Birmingham Back to Backs
Step back in time at Birmingham's last surviving court of back-to-back houses, showcasing life from 1840-1977.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate tours
Birmingham Back to Backs
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate tours
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at Birmingham's last surviving court of back-to-back houses, showcasing life from 1840-1977.
"An absolutely fantastic and truly immersive experience, bringing the past to life!"
🎯 Book Ahead Online
Tours sell out fast! Secure your spot for this immersive history experience. :ticket:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be navigating narrow, steep stairs. Good grip is essential! :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Victorian Court Life
1840s House
Step into a meticulously restored Victorian home and experience the cramped living conditions of working-class families.
World War II Era
1930s/1940s House
See how life changed during wartime, with a glimpse into the challenges and resilience of families during WWII.
Post-War Living
1950s/1970s House
Explore the evolution of domestic life and changing social attitudes in the mid-20th century.
The Courtyard
Central Courtyard
The heart of the community, this shared space offers a unique perspective on communal living in industrial Birmingham.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Visit in Advance
Be Prepared for Stairs
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Ahead Online
Tours sell out fast! Secure your spot for this immersive history experience. +1 :ticket:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be navigating narrow, steep stairs. Good grip is essential! +1 :athletic_shoe:
🗣️ Engage with Guides
The guides are incredibly knowledgeable and bring the history to life. Ask questions!
⏳ Allow 90 Minutes
The full guided tour takes about 90 minutes, so plan your visit accordingly.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Ahead Online
Tours sell out fast! Secure your spot for this immersive history experience. +1 :ticket:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be navigating narrow, steep stairs. Good grip is essential! +1 :athletic_shoe:
🗣️ Engage with Guides
The guides are incredibly knowledgeable and bring the history to life. Ask questions!
⏳ Allow 90 Minutes
The full guided tour takes about 90 minutes, so plan your visit accordingly.
📸 Capture the Atmosphere
The dim lighting and authentic settings make for atmospheric photos.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Birmingham Back to Backs for its incredibly immersive and informative guided tours, which bring history to life. The knowledgeable guides and the authentic restoration of the houses are frequently highlighted as major strengths. While the steep stairs can be a challenge for some, the overall experience is highly recommended for anyone interested in social history.
"Absolutely fantastic place to visit. It's a guided tour and the guide explains about each room/ house and its history. Did the full tour which involves going up some narrow spiral stairs but there are banisters and handles to help.
Our guide Ross made our visit memorable.
You must book. Can not recommend highly enough."
Shouston_
"My visit to the Birmingham Back to Backs was absolutely fantastic and a truly immersive experience! I was completely captivated by the stories and history brought to life in each house. The guides were incredibly knowledgeable and passionate, making the past feel incredibly present and real. It's a truly unique and wonderfully preserved piece of Birmingham's heritage, offering a poignant glimpse into bygone eras. I left with a much deeper appreciation for the lives of those who lived there. Highly recommended for anyone wanting to step back in time and connect with history!""
Tomas Osvald
"I don't give 5 star reviews lightly, but this place thoroughly deserves it.
Extremely informative tour (90 mins). The guide - Jean - was excellent throughout the tour. Stairs are a bit of a challenge on your joints, so be aware.
If you have an interest in social history, you must visit"
John White
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Birmingham Back to Backs are centrally located on Hurst Street, easily accessible by public transport. Many bus routes stop nearby, and it's a short walk from Birmingham New Street station.
While there isn't dedicated parking for the Back to Backs, several multi-storey car parks are within walking distance in the city centre. Consider using the nearby NCP car parks on Pershore Street or Albert Street.
No, visits to the Birmingham Back to Backs are exclusively via guided tours. This ensures you get the full historical context and immersive experience.
Opening times vary, and it's crucial to check the official National Trust website for the most up-to-date information. Tours are scheduled throughout the day.
Due to the historic nature of the buildings and the presence of narrow, steep stairs, the Birmingham Back to Backs are not fully wheelchair accessible. Please contact the venue directly for specific accessibility queries.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, and it's best to check the National Trust website for current pricing. National Trust members often get free entry.
Yes, booking your tickets in advance is highly recommended, as tours frequently sell out. This is especially true for weekend visits and during school holidays.
The guided tour typically lasts 90 minutes and takes you through several restored houses, showcasing different eras of life in Birmingham. Guides share fascinating stories and historical details.
It is strongly advised not to rely on purchasing tickets on the day, as tours often sell out in advance. Booking online is the most reliable way to guarantee entry.
