Hat Works Museum
Explore centuries of hat-making history and marvel at over 1,300 hats in this unique Stockport museum.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Museum is open
Hat Works Museum
Best Time
Museum is open
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore centuries of hat-making history and marvel at over 1,300 hats in this unique Stockport museum.
"A great place to learn and play, with lots of hats to try on and amazing hats to see!"
🎯 Book Guided Tours
Highly recommended for in-depth knowledge from guides with industry ties!
🛍️ Gift Shop Bag Caution
Be mindful of the gift shop bags; they may not be waterproof and could run in the rain.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Gallery of Hats
Main exhibition hall
An explosion of fun and color with over 1,300 hats, showcasing individual personality and global styles.
The Factory Floor
Recreated Victorian factory
Step back in time to see the machinery and effort behind hat-making over the last 150 years.
Guided Tours
Throughout the museum
Gain deeper insights from knowledgeable guides with firsthand industry experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Visit in Advance
Embrace the Interactive Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Guided Tours
Highly recommended for in-depth knowledge from guides with industry ties!
🛍️ Gift Shop Bag Caution
Be mindful of the gift shop bags; they may not be waterproof and could run in the rain.
🧢 Try on Hats!
Have fun trying on a variety of hats in the gallery – it's a visitor favorite!
📍 Check Map Accuracy
Some visitors noted political inaccuracies on maps; be aware of this.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Guided Tours
Highly recommended for in-depth knowledge from guides with industry ties!
🛍️ Gift Shop Bag Caution
Be mindful of the gift shop bags; they may not be waterproof and could run in the rain.
🧢 Try on Hats!
Have fun trying on a variety of hats in the gallery – it's a visitor favorite!
📍 Check Map Accuracy
Some visitors noted political inaccuracies on maps; be aware of this.
📸 Capture the Colors
The Gallery of Hats is a vibrant and colorful space perfect for photos.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Hat Works Museum for its fascinating insights into hat-making history and its extensive, colorful hat gallery. The knowledgeable guides and the fun opportunity to try on hats are frequently highlighted as enjoyable aspects. While the free entry is a major plus, some minor issues like gift shop bag quality and map accuracy have been noted.
"Never been before. It is well worth a visit. We went for the guided tour with the very informative Liza Ward. Thank you Liza we really enjoyed our visit."
Alison Taylor
"I really like the hat exhibition in this museum. It shows me that hats can also be used to express individual personality. I also like the display boxes with various themes. However, I cannot accept the wrong map marking. In the map of picture1, Taiwan is marked separately instead of being part of China. This will send the wrong message and political stance to young people who come to visit. As a Chinese, I think this is really unacceptable."
Madao H
"Great experience at the museum, there are thousands of hats on display and we even got to try some on, which was really fun. The staff were also super friendly and welcoming. The only reason I gave 4 stars instead of 5 is because of the pink shopping bag from the gift shop. Unfortunately, it wasn’t waterproof, and when it rained the colour ran and ruined my friend’s clothes. I think it would be worth considering different bags, especially since it rains so often here. Thanks again for a lovely visit!"
Nicol Lange
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Hat Works Museum is located in Stockport, which is easily accessible from Manchester. Visitors can travel by train to Stockport station, which is a short walk from the museum. Driving is also an option, with local parking available. +1
Yes, there are several car parks in Stockport town centre, including those near the Merseyway Shopping Centre, which is a short walk from the museum.
Absolutely! Stockport is a vibrant town with plenty to see, including the Hat Works Museum, making it a perfect day trip from Manchester. +1
Many visitors enjoy exploring Stockport on foot, especially the town centre where the Hat Works Museum is located. Public transport options like buses and trains are also readily available.
Yes, the Hat Works Museum is located near the Arc Centre and other creative spaces in Stockport, offering a rich cultural experience. 
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, the Hat Works Museum offers free entry, though booking online in advance is recommended, especially for guided tours.
While entry is free, it's advisable to book your visit online in advance to secure your spot and to ensure availability for guided tours.
