The gallery tells the story of the Spitfire, from its innovative design and cutting-edge technology that played a key role in the Second World War, to its lasting legacy on the city of Birmingham.
Located on Level 1.
Award-winning science museum for fun-packed family days out.
New Gallery
MiniBrum is Thinktank’s very own mini city, where children are in charge!
This exciting child-sized world, aimed at under 8s, features several different play zones including a transport area, shops, park and construction site with slide. There are also specifically designed sensory areas for babies.
Located on Level 3.
Collections
Science & Industry
Our Science & Industry Collection is made up of over 40,000 items covering transport, engineering, machine tools and production machines, scientific and medical instruments, music boxes, player pianos and organs, horology, computing and mechanical devices spanning over 250 years of technological development.
Natural Sciences
Our Natural Science collection consists of about 250,000 specimens, covering zoology, botany, entomology, geology, mineralogy and palaeontology, the largest natural science collection in the West Midlands. It is an important regional resource.
Shows
The Planetarium now has a new 4K planetarium system - the only one of its kind in the West Midlands! You will experience a much brighter, sharper image and crystal clear surround-sound, plus amazing new shows. Tickets can be purchased at the ticket desk on arrival.
Located on Level 3.
Outdoor Fun for Kids
The Science Garden is an outdoor discovery space packed with surprises and fun activities for the whole family. It offers an adventurous and entertaining day out, bringing themes of engineering, mechanics and transportation to life through over 30 hands-on exhibits.
Located on Level 0.
Industrial Heritage
Unlock the fascinating industrial heritage of Birmingham. Power Up - experience the mighty steam machines that powered the Industrial revolution. Move It - see some of the remarkable vehicles that kept people moving in Birmingham and beyond.
Located on Level 0.
Fun for Kids
Uncover the science all around us: in our own bodies and even in the wild! In The Street we reveal the science behind everyday life and test out smart ways to recycle rubbish. Explore the diversity of life in the Wild Life gallery, and unearth some sensational creatures including a Giant Deer, a Jurassic Crocodile and Triceratops skull!
Located on Level 2.
Futuristic
Explore the outer reaches of space, get to grips with innovative inventions and marvel at how medical advancements are saving lives. Head to Talking Point to consider scientists’ predictions for the future – and have your say!
Located on Level 3.
Discover the Thinktank Ichthyosaur, a giant sea monster from the time of the dinosaurs that is being displayed in full for the first time. Explore the other animals from the past and present that have adapted to life in the sea, including walrus, penguins and prehistoric marine crocodiles.
Located on Level 2.
Also featuring
Triceratops Skull
Our real skull of a Triceratops was discovered in the USA in 1908. Triceratops was a plant eating dinosaur and its name means 'three-horned face'. The skull is a fossil, which means that the bones have now been replaced by rock - a process which takes millions of years.
Fossils and Skeletons
In the Wildlife gallery visitors can see a variety of fossils and other fantastic creatures including a Giant Deer skeleton (one of the largest deer ever to live on earth), as well as a Jurassic Crocodile!
Free Kids' Park
Kids’ Park is a vibrant and intriguing outdoor play area specifically designed to encourage children under 7 and their families to explore science whilst having fun playing outdoors. The play area features science interactive exhibits and is adjacent to the Science Garden directly outside Thinktank.
Interactive
Investigate the science behind manufacturing with the lively interactive exhibits in We Made it: nuts, bolts, gadgets and gizmos. Learn how and why Birmingham became the ‘Workshop of the World’.
Located on Level 1.
Industrial
The oldest working steam engine in the world, dating from 1779, it was the first engine to use both the force of steam and a vacuum at the same time - a design which was more powerful and required less coal to run. The engine was used to pump water to the top of a series of canal locks in Smethwick near Birmingham.
Located on Level 0.
What an absolutely delightful place! Fascinating for the kids as they play and interact while learning a bit of science too!
Reviewer, Trip Advisor