Birmingham Tour, Discover the history of Key Hill Cemetery

Birmingham History Tour: Discover the history of Key Hill Cemetery

Date: Sunday 8 June

Time: 1.50pm for a 2pm start.

Meeting point: inside the cemetery here
Cemetery Location: Icknield Street, almost facing Park Road S, not far from Key Hill Circus.

A Journey Through Time in Birmingham’s Historic Cemetery

Join us for an enlightening walking history tour in Key Hill Cemetery. Located in Icknield Street. This in-person event offers a unique opportunity to delve deep into the rich history of one of Birmingham’s most iconic landmarks.

The Event

On Sunday 8 June we will gather inside the cemetery at 1.50pm 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 Alan Hickman, the railwayman.

Highlights of the Tour

· Discover the resting place of Joseph Chamberlain, a modest stone for an unpretentious man.

· View Mount Misery and learn why it exists.

· View the exterior Catacombs: Marvel at the architectural design of these unique structures in this non-denominational cemetery.

· Explore the Rich History: 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.

· The impact of the Birmingham Blitz

· 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

· Joseph Chamberlain 3 times mayor,
*Alfred Bird – chemist & inventor of eggless custard ,
*Thomas Avery founder of Avery weighing machines,
*Charles Edge
*Marie Bethell Beauclerc-First Female Reporter ,shorthand
*Constance Naden- Poet & Philospher
* Harriet Martineau
*William Murphy- Murphy Riots,
*Rev George Dawson,
*John Skirrow Wright ,
*Joseph Tangye inventor
*Henry Palethorpe – Sausages & pork pies,
*Joseph Gillott Pens ( Birmingham taught the world to write with is vast pen production) , *Robert Lucas Chance Glass- Crystal Palace , William Butler -M & B Brewery,
*Thomas Walker
* Isaac Horton,
*James Hinks.
*John Henderson, who built London’s Crystal Palace and the roof of the old New Street Station.
*Alan Andrew Lamb Hickman (the railway man)
* Frederick Wakeling, Suffragette Supporter
*Tolkien family ( JRR Tolkien used to visit Key Hill cemetery ) .
*The Martineau family.
*The Middlemore Family.
* A connection to the Author Washington Irving

Why You Should Join

Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply seeking a unique experience, this cemetery tour promises to be an unforgettable adventure. Feel the thrill as you walk in the footsteps of those who came before, their stories etched in stone. This tour offers a new perspective on Birmingham’s heritage and is an opportunity not to be missed.

So, mark your calendars and prepare to immerse yourself in the allure of Warstone Lane cemetery. Join us for this Birmingham cemetery tour and gain a new appreciation for the city’s storied past.

* If you later find that you are unable to join us it would be helpful if you let us know either by following the – “view and manage your order online link “ in your confirmation email, and then selecting your order or by sending an email www.fkwc.org – this will be passed on to the Tour Guide and will prevent any delay to the start of the event should the guide be waiting for you.

Warstone Lane cemetery Tours at 12 noon.

Neighbouring Warstone Lane Cemetery Tours require booking separately
Book tours here

Please view the Frequently Asked Questions at the foot of this Eventbrite Booking page.

Your Tour Guide looks forward to welcoming you.

Thank you for supporting the Friends of Key Hill Cemetery & Warstone Lane Cemetery, raising funds for grave restoration since 2004.

Website: www.fkwc.org
Events are located at the top of the web page.

Tourists about to embark on their guided tour of Key Hill cemetery tour.

Please view the Frequently Asked Questions at the foot of this page before purchasing tickets.