Useful information
Please read the Terms & Conditions for Tour Participants before booking and attending a tour but here’s some information which might be helpful.
Who are tours suitable for? Tours are suitable for anyone of average fitness and are mostly on pavements or canal towpaths, they usually involve steps. Each tour has a description of the nature of the walk including the distance and approximate duration. If you have any worries about whether the tour is suitable for you please get in touch before you book. Age restrictions are indicated where applicable as well as details of the content of the tour so you can make a decision about whether it's right for you or your child. On some tours an activity card will be provided for free to children to keep them engaged.
Can I cancel or move my tour? Yes, for public tour bookings you can cancel or change the date of your tour for free as long as it’s at least 24 hours before the commencement of the tour. Just email contact@explorebirmingham.uk to let us know what you'd like to do. After that you should let us know as soon as possible and it may be possible in some circumstances to provide a partial refund or move your tour to another date.
When should I arrive? Please arrive at least 5 minutes before the tour is due to start to allow for registration.
What if I’m running late? Unfortunately the tour can’t wait if you’re running late, however, tours usually spend a few minutes either at or near the meeting point so please look around and join the tour and make yourself known to the guide at a convenient pause. If you know you’ll be late please call or text 07920 864384 as soon as possible prior to the tour commencement (leave a message if it’s not answered). It may be possible to arrange a place for you to join the tour if you’ll be more than a few minutes late, although this can’t be guaranteed. Once the tour has commenced calls can’t be answered or messages checked as the guide will be focused on the tour group. Unfortunately, if you can’t join the tour due to delay, refunds can’t be offered so please allow plenty of time.
What to expect on a tour The guide will welcome you and depending on group sizes there’s a chance to be introduced to others on the tour. The tours are fun and interactive with chances to ask questions and explore the stories but don’t worry, you won’t be put on the spot and you can get involved as much or as little as you want. Tours are friendly and should be enjoyable for everyone, no smoking or alcohol is allowed on the tour for everyone’s safety and comfort. The guide may alert you to some hazards but you’re responsible for your own safety and that of anyone in your care. Extra care should be taken when crossing roads and on slippery surfaces and steps.
What should I wear/bring? Please dress in comfortable clothing and sensible footwear and be prepared for the weather! Not just waterproofs and umbrellas but (if we’re lucky) sun protection and water.
Photos You’re welcome to take any pictures that you want on the tour. If posting on social media we’d love you to tag us (IG: @explore.brum FB: ExploreBirminghamTours). You can include the guide in any pictures.
What about the weather? Tours go ahead in all but the most extreme or dangerous conditions. We find most people enjoy tours even in the rain but of course you can cancel for free as long as it’s at least 24 hours before the tour start time. We’re afraid the weather isn’t a valid reason to cancel on the day for a refund.
Further information about all of the above is available in the Terms & Conditions as well as information on tour cancellation by us, private tours, abandoning a tour, bringing animals, changes to the advertised tours and more.