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MUSEUMS

NORTH WEST ENGLAND

CHESHIRE

{Cheshire, Lancashire, Greater Manchester, Merseyside, Wirral, Home )

AIR RAID SHELTER TOURS

Tel: 0161 474 1940
61, Chestergate, Stockport

By car - M60 (Junction 1)

Click on website link above for details of opening times and prices

First-hand experience of daily life in 1940s, war-torn Britain. A labyrinth of tunnels under part of the town centre provided shelter - and a way of life - for Stockport and Manchester families through the dark days of the Blitz. Take time to wonder how everyone managed with those bunks & benches; lights & sounds; toilet arrangements & Red Cross facilities. Explore authentic reconstructions in a core area of sandstone tunnels. Sense the immense network of structure; the thousands of people; their concern and determination. Audio-experience the sounds of 1940 - the historical context, the songs and the reminiscences. Reflect on the complexities of conflict in the 'Web of War' exhibition. Admire the contributions of Wardens, WVS and other volunteers, experience the atmosphere and respect the memories as you stroll through the tunnels. Stockport Air Raid Shelters are one of the few ARP tunnel-systems built specifically for civilians in Britain and often accommodated over 7,000 people nightly. Anderson Shelters were also popular locally: a reconstruction of one of these is on display, complete with bunks and table.

ANSON ENGINE MUSEUM

Tel: 01625 874426
Anson Road , Poynton, Cheshire
Follow the brown signs from Poynton traffic lights

As featured on TV, this multi award winning museum has a great deal to offer visitors. Over the past few years it has undergone some major changes and is now recognised as one of the Country’s leading specialist museums. Situated in Higher Poynton, the museum is on the site of the old Anson Colliery. Engine enthusiasts from all over the world come to visit this fascinating museum. However, it is increasingly becoming a "must visit" attraction for non-enthusiasts too and won the "Visitors Choice" award (voted for by the public) when they were asked "where would you take a visitor to the Macclesfield area"? Engines run most days the museum is open (please check if travelling long distances). As well as the largest collection of engines in Europe, the museum also has an varying display of local history items such as photographs, maps, mementoes and keepsakes from the Vernon Estate and Anson Colliery. It also has a small Craft centre where demonstrations of Bodging and Smithy work are given throughout the season.

Tel: 0151 420 1121
Mersey Road, Widnes, Cheshire WA8 ODF
Close to Runcorn Bridge, M62 J7: M56 J12 follow Widnes and then brown signs.

Visit Catalyst and see science and technology really come to life in our three award winning galleries. Scientrific on the ground floor is a hands-on, interactive gallery for the whole family and Birth of an Industry on the first floor houses an amazing collection of archive material and life-like reconstructions. The rooftop Observatory gallery affords stunning views from the Welsh hills to the Pennines and is accessed by the scenic glass lift which reaches 30 metres above the River Mersey. With holiday workshops, an interactive theatre, car parking, gift shop, cafe and playground, science has never been so much fun! "

See the historic log boat found at Astbury, find out how a Congleton man played a significant role in England's Civil War Discover what life was like for workers in Congeton's mills over a hundred years ago, share the experiences of people in Congleton during the Second World War.

Step aboard a Roman Galley and stroll through reconstructed streets of Roman Chester. Explore the Roman fortress in 3 metre deep excavations and handle 'dig' discoveries in the 'Finds' room.

The museum occupies the former Sunday School room, built in 1914 to the memory of Hugh Bourne, who started many Sunday Schools and whose life-long concern was to bring children to God. Outside, on the front wall, a series of foundations stones commemorate the major contributors. The collection of books, memorabilia and artefacts from the early days of the denomination complements the chapel in portraying this new force in English religious life

Learn about 2000 years of Chester's history from the Dinosaur to the present day. See a Roman graveyard, paintings by local artists past and present, silver from Chester silversmiths, and period rooms which bring history to life. They also have a programme of exciting temporary exhibitions.

