Best of Birmingham 12km Running Tour

Explore Birmingham at a Fast-Paced Pace with the 12km Running Tour

The Best of Birmingham 12km Running Tour offers a lively way to see the city’s top sights while staying active. Priced at $548.37 per person, this approximately 2.5-hour guided experience covers an impressive 7.4 miles (12 kilometers), making it ideal for those who want to combine sightseeing and exercise. The tour departs from Roundhouse Birmingham and takes you through a selection of iconic locations, including Centenary Square, Jewellery Quarter, and Victoria Square.

This tour is especially suited for moderately fit participants who enjoy running and want a detailed, energetic introduction to Birmingham’s neighborhoods and landmarks. The presence of snacks keeps energy levels up, and the private group format ensures a personalized experience. While the pace is brisk, the engaging storytelling from your licensed England Athletics Run Leader ensures you stay motivated and informed throughout.

Key Points

• Guided 12-kilometer running tour around Birmingham, lasting about 2 hours 30 minutes
• Includes top landmarks such as Roundhouse Birmingham, Centenary Square, Jewellery Quarter, and Victoria Square
• Snacks provided to keep runners energized during the experience
• Private tour with only your group participating, led by a knowledgeable guide
• Recommended booking is 7 days in advance, with a $548.37 price tag per person
• Accessible for those with moderate fitness levels and near public transportation

Starting Point at the Roundhouse Birmingham

The tour begins at Roundhouse Birmingham, a heritage building located along the Canals of Birmingham. The guide, a licensed England Athletics Run Leader, kicks off with a quick warm-up, an introduction, and some fun ice-breaking activities. They share fascinating facts about the Roundhouse, emphasizing its connection to Birmingham’s canal history, and set the tone for a lively run through the city.

This starting point offers a glimpse into Birmingham’s industrial past, with the canals being a prominent feature. The admission is free, and this initial segment helps guests loosen up before hitting the more bustling city sights.

Stopping at Centenary Square for a Cityscape Overview

After running approximately 0.5 miles along the canal, the group pauses at Centenary Square. Here, the guide points out notable sights, including Birmingham Library, The Hall of Memory, Baskerville House, and the quirky “overly designed puddle” water feature.

During this stop, you learn about Birmingham’s origins from a story about the city’s foundation 1620 years ago. The short break allows runners to catch their breath while absorbing interesting facts about the city’s development and its modern landmarks.

Discovering the Jewellery Quarter and Its Hidden Treasures

After about one mile of running, the tour enters the Jewellery Quarter (JQ). Known for producing 40% of the UK’s jewelry, this area earns its reputation as a “national treasure”. The guide shares stories about the FA Cup made here and highlights the area’s quaint Victorian cemeteries, independent shops, boutique hotels, and creative workshops.

Expect to see vibrant street art, including a notable Banksy mural, and learn how the industry shaped Birmingham’s history. The 15-minute stop here provides a chance to admire the neighborhood’s charm and learn about its significance in the city’s industrial past.

Exploring Digbeth and Its Artistic Vibe

Next, the group runs along a secret canal path into Digbeth, voted the “Coolest Neighborhood in Britain”. Known for its street art, independent businesses, and industrial history, Digbeth offers a vibrant, artsy atmosphere.

The guide shares details about industrial inventors and the neighborhood’s role during Birmingham’s Industrial Revolution. Visitors get a sense of Digbeth’s creative spirit and its evolution into a hub of street art and independent culture. The stop here lasts 10 minutes, giving runners time to take in the unique vibe.

Visiting the Gay Village, Chinatown, and Theatreland

The tour then moves into Birmingham’s diverse and lively districts: the Gay Village, Chinatown, and Theatreland. This colorful stretch showcases Birmingham’s inclusive culture and fascinating development. The guide describes how these areas have transformed into vibrant community spaces.

Expect to feel the lively energy, with sights and smells of local eateries and entertainment venues. The 10-minute stop allows for a quick appreciation of Birmingham’s multicultural spirit, and the group runs back towards the city center afterward.

