We want to make your visit as easy as possible so here is some useful information to help plan your day with us.
Getting Here
Disabled Parking
Details regarding disabled parking can be found on the Birmingham City Council website. Please refer to their website for specific information on designated parking spaces for disabled visitors.
Additionally, please note that there is limited street parking available outside of the museum. We recommend considering alternative transportation options or planning ahead to ensure a smooth visit.
Accessing displays and collection
Please be aware that some of our displays may not be suitable for all visitors, particularly those located in our old Lock-up cells with narrow door frames. The average cell doorway measures 660mm in width.
However, we have made efforts to ensure accessibility for everyone. We have an accessible display area at the far end of the first floor, with a central doorway width of 900mm. Additionally, the forensics area in the old basement kitchen is also accessible, featuring doorways of 1020mm.
To further enhance your experience, each floor is equipped with QR codes that you can scan to access a digital tour of the museum and display areas. In case you don’t have a smartphone, we offer tablets available for hire to access this content. Simply speak to a member of our staff for assistance.
Throughout your visit, our staff will be present on each floor to answer any questions you may have about the displays. We are here to ensure your visit is both informative and enjoyable. If you need any further assistance or have specific requirements, please don’t hesitate to ask our team members.
Assistance animals
We gladly welcome assistance animals to the museum. If you are visiting with an assistance animal, please rest assured that we can provide water and bowls to ensure their comfort during your visit. Your furry companion is more than welcome to explore our museum with you, and we look forward to making your experience an enjoyable one.
Access tours
Explore the museum with our specialized tours, including audio descriptive and British Sign Language (BSL) tours. If you’re interested in learning more about these tour options, please don’t hesitate to contact us for further information.
Rest assured, our staff is always ready to assist you during your visit. Whether you need advice, support, or have any questions, feel free to approach our team members. We are here to ensure your experience at the museum is enjoyable and accessible for everyone.
SEND Backpacks
Cookie the Cat’s SEND backpacks are designed to make your visit more enjoyable and help you feel calm whilst you explore. These are available for individual, family, and school visitors to use.
Cookie the Cat’s SEND backpacks are free to borrow by signing them in / out at reception and completing a short contact form.
Alternatively, reserve your SEND backpack in advance here.
The Building
Entrance
The museum’s main entrance features three steps. However, we have an alternative level access entrance located on the side of the building in Coleridge Passage. If you require the level access entrance, kindly follow the signage leading to Coleridge Passage. Upon arrival, please use the intercom at the entrance to notify a staff member, who will gladly assist you with entry.
For visitors with hearing impairments, our reception area near the main entrance is equipped with an induction hearing loop to enhance communication accessibility. We also offer maps, or self-guide tour notes at reception.
We strive to ensure a welcoming and inclusive experience for all our guests.
Flooring & Stairwells
Due to the unique design of our historic cell-block, you will find open metal grilles across all the landings and stairwells on its three floors.
For your safety and comfort, we advise against wearing stiletto heels while exploring the museum. Instead, we recommend considering trousers or similar clothing that would be more suitable for your visit.
Please be aware that the cells within the museum are utilised for displays, and as such, their floors may not always be level with the landings. Additionally, in the basement area, the floor has a slight slope on either side, sloping towards the centre of the floor.
We want to ensure your visit is enjoyable, so we kindly ask you to take these factors into consideration while exploring our museum. If you have any questions or need assistance during your visit, our staff will be more than happy to help.
Lift access
You can access the lift from the stairwell located on the opposite side of the building from the Coleridge Passage entrance. This lift can carry a maximum weight of 400kg. It provides access to both the basement and the first floor of the museum. Feel free to use the lift to conveniently move between these levels during your visit.
Wheelchairs and pushchairs
There is step-free access to all floors of the museum via a lift – located by the gift shop.
The museum’s landings vary in width and can be quite narrow at certain points. The narrowest section measures 820mm, particularly where pipes run down the wall.
When visiting with a wheelchair or pushchair, please be aware of these limitations as there is limited access in some areas, particularly some cells with narrow doors. Unfortunately, mobility scooters cannot be accommodated inside the museum due to the restricted space. The average cell doorway measures 660mm in width.
We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding as we work to ensure the safety and comfort of all our visitors. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact our staff.
Accessible toilet
Our museum features an accessible toilet, thoughtfully designed to comply with Part M building regulations. You can find this facility conveniently situated on the ground floor, near the central stairs. Rest assured, we strive to ensure that all our visitors have a comfortable and inclusive experience during their visit.
Changing Places Toilets
The closest Changing Places Toilets to our location can be found at Birmingham Children’s Hospital using the Whittall Street entrance. Changing Places Toilets are also available at Birmingham New Street station or Bull Ring Grand Central.
Noise levels
On the ground floor of the museum, you’ll find an engaging interactive sound scape. Please note that the museum can become noisy at times. If you are sensitive to high noise levels, we recommend bringing ear defenders to ensure your comfort during your visit.
For those who may be affected by high noise levels, we are pleased to offer relaxed visits to provide a more calming and enjoyable experience. Feel free to reach out to us for further details and to access our photo walk-through, which will help you prepare for your visit.
We want all our visitors to have a pleasant time exploring the museum, and we are here to accommodate your specific needs. Please don’t hesitate to contact us for any further assistance.