Tel: 01270 629219
PO Box 127, Nantwich, Cheshire
From J16 on M6 motorway take the signs to Nantwich then Whitchurch on the A530.

For over 40 years this inconspicuous utility building on the outskirts of a sleepy Cheshire town kept its secret. Now declassified, the underground labyrinth of passages and rooms reveals what would have been the nerve centre of regional government had World War 3 broken out. RAF Hack Green was a WW2 operational radar station. Experience a real 'four minute warning'. Many interactive and educational displays for children to discover. Younger children can follow the Soviet Spy Mouse Trail. Regardless of what age group you fall into you will likely want to walk the entire facility. With this in mind, be sure to wear a comfortable pair of walking shoes or boots so you can enjoy the entire experience as you follow the passages.

Only surviving open-pan saltworks in Britain. Site open most afternoons by volunteers of the Lion Saltworks Trust. Groups by prior booking.

MILITARY MUSEUM
Tel: 01244 327617

The Castle Grosvenor Street, Chester
Chester City Centre

In this museum we remember: The Cheshire Regiment The Cheshire Yeomanry The 3rd Carabiniers The 5th Royal Iniskilling Dragoon Guards Eaton Hall Officer Cadet School And several other small Cheshire units - some now long retired (often from bigger corps of the Army). We also remember the important role of the women of the Regiments and the lives of those who were left behind when the men left home to fight.

Away from the urban jungle, deep in the green heart of the Cheshire countryside, where enterprise and enthusiasm has fashioned the UK's friendliest motor museum. From the amazing 1930's Art Deco building to the fine detail of the exhibits, this is four-wheel heaven. A historical haven storing a century or more of motoring memorabilia, motors and memories. Imbibe a rich motoring and transport heritage as told through a fascinating, and ever-changing, display of vehicles, motoring art, artefacts and set pieces.

THE fascinating history of one of Cheshire's most attractive and historic towns is brought to life by Nantwich Museum. The museum has main galleries telling the story of Nantwich through the ages - Roman salt making, Tudor Nantwich's Great Fire, the Civil War Battle of Nantwich (1644) and the more recent shoe and clothing industries. Beyond the galleries lie two extensions. The first with its cheese-making exhibition and useful Joseph Heler meeting room, is dedicated to demonstrating how the county's famous cheese has traditionally been made and sold around the floral market town of Nantwich. Next is the magnificent, prize-winning Millennium Gallery which provides the perfect home for a diverse programme of temporary exhibitions.

In 2006, the museum added a new exhibit: a section of a salt ship, a wooden storage vessel made from the trunk of an oak tree, used in the town's medieval salt-producing industry. It is one of only two found in the country (and both in Nantwich). The excavation, preservation process and display took four years in all. As well as seeing the salt ship, visitors can also smell the mud in which the salt ship lay hidden over the centuries.

Tel: 01928 569895
Tudor Road, Manor Park, Runcorn, Cheshire
J11 from M56, turn for Warrington and follow the Norton Priory signs. From all other directions follow the "All other Runcorn Traffic" and then the Norton Priory signs.

800 years ago Norton Priory was home for a community of Augustinian canons whose purpose was to centre their lives on God. The canons were supported by wealthy local families who made gifts of land, enabling the priory to flourish for four centuries. Stone masons and tile makers were commissioned to decorate the most important building, the priory church. The Museum displays examples of their work as well as recalling the 400 years when Norton Priory was home to the Brooke family. They developed the tranquil woodland gardens, whose pathways are still in use.

Open: Every day except Christmas Day, Boxing Day and Good Friday. Weekdays 9.30 am - 4.30 pm. Sat & Sun 9.30 am - 5.00 pm

In a quaint cobbled yard in Knutsford, the Courtyard Coffee House displays the largest collection of English-made penny-farthing bicycles in the world and memorabilia. There is a bonus of a working model American train which surprises everyone.

