Discover stories of social change and community action at the University of Birmingham in this engaging 30-minute tour of Largely in Your Hands: Making and shaping a university, led by the student researchers who helped create the exhibition.

From Malcolm X’s visit to Birmingham in 1965 to student campaigns for LGBTQ+ rights, these fast-paced tours uncover powerful stories of people who challenged injustice, reshaped campus culture and fought for a fairer society. Along the way, you’ll explore inspiring examples of solidarity and grassroots action, while discovering some of the lesser-known voices and movements that have helped shape Birmingham’s history.

Set within the historic Aston Webb Building, People Powered! offers a unique opportunity to hear directly from the students behind the research, gain fresh perspectives on the exhibition, and ask questions during a dedicated Q&A session at the end of the tour.

Whether you’re interested in local history, civil rights, student activism or untold stories from the past, this tour will leave you looking at the University of Birmingham’s heritage and the wider city in a new way. Join us to explore how ordinary people used their voices to create extraordinary change.

Tour information:
Duration: 30 minutes (including Q&A)
Location: Largely in Your Hands exhibition, Aston Webb Building, University of Birmingham
Capacity: Maximum 20 people per tour
Six tours available throughout the day
Fully indoors
Fully accessible; lift users can access the first floor via an alternative route with support from staff
Recommended age: 16+

How to get there:
Getting to the University: Frequent trains from Birmingham New Street reach University Station in 10 minutes, a short walk from campus. Regular buses (X61 and 63) also serve the University. Cycling is encouraged, with dedicated routes, and secure lock up on site. Visitor parking is available at Northeast Multi-storey Car Park (Pritchatts Road, B15 2SA).

Organised by University of Birmingham – University Collections