The Secret History of Birmingham Street Names

Kevin Thomas SpeakerNet Sponsor


Region:
West Midlands
Notice Period:
Regular (more than one month's notice)
Type:
Professional
Fee:
Paid: £75
Category:
History
Updated:
30th July 2025
Tagged:
History | Birmingham | Stories

What’s in a Name? The Curious Origins of Birmingham’s Streets

Ever wandered down Needless Alley or Pinfold Street and wondered why they’re called that? In this lively and engaging talk, we’ll dig into the hidden history behind some of Birmingham’s quirkiest street names. Discover the street once home to stray animals, a lane said to be the “foulest in Britain,” and the surprising site of a cherry orchard in the heart of the city. From nymphs to nuisances, temples to Steel Yards, this is a story-filled stroll through the words that shape our streets.

Illustrated with historic maps, photos, and a few surprising artefacts.

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About Kevin Thomas

Looking for a talk that’s equal parts eye-opening, entertaining, and just a little bit eccentric? Kevin Thomas is an award-winning guide and the man behind some of Birmingham’s most popular and peculiar walking tours. With 40 years' experience as an architectural photographer and designer, Kevin brings buildings to life and lifts the lid on the stories they’ve been hiding. His walking tours have been featured in The Times and described as “witty, weird, and wonderfully well-researched.” Kevin is available to give illustrated talks to heritage groups, U3As, WI branches, local history societies and anyone curious about Birmingham’s buried past. Expect juicy tales, forgotten figures, oddball objects, and the kind of facts that leave you saying: “I never knew that!”


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