Hidden Birmingham, Catacombs Tours, Sat 17 May 2025

Location:  Warstone Lane cemetery, Vyse Street

For those with an adventurous spirit and a keen interest in history, these  tours offer a unique opportunity to explore the hidden catacombs beneath Birmingham. The underground tunnel plus the catacomb chambers, which are rarely open to the public, both tours provide a fascinating glimpse into the city's Victorian past. These catacombs were used as air raid shelters during WWII

Interior Underground Tunnel Tour in Warstone Lane catacombs 

The final resting place of the printer John Baskerville

Tours commence

12.30pm Book here 

2.30pm  Book here

Please arrive 15 minutes early at the stall in Warstone Lane cemetery.

Tour Fee: £7.00 plus booking fee

Warstone Lane cemetery, semi-circular catacombs

Interior tours of the empty chambers in the Key Hill catacombs A fascinating tour with a link to the author, Washington Irving.   Tours commence at 12.30 Book here   1.30pm Book here   Please ensure you arrive  20 minutes before the tour commences at the stall in Warstone Lane cemetery. Tour Fee:  £7.00 plus booking fee

The meeting point for ALL tours on this day only is at the Friends Gazebo inside Warstone Lane cemetery.  If booking both tours, please allow an hour interval to allow for booking in, collection of admittance badge, and the escorted walk with our stewards from one cemetery to the other.

We advise that you “ Read about this Event” and the “Frequently Asked Questions.”

(under the map) and at the foot of each booking page before purchasing tickets.

The chambers in Key Hill Cemetery Catacombs

Inside the catacombs at Key Hill cemetery

Burial Information Stall Event Details

• · Date: Saturday, 17 May

• · Time: 11.30am-2.30pm

• · Location: Inside Warstone Lane Cemetery

• One ticket per household.

Burial Information Stall 11.30am to 2.30pm

For those interested in tracing their genealogy or learning more about the burial sites of their ancestors, the burial information stall will be an invaluable resource. Volunteers will be on hand to provide information about burial plot numbers in both Key Hill Cemetery and Warstone Lane Cemetery. Whether you are a seasoned genealogist or just beginning your family history journey, you will find the assistance provided here extremely beneficial.What we require from you

Gather Complete Information: Collect all available information about your ancestor, including full name, birth and death years, and any additional identifying details such as middle names or maiden names.

The Importance of Knowing Your Ancestors' Birth and Death Years

Ensuring Accurate Grave Identification

When it comes to tracing your lineage and paying respects to your ancestors, accuracy is paramount. One critical piece of information that can greatly aid in locating your ancestor's grave is knowing their year of birth and year of death. This knowledge not only helps in distinguishing your ancestor from others with the same name but also ensures that your visit is meaningful and accurate.

Why Birth and Death Years Matter

Knowing the birth and death years of your ancestor is essential, we advise purchasing a death certificate before looking for a burial.

Accurate Identification: Cemeteries often contain multiple individuals with the same or similar names. By knowing the exact years of birth and death, you can confidently identify your ancestor's grave, avoiding confusion and potential distress.

Burial information stall inside Warstone Lane cemetery, with an index for both Key Hill cemetery and Warstone Lane cemetery. One ticket per household Booking link here

No charge. Donations are welcome.

All revenue is for grave restoration. This fundraising event not only offers a unique opportunity to delve into the history of Birmingham’s cemeteries but also plays a crucial role in supporting the Friends mission. By participating, attendees contribute to the preservation of our local heritage.

Friends of Key Hill cemetery & Warstone Lane cemetery Est 2004   www.fkwc.org Other Events here