With 26 acres of former industrial land, we tell the story of the creation of the world’s first industrial landscape. Shops, houses and workshops have been carefully reconstructed to preserve the character of the region and share real lives and real stories from the 1880s-1940s.

As well as exploring the social history of the area, a visit to the Museum highlights the entrepreneurial and manufacturing skills of the inhabitants and the impact they were to have on modern society. We offer learning opportunities for a broad range of curriculum subjects, including science, technology, engineering, mathematics, art and design, citizenship and history.

Immerse your students in the authentic sights, sounds, smells and tastes from the past, and enhance their experience by participating in an exciting range of award-winning learning activities. Additional bookable sessions including pewter casting, rag rugging and canal art offer pupils the chance to get hands-on with traditional skills and crafts.