A unique experience and a great day out - with an array of major tourism awards to prove it. From Cottage Industry to Industrial Revolution, Quarry Bank Mill demonstrates in a fascinating and practical way how cotton became King. Discover what daily life was like to the hundreds of mill workers through a series of dramatic reconstructions, live demonstrations and hands-on displays.

The Heritage Centre is situated in the centre of Macclesfield. The Silk Museum, Paradise Mill and West Park Museum are situated within easy walking distance of the Heritage Centre.

Enter the world of the student and discover how the designers and weavers were trained. Based in what was the Macclesfield School of Art and the Technical School the museum explores how the school worked. Investigate how silk worms are raised, we even our own silk worms which you can see going through the different stages of growth. Delve into the properties of silk, dyeing and weaving along with the concepts of design. Look at student designs, drafts, samples and prizes, try your hand at weaving, designing and look through the microscope at silk, cotton, linen and wool to see the difference between the fibres.

Paradise Mill, Park Lane -situated a short distance from the Silk Museum, was a working silk mill until 1981. Today, Paradise Mill is a living museum. The jacquard handlooms have been restored and knowledgeable and entertaining guides demonstrate the intricate production processes. Because of the working machinery all visits to the mill must be on a guided tour.

Tel: 01925 442392/442398
Bold Street, Warrington, Cheshire WA1 1JG (near shopping centre)

Collections of natural history, geology, ethnology and Egyptology, Local history is also on display in the Prehistory, Roman and Medieval periods. Refurbished art galleries now house special exhibitions and a selection of the town's fine collection of oil paintings and watercolours.

A visit to the Weaver Hall Museum begins with a short introductory film in our mini cinema, 'The Regalette', which seats the scene for the galleries. You will walk through our ever changing Special Exhibitions Gallery. We have two other galleries to explore on the ground floor - our Victorian Workhouse Schoolroom which explores school life in the Workhouse. This is in the very room where school lessons were once delivered. Visitors to the museum at weekends and school holidays can also explore the magnificent Board of Guardians' Meeting Room where the guardians of the workhouse used to meet to conduct the affairs of this institution. This room is often used by school groups during the week so may not be open to general visitors during these times.

Higher Green Lane, Astley Green, Tyldesley, Lancashire
Off A580 East Lancashire Road

The Colliery had an active life from the first coal being wound in 1910 until closure in April 1970. The former Mine Manager's office has many displays relating to the geology, mine operations, safety and history of the pit itself. There are also exhibits outside in the former pit yard and the Red Rose Steam Society has the largest preserved collection of former colliery under-ground locomotives in the country, which eventually will be included as part of a narrow gauge passenger-carrying railway around the site. A visit to Astley Green can never be complete until the magnificient steam winding engine is seen. This giant, all 3,300 horsepower, is being restored to full operational condition.

Tel: 01257 515927

Astley Park, Chorley
J8 of the M61 signposted from A565 Chorley/Southport Road

Astley Hall is a charming country house, built around a timber-framed courtyard, dating back to the 16th century. The history of the Hall itself is full of intrigue, with stories of plotting and religious turmoil. It dates back to Elizabethan times with changes and additions over the centuries, all helping make a visit to the Hall a fascinating and enjoyable experience. This grade 1 listed building is the jewel in Chorley's crown, with stunning plaster work and architectural features. As the town's museum and art gallery it is also home to items of local historical interest .

The Museum contains collections of domestic, industrial, religious and military artifacts. There is so much to be seen that only a visit can adequately describe it. The Library has a collection of around 2000 books and copies of Bacup newspapers from 1863. Maps of Bacup are also available for research. A collection of some 4000 photographs of 'old' Bacup and it's mills, houses, farms, churches etc. are filed in the library.

Set in an Arts and Crafts style Grade II listed building in the centre of Blackburn. The museum houses displays of local history, militaria, early textile machinery, paintings, manuscripts, books, icons, coins and south Asian culture. There are changing exhibitions throughout the year.

