Every city in the UK is famous for its own culture and their uniqueness makes them appealing to tourists right? Culture is what ties different-different humans to each other. From curiosity to exploring the new culture, students are full of questions when they land in Birmingham. It is no longer limited to student accommodation or cultural spots, students want more.
Speaking of which, this particular blog will take you through the culture and heritage of museums in Birmingham. We have rounded up a list of the top spots which students should definitely visit! But if you just moved to the vibrant city of Birmingham, you must not be familiar with the city. This is where Uninist is making things convenient for you. We are here to guide you on everything related to your student life, from finding student accommodation in Birmingham to museums in Birmingham we got it all covered. Let’s dig in!
A Small Brief: History of Birmingham
Before everything, let’s have a short look at the history of Birmingham. The city of Birmingham is situated in the West Midlands of England. As it rose prominence, the city saw an industrial revolution in the 18th century. With a huge transformation and endless hubs for manufacturing, innovation and more, this city has earned the title of the “workshop of the world”.
Before becoming the manufacturing hub, the city was famous as a medieval market town. However, the city also played a crucial role in the development of modern industry, science, and political reform! Today, this city is a vibrant multicultural city known for its universities, cultural institutions, and economic importance in the UK.
Which Are the Best Museums in Birmingham?
There are many must-visit museums in Birmingham that you should not miss if you are a student studying in Birmingham. Here is the list of top museums in Birmingham to visit:
- Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery
- Thinktank, Birmingham Science Museum
- Ikon Gallery
- Sarehole Mill Museum
- Coffin Works Museums
This is not it! Let’s dig in further to explore other details such as location, entry cost, timings, and nearby colleges.
Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery
Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery is a majestic museum in Birmingham. With a castle-like building, this place has achieved a must-visit spot in students and tourists’ lives in Birmingham. So, if you are a student who loves to appreciate fine art, don’t miss this place as it is just for you.
- Location: Chamberlain Square, Birmingham.
- Entry Cost: The museum charges no entry cost but some exhibitions may charge a little.
- Timings: As of now the museum is partially opened, it was closed for a very big renovation but now some part of it like the round room, industrial gallery, and “Birmingham: its people, its history” gallery is reopened. However, the normal timings of the museum is 10 AM–5 PM from Wednesday to Saturday.
- Nearby Colleges: Colleges near to this museum are Aston University, Birmingham City University, and University College Birmingham.
Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum
To all the science enthusiasts or scientists, Thinktank is a popular Birmingham Science Museum. Built like avengers headquarters, students, kids, or even professionals can live in a different world.
- Location: Millennium Point, Curzon St, Birmingham.
- Entry Cost: This museum in Birmingham costs £15.50 for adults, £11.50 for students, and free for kids under age of 3.
- Timings: The museum is open daily from 10 AM in morning to 5 PM in evening.
- Nearby Colleges: Colleges near to this museum are Aston University, Birmingham City University, and University College Birmingham.
Ikon Gallery
Ikon Gallery is an exquisite art museum in Birmingham. With a fine collection and beauty, this is one of the most beautiful museums you will ever see. The building from inside is very simple-looking like any other art museum but from outside this museum looks like a building straight from the sets of Harry Potter. If you visit the museum in the right season, you will also witness magnificent cherry blossom trees around the museum.
- Location: 1 Oozells Square, Brindleyplace, Birmingham.
- Entry Cost: The entry in this museum is free of cost but they welcome donations and encourage the support.
- Timings: The timings of the museum is 11 AM to 5 PM everyday except Sunday.
- Nearby Colleges: Aston University, Birmingham City University, and University College Birmingham.
Sarehole Mill Museum
Sarehole Museum in Birmingham is a very simple looking museum out there. This museum looks like a normal mill but that’s what makes it so special. Further, this museum also represents the rural-industrial past of Birmingham.
- Location: Cole Bank Road, Birmingham.
- Entry Cost: The museum charges £7.50 from adults and £5.50 from students.
- Timings: 11 AM to 4 PM everyday except Monday and Tuesday.