Refund policies can vary. It's best to review the terms and conditions on the National Trust booking page or contact their customer service for specific details regarding cancellations or changes.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The full guided tour of the Birmingham Back to Backs typically lasts around 90 minutes, offering an in-depth exploration of the historic houses.
Yes, there are toilet facilities available for visitors at the Birmingham Back to Backs. These are usually located near the visitor centre or bookshop area.
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but please be mindful of other visitors and the historic nature of the site. Flash photography may be restricted in certain areas.
The best way to experience the Back to Backs is by taking a guided tour. The knowledgeable guides provide context and stories that bring the history to life.
The Birmingham Back to Backs often hosts special events, exhibitions, and themed tours, particularly around holidays or historical anniversaries. Check their website for current listings.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there isn't a full restaurant on-site, there is often a small shop or cafe selling refreshments and snacks. Many dining options are available in the surrounding city centre.
Picnicking is generally not permitted inside the historic houses. However, you may be able to find designated areas nearby in the city centre for eating packed lunches.
The area around Hurst Street and the Southside District offers a wide variety of restaurants, from casual eateries to fine dining, catering to diverse tastes.
Birmingham is known for its diverse culinary scene, and you'll find numerous restaurants offering excellent vegetarian and vegan options in the vicinity.
Alcoholic beverages are typically not served or permitted within the historic houses themselves. However, many pubs and bars are located nearby in the city centre.
📸 📸 Photography
The interiors of the houses, especially the kitchens and living rooms, offer atmospheric shots. The courtyard also provides a unique perspective on the architecture.
Flash photography is often restricted inside the historic houses to protect the artifacts and interiors. Always check for signage or ask your guide.
Tripods may be restricted to avoid obstructing other visitors or damaging the historic environment. It's best to inquire with staff upon arrival.
Given the often dim interior lighting, a camera with good low-light performance or a tripod will be beneficial. Consider using a wider aperture to capture the ambiance.
While there aren't dedicated photography tours, the regular guided tours offer ample opportunities to capture the essence of the site.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families:
* Book in advance: Tours fill up quickly, so secure your tickets early.
* Prepare for stairs: Explain to children that there will be climbing involved.
* Engage with the guides: Encourage kids to ask questions and participate in discussions.
* Focus on relatable eras: The 1930s and 1950s might be easier for younger children to connect with.
📚 History Buffs & Enthusiasts
Recommendations for history buffs:
* Take the full tour: This provides the most comprehensive overview of the different eras.
* Research beforehand: Familiarise yourself with Birmingham's industrial history for added context.
* Engage with the guides: They are a wealth of knowledge and can often provide deeper insights.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Tips for solo visitors:
* Book a tour that suits your schedule: Many tours run throughout the day.
* Be open to conversation: You might meet like-minded individuals on the tour.
* Take your time: Absorb the atmosphere and details of each house.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Time: The Houses
Each house is furnished with authentic artifacts and recreated to reflect the specific time period. Guides, often dressed in period costume, bring these spaces to life with vivid stories about the families who lived and worked there. You'll learn about the challenges of industrialisation, the impact of world wars, and the evolving nature of home life in Birmingham. The immersive nature of the tours makes history feel tangible and relatable.
+1Beyond the individual homes, the central courtyard serves as a focal point, illustrating the communal aspect of back-to-back living. This space highlights how neighbours shared resources and socialised, offering a broader understanding of working-class communities in Birmingham's industrial past.
The National Trust has meticulously preserved these buildings, making the Back to Backs a vital piece of social history. The Immersive Tour Experience
Be prepared for a physically engaging tour. The historic houses feature narrow, steep, and sometimes spiral staircases. While there are handrails and assistance available, visitors should wear appropriate footwear and be aware of these conditions. The guides are adept at managing the group flow and ensuring everyone can participate safely.
The tours are designed to be interactive and thought-provoking. Guides often pose questions to the group, encouraging reflection on how life has changed and what challenges people faced in different eras. This participatory approach makes the history feel more personal and impactful.
Social History and Community
The site highlights the evolution of community life, from the shared courtyards of the Victorian era, where neighbours relied on each other, to the more private living spaces of later decades. The tours delve into the social fabric of these communities, exploring themes of family, work, migration, and resilience.
Recent exhibitions and events have also shed light on specific aspects of social history, such as Black History Month, celebrating individuals who overcame adversity and contributed to the city's development.
The National Trust's commitment to preserving and interpreting this social history ensures that these stories are not forgotten. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit