Built around the preserved workshops and offices of Smith & Pepper, a Birmingham jewellery firm, the award-winning Museum of the Jewellery Quarter offers a fascinating insight into the city's historic jewellery trade. Visitors can enjoy a guided tour around the perfectly preserved 'time capsule' factory - little changed since the beginning of the century - and see a skilled jeweller at work.

In addition to the factory tour, the Museum's exhibition galleries tell the story of the Quarter and the jeweller's craft which has been practised in this distinctive part of Birmingham for over 200 years. The museum brings the story right up to date by showcasing jewellery made by some of the city's most exciting contemporary designers.

The Museum is divided into two parts - the new extension (No 79 Vyse St) containing exhibition galleries, reception area and shop, and the old Smith & Pepper factory (Nos 77-78). [A third building, Nos 75-79, contains the museum café, temporary exhibiton space, offices and a meeting/education room]