- Nearby Colleges: the colleges near to this museum are University of Birmingham and South and City College Birmingham.
Coffin Works Museums
You must have never visited a museum which is famous for making coffins, right? Yes, you heard it right, this museum in Birmingham is not just unique in this city but in the whole world. Earlier it was a Victorian coffin fitting factory that was reopened as a museum in 2014.
- Location: 13-15 Fleet St, Birmingham.
- Entry Cost: The entry cost of the museum is £9.50 for adults and £7.50 for students.
- Timings: The museum is open from Wednesday to Sunday, timings are 10:45 AM to 4 PM.
- Nearby colleges: Closest universities to the museum are Aston University, Birmingham City University, and University College Birmingham.
Which Are the Top Cultural Spots in Birmingham?
Now that you know about the museums in Birmingham, it is time to know the most-loved cultural spots this great city of Birmingham has to offer. Some of the top cultural spots in Birmingham to explore as students include:
- Birmingham Hippodrome
- Symphony Hall/ B:Music
- Birmingham Central Mosque
Birmingham Hippodrome
Birmingham Hippodrome is one of the finest theaters around the world. As a gorgeous live theater, you can experience art in musicals, music shows and more. Moreover, performing in this theater is a flex itself.
- Location: Hurst St, Southside, Birmingham.
- Entry Cost: The cost depends on the show but there are student discounts available which you can avail.
- Timings: The timings are based on the show/event.
Symphony Hall/ B:Music
Want to experience live events in a modern setting? Symphony Hall/ B:Music is the perfect place for you to explore. With very modern exteriors and interiors, this place is famous for hosting classicals and jazz concerts.
- Location: The hall is located at Board St, Birmingham
- Entry Cost: The cost depends on the event/concert but there is a concession on tickets for students most of the time.
- Timings: Based on the show/event.
Birmingham Central Mosque
Birmingham Central Mosque is a mosque built to promote the Islamic culture. A religious place which students should visit to understand and see different-different cultures.
- Location: 180 Belgrave Middleway, Birmingham.
- Entry Cost: The entry in a religious place is free.
- Timings: opens daily.
Conclusion
Birmingham has always been a city that appreciates new bonds and old time charm. As we have penned down this blog, we have brought you a list of the best museums in Birmingham. And, if you are a student, you must not miss out on any of the places mentioned above. After all, we don’t leave you with half information. This is where Uninist is making all the difference so that you don’t have to jump amid different websites!
FAQ
Is Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery open now?
The Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery is partially opened. As in 2020, it was closed for renovation but now some parts of it are open.
Do I have to purchase tickets for exploring Birmingham Hippodrome?
Yes, if you want to explore events, there is a requirement of purchasing a ticket.
The Coffins Work Museum in Birmingham is Which Kind of Museum?
The Coffin Works Museum was used to be a Victorian coffin factory. Later in 2014, this place was converted into a museum and restored by Birmingham Conservation Trust.
Does the University of Birmingham have any museum nearby?
Yes, the museum closest to University of Birmingham is Sarehole mill Museum.
Which museum is closest to Aston University, Birmingham?
Ans: The museums in Birmingham that are close to Aston University are:
1. Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery
2. Thinktank, Birmingham Science Museum
3. Ikon Gallery
4. Coffin Works MuseumsWhat’s unique about Sarehole Mill Museum?
Sarehole Mill inspired J.R.R. Tolkien’s works and gives insights into Birmingham’s rural-industrial past.
Is there a dress code for visiting Birmingham Central Mosque?
While there’s no strict dress code, visitors are advised to dress modestly and respectfully.
Can international students volunteer at these museums or cultural venues?
Yes, many Birmingham museums offer volunteer programs for students to gain experience and contribute.
How can students reach these museums easily from their accommodations?
Most museums are well connected via Birmingham’s public transport—buses, trams, and trains are budget-friendly for students.
What is the best time to explore museums in Birmingham?
Weekdays before noon are usually less crowded and ideal for exploring museums with ease.
