Birmingham's Heritage
Although best known as the Victorian ‘workshop of the world’, Birmingham has a rich heritage dating back as far as the Middle Ages.
Highlights include the Jacobean splendour of Aston Hall which has recently re-opened following a multi million pound restoration project, the remarkable industrial time-capsule of the Museum of the Jewellery Quarter and Soho House, home of Matthew Boulton and meeting place of the world famous Lunar Society.
To fully appreciate the extraordinary range of the city’s heritage, Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery is a must-see. It’s internationally significant collections of art and history include the largest collection of Pre-Raphaelites in the world.
At the Birmingham Assay Office learn about the history of Hallmarking and find out their role in the 21st century. View the spectacular Silver Collection and the Library and buy silver items in the Gift Shop.
Birmingham Cathedral has been a place of Christian worship since 1715 – designed by the English Baroque architect, Thomas Archer. Situated in the heart of the city, it is open and staffed every day of the year.
Outside of the city centre, visitors can enjoy delightfully restored Blakesley Hall, an Elizabeathan yeoman’s house in Yardley, and magical Sarehole Mill in Hall Green – which formed the inspiration for JRR Tolkien’s ‘Hobbiton’ in The Lord of the Rings.
Entry to all of these outstanding sites is free - and with a lively programme of events and activities there is always plenty going on for all the family to enjoy.
Birmingham Back to Backs
Birmingham's last surviving court of Back to Back Housing offers a step back in time. This National Trust location is a beautifully restored 19th-century courtyard of working people's houses. It’s a story told through the experiences of the people who lived and worked here over four periods from 1840 to 1977. The design of each interior reflects the varied cultures, religions and professions of the families who made their homes here. Shown by guided tour only, booking is a must.
Birmingham Heritage Forum
For more information on a whole host of heritage attractions across the city visit the Birmingham Heritage Forum website www.birminghamheritage.org.uk