'Birmingham: Its People, Its History', tells the story of Birmingham from its beginnings as a small medieval settlement to becoming a globally significant, modern city.

The galleries bring Birmingham’s history to life, telling the story of the city through unique objects and fascinating people. 

Explore the history of the city by travelling back in time to Birmingham’s medieval beginnings. Visit the chaotic and exciting world of the 18th century town, and immerse yourself in the grandeur and squalor of Victorian Birmingham. Then follow the city’s suburban expansion and the roles played by Birmingham people in the two world wars.

There's something for the whole family, from the displays of our fantastic collections, through to the personal recollections of local people, plus a variety of films and hands-on interactives.

Free entry. Located on level 3.

The Birmingham history galleries were originally developed thanks to generous funding from National Lottery players through The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Birmingham Ballards

These songs were recorded for an interactive in the A Stranger's Guide (1700-1830) section of the 'Birmingham, its people, its history' galleries. They convey the type of songs that would have been heard in Freeth's Coffee House in the late 18th century. These songs, known as ballads, would have often been based on current events.