Birmingham Back to Backs

Birmingham Back to Backs | Everything You Need to Know

Step into the past at the Birmingham Back to Backs, a captivating historical attraction that brings to life the stories of working-class families who lived in Birmingham’s last surviving court of back-to-back houses. Managed by the National Trust, this carefully restored site offers a unique window into the living conditions of the 19th and 20th centuries, from the 1840s to the 1970s. With engaging guided tours and interactive exhibits, it’s a must-visit for anyone eager to explore Birmingham’s industrial heritage and social history.

Location

The Birmingham Back to Backs are located at 50-54 Inge Street and 55-63 Hurst Street, Birmingham, B5 4TE, in the heart of the city near the vibrant Chinese Quarter. This central location makes it easily accessible from many of Birmingham’s key landmarks. For precise navigation, use GPS or map apps like Google Maps.

Opening Hours

The Back to Backs are open for guided tours only, which must be booked in advance. Tour times vary, with new slots released every Thursday for up to four weeks in advance. The site typically operates from Tuesday to Sunday, with hours such as 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM on Thursday to Sunday and 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM on Tuesday and Wednesday, but it’s best to check the official National Trust website for the most current schedule.

How to Get There

Getting to the Birmingham Back to Backs is straightforward due to its central location:

• By Train: Birmingham New Street station, a major hub, is just a 10-minute walk away. Trains from across the UK, including services from Chiltern Railways, make this a convenient option.
• By Bus: Nearby bus stops include Smallbrook Queensway, Bromsgrove St, and Markets, served by routes like 16, 23, 24, 61, 63, and 80. Check Transport for West Midlands for timetables and fares.
• By Metro: The West Midlands Metro stops at Corporation Street and Grand Central, both within a short walk. The Grand Central stop is particularly close to Birmingham New Street station.
• By Car: There is no on-site parking. The nearest option is the Arcadian car park, a 5-10 minute walk away. Limited Blue-Badge holder spaces are available on Hurst Street. Be aware of potential road closures during events like Birmingham Pride.
• Walking: From the city center, it’s a short stroll from landmarks like the Bullring or New Street station. Use apps like Moovit for step-by-step walking directions.

For real-time updates, consider using journey planning tools like Transport for West Midlands or Google Maps.

Best Time to Visit

To enjoy a quieter experience, visit on weekdays, particularly Tuesday or Wednesday afternoons, when crowds are typically smaller. As an indoor attraction, it’s suitable year-round, making it a great option for rainy days. Booking early for weekend tours is recommended, as slots fill up quickly. Check the National Trust events page for special tours or exhibitions, such as “Home in the Shadows: Photography by Nick Hedges,” which may enhance your visit.

Tickets and Costs

Tickets must be booked in advance via the National Trust ticketing site or by calling 0344 249 1895. Prices are as follows:

Ticket Type	Price with Gift Aid	Price without Gift Aid
Adult	£8.00	£7.25
Child	£4.40	£3.90
Family	£20.00	Not specified

• Free Entry: National Trust members enter free but must book in advance and bring their membership card.
• Neighbourhood Pass: Local residents or workers may qualify for free visits for one adult, another adult, and up to three children. Details are available on the National Trust website.
• Group Bookings: For groups of 8 or more, email backtobacksgroupbookings@nationaltrust.org.uk. Note that group bookings are not available on Tuesdays or Wednesdays from March 2025.

Booking early is advised, as tours are limited to 8 visitors each and can sell out quickly.

What to Expect

Your visit begins with a 90-minute guided tour (or 60-minute ground floor tour for accessibility needs) through the restored back-to-back houses, furnished to reflect four periods: the 1840s, 1870s, 1930s, and 1970s. Knowledgeable guides share stories of former residents, highlighting the challenges and community spirit of life in these cramped homes. Unlike many museums, visitors are encouraged to touch and interact with exhibits, such as trying “top and tail” sleeping arrangements, making it especially engaging for children.

The site includes a second-hand bookshop and exhibition space, such as the “Home in the Shadows” photography display. There’s no on-site café, but numerous dining options are nearby in the city center. Expect to spend 1.5 to 2 hours, including time to explore the bookshop or exhibitions.