The British Commercial Vehicle Museum in Leyland Lancashire has for the past twenty years been dedicated to preserving the history of the road transport industry in the United Kingdom. Its exhibits and archives contain not just examples of the vehicles themselves, but evidence of their interaction with a century of daily life. This is one of Britains most important heritage collections - a unique display of historic commercial vehicles and buses spanning a Century of truck and bus building. Visitors can view an imaginative display of vehicles, which use sound and lighting special effects to give a virtual reality tour for all the exhibits, creating a spectacular and fascinating exhibition.

On display are pictures, photographs, uniforms, coins picture postcards and many unique items relating to the British rule in India.

The “Brief Encounter” exhibition is dedicated to the classic film, the actors and the film’s famous connection with Carnforth Station. The Albert Halton Room commemorates Carnforth’s contribution to the First and Second World Wars. There are also a number of other exhibitions which explore the social history of Carnforth residents as well as the railway itself. Take a welcome break in the Brief Encounter Refreshment Room, which has been faithfully restored to resemble the set used in the film where Laura and Alec first met. Enjoy a snack or a light bite as you soak up the atmosphere in the unique surroundings. Your visit would not be complete without seeing the famous Carnforth Station clock made by Joyce of Whitchurch in the late 19th century, which featured in Brief Encounter.

Tel: 01772 719394 or 01772 862017
Church Lane. Broughton. Preston. Lancashire. PR3 5HB

From the city centre follow the A6 north towards Garstang/Lancaster. After approximately 3 miles you will come to a large roundabout signed for the M55 left and the M6 right. Carry straight on the A6 for approximately 200yds, Church Lane is the 2nd road on the right.

Open: Sundays only - 2.00pm-5.00pm. Admission £2 (in 2012). Services of your personal historic guide included. Tours for schools and organisations can be arranged on other days.

Church Cottage Museum offers the opportunity for people of all ages to become historical detectives. The restored cottage tells the story of its life since original construction of the building in the 16th Century as a Tudor dwelling within an agricultural community, as an Inn during the 17th Century, Victorian School Room and finally a family home once again during the 20th Century. In a restoration supervised by architects and engineers, with a fine attention to authenticity and simplicity, and advised by local historian Paul Cross, you can see how ordinary people - you and I - lived 400 years ago.

The historic landmark of Clitheroe, in the heart of the Ribble Valley offers a day of exploration for all the family. Our new look galleries will take you on a journey through 350 million years of history, heritage and geology of the local area. Younger hearts may take an adventure kitted out with rucksack, map and magnifying glass! Experience super family friendly displays and exhibitions which will provide you with reasons to come back again and again.

Intriguing museum housed in a tiny 18th Century cottage offers an intimate glimpse of early Victorian life. Meet our Victorian housekeeper.

FLEETWOOD MARITIME MUSEUM

Tel: 01253 876621 01253 876621
Queens Terrace, Fleetwood, Lancashire, FY7 6BT - Nr Fleetwood market

Click on website link above for details of opening times and prices

Voyage of Discovery ... Located in the old Customs House designed by famous 19th century architect Decimus Burton. Brings the story of Fleetwood and the surrounding coast to life Find out about a Fisherman's life and the harsh conditions he endured in order to bring back the prize catch. Visit Netting the Bay our hi-tech gallery and website Discover the surprising marine life in the nearby waters, surf through hundreds of wonderful images and guide a roof top camera to zoom in on Morecambe Bay

Magnificent Greek Revival listed building. Displays include many fine examples of painting and water-colours including the Devis and Beattie collections. Also features the story of Preston and a costume gallery, plus temporary exhibitions.

Nestling side by side in the stunning Rossendale Valley are two of Lancashire's original textile mills: Higher Mill and Whitaker’s Mill which, together, form Helmshore Mills Textile Museum. A great British ancient momument and powerhouse. Today Helmshore marks the birthplace of an Industrial Revolution that inspired the world. Discover Lancashire’s textile industry story, a story built upon the back of great Lancastrian inventors James Hargreaves, Richard Arkwright and Samuel Crompton. View their inventions such as Arkwright’s Water Frame from the 1780s, today recognised as national and international treasures.

