makers, whose life tragically ended aboard the Titanic.
· Jacob Wilson: Known as Birmingham's last Town Crier, a role steeped in historical tradition.
· John Postgate: A dedicated food safety campaigner whose efforts brought significant reforms.
· John Inshaw: Celebrated for his innovation with the Steam Carriage, marking advancements in automotive history.
· John Baskerville: Delve into the legacy of a significant figure in the printing world, whose innovations left a lasting impact on typography.
· Major Harry Gem: Gain insights into the life of the co-founder of Lawn Tennis, an influential figure in the history of sports.
An Early Evening Walking Tour – An Introduction to the Jewellery Quarter Cemeteries
Date: Friday 15 May
Time: 5.30pm to 7.45pm
Meeting Point: outside the Rose Villa Tavern corner of Vyse Street/ Warstone Lane.
Together we will walk to the JQ Cemeteries.
Tour Guide: Dennis
Explore History, Mystery, and Remarkable Stories for a unique early evening tour that delves into the fascinating history of Warstone Lane Cemetery and Key Hill Cemetery.
We will embark on a journey through time and discover intriguing tales, remarkable individuals, and iconic landmarks that define these historic resting places.
What to Expect
· Meet Unique Figures: Discover the story of the world’s youngest and smallest performer, the tragic tale of Author Kathleen Dayus's family, Birmingham's Last Town Crier, a link to the Titanic, along with important historical personalities who shaped the era.
· Natural and Architectural Wonders: Marvel at the Ice Age boulder, the Lodge, and explore the exterior catacombs that are found in both cemeteries.
About the Cemeteries
Warstone Lane Cemetery and Key Hill Cemetery are steeped in history, offering a glimpse into the lives and legacies of those who played significant roles in society. As you walk through these preserved grounds, you’ll uncover stories that resonate with the past while appreciating the enduring charm of Victorian architecture.
If you're thinking of taking part in an event, we recommend that you and your guests take a moment to read “About this Event " and the F.A.Q.s located at the bottom of each booking page prior to purchasing tickets. This will help ensure you are fully informed about event details, meeting points, terms, and any important updates. Pre-booking is essential via our ticketing platform Eventbrite, to secure your place, as spaces are limited and tickets often sell out quickly.
Restoration:
While other groups and individuals may also organise tours of these historic locations, it is important to note that all revenue generated by the Friends goes directly towards restoration efforts. The Friends are unique in this regard, as we are the only organisation solely dedicated to using tour proceeds for the preservation and restoration of these two Grade II listed historic sites. By supporting the Friends you're helping to safeguard these important Birmingham Heritage landmarks for future generations
Welcome , before purchasing a ticket we advise that that you read " About this Event" on each booking page along with " Frequently Asked Questions FAQ " because the meeting place for each tour may differ. All reservations require pre-booking. Friends website www.fkwc.org Contact the Friends here en....
