Accessibility at Birmingham Back to Backs
Whilst historic spaces present challenges to accessibility for all, we’re taking steps to make sure as many people as possible can access the houses and their stories. Here you’ll find information about how to make the most of your visit.
Parking
- The Back to Backs does not have a car park for visitors to use. Arcadian car park is the nearest car park to the property; taking around a 5-10 minutes walk.
- There is an accessible drop-off point available outside the property on Inge Street to the right of the Hippodrome, opposite our gated alleyway.
- There are Blue-Badge holder spaces available on Hurst Street, though they are limited.
Arrival
- Our visitor reception is located on the corner of Hurst and Inge Street.
- There's an induction loop at the till. Please ask a member of the team if you need any help.
- You can pick up sensory bags, written guides and a wheelchair from reception.
Moving around the buildings
- The Back to Backs has eight sets of steep, narrow stairs and the cobbled courtyard is uneven.
- Ground floor only tours are available; with a photo album of upstairs pictures to help guides share the story of each house.
- As you move through the houses there are changes in natural and artificial light.
- We try to make each house as immersive as possible. This includes the use of scent pods in most rooms. The smells include lavender, tallow candles, tobacco, Brut aftershave and Carbolic soap.
- Visitors may also find lit fires in some rooms.
- As well guided tours, the Back to Backs has an exhibition space and second-hand bookshop. Access to both is through the bookshop entrance, located on Hurst Street.
- There is street level access to the second-hand bookshop. There is a small step that leads to one room withn the bookshop.
- The exhibition space is only accessible via a set of steep narrow stairs – with a second floor above.
- Assistance dogs are welcome on site, but if you wish to take part in a tour that will take you upstairs – or if you're visiting our exhibition space – please bear in mind, there are steep stairs to navigate.
- Mobile phone reception is generally good at the Back to Backs, and there is no Wi-Fi onsite.
Facilities
- The Back to Backs has an accessible toilet located in the courtyard.
- Baby changing facilities can be found in the accessible toilet.
Useful resources
- There are chairs available for visitors to use in most rooms. Guides will let visitors know which chairs can be used.
- BSL tours can be arranged by contacting the property on 0121 622 2442. Please note, at least four weeks’ notice is needed to arrange a BSL tour.
- Sensory bags are available in reception. Items include children’s ear defenders (with adult ear defenders coming soon), poppets and fidget toys.
- Visitors can ask the welcome team to book a taxi on their behalf.
If you'd like to know more about accessibility at Birmingham Back to Backs, visit our AccessAble page. Here you'll find more detail, and pictures, to help you plan your visit.