Other museum highlights Trace how cloth production, first wool, then cotton, become Lancashire’s main export throughout the eighteenth, nineteenth, and twentieth centuries. Follow a journey to discover how raw wool and cotton were transformed into yarn ready to be woven into cloth. Experience the Revolution gallery were you can follow the story of Lancashire's unique role in the industrial revolution. Feel the grand and mighty waterwheel powering the stocks as they thump the wet woollen cloth. Enjoy our upgraded buildings which mean you can now explore more of the Museum. New additions include a contemporary reception and shop area. Museum cafe and shop

During the Victorian era, Rossendale's shoe industry dominated the world. The Footwear Museum has a fascinating collection of designs and displays from the industry's past, from cardboard shoes to 1970's platforms, outlandish Victorian slippers to the equally bizarre fashions of the present day.

Lancaster City Museum and The King's Own Royal Regiment Museum Situated in the heart of this historic city in an elegant Georgian building. Discover more about Lancasters past from the Romans to the present day Trace the pedigree of Lancaster's regiment from 1680 onwards. Wonderful collection of portraits and landscapes Changing programme of temporary exhibition

The windmill is situated on Lytham green overlooking the Ribble estuary and houses an exhibition of windmill history and workings

Discover more about the City's golden age and maritime past Located within two fine Georgian quayside buildings. Uses sounds, smells and reconstructions to tell the story of the port of Lancaster Changing exhibitions and events. A great starting point for the river's Millenium Park

Tel: 01253 344478
Opposite New Promenade Headland on the corner of Waterloo Rd/Promenade, Blackpool

Open: Sat/Sun 10.30 am-12.30 pm and 2 pm - 4.30 pm (Advisable to telephone first)
Admission: Free (Donations to local Hospice)

Brooks Collectables is a small family run business in Blackpool celebrating its 60th anniversary this year. The shop famous for its eclectic mix of seaside memorabilia and classic toys has always been a favourite amongst visitors and locals. To celebrate this, Mr Brooks has put his impressive private collection of memorabilia including mint condition Dinky, Corgi and Hornby models on display to the public for the first time, amongst other items of interest he has collected over the last 60 years. The museum will also include a scale model moving tramway representing the newly opened redesigned seafront and defences. Since the opening of Brooks Gifts which later became Brooks Collectables on Good Friday in 1949 (the first year of the illuminations after the War). The Brooks name has become synonymous in the collectors world, with customers ranging from Scotland to Ex-pats in Canada and a regular client in Tennessee. Mr Brooks now an octogenarian is still heavily involved in the running of the business and is delighted to give something back to the community that he has been a part of for so long. The collection which boasts both rare and priceless pieces has been gathering dust in Mr Brooks loft for many years and the museum is using the shops original 1950's display cases for most of the exhibits.

Situated within a Grade ll listed building. Love Lancashire! Whatever you love about Lancashire, the Museum of Lancashire has something for you! Lancashire is full of vibrant and talented people, world class scenery and a rich history just waiting to be explored. The Museum of Lancashire gives visitors a taste of all things Lancashire, told through the objects and stories of real Lancashire people.

Tel: 01772 908442
National Football Museum, Sir Tom Finney Way, Deepdale, Preston, PR1 6RU

Two miles from Junction 31 on the M6 and the same distance from Junction 1 on the M55, adjacent to Preston North End Football Stadium

Find out how the game came to be invented. Discover the individuals and teams who have helped to shape the game that we know today, explore the time capsule, the length of a football pitch etc. Share the fans' experience throughout the period in which football has been played. Second half is a themed, hands-on experience, examining different facets of the world of football. Visions of Football: An Art gallery dedicated to the world of football. Final Whistle: Museum shop or treat yourself to refreshments in the cafe .

