The Irish Roots of Handsworth

Date of event/s

Tue, 15 Sep 2026, 13:00 - 14:30

Location

5 Soho Ave, Birmingham B18 5LB

About this event

Join us on this historic walking trail as we celebrate the contributions of the Irish community in Birmingham. Starting at Soho House, we will trace the footsteps of the Irish presence in Handsworth, culminating in a tour of the beautiful St Marys Convent, home to the Sisters of Mercy – a Religious Congregation of women founded in Dublin.

Timings

1:00PM – 2:30PM

Prices

The trail is FREE to attend, however voluntary donations are accepted, pay what you choose at the door!

Birmingham Heritage Week

Testimonials

Volunteering for Legacy WM has been an incredible experience. The respectful and friendly environment of Legacy WM allows you to flourish in what you do best. Working in marketing has not only made me more confident in my skills but awakened a new passion for it as I can use it to help people and even give back to my community. Legacy WM ensures that I and everyone else like me, are proud of our cultures and continue to be.

Ikra, Community Champion
I joined badminton at the age of 13 with my younger sister at the Lighthouse Youth Centre in Lozells. Before this I had no prior experience to the sport and always felt nervous when stepping onto the court. However, after attending many sessions regularly and punctually, I began to notice improvement within my skill and also confidence.

Hafizur, Badminton Attendee
I haven't rode a bike in 50 years and that was when I was 10 years old. The bikes have changed and they now have gears for both the front and back wheels. I had the front wheels in 1st gear and the back wheels in 2nd gear which made for a better work out for me. Khalam is great, patient and encouraging and I couldn't have done it or enjoyed it without him. I'm looking forward to a larger group next week as even in the heat there was a considerable breeze throughout. Thank you very much for this opportunity.

Anonymous, Men's Cycling Attendee
The gym has also helped me become more social. The atmosphere at Doug Ellis is welcoming, inclusive, and full of positive energy. The staff are always friendly, professional, and genuinely supportive. I’m incredibly grateful to Legacy for making this membership possible, and to everyone at Doug Ellis Gym for creating such a fantastic space. Thank you for helping me build a healthier lifestyle and stronger family connection. From the bottom of my heart — thank you.

Mohammed, Legacy WM Gym Attendee
I find it really good and it’s boosted my confidence. Meeting new people is really nervous for me. The group has boosted my confidence in playing with others I’ve never met before in life…they’re really kind, they’re really funny and they inspire me to keep going… My game has progressed. I’m good at serving, hitting, smashing and everything. So I’m very thankful for the coaches helping inspire me to play… It helps me as well with my mental wellbeing as well.

Hamzah, Badminton Attendee
The youth forum I’ve been a part of since I’ve joined Legacy WM has not only allowed me to make life long friends, it’s also allowed me to enjoy thrilling activities with these people. Not only has it done this, it’s also allowed me to refine my skills in badminton which I will forever be grateful for.

Amaan, Youth Group Member
I had the best time on this trip! I had the amazing opportunity to learn and grow in many different ways, as well as meet some wonderful people along the way for the first time. Thank you.

Hana , Freedom50 Cyclist
During my time as a community champion I have participated in the Mason mile as well as holiday play schemes. I also had the honour of partaking in the Freedom50 exhibition, which opened my eyes to the true beauty of my culture. It has not only boosted my confidence, but it has also allowed me to feel more connected to the community around me.

Zara, Community Champion
I've been volunteering at Legacy WM and just wanted to say a huge thank you to the team here. They've all been amazing and supported my journey throughout. I've really learned a lot and there's a lot I will take with me in terms of for my future and my personal development.

Isha, Community Champion
Your coaches are doing a tremendous job with our children. Not only are you training them to become great badminton players, but you are also teaching them great discipline and behaviour, making them understand the importance of healthy competition as well as developing a strong passion for the game.

Kids Badminton Attendee, Parent
I’m delighted to be joining Legacy WM board of trustees both to support the development of a brilliant grass roots organisation in our city, and to connect The Rep with more local communities and learn how we can better serve them through our work as a major city institution.

Rachael Thomas, Executive Director at Birmingham Rep and Trustee Member
Legacy WM has helped me shape my skills and knowledge, providing a safe space for me to grow and learn. It's like having a routine that guides me in various tasks, similar to following a structured diet that ensures I stay healthy and efficient. The trips that Legacy WM have provided have been eye opening and very enjoyable.

Hafizah, Youth Group Member

Diversity and Legacy

Legacy WM is committed to creating a diverse environment reflecting the communities in which we work. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer where all job applicants will be considered for employment irrespective of our differences.

The values and beliefs at Legacy WM enable our employees to bring their full self to work, develop their potential and engage in a world full of inclusion.