The Coffin Works: Birmingham's Last Coffin Furniture Factory Museum
Step back in time at The Coffin Works, Birmingham’s preserved coffin furniture factory with royal connections and authentic industrial heritage.
The Coffin Works is a unique heritage museum located in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, housed in the original Grade II* listed Newman Brothers factory. It preserves the story of the city's last coffin furniture manufacturer, showcasing original machinery, stock, and tools left untouched since 1998. Visitors can explore guided or self-guided tours to experience the factory's history and craftsmanship, including fittings used for royal coffins such as those of Princess Diana and Winston Churchill.
A brief summary to The Coffin Works
- 13-15 Fleet St, Birmingham, B3 1JP, GB
- +441212334790
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-2:15 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-1:15 pm
- Thursday 11 am-2:15 pm
- Friday 11 am-3:15 pm
- Saturday 11 am-3:15 pm
- Sunday 11 am-3:15 pm
Local tips
- Book guided tours in advance to secure a spot, especially on weekends when availability is limited.
- Take the self-guided tour option for a flexible visit, supported by a mobile app and informative booklet.
- Visit on Wednesday for Community Day to enjoy free admission if you live in the Ladywood Ward with proof of residency.
- Check the museum’s event calendar for special activities like candlelit tours and seasonal festivities.
- Note that the lift is currently out of service, so plan accordingly if you have mobility needs.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
-
Train and Walking
From Birmingham New Street Station, take a 15-20 minute walk through the Jewellery Quarter to reach The Coffin Works. The walk is mostly flat and accessible, passing through historic streets. No cost involved.
-
Tram
Take the West Midlands Metro tram to Jewellery Quarter stop, which is about a 5-minute walk from The Coffin Works. Trams run frequently with tickets costing around £1.50-£3.00 depending on journey length.
-
Bus
Several bus routes serve the Jewellery Quarter area with stops within a 5-10 minute walk of The Coffin Works. Typical fares range from £2 to £4. Service frequency varies, so check local timetables.
-
Car
Driving to The Coffin Works is possible but parking in the Jewellery Quarter is limited and often paid. Nearby public car parks charge approximately £10-£15 for a half-day stay. The area is best accessed by public transport to avoid parking difficulties.
The Coffin Works location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Coffin Works
A Glimpse into Birmingham’s Industrial Past
The Coffin Works is situated in a Grade II* listed building on Fleet Street, Birmingham, which was home to Newman Brothers, the city's last coffin furniture manufactory. Established in 1882 by brothers Alfred and Edwin Newman, the company specialized in producing high-quality brass coffin fittings from 1894 until its closure in 1998. The factory building itself, designed in 1892 by Roger Harley, stands as a remarkable example of industrial heritage in the Jewellery Quarter.Preserved Time Capsule of Craftsmanship
When Newman Brothers closed, the factory was left almost exactly as it was, with shelves stocked full of original coffin furniture components such as handles, breastplates, screws, and ornamental fittings. This preservation offers visitors an authentic window into the manufacturing processes of the 20th century, complete with Victorian machinery that is occasionally demonstrated during tours. The factory’s untouched state provides a rare and immersive experience of a bygone industrial era.Royal Connections and Historic Significance
Newman Brothers’ coffin fittings have adorned the coffins of notable figures including King George V and VI, Queen Mary, Princess Diana, the Queen Mother, and Winston Churchill. This royal patronage underscores the company’s reputation for quality and craftsmanship. The museum highlights these connections, adding a layer of cultural and historical depth to the visitor experience.Visitor Experience and Tours
Visitors can choose between guided tours, lasting approximately 75 minutes with live demonstrations of machinery, or self-guided visits supported by a mobile tour and informative booklets. The museum is staffed by knowledgeable volunteers who provide insights into the factory’s operations and history. The atmosphere is enhanced by a 1960s-themed factory canteen and a charming courtyard, which hosts seasonal events and community activities.Restoration and Conservation Efforts
The transformation of the factory into a museum was spearheaded by Birmingham Conservation Trust after a fifteen-year campaign to save the building from redevelopment. Restoration work completed in 2014 cost £3.4 million and focused on retaining the factory’s original features and industrial character. The museum now serves as a testament to Birmingham’s industrial heritage and the importance of preserving historical workplaces.Community Engagement and Events
The Coffin Works hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including arts and crafts fairs, candlelit tours, and festive celebrations in its courtyard. It also offers an accessible environment with platform lifts and British Sign Language tours. The museum is a vibrant cultural hub in the Jewellery Quarter, combining history, community, and unique experiences in one location.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Best of Birmingham Trail
0.3 km
Explore Birmingham’s rich heritage through 20 iconic sites on this free, immersive city centre trail blending history, art, and urban renewal.