Bringing Steam Powered Weaving to Life An experience you won't forget! Whether you're interested in local or social history, textiles and textile machinery or just looking for an afternoon out with a difference, the sights, sounds and smells of Queen Street help to bring history alive. There's something to delight and intrigue visitors of all ages. The worlds only surviving 19th century steam powered weaving mill.

Former Roman Fort of Bremetenacu. Its ancient history is recorded in the Museum which has many Roman artefacts. Ribchester is brought to life by dramatic displays including a lifesize cavalryman and Roman legionary. Columns have been erected for the first time in almost 2000 years and there are wonderful objects which have never been seen before.

Open: No designated opening times, this attraction is not manned and can be visited at all times.

The Wery Wall is an interesting surviving fragment of Roman walling on the east slope of Castle Hill and represents a section of a bastion of the last Roman fort on the site. Adjacent to the wall are the excavated remains of a small Roman bathhouse.

An intriguing museum housed within an early Victorian country house Set within tranquil Whitaker Park. Displays include a late Victorian drawing room, fine arts and furniture. Wonderful natural history collection. Discover more about the local and social history of the area Constantly changing exhibition programme

Tel: 01772 422041
The Old Grammar School, Church Road, Leyland, Preston, Lancashire, PR5 1EJ(next door to the ‘Eagle and Child/ public house and Sandy Lane Surgery)

Open: Tuesday and Friday 10 am - 4 pm Thursday 1 pm - 4 pm Saturday 10 am - 1 pm
Admission free

Museum housed in a timber framed Tudor Grammar School with a collection of local history and archaeology.

1 1/2 miles south east of Burnley Town Centre, approx. 1 mile from park entrance on Todmorden Road (A671)

A 14th century house contains the museum and features oil paintings, furniture, ceramics, English watercolours, 18th century glassware and natural history exhibits. The Museum of Local Crafts and Industries includes displays on Burnley's recent social and industrial history.

Tel: 01282 452403
85 Manchester Road, Burnley, Lancashire BB11 1JZ
Situated in the town centre, 200 yards from the Town Hall

Discover what it was like to live in a 19th century mill town. Take a walk along the Leeds and Liverpool Canal towpath through the Weavers' Triangle - a well preserved Victorian industrial townscape. Examine buildings from the days when Burnley led the world in weaving cotton cloth - weaving-sheds, spinning-mills, warehouses, foundries, domestic buildings and a school.

The Museum, Art Gallery & Aquarium are situated behind the Town Hall from Victoria Square on Le Mans Crescent to the Left

A fascinating museum with a renowned collection of Egyptian antiquities, a wildlife gallery with activity centre and fine collections including natural history, social history, archaelogy and local history. Includes an extensive temporary exhibition programme. The Art Gallery has a changing programme of exhibitions and a collection of British art from the 18th century onwards. Also in the building are the tropical and temperatic aquarium, library and gift shop.

Tel: 01204 846490 or 01257 265003
Mornington Road, off Chorley Old Road, Bolton BL1 4EU

Situated 1.5 miles north-west of Bolton town centre on Morrison's Supermarket site (next to the petrol station)

The Bolton Steam Museum was established by the Northern Mill Engine Society whose volunteers have been working since 1966 to preserve some of the stationary steam engines which used to drive the mills of the textile industy. It is the largest collection of working mill steam engines in the country.

At Bury Art Gallery, Museum and Archives you'll find world-famous Victorian paintings, challenging contemporary art, mysterious objects and fascinating documents from Bury's past in a distinctive Edwardian building that is a work of art in itself. The art gallery was specially built to house the Wrigley Collection, over two hundred oil paintings, watercolours, prints and ceramics collected by local paper manufacturer Thomas Wrigley. His three children gave them to the town in 1897 to be enjoyed by all.

See one of the finest examples of a giant steam Mill Engine in the country. The engines, Alexandra and Victoria, were used to power the Ellenroad Cotton Spinning Mill. The mill has gone now but the Engine House, complete with its steam-raising plant and 220 foot chimney, is in preservation. See the 3000hp Mill Engines Victoria and Alexandra, Whiteless Beam Engine - built in 1842, Steam Electrical Generator, Lancashire Boiler- coal fired, Picnic Area - free parking, Engine House, cafe, books and souvenirs. Often there are other attractions on steam days.

