Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Discover Saddleworth's Heritage & Culture
Established in 1962, Saddleworth Museum is a fully accredited cultural institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich heritage of Saddleworth, a historic Yorkshire community. Our mission is to educate, inspire, and engage visitors through extensive collections, interactive exhibits, and community-driven programs. Housed in a meticulously restored 1862 Victorian Mill, we combine historical preservation with modern accessibility, offering wheelchair-friendly facilities and immersive experiences for all ages. Our team of dedicated volunteers and professionals work tirelessly to maintain over 50 years of continuous operation, supported by visitor admissions, fundraising events, and charitable donations.We pride ourselves on being a self-sustaining resource that bridges the past and present through archaeological displays, art exhibitions, and educational workshops. Our accreditation (no. 191) and registered charity status (no. 528225) reflect our commitment to transparency, excellence, and community service. From our historic Dobcross Loom exhibit to rotating art galleries, we provide unique insights into local industry, culture, and creativity. As a hub for learning and tourism, we maintain a visitor information centre and digital platforms to enhance accessibility. Your support ensures we continue preserving Saddleworth's legacy for future generations.
Services
Museum Galleries
Art Exhibitions
Shop Sales
Room Hire
Visitor Information
Educational Workshops
Online Collections
Community Events
Historical Research
Volunteer Programs
Details
- Year established: 1962
Highlights and features
- We are a fully accredited museum (no. 191) with 60+ years of heritage expertise
- Our interactive exhibits engage visitors of all ages and abilities
- We maintain the largest Saddleworth-focused historical collection in existence
- Our community gallery hosts rotating art exhibitions year-round
- We offer accessible facilities including wheelchair lifts and sensory interactives
Associations and certifications
- Arts Council England
What people say
Interactive exhibits
Wheelchair accessible
Family-friendly
Knowledgeable staff
Regular exhibitions
Services
Museum Galleries
Our four galleries showcase 2000 years of Saddleworth's history through archaeological finds, industrial artifacts, and interactive displays. Visitors explore textile heritage with original machinery like the Dobcross Loom, Victorian domestic life reconstructions, and the iconic Rushcart festival replica. The museum's collections include over 10,000 objects telling stories of local people, industry, and landscape evolution. Special children's areas feature dressing-up stations and discovery drawers.
Art Exhibitions
The community art gallery hosts rotating exhibitions from local and regional artists. Current displays include Alan J Thompson's still life paintings and the Saddleworth Group of Artists' annual exhibitions. The space also features works from the Russel Howarth Trustees Collection, with proceeds supporting emerging artists. Free to view during museum hours, with special preview events available.
Educational Programs
We offer curriculum-linked workshops for schools and youth groups, focusing on local history and art. Programs include hands-on textile activities, historical research sessions, and gallery-based art projects. Our learning officer develops resources for KS1-3 students, with activity bags available for family visits. Virtual learning options are also available through our online collections.
Venue Hire
The community gallery provides a unique setting for private events, art exhibitions, and cultural functions. The canal-side location accommodates up to 50 people with modern facilities and historical ambiance. Available for weddings, corporate events, and community meetings, with technical support for presentations and audio-visual requirements.
Online Collections
Our expanding digital platform provides access to over 5,000 catalogued items from the museum's collections. High-resolution images and detailed descriptions allow virtual exploration of artifacts ranging from Victorian domestic tools to 20th-century industrial equipment. The online shop offers curated merchandise featuring collection highlights, with delivery and pickup options available.
People
Roger Tanner
Founder
MBE DL recipient who established the museum in 1962 after purchasing the Victoria Mill site. A passionate local historian who dedicated his life to preserving Saddleworth's heritage until his passing in 2022.
Questions
What are Saddleworth Museum's admission prices?
Admission is £3 for adults, £2 for concessions, and £6 for families. Friends of the Museum receive free entry.
Is the museum accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, we have ramps, a dedicated wheelchair lift, and accessible facilities throughout our two-floor building.
What special events are planned for 2025?
Our 2025 program includes art exhibitions by Alan J Thompson, Springhead Group of Artists, and the annual Saddleworth Winter Exhibition.
Can I host events at the museum?
Our canal-side community gallery is available for hire for private functions, art exhibitions, and cultural events.
How can I support the museum?
You can join our Friends scheme, participate in our 200+ Club lottery, or donate directly to support our preservation work.
Are there educational resources for schools?
We offer curriculum-linked workshops, activity bags, and online resources for school groups from Key Stage 1 to 3.
Videos
Reviews (4)
Caroline Barton
Nov 14, 2021
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Interesting local history, worth a visit. 3 to get in which supports the upkeep. Not big, but they pack a lot in.
Gillian Haywood
Oct 19, 2021
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Thankyou to all the staff and volunteers, for all the help I received, with setting up my new art group, it's been a very positive experience
Jerry Halliday
Oct 17, 2021
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Didn't go in it says on entrance donations then some one says that it will be so much for adults etc I just assumed that with us all being disabled . . .
Darron Ruff
Oct 10, 2021
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What a absolutely amazing brilliant experience, would definitely recommend a visit, and I will be going again
