Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum is a dynamic, family-friendly science and technology museum located in the heart of Birmingham. With over 200 interactive exhibits spread across four floors, it offers an unparalleled journey through science, innovation, engineering, and the natural world. From fascinating steam engines and historic vehicles to cutting-edge robotics and a state-of-the-art planetarium, Thinktank invites visitors of all ages to explore, learn, and be inspired. Perfect for families, school groups, and curious travelers, Thinktank blends education with fun in a uniquely immersive setting.
History of Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum
Thinktank opened in 2001, established with the mission to showcase Birmingham’s rich industrial past alongside the exciting future of science and technology. Situated in the Millennium Point building in Eastside Birmingham, it symbolizes the city’s transformation from a powerhouse of the Industrial Revolution to a center of contemporary innovation and learning. Over time, Thinktank has expanded its offerings with new galleries, a planetarium (opened in 2005), and engaging exhibitions that connect heritage with modern scientific discovery.
Attractions at Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum
The Past (Ground Floor): Home to Move It and Power Up galleries, showcasing Birmingham’s industrial history through vehicles including trams, cars, planes, and locomotives. Highlights include the famous Smethwick Engine, the oldest working steam engine in the world, and historic cars like the Austin Seven and a Mercedes-Benz. The Power Up exhibit explores various steam engines used for power and transport.
The Balcony (First Floor): The “We Made It” gallery covers Birmingham’s manufacturing prowess with thousands of artifacts showcasing metalwork, jewelry, and goods made from iron, steel, aluminum, and precious metals. This floor displays the city’s nickname as “the workshop of the world.”
The Present (Second Floor): Includes galleries like Things About Me, designed to engage children aged 5+ in learning about the human body, and Wild Life, a fantastic exhibit featuring insects, mammals, birds, and fossils, including a polar bear, great auk, and a triceratops skull. Medicine Matters explores modern medical technologies, genetics, and health issues.
The Future (Third Floor): The Futures gallery takes visitors on a journey into tomorrow’s technologies and scientific projections. Interactive exhibits allow guests to explore robotics (including the programmable ‘RoboThespian’), space exploration, and the possibility of life on other planets through activities like “Create an Alien.”
Planetarium: Birmingham’s first purpose-built digital planetarium, with a 10-meter dome and 70 seats, uses multiple projectors to create immersive cosmic journeys. Shows cover the night sky, solar system, astronomy, and immersive light and music experiences.
Science Garden: The outdoor Science Garden offers over 30 interactive exhibits relating to natural phenomena, ideal for family exploration, and includes an outdoor classroom for workshops.
Gamesworld: A dedicated gaming zone with over 80 consoles featuring games from the 1980s to today, offering retro gaming fun for all ages.
Things to Do at Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum
Explore Hands-On Exhibits: From historic steam engines to futuristic space displays, visitors engage directly with science and technology.
Attend Live Demonstrations and Talks: Regular events include rocket building, space-themed talks, and science workshops appealing especially to families and school groups.
Enjoy Planetarium Shows: Book sessions that inspire wonder with stunning projections of stars, planets, and cosmic phenomena.
Adventure Through Gamesworld: A fun and nostalgic gaming experience perfect for children and adults alike.
Visit the Science Garden: A green, interactive outdoor space with exhibits that blend nature, science, and play.
Photography: Capture the striking contrast of the museum’s futuristic architecture and detailed exhibits (personal use only).
Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum – Entry Eligibility and Open Timings
Generally open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with some closures on major holidays—always check the official website for updates.
How Long to Spend at Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum
Allocate around 3 to 4 hours to fully enjoy the exhibits, planetarium, science garden, live talks, and gaming zones. Families may spend longer participating in workshops and interactive sessions.
How to Get There
- By Train:
- The nearest railway station is Birmingham Moor Street, approximately a 10-minute walk.
- Birmingham New Street, the city’s main station, is around a 15-minute walk or a short bus/taxi ride.
- By Bus: Several bus routes stop near Curzon Street and Digbeth High Street with stops within 5 minutes’ walk, including First Bus 16, 50, 74, 87, 89. Services run frequently every 10-15 minutes from the city centre.
- By Taxi/Rideshare: Taxis and rideshare services such as Uber and Bolt are readily available in Birmingham city centre, with rides typically taking 5-10 minutes depending on traffic.
- By Car: Limited on-site parking at Millennium Point. Nearby public car parks include NCP Eastside and Bullring multi-storey parking. Public transport is recommended during busy times for convenience.
- By Bicycle: Secure bike racks available. Birmingham has extensive cycle lanes connecting the Eastside district with other parts of the city.
- By Foot: Easily reachable by foot from Birmingham city centre within 15-20 minutes.
- By Boat: No direct boat service; nearest canal network points are further away from the museum.
Eateries Nearby Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum
Millennium Point Café: Located inside Thinktank, offering light refreshments, snacks, and drinks.
The Plough at Harborne: Traditional British pub with hearty meals, located within a 10-minute taxi ride.
Digbeth Dining Club: A vibrant local street food hub running regular weekends, about 5 minutes walk away.
The Electric Cinema Café and Bar: A trendy spot serving food and drinks, located nearby on Station Street.
Bodega Cantina: Known for Mexican street food and cocktails, located in the city centre, reachable by a short bus ride.
Boston Tea Party: Popular café serving breakfast and brunch with a casual, family-friendly vibe.
Other Attractions Nearby Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum
| Attraction | Type | Distance / Walk Time |
|---|---|---|
| Birmingham Back to Backs | Historic houses museum | 10-minute walk |
| Jewellery Quarter | Shopping and heritage | 15-minute walk or bus |
| Curzon Street Station | Historic railway station | On site |
| Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery | Art and history | 15-20 minute walk |
| Digbeth Creative Quarter | Cultural and street art | 5-minute walk |
| Ikon Gallery | Contemporary art gallery | 20-minute walk or bus |
Thinktank, officially known as the Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum, is one of the UK’s most exciting destinations for curious minds of all ages. Located in the heart of Birmingham, this award-winning Birmingham Science Museum is packed with interactive exhibits, fascinating artefacts, and immersive experiences. From the awe-inspiring Spitfire Gallery to the state-of-the-art Planetarium, Thinktank Birmingham offers a journey through science, technology, and history like no other.
Often referred to as The Think Tank or the Birmingham Museum Think Tank, it attracts families, school groups, and science enthusiasts eager to explore themes from the industrial revolution to space exploration. Visitors can discover how the city’s innovations shaped the modern world while engaging with hands-on experiments and live demonstrations.
While a US thinktank focuses on research and policy, Birmingham’s Thinktank focuses on sparking imagination and learning through play. Whether you call it Think Tank Birmingham, Think Tank Bham, or Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum Birmingham, this landmark blends education with entertainment seamlessly. Some even liken it to a “think and tank” experience – a place where ideas flow as freely as fun.
If you’re planning a visit, be sure to set aside plenty of time; with four floors of exhibitions and family-friendly activities, Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum is a day out that’s as inspiring as it is unforgettable.