A guide to Birmingham's most unusual museums
So right now we're going to explore some of Birmingham's and the West Midlands most intriguing museums, offering fascinating insights into the regions rich history and culture. Whether you're interested in history, industry, or interactive experiences, we have something for everyone.
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00:00First up, the Coffinworks Museum offers a rare glimpse into the past, housed in a factory
00:07that closed in 1998. Visitors can explore a preserved time capsule, complete with artefacts
00:13like a 1943 first aid box and an early photocopier. The museum also showcases the exquisite coffin
00:21fittings crafted by Newman Brothers, renowned for serving royal undertakers. Next to the
00:27pen museum, nestled in the historic Argent Centre, this hidden gem celebrates Birmingham's
00:33steel pen trade, once supplying 75% of the world's steel pen nibs. The museum offers
00:38hands-on activities, allowing visitors to try their hand at writing with a steel nib
00:43or operating historic machinery. With exhibits featuring pens used by Alan Turing and those
00:49designed for space, it's a treasure trove for history enthusiasts. Then out in Dudley,
00:54the Black Country Living Museum transports visitors to life 200 years ago. This 29-acre
01:00open-air museum features reconstructed shops, houses and even a vintage cinema. New high
01:06street shops from the 40s and 60s have been added, offering a step back in time with authentic
01:11experiences. Visitors can enjoy traditional fish and chips, play old-fashioned street
01:16games and explore the rich heritage of the Black Country. The museum also hosts popular
01:21Peaky Blinders-themed evenings, offering a unique blend of history and entertainment.
01:27Finally, the Think Tank Museum offers an engaging experience for all ages. The mini-brum interactive
01:33gallery is a child-sized city, featuring landmarks like Birmingham Canals and the old Joe Clock
01:39Tower. Children can explore different play zones designed for fun and learning. The Science
01:45Garden provides hands-on exhibits, including a giant hamster wheel and a machine that creates
01:50an explosion of dancing balls. Think Tank also boasts a planetarium, showcasing the
01:56wonders of the universe.