Behind the Scenes at Thinktank

Go beyond public galleries into Thinktank's conservation labs and storage areas normally closed to visitors. This exclusive tour reveals how museum experts preserve scientific instruments and prepare exhibitions. Watch conservators at work, handle genuine artifacts, and conduct hands-on experiments in the education lab. See the extensive reserve collection including Victorian scientific instruments and space exploration artifacts not on regular display. Best for science enthusiasts and curious minds. This is a easy activity lasting 1.5 hours. Group size: max 12. You meet at Thinktank reception. Key highlights: Exclusive access to conservation workshops, Handle genuine scientific artifacts with supervision, See reserve collection items not publicly displayed.

Price: £22

Duration: 1.5 hours

Difficulty: easy

Group size: max 12

Minimum age: 12+

Best for: science enthusiasts and curious minds

Best time: Weekday tours have more conservation staff present for interaction

Meeting point: Thinktank reception

Languages: English

Here is how the experience unfolds:

First 15 min Conservation lab visit - Watch specialists cleaning and repairing historical scientific instruments.

Next 25 min Storage area tour - See artifacts not on display including Victorian engines and space program items.

Next 30 min Hands-on experiments - Conduct simple physics experiments using museum teaching equipment.

Next 15 min Collection highlights - Handle selected artifacts with gloves under expert supervision.

Final 15 min Q&A with curator - Discussion about museum operations and scientific conservation techniques.

The whole experience takes 1.5 hours. Difficulty: easy. You meet at Thinktank reception.

• Exclusive access to conservation workshops
• Handle genuine scientific artifacts with supervision
• See reserve collection items not publicly displayed
• Watch professional conservators at work
• Conduct experiments in education laboratory
• Accessibility: Limited wheelchair access to some storage areas, discuss requirements when booking

What is included: Expert guide, Museum admission, Handling gloves, Lab equipment use.

Not included: Personal photography in labs, Food and drink, Transport to venue. You will need to arrange these yourself.

What to bring: Closed-toe shoes required, Small bag only, Avoid loose jewellery. Having these with you makes the experience smoother.

Best time to go: Weekday tours have more conservation staff present for interaction.

Tip: Monthly tours, advance booking essential

Tip: Includes museum admission

Accessibility: Limited wheelchair access to some storage areas, discuss requirements when booking.

Operator: Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum | Book directly (opens in new tab) | Phone: +44 121 348 8000

After this activity, these are within easy reach:

• Library of Birmingham (8 min walk)
• Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery (10 min walk)
• Jewellery Quarter (18 min walk)

This activity is run by Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum.

Book directly at their website (opens in new tab).

Cancellation policy: Full refund if cancelled 48 hours before tour date.

Accessibility: Limited wheelchair access to some storage areas, discuss requirements when booking.

Best time to go: Weekday tours have more conservation staff present for interaction.

What happens on Thinktank behind the scenes tour?

Visit conservation labs, storage areas, and education facilities normally closed to public. Watch specialists at work, handle artifacts with supervision, and conduct experiments. Includes museum admission and runs monthly with maximum 12 participants per tour.

How often does the Thinktank backstage tour run?

Tours run once monthly, typically on Saturday mornings. Booking essential through Thinktank website as places fill quickly. Price includes full museum admission valid for the entire day after your tour finishes.

What age restrictions apply to Thinktank behind scenes tour?

Minimum age 12 years due to laboratory safety requirements and delicate artifact handling. Under 16s must be accompanied by adult. Tours involve standing and walking through working areas not designed for general public access.