Chamberlain Memorial
0.3 km
A striking neo-Gothic monument in Birmingham’s Chamberlain Square honoring Joseph Chamberlain’s legacy of public service and city transformation.
The River
0.4 km
Iconic bronze fountain sculpture in Birmingham’s Victoria Square, blending art, poetry, and urban life since 1994.
Workers Memorial
0.7 km
A solemn landmark in Birmingham honoring workers lost to workplace tragedy and inspiring the fight for safer labor conditions.
Chamberlain Clock
0.7 km
An elegant Edwardian clock tower at the heart of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, built in 1903 as a memorial to Joseph Chamberlain and recently restored to its former glory.
The Jewellery Quarter Birmingham
0.7 km
Birmingham's glittering historic heart where Victorian workshops craft timeless jewels amid cobblestone charm and creative revival.
Historic England
0.8 km
Uncover Birmingham's rich history and heritage at Historic England, a cornerstone of cultural preservation and education in the heart of the city.
Museum of the Jewellery Quarter
1.0 km
Step into a perfectly preserved jewellery workshop and discover Birmingham’s sparkling heritage through immersive guided tours and rich craftsmanship history.
National Trust - Birmingham Back to Backs
1.1 km
Experience Birmingham's rich history at the iconic Back to Backs, a unique museum showcasing 19th-century urban life through preserved homes.
St. Martin's
1.1 km
Explore St. Martin's Church, a serene Anglican landmark in Birmingham, where architectural beauty and rich history await every visitor.
The Selfridges Building
1.1 km
A shimmering silver landmark in Birmingham’s Bullring, where shopping meets futuristic architecture and luxury retail in a sculptural masterpiece.
Gem Buildings
1.2 km
Historic Gem Buildings on Key Hill showcase Birmingham's rich jewelry industry heritage and early 20th-century industrial architecture.
Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum
1.4 km
Unleash your curiosity at Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum, where science comes to life through interactive exhibits and engaging experiences for all ages.
Millennium Point
1.4 km
Explore Millennium Point, Birmingham's architectural marvel and vibrant venue for conferences, exhibitions, and community events.
Kids' Park
1.4 km
Discover Kids' Park in Birmingham, where adventure meets learning in a family-friendly environment filled with fun activities and lush greenery.
Unmissable attractions to see
Lock 3, Farmers Bridge Locks
0.2 km
Discover the historic Lock 3 within Birmingham’s iconic Farmers Bridge Locks, a captivating canal engineering marvel in the city centre.
New hall Hill - Historical Signature!
0.2 km
Explore the historical charm of New Hall Hill in Birmingham, a captivating tourist attraction rich in heritage and local culture.
Birmingham & Midland Institute
0.3 km
Historic cultural landmark fostering education, arts, and science in Birmingham since 1854, with a renowned library and vibrant programs.
The Secret Garden
0.3 km
Discover a peaceful rooftop oasis with stunning city views atop Birmingham’s iconic Library of Birmingham.
Chamberlain Square
0.3 km
Birmingham’s iconic public square blending Victorian grandeur with modern vibrancy and cultural celebration.
