Business Details
Your Trusted Cultural Destination in Rossendale
Established as a cornerstone of cultural heritage in Rossendale, The Whitaker Museum & Art Gallery has dedicated itself to preserving history while fostering contemporary creativity. Our mission is to engage the community through free access to permanent collections, dynamic exhibitions, and educational programmes. With a focus on natural history, social heritage, and contemporary art, we provide spaces for learning, reflection, and celebration.Our venue hire services support events ranging from weddings to conferences, with all proceeds reinvested into maintaining our facilities and expanding our outreach. The Whitakers team of staff and volunteers ensures every visitor experiences the richness of our collections and the vibrancy of our programming.
Services
Museum Exhibitions
Art Gallery
Venue Hire
Educational Programmes
Community Events
Highlights and features
- We are a registered charity reinvesting all income into cultural preservation.
- Free admission to permanent collections and galleries.
- Host events in unique spaces supporting community programmes.
- Diverse exhibitions spanning natural history, textiles, and contemporary art.
- Award-winning engagement in Lancashire tourism.
What people say
Free entry
Engaging exhibitions
Unique event spaces
Friendly staff
Family-friendly
Services
Museum Exhibitions
Explore permanent collections of natural history, social heritage, and contemporary art. Our exhibitions include the British Textile Biennial and rotating contemporary displays. Free entry supports accessibility for all visitors.
Venue Hire
Host weddings, conferences, or private celebrations in our historic galleries and gardens. In-house catering and AV facilities available. Proceeds support museum operations and community programmes.
Educational Programmes
Access workshops, guided tours, and volunteer opportunities for schools and individuals. Programmes focus on art, history, and cultural heritage. Designed to inspire lifelong learning and community engagement.
Community Events
Attend exhibitions, talks, and seasonal festivals celebrating local and international artists. Events include artist residencies, family workshops, and partnerships with cultural organisations across Lancashire.
Bar & Kitchen
Enjoy meals and drinks in our on-site restaurant, The Manr. Open Wednesday to Sunday with extended hours on weekends. Menus feature locally sourced ingredients and creative dishes in a historic setting.
Questions
Is entry to The Whitaker free?
Yes, admission to the museum and permanent galleries is free. Special exhibitions and events may require tickets.
What are The Whitaker’s opening hours?
The museum is open Wednesday to Sunday, 10am–4pm, with late-night openings on Thursdays until 8pm.
Can I host an event at The Whitaker?
Yes, we offer venue hire for weddings, conferences, and private events in historic galleries and gardens.
Are there dining options available?
The Manr restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner Wednesday to Sunday with seasonal menus.
How can I support The Whitaker?
Support us through donations, volunteering, or attending events. All contributions help maintain our collections and programmes.
Is The Whitaker accessible for visitors with disabilities?
Yes, we have wheelchair access, lifts, and accessible facilities. Contact us for specific requirements.
Videos
Reviews (5)
Jennifer Bulvans
Dec 30, 2021
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A beautiful building, lots to see and information and artefacts from the local area which was interesting. Free to get in which was amazing, you can give a donation instead. A nice gift shop. Helpful staff and a really nice cafe.
Tracey Harris
Dec 23, 2021
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The Nutcracker film. Felt safe, and everything was well organised. Great sound and visuals. Mum and I had a really nice afternoon. Thank you.
Arthur Lee Raby
Dec 21, 2021
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We enjoyed the theatre show, it was very creative and imaginative and something different for our son to experience. Highly recommended thank you
Mhorag Saxon
Nov 20, 2021
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Museum is brilliant, especially the cabinet of curiosities. Ate in the restaurant, lovely staff, amazing food and great veggie choice.
Caroline Hardy
Oct 24, 2021
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Lovely day at The Whitaker .. the staff were so helpful and the building is beautiful. The restaurant was lovely too. There is so much to see we thoroughly enjoyed our visit x
