Woodhorn Museum Northumberland
A former 19th-century coal mine transformed into a heritage museum celebrating art, local history, and biodiversity.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Woodhorn Museum Northumberland
Best Time
More events and talks
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A former 19th-century coal mine transformed into a heritage museum celebrating art, local history, and biodiversity.
"Really interesting venue! Great place to have a wander and a coffee."
🎯 Kids Always Go Free!
Take advantage of free admission for children, making it an affordable family day out. Consider an annual pass!
🐶 Dog-Friendly Grounds
Your furry friends are welcome on the museum grounds, perfect for a walk before or after exploring the exhibits.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Pitmen Painters Exhibition
Discover the inspiring art created by local miners, showcasing their talent and the rich cultural heritage of the region.
+2Life-Size Miner Model
Colliery Shower Block
A striking, life-size model of a miner in the pit shower offers a powerful and unforgettable visual of the harsh realities of mining life.
Biodiversity Transformation
See how the former mining site is being transformed into a thriving haven of biodiversity, with new trees and a focus on nature.
Sensory Play Area
Outdoor Park
A fantastic sensory-focused park area with a challenging wooden climbing structure leading to an amazing slide, perfect for active kids.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit: Kids Go Free!
Immerse Yourself in Mining History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Kids Always Go Free!
Take advantage of free admission for children, making it an affordable family day out. Consider an annual pass!
🐶 Dog-Friendly Grounds
Your furry friends are welcome on the museum grounds, perfect for a walk before or after exploring the exhibits.
☕ On-Site Cafe & Shop
Enjoy a coffee and a bite to eat at the cafe, and browse the gift shop for souvenirs.
🚗 Free Parking Available
Convenient and free parking is available on-site, making your arrival hassle-free.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Kids Always Go Free!
Take advantage of free admission for children, making it an affordable family day out. Consider an annual pass!
🐶 Dog-Friendly Grounds
Your furry friends are welcome on the museum grounds, perfect for a walk before or after exploring the exhibits.
☕ On-Site Cafe & Shop
Enjoy a coffee and a bite to eat at the cafe, and browse the gift shop for souvenirs.
🚗 Free Parking Available
Convenient and free parking is available on-site, making your arrival hassle-free.
🗣️ Engaging Guided Talks
Don't miss the guided talks, especially those led by retired miners for an authentic insight into the past.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Woodhorn Museum for its fascinating insights into mining history and the inspiring Pitmen Painters' art. The free admission for children and dog-friendly grounds are significant draws for families. While some buildings may be under refurbishment, the engaging information boards, friendly staff, and on-site amenities like the cafe and free parking contribute to a highly recommended day out.
"This is a great day out. Plenty to see and learn. The kids enjoyed it too.
There were some buildings you could get in but others under refurbishment.
We arrived on the 1 Sunday a month that the sounds are not on until 12.
There are plenty of information boards and they are written well and quite funny.
The car park is free and at the site.
There are toilets in the car park and in the main building. There is also a cafe here woth a gift shop.
The staff were polite."
Adam Barnard
"Visiting woodhorn Museum and it was fantastic! 🏰👍 Loved exploring the museum's exhibits, learning about the history of Northumberland's coal mining industry. The pit tours were a real highlight, giving a glimpse into the lives of the miners. Friendly staff and great interactive displays. Highly recommend! 👍 #WoodhornMuseum #Northumberland""
Biki Ehi
"Really interesting venue! Great place to have a wander and a coffee. We also had a talk about the Pitmen Painters, an art club set up by minors which ran until the pit closures in the 1980’s."
Toby Vincent
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Woodhorn Museum is located in Ashington, Northumberland. It's easily accessible by car with free parking available on-site. Public transport options include local bus services to Ashington. Check local timetables for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, there is plenty of free parking available at the museum site, which is very convenient for visitors.
Ashington is served by local bus routes. You can reach the museum by taking a bus to Ashington and then a short walk or local taxi to the museum. It's advisable to check local bus schedules in advance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Kids always go free at Woodhorn Museum! Adult admission is reasonably priced, and an 'All Site Annual Pass' is available for £16, offering great value for repeat visits.
No, booking in advance is not required. You can purchase tickets on arrival at the welcome desk, or opt for an annual pass.
Children are admitted for free, making it a very family-friendly option. Annual passes offer excellent value for those planning multiple visits.
Woodhorn Museum is typically open daily from 10 am to 4 pm, including during school holidays. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most current opening times.
