Brum Tours initially started out in 2014 under the banner of Peaky Tours and it concentrated on giving history buffs and TV fans alike the opportunity to experience firsthand the sights and sounds of 19th century Birmingham gangsters, the Peaky Blinders. The masterstroke, however, was in bringing onboard much-loved social historian and University of Birmingham professor Carl Chinn.

As a proud and passionate Brummie, as well as the author of numerous books about the history of working class lives in Birmingham, Carl Chinn (MBE, PhD) is uniquely placed to bring to life the fascinating and world-changing stories that have their roots in the city’s streets and businesses.

Professor Chinn is a great believer in the vital role played in history by supposedly ordinary, working class people. It is this passion for real people that enables him to forge such a profound connection with the people who take part in his tours. It’s also one of the reasons Peaky Tours became such an outstanding success, attracting visitors from all over the world and selling out consistently.

On the back of the runaway success of the Peaky Tours, the business expanded into Brum Tours, which is when Mike Olley, head of Westside Business Improvement District became involved. He has since become instrumental in obtaining funding for the business.

Of his decision to get involved, Mike Olley said: “Westside BID is all about encouraging and promoting businesses that show what a world-class city Birmingham is. Few businesses have done so much to raise the profile of Birmingham in recent years as Brum Tours, so it was a natural step for Westside to get involved. We’re proud to be a part of it and very excited about the future.”