Birmingham Introduction Walking Tour (Self Guided), Birmingham

The word Birmingham derives from the Old English term "Beormingas." A Beorminga was a person who was one of "Beorma's people." Who was Beorma? Who knows? Something was always stirring around Birmingham.

In 1166, Peter de Bermingham received a charter from the King, Henry II, to build a market at his castle (Peter's castle, not Henry's). As Lord of the Manor born, Peter felt he should have a market town in his demesne. And he did and it had a Bull Ring. People could shop and bait the available bulls.

With the collapse of the de Bermingham lordship in 1547 the town experienced a time of social and economic liberty. Relationships were developed from commercial ties instead of feudal paternalism. Birmingham became a haven for mavericks.

In the 18th century Birmingham became a leading center of literature, music, arts and theatre. There was a close association of manufacturers and creative thinkers that persisted throughout the Scientific and Industrial Revolutions.

The effects of the World War II blitz were devastating. But the city has been vastly transformed. The reimagining of the Bullring Shopping Centre, the building of the Library of Birmingham and the rebirth of old industrial areas like Brindleyplace and the Mailbox have wrought a phoenix-like change in the old Birmingham.

Old streets and buildings have been restored, pedestrianized squares created and industrial canals have become majestic waterways.

Brilliant examples of Classic, Neo-Gothic, Renaissance, Victorian, and even Brutalist architecture abound. Here is History, culture, lifestyle and shopping. What more could one want?