The Iconic Bull and Birmingham Landmarks

One of the tour’s most iconic sights is the bronze Bull, a beloved Birmingham landmark. After some uphill running, the group pauses for a photo opportunity next to the Bull — a symbol of strength for the city. The guide also shares why bulls hold significance in Birmingham’s identity.

Just past the Bull, the group runs by the Selfridges building, with its distinctive 15,000 aluminium discs, and the historic 12th-century market at The Bullring. These sites epitomize Birmingham’s modern and historic character, perfect for capturing memorable photos.

Visiting Victoria Square and Notable Civic Landmarks

Next, the tour stops at Victoria Square, a central hub of Birmingham. Highlights include the Town Hall, The Council House, Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, and the Chamberlain Fountain. The Queen Victoria Statue and the “Floozie in the Jacuzzi” water feature add to the square’s charm.

The guide shares stories about the buildings and the city’s royal connection, even joking about Queen Victoria’s supposed dislike for Birmingham. This stop offers a chance to appreciate Birmingham’s civic grandeur in a brief, lively pause.

Finishing at The Mailbox and Reflection

The tour concludes near The Mailbox, where the group runs 0.2 miles downhill to see the Big Red Mailbox, an iconic shopping venue. Here, the guide reveals some underground secrets about the building’s history before heading back to the starting point.

This final stretch ties together Birmingham’s industrial heritage with its modern luxury shopping scene, providing a fitting end to the energetic exploration.

Practical Details and What’s Included

The tour includes recommendations for your stay in Birmingham, helping guests plan their visit afterward. Snacks are provided during the run to keep energy levels up, but bottled water is not included — guests should bring their own hydration.

The meeting point is Roundhouse Birmingham, located at 1 Sheepcote St, with the tour ending back at the same location. The activities require a moderate level of physical fitness and are suitable for private groups only.

Why This Tour Stands Out

The combination of guided storytelling, energetic pace, and diverse landmarks makes this tour a dynamic way to see Birmingham. The knowledgeable guide brings each location to life with stories about the city’s history, industry, and culture. The snacks and private format add personalized touches that enhance the experience.

The reviews praise the friendly guidance and insightful commentary, highlighting the appeal for runners of all abilities. The tour’s high rating of 5.0 from 12 reviews underscores its quality and appeal.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour the Most

This running tour is perfect for those who enjoy brisk sightseeing and want to cover a lot of ground quickly. It suits moderately fit individuals who can handle a 2.5-hour pace and are interested in local history and culture. The private setting and personalized stories make it an engaging experience for groups, friends, or solo travelers interested in a lively Birmingham adventure.

Final Thoughts on the Best of Birmingham 12km Running Tour

For travelers seeking a unique, active way to explore Birmingham’s landmarks, this tour offers a compelling mix of history, culture, and exercise. The expert guides and well-planned stops ensure you see the city’s highlights from various angles, all while enjoying the vibrant neighborhoods and local stories.

While the tour demands moderate fitness and a bit of stamina, the snacks, insider stories, and photo opportunities make it a memorable experience. If you’re eager to combine sightseeing with a bit of physical activity, this tour delivers an energetic, informative day in Birmingham.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is designed for individuals with moderate fitness levels and involves running, so it may be best suited for teenagers and older. Very young children might find the pace challenging.

Do I need to bring water?
Yes, bottled water is not included, so it’s recommended to bring your own to stay hydrated during the run.

What should I wear for the tour?
Wear comfortable running clothes and running shoes suitable for outdoor activity. The tour is outdoors, and good footwear will ensure a comfortable experience.

Can I join this tour if I’m not a fast runner?
The tour is paced for participants with moderate physical fitness. While some running ability is necessary, the focus is on covering ground efficiently rather than speed, so it’s suitable for those who can maintain a steady pace.

Is this tour private?
Yes, this is a private tour, so only your group will participate, allowing for a personalized experience guided by your chosen guide.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s best to book at least 7 days ahead, as this tour tends to fill up quickly given its popularity and limited group size.