Dogs are welcome on the museum grounds, but they are not permitted inside the main buildings.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Woodhorn Museum offers a rich experience with exhibits on the Pitmen Painters, the history of coal mining, and the transformation of the site into a biodiversity haven. There's also a sensory play area for children.
Yes, guided tours are available and highly recommended. They provide valuable historical context, with some guides being retired miners offering unique insights.
The museum has toilets available in both the car park and the main building. There's also an on-site cafe and a gift shop.
Absolutely! Children go free and will enjoy the sensory play area, the slide, and the engaging exhibits. The information boards are also written in an accessible and often humorous way. +1
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but it's always best to check for any specific restrictions on certain exhibits or during special events. Many visitors share their photos online!
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe on-site where you can enjoy lunch or a coffee.
The cafe offers a selection of food and drinks. Visitors have described the lunch as delicious.
While not explicitly mentioned, the museum grounds are extensive, and it's likely that picnicking is permitted in designated outdoor areas. It's worth confirming upon arrival.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of the former colliery buildings offers a striking industrial aesthetic. The 'Wild Wood' area provides opportunities for nature photography, and the art exhibitions offer vibrant subjects.
Drone usage is typically restricted at heritage sites to protect the structures and ensure visitor safety. It's best to check the museum's policy or contact them directly before flying a drone.
Woodhorn Museum frequently hosts art exhibitions, which often include photography. Keep an eye on their events calendar for current exhibitions like the 'Northumberland Open Exhibition' or 'Wild Northumberland'.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The outdoor play area, featuring a challenging climbing structure and a thrilling slide, is a huge hit with kids. The museum also offers engaging information boards that are written in a way that's both informative and humorous, keeping younger minds entertained. Consider purchasing an annual pass if you plan on visiting more than once, as it offers great value. Dogs are welcome on the grounds, so your furry family members can join in the fun too!
💰 Budget Travelers
Adult admission is reasonably priced, and the availability of an 'All Site Annual Pass' for £16 offers exceptional value if you plan to revisit. Furthermore, the free parking on-site eliminates another potential expense.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
+1 This collection highlights the incredible artistic talent that emerged from the local mining communities, offering a unique perspective on art history. The museum frequently hosts art exhibitions, including the 'Northumberland Open Exhibition' and 'Wild Northumberland', featuring a diverse range of local and regional artists. +1These exhibitions provide a wonderful opportunity to discover new artists and appreciate the creative spirit of the North East. The museum's setting, a former colliery, also provides a dramatic and thought-provoking backdrop for viewing art, adding another layer to the experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of the Pitmen Painters
+1The museum showcases their vibrant works, offering a unique window into the lives, aspirations, and artistic talents of these men. The 'Coalface Drawers: 90 Years of the Pitmen Painters' exhibition is a testament to their enduring impact.
Visitors can learn about their journey, from art appreciation classes to exhibiting their work, and understand how art became a powerful force for self-expression and community building in the heart of Northumberland's mining communities. Experiencing the Pitmen Painters' art at Woodhorn Museum is not just about viewing paintings; it's about connecting with a significant piece of North East England's cultural heritage and appreciating the profound influence that art can have on individuals and society.
From Colliery to Conservation: The Wild Wood
With the help of dedicated volunteers, including those from Age UK, the museum is actively planting new trees and developing the grounds to support a diverse range of flora and fauna. This commitment to conservation reflects a broader movement towards sustainable heritage sites, demonstrating how industrial pasts can be reimagined for a greener future.
Visitors can explore these evolving natural spaces, offering a peaceful contrast to the industrial heritage. It’s a chance to witness firsthand how a former mining site is being revitalized, providing a valuable habitat for wildlife and a beautiful, accessible green space for the community and visitors alike.
A Sensory Adventure for Little Ones
This setup encourages children to engage physically, climbing independently to reach the top, fostering a sense of accomplishment. Beyond the slide, the museum grounds offer ample space for children to explore and interact with their environment. The 'Kids Always Go Free' policy makes it an accessible and attractive option for families looking for engaging activities.
The museum's commitment to providing a stimulating environment for children is evident, making it more than just a historical site but a place for active fun and discovery. While the main buildings are for human visitors, the outdoor spaces are perfect for letting children burn off energy and enjoy the fresh Northumberland air. It’s a well-rounded experience that combines educational elements with pure, unadulterated fun for the younger generation.
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