Hall of Memory
0.3 km
Discover the Hall of Memory in Birmingham, a significant memorial dedicated to the bravery of those who served in the World Wars amidst serene gardens.
Library of Birmingham
0.3 km
Discover the Library of Birmingham: a modern architectural gem with vast collections, rooftop gardens, and vibrant cultural spaces in the city’s heart.
Newhall Hill
0.3 km
Discover Newhall Hill’s scenic views and historic charm in Birmingham’s vibrant Soho & Jewellery Quarter district.
Chamberlain Sq
0.3 km
Where Victorian grandeur meets modern Birmingham – a lively civic square with museums, markets, and great architecture.
Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery
0.3 km
Explore Birmingham’s rich heritage and world-class art in a stunning historic museum with free entry and family-friendly galleries.
Lock 1, Farmers Bridge Locks
0.3 km
Historic flight of 13 canal locks showcasing Birmingham’s industrial heritage and vibrant urban waterways.
Centenary Winter Carousels
0.4 km
Experience festive joy and colorful carousels in Birmingham’s vibrant Centenary Square during the magical winter season.
Birmingham Town Hall
0.4 km
Discover Birmingham Town Hall, a Roman Revival architectural gem and historic concert venue at the heart of Victoria Square.
St. Paul's Church
0.4 km
Explore St. Paul's Church, a Georgian architectural gem and historic spiritual heart of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter.
Boulton, Watt and Murdoch
0.4 km
Iconic gilded bronze statue celebrating Birmingham’s industrial pioneers Boulton, Watt, and Murdoch on Broad Street.
Essential places to dine
Opheem
0.0 km
Experience Michelin-starred Indian cuisine reimagined with British seasonal flair in Birmingham’s elegant Opheem.
Dishoom Birmingham
0.3 km
A vibrant 1960s Bombay café in central Birmingham, serving bold Indian street food and classics in a theatrical, nostalgic setting with a large outdoor terrace.
Pasta Di Piazza
0.3 km
Authentic Italian dining with generous portions and warm service in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter.
Locanta italian restaurant
0.3 km
Authentic Italian dining in a historic Victorian setting with fresh seafood, handmade pasta, fine wines, and live music in Birmingham’s city centre.
Lasan Indian Restaurant & Cocktail Bar
0.3 km
Experience Birmingham’s premier fine dining Indian restaurant blending authentic flavors with modern culinary artistry in the stylish Jewellery Quarter.
Cucina Rustica
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors crafted with passion in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter at Cucina Rustica.
Purnells
0.4 km
Experience Michelin-starred British innovation and exquisite flavors at Purnell's, Birmingham’s premier fine dining destination.
Orelle
0.4 km
Sophisticated French fine dining on the 24th floor with panoramic views across Birmingham’s skyline.
Aria Restaurant
0.4 km
Glass-roofed fine dining sanctuary serving seasonal British cuisine in Birmingham's city centre.
Restaurant Folium
0.4 km
Intimate modern British fine dining with seasonal tasting menus in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter.
Somewhere in Brum
0.4 km
A vibrant bar and brunch spot in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, blending diverse cuisine with a lively social atmosphere.
Adam's Restaurant
0.5 km
Michelin-starred modern British fine dining in Birmingham with creative cuisine, elegant Art Deco style, and impeccable service.
The Lost & Found Birmingham
0.5 km
Botanical Victorian hideaway blending quirky British classics, inventive cocktails, and immersive decor in Birmingham's beating heart.
Gaucho Birmingham
0.5 km
Experience authentic Argentinian steakhouse luxury with premium cuts and elegant ambiance in Birmingham’s vibrant city centre.
La Galleria
0.5 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Birmingham at La Galleria, where tradition meets generous portions and cozy charm.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Fine Jewellery Collections & Bespoke Design Service
0.4 km
Discover bespoke brilliance in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, where custom gems and fine collections craft heirlooms with personal stories etched in gold.
