Guide To The Black Country Living Museum

About the Museum

The Industrial Revolution and the Black Country

The early 19th century was a time of change in the Black Country region. Things that happened here impacted globally. It influenced the world’s economy, culture, and industry.

The people of the Black Country made the region a success. There were many professions found in this vibrant region. Metalworkers, miners, nurses, schoolteachers, and pub landlords were just some. The Museum aims to tell their story.

Peaky Blinders Black Country Museum

The series “Peaky Blinders” has become immensely popular recently. People warmed to its gripping storyline and brilliant performances. One of the most iconic aspects of the show is its setting – Birmingham.

The production team has extensively filmed at various locations. One of them is the Museum, used for its early 20th-century feel.

A Peaky Blinders Black Country Museum Collaboration

The Museum and “Peaky Blinders” have worked together and have both benefited. More people have visited the Museum because of the show. The show looks better because it was filmed in a realistic-looking place. But best of all, fans of the show are happy they can see where it was filmed.

Attractions and Activities

Historic Buildings

You can experience the Black Country of the early 1900s at the Museum. Historic buildings from across the region have been carefully moved to the site. They have been rebuilt brick by brick to create an authentic atmosphere.

Meet Historical Characters

You can meet historical characters at the Museum. These costumed actors make the region’s history come alive. They represent figures from the past. Offering an insight into the lives of the people who shaped the Black Country.

Underground Mine Experience

Guests can discover life for miners in the 1850s by exploring the mine. This is an underground and interactive exhibit. It allows visitors to see first-hand the extreme conditions the miners had to endure.

1912 School Lesson and Vintage Cinema

At the Museum, you can step back in time to the early 1900s. Join a 1912 school class or watch a classic movie in a 1920s theatre. These fun experiences provide insight into the era’s daily routines and leisure activities.

Tastes of the Past

Why not experience the tastes of the past by enjoying a traditional treat? The museum has an authentic fish and chip shop and a baker’s shop from the 1930s. These places recreate the culinary delights of the past.

Old-fashioned Street Games and Heritage Vehicles

You can also try traditional street games. Or why not hop on a meticulously restored heritage bus? It’s a great way to have some old-fashioned fun!

Live Industrial Demonstrations

See the impressive craftsmanship and expertise of the Black Country.  They can watch as the chain maker work and listen to metal striking metal. There are live demonstrations of both chain and nail making. It was techniques such as these that made the region a manufacturing powerhouse. They highlight the skill and talent of the workers.

Many industrial workshops have now been rebuilt on the site.

Shops and Public Houses

Visitors can explore one of the many authentic shops rebuilt at the site. Childhood memories come flooding back with a visit to the sweet shop. Buy a bag of lemon sherbet or other traditional sweets. Or smell the scent of tobacco from the tobacconist. And, In the repair shop vintage radios play moving speeches from the time.

Explore the fascinating world of old fashion remedies by visiting the Museum’s chemist. There, you can discover the peculiar and engaging treatments of the past. Marvelling at the eye-catching pills that promise miracle cures!

Afterwards, refresh yourself with a drink at either the Bottle & Glass Inn or the Elephant & Castle Public House. Both of these provide a glimpse into the vibrant pub culture of the time.

Workers Institue

Cradley Heath Workers’ Institute is another building rebuilt on the site. Inside the building are historical offices, and an exhibition. What was once the auditorium is now a café. Occasionally, the stage is utilised for special occasions.