The Black Country Living Museum
The World’s First Industrial Landscape is preserved at the Black Country Living Museum. The Museum tells the story of the industrial revolution.
Built on former industrial land, The Black Country Museum is a great day out. It’s located in Dudley, West Midlands. Situated on the banks of the Birmingham Canal Navigations (BCN).
About the Museum
The Industrial Revolution and the Black Country
The early 19th century was a time of change in the Black Country region. Things that happened here impacted globally. It influenced the world’s economy, culture, and industry.
The people of the Black Country made the region a success. There were many professions found in this vibrant region. Metalworkers, miners, nurses, schoolteachers, and pub landlords were just some. The Museum aims to tell their story.
Peaky Blinders Black Country Museum
The series “Peaky Blinders” has become immensely popular recently. People warmed to its gripping storyline and brilliant performances. One of the most iconic aspects of the show is its setting – Birmingham.
The production team has extensively filmed at various locations. One of them is the Museum, used for its early 20th-century feel.
A Peaky Blinders Black Country Museum Collaboration
The Museum and “Peaky Blinders” have worked together and have both benefited. More people have visited the Museum because of the show. The show looks better because it was filmed in a realistic-looking place. But best of all, fans of the show are happy they can see where it was filmed.
The Black Country Living Museum Information
Discovery Wy, Dudley DY1 4AL, UK
Opening Times
Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
NOTE: Canalside venues often have seasonal opening hours. They can be subject to change. So, it's always advisable to check with the venue before visiting.
Phone
Website
Attractions and Activities
Historic Buildings
You can experience the Black Country of the early 1900s at the Museum. Historic buildings from across the region have been carefully moved to the site. They have been rebuilt brick by brick to create an authentic atmosphere.
Meet Historical Characters
You can meet historical characters at the Museum. These costumed actors make the region’s history come alive. They represent figures from the past. Offering an insight into the lives of the people who shaped the Black Country.
Underground Mine Experience
Guests can discover life for miners in the 1850s by exploring the mine. This is an underground and interactive exhibit. It allows visitors to see first-hand the extreme conditions the miners had to endure.
More On & About The Birmingham Canal Navigations
1912 School Lesson and Vintage Cinema
At the Museum, you can step back in time to the early 1900s. Join a 1912 school class or watch a classic movie in a 1920s theatre. These fun experiences provide insight into the era’s daily routines and leisure activities.
Tastes of the Past
Why not experience the tastes of the past by enjoying a traditional treat? The museum has an authentic fish and chip shop and a baker’s shop from the 1930s. These places recreate the culinary delights of the past.
Old-fashioned Street Games and Heritage Vehicles
You can also try traditional street games. Or why not hop on a meticulously restored heritage bus? It’s a great way to have some old-fashioned fun!
The Black Country Living Museum Directions
The Museum is in Dudley, ten miles northwest of Birmingham city centre. It is easily reached from the M5 or M6.
By canal, you leave the Old Main Line on the BCN at Tipton Junction.
Wheelchair access to the majority of buildings, staff on hand for assistance.
Live Industrial Demonstrations
See the impressive craftsmanship and expertise of the Black Country. They can watch as the chain maker work and listen to metal striking metal. There are live demonstrations of both chain and nail making. It was techniques such as these that made the region a manufacturing powerhouse. They highlight the skill and talent of the workers.
Many industrial workshops have now been rebuilt on the site.
Shops and Public Houses
Visitors can explore one of the many authentic shops rebuilt at the site. Childhood memories come flooding back with a visit to the sweet shop. Buy a bag of lemon sherbet or other traditional sweets. Or smell the scent of tobacco from the tobacconist. And, In the repair shop vintage radios play moving speeches from the time.
Explore the fascinating world of old fashion remedies by visiting the Museum’s chemist. There, you can discover the peculiar and engaging treatments of the past. Marvelling at the eye-catching pills that promise miracle cures!
Afterwards, refresh yourself with a drink at either the Bottle & Glass Inn or the Elephant & Castle Public House. Both of these provide a glimpse into the vibrant pub culture of the time.
Workers Institue
Cradley Heath Workers’ Institute is another building rebuilt on the site. Inside the building are historical offices, and an exhibition. What was once the auditorium is now a café. Occasionally the stage is utilised for special occasions.
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