A secure underground vault once safeguarding some of Birmingham’s most treasured possessions beneath Broad Street has now been opened for public exploration.
Located in the historic Birmingham Municipal Bank building-now known as The Exchange-these vaults sit just opposite the Library of Birmingham. The basement houses approximately 4,000 safe deposit boxes where locals traditionally stored gold, jewellery, and other valuables.
Established in 1919, this Grade II-listed building remained without a permanent tenant for nearly 20 years until the University of Birmingham acquired it in 2018. In 2021, The Exchange was reopened as the University’s civic city centre hub, offering visitors the chance to engage with academic research as well as enjoy its popular café and communal spaces.
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As part of Birmingham Heritage Week, the underground vaults have now been made accessible through the special exhibition “Unlocking The Vaults.” Supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, this free exhibition runs until 7 November 2026, with Birmingham Heritage Week taking place from 11 to 20 September.
Visitors can explore the extensive safe deposit facility and the thousands of boxes where Brummies historically kept their treasured belongings. The exhibition reveals untold stories and hidden histories, demonstrating the important legacy of the Birmingham Municipal Bank and its connection to the wider city.
Over two years of dedicated research have brought to light objects, photographs, and personal memories from former employees and customers. These include anecdotes such as the entire bank being cleared so actress Joan Collins could cash a cheque, and Resham Sahota’s memorable visit to collect jewellery in wedding attire for her sister’s big day.
Jane McArdle, who led the project, said: “Unlocking the Vaults has been a truly special journey working with community members to uncover and share the personal histories surrounding the Birmingham Municipal Bank. By unearthing the stories of this unique institution, we’ve been able to shine a brand-new light on Birmingham’s history, and we’re delighted to share this with our visitors to The Exchange.”
In addition to “Unlocking the Vaults,” Birmingham Heritage Week features a variety of events hosted by the University. These include a guided walk of the Metchley Roman Fort on campus, interactive family workshops at The Exchange organised by the Barber Institute of Fine Arts, and several walking tours of the University campus, its heritage buildings, and the city centre led by University of Birmingham experts.
The Exchange is open to the public Monday through Saturday, from 8 am until 5 pm, with the café closing at 4 pm. Visitors are encouraged to take advantage of this unique opportunity to delve into Birmingham’s rich heritage hidden beneath the city streets.