Our 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 in this non-denominational cemetery

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, view Mount Misery, and uncover some of the stories of Birmingham’s notable individuals and those who made significant yet lesser-known contributions to society.

Please note that there are no toilet facilities for this event. Parking not available. Uneven terrain, inclines and steps. 

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

Some 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 & Philosopher
* 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, 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

How to get there: On foot: From Vyse Street, walk down Pitsford Street, turn right into Icknield Street, walk under the railway bridge to Key Hill Cemetery ( Black Railings). Train & Tram: stops at the Jewellery Quarter Station in Vyse St, Hockley. Bus: 8a, 8c and 101 from Birmingham city centre to Chamberlain clock at Warstone Lane walk to Vyse Street. Bus: 16 &74 to Great Hampton Street, walk to Vyse Street, Pitsford Street, Icknield Street . 

Organised by The Friends of Key Hill Cemetery and Warstone Lane Cemetery