The museum is typically open Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. It's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date opening hours.
Entry is free, but booking ahead is recommended. It's best to check with the museum directly regarding on-the-day availability, especially for guided tours.
Yes, events like 'Handmade at Hat Works' featuring markets and live demos sometimes take place, offering a unique experience.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the Gallery of Hats with over 1,300 hats, and the Factory Floor, which recreates a Victorian hat factory and shows the hat-making process.
Yes, visitors can try on a variety of hats in the gallery, which is a popular and fun activity for many.
The museum offers interactive exhibits and the opportunity to try on hats, making it an engaging experience for families and children.
Guided tours are highly recommended, led by knowledgeable guides with firsthand experience in the hat industry, offering fascinating insights. +1
While specific accessibility details should be confirmed with the museum, the main exhibition areas are generally designed to be navigable.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe at the Hat Works Museum, and its opening hours often complement the museum's schedule.
The cafe offers refreshments and is a pleasant spot to relax after exploring the museum. Specific menu details can be found on their website.
Stockport town centre has various dining options, including cafes and restaurants, located a short walk from the museum.
Typically, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside museum galleries. It's best to enjoy your meal at the cafe or in designated areas.
Cafes within museums are generally welcoming to families. You can confirm specific facilities like high chairs by contacting the museum directly.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally allowed, but flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect the exhibits. Always check for signage.
The Gallery of Hats, with its vibrant displays and diverse headwear, offers fantastic photo opportunities. The recreated factory floor also provides unique shots.
While personal photography is usually fine, commercial photography or filming may require prior permission. It's best to inquire with the museum if you plan extensive social media coverage.
Expect colorful and diverse images of hats from different eras and styles, as well as atmospheric shots of the historic factory setting.
Yes, the factory floor offers a glimpse into the industrial past of hat-making, with machinery and tools that make for interesting and educational photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a guided tour if your children enjoy stories; the guides often make history come alive. The museum's cafe also provides a convenient place for a break. Remember to check for any specific family-friendly events or workshops that might be running during your visit.
🎨 Art & Design Enthusiasts
+1Combine your visit with exploring Stockport's other creative spaces, like the nearby Arc Centre. The 'Handmade at Hat Works' events are also excellent opportunities to see contemporary craft and design in action.
📚 History Buffs
+1Opt for a guided tour to gain deeper insights from guides who often have personal connections to the industry. The museum's collection also spans a wide historical range, offering context on social history and fashion through its extensive hat displays.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art and Craft of Hat Making
+2This immersive experience highlights the transition from artisanal craftsmanship to mechanized production. You'll learn about the different stages, from felting and shaping to trimming and finishing. The guided tours are particularly valuable here, as guides often have personal connections to the industry and can share anecdotal details that bring the history to life.
Beyond the mechanics, the museum also celebrates the artistry of hats. The Gallery of Hats is a visual feast, displaying over 1,300 hats from various eras and cultures. This collection demonstrates how hats have served not only as protection but also as powerful statements of fashion, status, and individual personality.
Exploring Stockport's Creative Hub
+1Events like 'Handmade at Hat Works' further integrate the museum into the local creative community, hosting markets and live demonstrations that showcase local talent. This collaborative spirit extends to nearby workshops and studios, encouraging visitors to explore the broader artistic landscape of Stockport.
Visitors often find that a trip to the Hat Works Museum can be combined with visits to other local attractions, creating a well-rounded cultural experience. The town's regeneration efforts have fostered a vibrant atmosphere, making Stockport an exciting place to discover for art enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
A Hat for Every Occasion
Visitors are often struck by the sheer variety and the stories behind each piece. You'll find hats that express individual personality, reflect social status, and even serve as whimsical or artistic creations. The chance to try on hats adds an interactive element, allowing visitors to connect with the fashion and culture of different eras.
From historical pieces to contemporary designs, the gallery offers a unique perspective on how headwear has evolved and its enduring significance in fashion and culture. It's a space that sparks imagination and encourages a deeper appreciation for the humble, yet impactful, hat.
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Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit