As the only surviving example of the once prevalent Back to Backs of Birmingham, these historic buildings are a rare treasure. During the 19th Century, a number of buildings were built back to back around a common courtyard to meet the demands of the rapidly growing population of the city as a result of industrialization. These houses were inhabited by the working class who managed to survive in these cramped quarters. Each of the four Back to Backs around the courtyard has been restored and refurnished as a representation of four different time periods, giving visitors an extremely rare opportunity to take a peek into the lives of the ordinary working men and women of the 1840s, 1870s, 1930s and 1970s. Only a few slots are available each day and prior reservations are a must if you wish to visit these homes.
Blakesley Hall is a timber framed Elizabethan yeoman's farmhouse, built in 1590 in Old Yardley for Richard Smallbroke (a Birmingham businessman and farmer). The Hall is furnished and staffed in 17th-century fashion and is a fascinating place to visit. It is open to schools as well as the public.
National Motorcycle Museum houses a collection of over 700 veteran and unusual motorcycles and memorabilia from the 19th and 20th Centuries. Unsurprisingly, this is a fascinating place for both children and adults to learn about the history of an industry which once dominated the world. Conference facilities and seminar rooms are also available and various exhibitions (other than of motorcycles) are held here too, like November's Doll & Teddy Fair. The venue is located opposite the NEC and offers easy access to the M42.