Buff Jewellery
0.6 km
Timeless minimalist jewellery handcrafted in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter—personalised birthstone designs blending sentiment, subtlety, and modern British elegance for everyday sparkle.
Ivy and Rose Gift Shop
0.6 km
Discover handmade UK treasures at Ivy and Rose, Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter boutique for unique jewelry, candles, and artisanal gifts from local makers. (162 characters)
Artfull Expression
0.6 km
Discover independent jewelry artistry in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter at Artfull Expression, where unique handcrafted designs blend historic craft with modern flair.
SACET
0.6 km
Ethical elegance awaits at SACET, Birmingham's sustainable jewellery gem in the heart of the Jewellery Quarter—where timeless craft meets modern conscience.
Quarter Jewellery
0.7 km
Independent jeweller on Warstone Lane offering commissions, valuations and attentive, workshop‑minded service in the heart of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter.
Top Jewellery UK
0.7 km
Discover bespoke brilliance in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter at Top Jewellery, where family expertise crafts diamonds, gold, and silver into timeless treasures.
Adamas Antique Jewellery
0.7 km
A boutique Jewellery Quarter shop offering curated antique and estate jewels with specialist appraisal and bespoke care.
Community Gift Shop
0.7 km
Discover unique products and support diverse entrepreneurs at Birmingham’s Black Pounds Project Community Gift Shop in the historic Great Western Arcade.
Designer Exchange
0.7 km
Discover authenticated preloved luxury fashion in Birmingham’s elegant Victorian Great Western Arcade.
Harvey Nichols
0.7 km
Discover luxury fashion, beauty, and gourmet delights at Harvey Nichols Birmingham, a premier designer department store in The Mailbox.
The Alice Boutique
0.7 km
Discover timeless vintage-inspired fashion in a charming boutique nestled within Birmingham’s historic Great Western Arcade.
Urban Outfitters
0.7 km
Discover stylish apparel, unique homewares, and a vibrant shopping vibe at Urban Outfitters Birmingham in the city centre.
Miniso
0.7 km
Bright, affordable design and collectable character goods — a family-friendly stop for pocket-money treats in Grand Central.
Arnett Creations - Unique Quality Jewellery
0.7 km
Discover bespoke Sterling Silver and hallmarked gold jewellery in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, where expert craftsmanship meets personalized service at Arnett Creations.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Queen's Arms birmingham
0.2 km
Traditional Jewellery Quarter pub pouring fine ales in a quirky, welcoming space with games, books, and hearty grub amid Birmingham's historic heart. (162 characters)
Actress & Bishop
0.3 km
Two floors, live music every night and a split personality — cosy downstairs, sweaty upstairs — in the Jewellery Quarter.
Theatrix Birmingham
0.4 km
Historic charm meets vibrant nightlife at Theatrix Birmingham, a stylish multi-floor bar and entertainment venue in the city centre.
Purecraft Bar & Kitchen
0.4 km
A vibrant gastropub in Birmingham blending craft beer culture with modern British cuisine in a spacious, welcoming setting.
1000 Trades
0.5 km
A vibrant neighbourhood bar celebrating Birmingham’s industrial heritage with craft beers, local food, and a quirky artistic vibe.
Lucky7
0.5 km
Precision mixology meets playful vibes in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter—a relaxed haven for cocktail lovers seeking crafted perfection.
40 St Paul's
0.5 km
Discover Birmingham's hidden gin speakeasy: 100+ global varieties, intimate vibes, and masterful cocktails in the heart of the Jewellery Quarter.
Dirty Martini - Birmingham
0.5 km
Trendy cocktail bar in Birmingham’s city center, known for stylish decor, expertly crafted drinks, and a lively party atmosphere.
Fox and Chance
0.5 km
An award-winning independent cocktail bar in Birmingham, blending creative drinks with a cozy, sophisticated atmosphere.
