V.E. Day, Air Raid Shelter Underground Tunnel Tour

Welcome to the V.E. Day, Air Raid Shelter Underground Tunnel Tour at Warstone Lane Cemetery! May 9, 2026, at 10:30 AM (Europe/London)

For one day only, come and explore and delve into the subterranean world of Warstone Lane Cemetery and discover beneath the former church its fascinating underground tunnel, leading to the semi-circular tiered catacombs.
This single underground tunnel was used by residents of Hockley and workers in the Birmingham Jewellery Quarter during air raids and the Birmingham Blitz.

As you explore, you'll hear the intriguing story of John Baskerville, the renowned printer and Japanner who experienced multiple burials. This tour will shed light on his remarkable tale. Discover the history and secrets of this fascinating location in person. Don't miss out on this one-of-a-kind event!

The Birmingham Blitz, these catacombs were used as Air Raid shelters, along with neighbouring Key Hill catacombs, during WWII.

There will be one tunnel/ chamber open in the catacombs, and no human remains or coffins will be seen.

The duration of the tour is about 50 minutes or more, depending on Q & A that is encouraged.

Cemetery

• We ask that you arrive 15 minutes before the Warstone catacomb tour commences at 11am to register your name and collect your admittance badge at the information stall/gazebo in Warstone Lane cemetery.

• Only those with a ticket will be admitted
• Please wear suitable clothing and footwear.

• Times slots for Warstone Lane Tunnel Tour will be released in stages for 11.00am: 12.00pm: 1.00pm: 2.00pm: 3.00pm time slots.

Additionally, Into the Shadows, Key Hill underground Catacomb Chambers Tours will be taking place at the same time and will be released in stages for 11.00am: 12.00pm: 1.00pm: 2.00pm: 3.00pm time slots.

• Guided Tours of Key Hill cemetery catacomb chambers require booking separately.

Please book this separately, allowing at least one hour between tours, this will allow the duration of the tour, booking in at Warstone Lane cemetery, collection of your admittance badge, plus the walk to neighbouring Key Hill cemetery, with a steward who will escort the group to meet your guide.
Grab your torch and get ready for this history tour.

• We advise you to read the Frequently Asked Questions at the bottom of this page before purchasing tickets.

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• FILMING in the cemeteries and /or catacombs.If attendees wish to video then prior permission must be sought from Film Birmingham and a Filming Request Form applied for well in advance.

• There is a no-smoking policy in all Birmingham cemeteries.
  
  Your tour guide looks forward to welcoming you.
  

We thank you for supporting the Friends, all revenue is for grave restoration.

If you later find that you are unable to join us it would be helpful if you let us know either by following the – “view and manage your order online link “ in your confirmation email, and then selecting your order. - This will be passed on to the Tour Guide and will prevent any delay to the start of the event should the guide be waiting for you.

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Don't miss out on these unique opportunities to delve into Birmingham's fascinating history!

Please view the Frequently Asked Questions below before purchasing tickets.

Please view the Frequently Asked Questions below before purchasing tickets.

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Host or Publisher Friends of Key Hill & Warstone Lane Cemeteries