Safety and Accessibility

• Safety: Staff are present to guide visitors safely. Follow tour guidelines, especially on steep stairs, to ensure a secure visit.
• Accessibility: The ground floor is accessible via a level entrance on Inge Street, with a wheelchair available. Sensory bags, written guides, and an induction loop at the till are provided. The upper floors have steep, narrow stairs, which may be challenging for those with mobility issues. A ground floor-only tour is available. For British Sign Language tours, contact the property at 0121 622 2442 with four weeks’ notice. More details are on the National Trust accessibility page.
• Family-Friendly: The interactive nature of the tours, including hands-on activities, makes it suitable for children. Strollers can access the ground floor, but space is limited upstairs.

History and Background

The Birmingham Back to Backs, also known as Court 15, are the city’s last surviving example of back-to-back housing, built between 1802 and 1831 to house the growing workforce during the Industrial Revolution. These houses, constructed literally back-to-back with shared rear walls, were designed for efficiency but often lacked ventilation and natural light, leading to poor living conditions. Occupied until the 1970s, they were nearly demolished but were saved and restored by the National Trust over five years, opening as a historic house museum in 2004. The interiors reflect the lives of residents across four eras, offering a vivid portrayal of Birmingham’s social history.

Fun Fact: The term “gozunder” refers to a chamber pot used in these homes, so named because it “goes under” the bed—a quirky insight into daily life!

Nearby Attractions

The Back to Backs’ central location makes it easy to explore other Birmingham attractions:

• Birmingham Hippodrome: A premier theater hosting ballet, opera, and musicals, just a short walk away.
• Electric Cinema: The UK’s oldest working cinema, offering a unique movie-going experience.
• Bullring & Grand Central: A major shopping destination with dining and retail.
• Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery: Home to fine art, ceramics, and local history exhibits, about a 15-minute walk away.
• Library of Birmingham: A striking modern library with vast resources, also within a 15-minute walk.

Combine your visit with these attractions for a full day of exploration in Birmingham’s vibrant city center.

Practical Tips

• Book your tour in advance via the National Trust ticketing site to secure your spot.
• Arrive 10 minutes early to check in at the visitor reception on Hurst Street.
• Wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves standing and walking.
• Be prepared for steep, narrow stairs; opt for the ground floor tour if mobility is a concern.
• Leave large bags at reception to ease movement through the houses.
• Check the National Trust website for updates or special requirements.
• Enjoy nearby cafes and restaurants in the Chinese Quarter or city center before or after your tour, as there’s no on-site dining.

FAQs

What are the opening hours of Birmingham Back to Backs?

The attraction is open for guided tours only, with times varying by day. Typically, tours run from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM Thursday to Sunday and 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM Tuesday and Wednesday. Check the National Trust website for the latest schedule.

How much does it cost to visit Birmingham Back to Backs?

Tickets cost £8.00 for adults and £4.40 for children (with Gift Aid) or £7.25 and £3.90 (without). Family tickets are £20.00. National Trust members enter free with advance booking.

Is Birmingham Back to Backs suitable for children?

Yes, the attraction is family-friendly, with interactive elements like trying period activities, making it engaging for kids.

Are there any discounts available for Birmingham Back to Backs?

National Trust members get free entry. A Neighbourhood Pass offers free visits for local residents. Group rates for 8+ people are available; email backtobacksgroupbookings@nationaltrust.org.uk.

How long does it take to visit Birmingham Back to Backs?

The full guided tour lasts about 90 minutes, while the ground floor tour takes around 60 minutes.

Is photography allowed at Birmingham Back to Backs?

Photography for personal use is generally allowed, but confirm with staff on the day of your visit.

Are there guided tours available at Birmingham Back to Backs?

Yes, all visits are by guided tour only, which must be booked in advance via the National Trust ticketing site.

What’s the best way to get to Birmingham Back to Backs from the city center?

It’s a 10-minute walk from Birmingham New Street station. Alternatively, take a bus to Smallbrook Queensway or a metro to Corporation Street or Grand Central.

Is Birmingham Back to Backs wheelchair accessible?

The ground floor is accessible with level entry and a wheelchair available. Upper floors have steep stairs, but a ground floor tour is offered. Contact the property for specific needs.

Are there dining options near Birmingham Back to Backs?

Numerous cafes, restaurants, and pubs are available in the nearby Chinese Quarter and city center, though there’s no on-site café.