During Birmingham Heritage Week 2026 Network Rail, in partnership with Mailbox, are offering a unique opportunity to access the subways and tunnels at Birmingham New Street that carried Birmingham’s mail and post to mail trains operating across the country, including an opportunity to walk the length of the Mailbox tunnel. PPE will be provided, but please wear sturdy shoes (and bring a camera).

Tickets for the mail tunnels are by ballot only. Information on how the ballot works here

You will need to be of reasonable fitness as the tour involves walking for an hour or thereabouts and there is a steady incline to ascend/descend (there are regular rest breaks throughout the tour). There is a stair-free route to the tunnel, but the ground may be bumpy and slippery and we have to go down quite a steep ramp. PPE will be provided, but please ensure you wear sturdy, sensible footwear: no high heels or any heels, open toed sandals or ballet pump type shoes or trainers. 

Safety on the railways is of absolute importance. The tour allows access to operational areas and, as such, you must follow the exact instruction of the tour guide. You will be issued with safety clothing and must wear it at all times. No video footage is allowed at any point on the tour. Photos may be taken where indicated by the tour guide. Minimum age 12 and anyone 12-16 must be accompanied by an adult and there is a maximum of one 12-16 year old child per accompanying adult. No alcohol is allowed on or near the tour. If someone is found to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs, even if consumed prior to tour, they will be removed from the tour and asked to leave the station.

Failure to follow any of these instructions may mean that you will be unable to attend the tour. Please arrive at least ten minutes before the tour time at the designated meeting point.

Organised by Network Rail and Mailbox