Birmingham Back to Backs, Birmingham

Nestled in the heart of Birmingham, the Birmingham Back to Backs stand as a remarkable testament to the city's industrial past. This museum, a carefully preserved collection of 19th-century houses, offers visitors a unique glimpse into the lives of the working class during the Industrial Revolution.

The Birmingham Back to Backs are the last surviving court of back-to-back houses in the city. These houses were built literally back to back around a communal courtyard, a design that was once common in Birmingham and other industrial cities. They provided basic accommodation for the burgeoning population of workers flocking to the city's factories and workshops.

Today, the museum is managed by the National Trust and provides an immersive experience, taking guests on a journey through time. Each house is meticulously restored and furnished to reflect different periods from the 1840s through to the 1970s, telling the stories of the real families who once called these places home.

Visitors to the Back to Backs can partake in guided tours led by knowledgeable guides, who bring to life the personal histories and social context of the era. The tour includes a visit to the carefully recreated homes, a 1930s sweet shop, and an insight into the trades and industries that these families would have been involved in.

The Birmingham Back to Backs are not only a museum but also a valuable educational resource, offering a tangible connection to the city's cultural heritage. They provide a stark contrast to the modern cityscape of Birmingham, serving as a poignant reminder of the living conditions endured by many during a time of great change and progress.