Malt House
0.5 km
A vibrant British pub in Birmingham city centre offering classic dishes, lively atmosphere, and a great spot for social gatherings near the arena.
All Bar One Brindleyplace
0.5 km
Stylish canal-side wine bar and cocktail lounge in Birmingham’s vibrant Westside, perfect for bottomless brunches and lively evenings.
Pitcher & Piano Birmingham
0.5 km
A stylish canal-side bar in Brindley Place, Birmingham, perfect for all-day dining, cocktails, and vibrant social experiences.
The Botanist Gas Street Basin
0.5 km
A lush botanical bar and restaurant with canal views, seasonal menus, and live music in Birmingham’s vibrant Gas Street Basin.
Madeleine
0.5 km
An elegant, salon‑style cocktail bar in The Grand Hotel — famed for refined afternoon tea and meticulous cocktails in a dramatic, over‑sized parlour.
Slug & Lettuce - Birmingham
0.5 km
Lively cocktail bar and restaurant at Brindley Place offering vibrant drinks, tasty bites, and late-night fun in Birmingham’s city centre.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Reflex - Birmingham
0.5 km
Spin into 80s-00s nostalgia at Reflex Birmingham: revolving dance floor, karaoke booths, neon vibes, and epic sing-alongs on Broad Street's party strip.
Tunnel Club Birmingham
0.5 km
Dive under Birmingham's arches into Tunnel Club's seven-room warehouse wonderland, where house, techno, and hip-hop fuel all-night dances amid pounding bass and vivid lights.
What do you mean
0.5 km
Dive into Birmingham’s vibrant nightlife at What Do You Mean, a premier nightclub known for electrifying music, creative cocktails, and an unforgettable party vibe.
Rosies - Birmingham
0.6 km
Birmingham's ultimate super club: five themed rooms, killer cocktails, and non-stop beats on Broad Street for epic nights out.
PAVO Birmingham
0.6 km
Vibrant African fusion lounge and nightclub in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, where bold flavors meet electrifying beats until 4am on weekends.
Popworld - Birmingham
0.6 km
Broad Street's ultimate pop party hub: 90s-00s hits, neon dance floors, cocktails, and celebration packages until 3am.
King of clubs
0.7 km
Compact late‑night Birmingham club for high‑energy R&B, hip‑hop and DJ nights, pulsing into the small hours with neon, bass and bar-driven parties.
Dreams Night club and Shisha
0.9 km
Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter gem fusing aromatic shisha clouds with thumping club beats until 5am—pure late-night energy on Barr Street.
Snobs
0.9 km
Birmingham's 40-year indie-retro nightclub legend: cheap drinks, themed dance floors, and non-stop beats on Broad Street.
Bambu Nightclub
1.0 km
Experience Birmingham’s chic nightlife hotspot with stylish vibes, eclectic music, and late-night dancing at Bambu Nightclub.
101 Night Club
1.1 km
Unleash your nightlife spirit at 101 Night Club, Birmingham's vibrant center for music, dancing, and unforgettable experiences.
Sobar
1.1 km
Dive into Birmingham's electric nightlife at Sobar, where R&B beats, masterful cocktails, and inclusive vibes fuel unforgettable weekend revelry in the heart of the Arcadian.
DIAMOND SPARKLEZ
1.1 km
Ignite your night in Birmingham's diamond district at this glittering nightclub, where top DJs, stunning lights, and electric crowds create pure nightlife magic.
Mango Night Club
1.2 km
A high‑energy Bristol Street nightclub serving Afrobeats, hip‑hop and R&B for late‑night dancers and party crowds in central Birmingham.
Nightingale Club
1.3 km
Birmingham's legendary LGBTQIA+ superclub: three floors of pulsating beats, go-go glamour, and five decades of unapologetic queer joy in the Gay Village.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Unique
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Quirky
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Industrial
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly