Blackburn Museum and Art Gallery
A treasure trove of history, art, and culture, from ancient Egypt to the textile revolution.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Room guides share insights
Blackburn Museum and Art Gallery
Best Time
Room guides share insights
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A treasure trove of history, art, and culture, from ancient Egypt to the textile revolution.
"An absolutely brilliant, spectacular, stunning, sensational and outstanding place to visit!"
🎯 Engage with Room Guides
Chat with friendly guides, especially on Wednesdays & Thursdays, for fascinating textile industry insights.
🎨 Kids' Craft Corner
Children can enjoy craft activities like making Egyptian bookmarks or coloring.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ancient Egyptian Treasures
Egyptology Gallery
Marvel at an ancient sarcophagus and artifacts, offering a glimpse into a fascinating civilization.
Textile Revolution Gallery
Manufacturing & Industry Gallery
Witness stunning weaving looms that shaped Blackburn into the weaving capital of the world.
History of Blackburn
History of Blackburn Gallery
Journey through Blackburn's past, from the 18th century to the present, focusing on its industries and people.
Fine Art Gallery
Fine Art Gallery
Admire fantastic paintings with incredible detail, showcasing some of the best art in the UK.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Discover Blackburn's Rich History
Family Fun & Engaging Exhibits
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
What's the ugliest / most depressing town or city you've been to in Britain?
🎯 Engage with Room Guides
Chat with friendly guides, especially on Wednesdays & Thursdays, for fascinating textile industry insights.
🎨 Kids' Craft Corner
Children can enjoy craft activities like making Egyptian bookmarks or coloring.
🖼️ Check Exhibition Schedule
Look out for temporary exhibitions like 'Come As You Really Are' for unique art experiences.
🚶♂️ Explore Local History
Learn about Blackburn's transformation through its industries and education reforms.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Engage with Room Guides
Chat with friendly guides, especially on Wednesdays & Thursdays, for fascinating textile industry insights.
🎨 Kids' Craft Corner
Children can enjoy craft activities like making Egyptian bookmarks or coloring.
🖼️ Check Exhibition Schedule
Look out for temporary exhibitions like 'Come As You Really Are' for unique art experiences.
🚶♂️ Explore Local History
Learn about Blackburn's transformation through its industries and education reforms.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Blackburn Museum and Art Gallery as a delightful surprise, highlighting its well-kept exhibits, engaging displays on local history and ancient Egypt, and the impressive textile machinery. The welcoming staff and family-friendly craft activities are also frequently mentioned positives, making it a highly recommended and enriching visit.
"I visited Blackburn Museum today, and it was such a delightful surprise! The museum is really well-kept, clean, and easy to walk around, which makes exploring the exhibits a pleasant experience. I was especially captivated by the Egyptian mummy—it was incredible to see such an ancient artifact up close, and it gave me a real sense of history. The ancient scriptures on display were amazing too, particularly the Qur’an, which was beautifully preserved and presented. There were so many other fascinating artifacts I didn’t even recognize, but each one felt thoughtfully displayed, making it exciting to wander and discover something new at every turn. I loved the calm and welcoming atmosphere—it felt like a place where you could spend hours learning quietly without feeling rushed. The museum does a great job of connecting visitors with history, art, and culture, all in a way that’s approachable and engaging. Whether you’re interested in ancient civilizations, religious texts, or just looking for a peaceful and interesting outing, Blackburn Museum is definitely worth a visit. I left feeling inspired, curious, and eager to return to see more hidden gems I might have missed the first time."
Abdul Shafi
"It was my first time at this museum and I loved the Gothic exhibition. I enjoyed all the beautiful pieces of artwork. It was interesting to learn about the history of Blackburn."
maria prince
"We visit Blackburn museum often and we always thoroughly enjoy our time there. There are the permanent exhibitions with local history, the textile revolution, the gallery and the Egyptian room. However there are a multitude of exhibitions and events throughout the year, currently 'come as you really are' is open till Saturday and I feel it's been the best exhibition so far!
There are always crafts available for children and this visit we made Egyptian bookmarks with gold leaf and took part in some colouring.
The staff are always very welcoming and recognise people who visit often."
Helen Giles
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Blackburn Museum and Art Gallery is centrally located in Blackburn town center. It's easily accessible by public transport, with bus and train stations nearby. Parking is available in local car parks.
Yes, there are several public car parks within walking distance of the museum. Check local signage for availability and charges.
Blackburn train station is a short walk from the museum, making it a convenient option for visitors traveling by rail.
The museum is generally accessible, with efforts made to accommodate visitors with mobility needs. It's advisable to contact them directly for specific accessibility information.
Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Blackburn Museum and Art Gallery website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Blackburn Museum and Art Gallery typically offers free admission, allowing everyone to enjoy its collections and exhibitions.
As admission is usually free, advance booking is generally not required. However, for special events or workshops, it's wise to check if pre-booking is recommended.
Given the free admission, discounts are not typically applicable. However, special events might have separate charges.
For events that require tickets, purchase them directly from the museum's official website or at the venue on the day if available.
Refund policies usually depend on the specific event. It's best to review the terms and conditions at the time of booking for any ticketed events.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the Ancient Egyptian gallery with its sarcophagus, the impressive weaving looms in the Textile Revolution section, and the detailed History of Blackburn displays.
Yes, the museum often provides crafts and coloring activities for children, especially during school holidays.
Photography policies can vary. It's generally permitted for personal use, but flash photography and tripods may be restricted. Check for signage or ask staff.
A typical visit can last from 1 to 3 hours, depending on your interest in the exhibits and if you participate in any workshops or events.
There is no cafe on-site, but there is a gift shop. You'll find various dining options in the surrounding town center.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally allowed, but it's always best to check for specific restrictions on flash or tripods.
The intricate details of the weaving looms, the ancient Egyptian artifacts, and the artwork in the Fine Art Gallery offer great photographic opportunities.
Yes, phone cameras are typically permitted for personal photography.
Commercial photography usually requires prior permission. Contact the museum directly for any professional or commercial photo shoots.
Natural light from windows often illuminates exhibits well. The Fine Art Gallery, in particular, has excellent lighting for viewing and photographing artwork.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📚 History Buffs
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Textile Legacy of Blackburn
Visitors can admire the build quality and understand the lasting impact of these looms. The museum often features room guides, particularly on Wednesdays and Thursdays, who offer brilliant, fascinating insights into the textile industry. One visitor shared a first-hand account of starting as an apprentice in the Northrop factory in the 1950s, providing an amazing glimpse into the past. The gallery also details the Northrop Business and its impressive factory design, capable of housing approximately 10,000 machines on a single floor.
This deep dive into the textile industry offers a profound understanding of Blackburn's heritage and its contribution to global manufacturing. It’s a chance to connect with the stories of the people who built and sustained this vital industry, making the visit both educational and inspiring.
A Journey Through Ancient Egypt
This exhibit is particularly engaging for families, with past activities including making Egyptian bookmarks with gold leaf and coloring. It’s a fantastic way to introduce younger visitors to history in a fun and interactive manner. The museum ensures that the displays are thoughtfully presented, making the exploration of these ancient wonders approachable and exciting for all ages.
Art and Culture Beyond Textiles
Beyond fine art, the museum also features a Nature of Gothic gallery, which includes a range of wonderful books and items from diverse cultures, offering a unique perspective on historical aesthetics. Additionally, there's a Natural History Section with interesting model animals, and a great tribute to South Asia and its culture with a good display. This variety ensures there's something to pique the interest of every visitor, making the museum a comprehensive cultural hub.
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