West Midlands Police Museum

Discover what it was really like to spend time on both sides of the bars in our one-of-a-kind police museum, located in the heart of Birmingham. Explore their Victorian lock-up that was built in 1891 and remained a working police cell block until 2016.

Transport yourself back in time as you learn about two centuries of policing history.

Find out about our policing pioneers, those who worked in the Lock-up and the people who paved the way for equality and inclusivity. The police officers who made the ultimate sacrifice, who fought in the world wars and those who died carrying out their duty.

Discover what life was life for those who stepped through our doors. Find out about some of Birmingham’s most notorious criminals who were held at the lock-up, including the real Peaky Blinders.

Investigate and solve crimes in our forensics lab and follow our Lock-up mouse trail that’s been designed for our younger detectives. Get hands on and join in the fun by taking part in our interactive displays, dress up in our police uniforms or take your very own mugshot.

There’s so much for you to discover at the museum, including a real police box, police motorcycles, a life size police horse, pictures and memorabilia.

It’s a great day out for all, so round up your family and friends and be part of policing history at our very own Victorian lock-up.