Birmingham Back to Backs: Living History in the Heart of the City
Step back in time at Birmingham's last surviving back-to-back houses and discover the vibrant stories of working-class life.
The Birmingham Back to Backs offer a unique glimpse into 19th- and 20th-century working-class life through guided tours of carefully restored terraced houses. Located on Inge Street and Hurst Street, this National Trust museum preserves the last surviving courtyard of back-to-back houses in Birmingham, immersing visitors in the sights, sounds, and stories of families who lived here until the 1960s. Tours reveal cramped living conditions, coal fires, and the community spirit that defined this historic neighborhood.
A brief summary to National Trust - Birmingham Back to Backs
- 50-54, 55-63 Inge St, Hurst St, Birmingham, B5 4TE, GB
- +441216222442
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Tuesday 1 pm-3 pm
- Wednesday 1 pm-3 pm
- Thursday 10 am-3 pm
- Friday 10 am-3 pm
- Saturday 10 am-3 pm
- Sunday 10 am-3 pm
Local tips
- Book your guided tour online well in advance to secure a spot, as tours are limited and popular.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for climbing steep, narrow stairs during the full tour.
- Consider the accessible ground-floor tour if you have mobility concerns; it offers a shorter but rich experience.
- Visit on weekday mornings to enjoy smaller groups and a more intimate tour experience.
- Explore nearby eateries and shops on Hurst Street to complement your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train
From Birmingham New Street Station, the Back to Backs are a 10-15 minute walk through the city centre. The station is well served by regional and national trains. No additional transport cost applies beyond your train ticket.
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Bus
Multiple bus routes stop near Hurst Street, including services from Birmingham Coach Station and surrounding suburbs. Journey times vary from 15 to 30 minutes depending on starting point. Single fares typically cost £2-£4.
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Car
There is no dedicated parking at the Back to Backs. Visitors can use nearby multi-storey car parks such as those on Pershore Street or Albert Street. Parking fees range from £5 to £15 depending on duration and time of day.
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Walking
If staying nearby, walking is an easy option. The surrounding area is pedestrian-friendly with flat terrain, and the walk from central Birmingham hotels typically takes 10-20 minutes.
National Trust - Birmingham Back to Backs location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about National Trust - Birmingham Back to Backs
A Rare Window into Birmingham's Urban Past
Nestled in the bustling city centre, the Birmingham Back to Backs represent the last cluster of their kind in the city. These tightly packed terraced houses, built from the early 1800s, were typical working-class homes designed to maximize limited urban space. Unlike many other courts demolished during 20th-century redevelopment, this courtyard has been preserved and restored to reflect life across different eras, from Victorian times through to the mid-20th century.Authentic Living Spaces and Community Stories
Visitors explore four restored houses, each meticulously furnished to represent a distinct period. The tour reveals the daily realities of families who lived here, often with multiple generations under one roof. You will experience the smells of coal fires, hear the voices of former residents through guided narration, and see the cramped, steep staircases and narrow rooms that shaped everyday life. The guides often share personal anecdotes, including stories from those who grew up in similar housing nearby.Architectural and Social Significance
The Back to Backs exemplify a now-vanished style of urban housing unique to Birmingham and a few other industrial cities. The buildings were constructed quickly and cheaply, lacking modern building regulations, which contributed to challenging living conditions. Despite this, the community spirit was strong, with neighbors sharing close bonds. The site offers insight into the social history of industrial Britain, highlighting issues of housing, health, and urban development.Visitor Experience and Accessibility
Visits are by guided tour only, lasting approximately 90 minutes. Due to the historic nature of the buildings, access involves climbing steep, narrow stairs with sharp bends, making full tours unsuitable for those with mobility issues. However, an accessible ground-floor tour is available, providing a shorter but still immersive experience. Booking in advance is essential as tours are limited to small groups and fill quickly.Location and Surroundings
Situated at 50-54, 55-63 Inge Street on Hurst Street, the Back to Backs are centrally located within Birmingham’s vibrant city centre. Nearby amenities include cafes, shops, and public transport links, with Birmingham New Street station a short walk away. While there is no dedicated parking, several multi-storey car parks are within walking distance.Preserving Heritage for Future Generations
Managed by the National Trust, the site is not only a museum but also a cultural heritage project dedicated to preserving working-class history. It hosts special events, talks, and workshops that connect visitors with the stories and legacy of Birmingham’s past residents. The Back to Backs stand as a testament to resilience and community in an evolving urban landscape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Quirky
- Unique
- Tranquil
- Scenic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
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- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
