Titanic exhibition to show off rare artefacts

An exhibition telling the story of the ill-fated Titanic is coming to Birmingham this weekend

The Titanic Exhibition Birmingham 2026 will open at the NEC on Sunday , bringing together authentic artefacts and immersive displays allowing visitors to follow a passenger's story and watch live performances from actors playing crew members.

The event, produced by White Star Heritage, tells the story of the RMS Titanic from its construction in Belfast to its maiden voyage and sinking, after striking an iceberg in April 1912.

Among the centrepieces is an original deckchair, described by organisers of the exhibition, which runs until 26 May, as one of only a small number known to survive.

It was recovered from the Atlantic in the days after the liner sank.

Also going on display is a fragment of the ship's wooden decking, which was retrieved from the wreck site more than two miles below the surface and has recently been conserved.

Visitors to the exhibition are given a boarding card bearing the name of an actual passenger, allowing them to follow an individual story throughout the experience, which features immersive soundscapes and the live performances by actors.

An "Expert Pass" is also being offered, which gives visitors access to talks from expert Dik Barton, who has taken part in dives to the Titanic wreck site.

Follow BBC Birmingham on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.