Birmingham Heritage Week features events drawing such high demand that entry requires winning a ballot. These unique experiences offer a rare glimpse into hidden facets of the city, all without charge.
One highlight is the opportunity to explore the tunnels beneath New Street Station and the Mailbox, donning hard hats for a behind-the-scenes underground tour. Organised by Network Rail and the Mailbox, the walk showcases parts of the city not typically open to the public. Attendees must possess reasonable fitness due to challenging conditions including ascents, descents, slippery and uneven surfaces, and a steep ramp.
Scheduled for Wednesday 16 September between 12pm and 5pm, the tours commence and conclude at New Street Station. Three sessions are available at 12pm, 2pm and 4pm. While the event is free, booking is mandatory with participants encouraged to arrive 10 minutes early. Tickets are allocated by ballot only, with entries closing at midday on Wednesday 26 August.
Safety is paramount, with a spokesperson emphasising that all guests must adhere strictly to the tour guide’s instructions. Safety clothing will be provided and must be worn throughout. Photography is permitted only where indicated by the guide, and video recording is prohibited. Participants must be at least 12 years old, with those aged 12 to 16 required to be accompanied by an adult, limited to one child per adult.
Another ballot-only event offers a guided tour of the historic Victoria Law Courts on Corporation Street. This free event takes place on Thursday 17 September from 3pm to 4.30pm. Entry involves a strict security check including passage through an archway detector and manual scanning, which may cause delays.
The tour focuses on the interior public areas such as the Great Hall and corridors. Although the courts will be in session, access to the sole remaining heritage courtroom is uncertain but may be possible if court proceedings have finished. Photography and videography are strictly forbidden inside.
Constructed between 1887 and 1891, the Victoria Law Courts were designed by Aston Webb and Ingress Bell. This late Victorian public building is nationally significant, featuring a red-brick and terracotta exterior, and sandy-yellow terracotta interior. Its grandeur reflects Birmingham’s ambitions during this era, coinciding with the city gaining official city status in 1889. The Great Hall includes large windows adorned with depictions of prominent figures connected to Birmingham, from Shakespeare to Matthew Boulton, as well as representations of local trades.
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