West Midlands Police Museum at The Lock-up, Birmingham
Step inside Birmingham’s historic Victorian lock-up to explore over two centuries of policing history through immersive exhibits and authentic cells.
Housed in the historic Victorian Steelhouse Lane Lock-up, the West Midlands Police Museum offers an immersive journey through over 200 years of policing history in Birmingham. Visitors explore original prison cells, authentic artifacts, and interactive exhibits that reveal the evolution of law enforcement, the stories of notorious criminals, and the pioneering role of women in the police force. This unique museum blends heritage with hands-on experiences, making it a compelling destination for history enthusiasts and families alike.
A brief summary to West Midlands Police Museum
- The Lock-up, 40 Steelhouse Ln, Birmingham, B4 6BJ, GB
- +441216091700
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 11 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekdays or outside peak hours for a quieter, more personal experience.
- Try on police uniforms and participate in interactive exhibits for a hands-on visit.
- Check the museum’s event calendar for special themed nights like murder mysteries or festive activities.
- Allow at least 2 hours to fully explore the museum’s three floors and extensive collections.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Take bus routes 8, 11, or 63 to Steelhouse Lane, with a journey time from Birmingham city centre of approximately 10-15 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day, and a single adult fare costs around £2.50.
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Train and Walk
From Birmingham New Street Station, it is a 15-minute walk to the museum. The route is mostly flat and accessible, passing through the city centre. This option is ideal for those combining train travel with a stroll through Birmingham’s urban landscape.
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Car
Driving to the museum is possible, but parking in central Birmingham can be limited and costly. Nearby public car parks offer hourly rates starting around £3.50. Allow extra time for parking, especially during weekends or events.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from Birmingham city centre to the museum typically takes 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic, costing approximately £6-£10. This is a convenient option for groups or visitors with mobility needs.
West Midlands Police Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about West Midlands Police Museum
A Storied Past in a Victorian Lock-up
The West Midlands Police Museum is uniquely situated in the original Steelhouse Lane Lock-up, a Grade II listed Victorian building that operated as a police holding facility from 1891 until 2016. This imposing red-brick structure once housed some of Birmingham's most infamous criminals, including members of the real Peaky Blinders gang. The museum preserves the authentic atmosphere with original cells, iron-barred windows, and the historic police lamp at the entrance, transporting visitors back to a bygone era of law enforcement.Chronicles of Policing Evolution
The museum's extensive collection traces the history of policing in Birmingham and the wider West Midlands from the early 1800s to the present day. Exhibits include custody photographs, medals, uniforms, personal records, and a variety of police equipment, illustrating how policing methods have transformed over two centuries. Informative boards and interactive displays guide visitors through the transition from handwritten records to modern crime-fighting technologies.Interactive Engagement and Community Connection
Visitors can engage deeply with the museum’s offerings by trying on police uniforms, sitting in a vintage police car, and participating in mock trials. These hands-on experiences bring the history of policing to life and highlight the police’s role within the community, including stories of bravery and service during events like the Birmingham Blitz in World War II. The museum also hosts educational programs and outreach events, fostering a strong connection with schools and local groups.Honoring Pioneers and Social Progress
The museum pays tribute to the pioneering women of the West Midlands Police, notably the first lock-up matrons recruited at Steelhouse Lane who later became the force’s first female officers in 1917. Walking the same landings as these inspirational figures offers a powerful sense of history and progress in policing diversity and inclusion.Preservation and Accessibility
After relocating from Sparkhill police station due to budget cuts, the museum found its permanent home following a successful lottery-funded refurbishment completed in 2022. Designed by Lathams Architects and enhanced by The Creative Core, the museum is accessible to a wide audience with large print guides, foreign language materials, and plans for British Sign Language tours. Regular ‘relaxed’ openings accommodate visitors affected by noise or sensory sensitivities.A Unique Cultural Landmark in Birmingham
Set in England’s vibrant second city, known for its industrial heritage and cultural diversity, the West Midlands Police Museum offers a distinctive glimpse into the region’s law enforcement legacy. Its connection to the famed Peaky Blinders and its comprehensive, immersive exhibits make it a compelling destination for those interested in history, crime, and social change.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Location Audience
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