From Thinktank to Aston Hall, Soho House and, of course, BM&AG, this city is home to many world-class museums highlighting Birmingham’s vibrant history. But, you might be surprised to learn, they contain but a fraction of Birmingham Museums Trust’s collections. Around 80% is actually hidden away at the Museum Collection Centre.
Out in Nechells is a huge, 1.5-hectare warehouse containing the majority of Birmingham Museums Trust’s stored collections under one roof. Home to millions of artefacts, it’s the only place to see many items not normally on display—everything from steam engines (from the former Museum of Science and Industry) to a Sinclair C5 (an 80s electric tricycle).
The only problem is that the Museum Collection Centre is rarely open. At the moment, it is only once a week (either Wednesday or Friday) at an awkward time of 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm. But on Saturday, September 13, that changes for Birmingham Heritage Week, when the Museum Collection Centre hosts an Open Day.
What can I do at the Museum Collection Centre?
Among the hundreds of thousands of objects, you will find everything from aircraft engines to zoological specimens. Discover steam engines, sculptures, cars, a giant spider crab, a retro chip fryer, and even a kitchen sink! If you are interested in it, it’s probably here. You’re free to wander the artefact-packed warehouse at your leisure, but there are also free guided talks, family trails and the chance to meet experts.
How do I get there?
The Museum Collection Centre in Nechells offers only blue badge parking on site, while there is extremely limited, free on-street parking in the area. Luckily, a FREE vintage bus service will run all day between Birmingham centre and the Museum Collection Centre. Alternatively, Duddeston train station is just a 5-minute walk away.
How much is the Open Day?
A ticket to the Museum Collection Centre: Birmingham Heritage Week Open Day is £12 for an adult, while an Open Concession is £9. Children up to 15, however, go completely FREE. To pre-book yours and learn more, head here.