Click on website link above for details of services opening times and prices for museum

Fairfield is a Settlement congregation which was opened in 1785. It was planned and built by its own people, with its inn, shop, bakery, farm, laundry, fire-engine, night-watchman, inspector of weights and measures, an overseer of roads, and even its physician. There were community houses for sisters and brethren, who applied themselves to the varied work of the Settlement. With the passing of time have come changes. The boarding schools of Fairfield have gone. That for boys, started in 1790, was discontinued in 1891; and the girls' school, begun in 1796, has passed into the care of the local authority as Fairfield High School for Girls. The work of the Moravian Theological College was transferred to Fairfield in 1875 and continued there in the original Sisters' House until 1958. Fairfield is no longer a self contained village; no longer does the watchman make his nightly rounds, and in the farm meadows are now streets and houses. Despite the many changes in the life of the Settlement over the past 200 years, the Church, with its worshipping and serving congregation, remains its focus and heart.

The Fusilier Museum is home to the collections of XX The Lancashire Fusiliers and Royal Regiment of Fusiliers. Together they record over 300 years of history and heritage. In addition to the modern and interactive permanent displays, there are temporary exhibitions to highlight the extensive collection and its significance to those associated with the Regiment's past, present and future, and special events are held throught the year.

Tel: 0161 224 5217
Platt Hall, Wilmslow Road, Platt Fields Park, Manchester, Stockport M14 5LL
J1 of the m56, follow signs

This gallery has one of the most comprehensive collections of costumes in Great Britain and makes captivating viewing. It is housed in a fine Georgian mansion and the displays focus on the changing styles of everyday fashion and accessories looking back over 400 years.

Tel: 01706 901227 (Answerphone)
Greater Manchester Fire Service Museum, Maclure Road, Rochdale. OL11 1DN

This unusual museum offers visitors the opportunity to explore the fascinating history of fire fighting. Includes many and varied exhibits, including fire appliances in period settings such as a Victorian street, fire station and 1940 Blitz scene.

Imagine stepping back in time to a Victorian Manchester, not the city of commerce and corporate splendour but a hidden city of gas lamps and narrow alleys, of slums and unruly alehouses. Now imagine a busy police station in the heart of that city from where police officers arrested criminals and upheld the law. History is brought back to life at the Greater Manchester Police Museum. Venture into the original Victorian cells with their wooden pillows and the Charge office of Newton Street Police Station where time has stood still for over 120 years. Explore the galleries containing historic police equipment and uniforms from the region. Uncover the fascinating world of forgery and forensic science. Admire the polished wood panels and stained glass of our genuine 1895 Magistrates' Court. The transport gallery contains a variety of vehicles used by the police from the 1950s to the modern day.

Tel: 0845 8330975
Wellington Mill, Wellington Road South, Stockport
SK3 0EU
Located on the A6 Wellington Road South, opposite the bus station, close to the railway station.

The UK's first and only museum dedicated to the exciting world of hats and hat making. Hatting history, interactive demonstrations - watch the hatting demonstrators, top hats to baseball caps - enjoy the stunning display of hats through the centuries, family fun - Explore the journey of feltmaking from central Asia to Stockport's hatting industry, hands on hats - dress up as a hatter's apprentice or try your hand at feltmaking as part of a pre-booked session, other things to see and do with exhibitions and special events. Level 2 Cafe

Tel: 0161 836 4000
The Quays, a waterfront destination 2 miles from Manchester city centre.

One of the most talked about Museums in Britain today, Imperial War Museum North is about people and their stories, about how lives have been and still are shaped by war and conflict. The award-winning building by international architect Daniel Libeskind is a symbol of our world torn apart by conflict

Tel: 0161 834 9879
Cheetham Hill Road, Manchester M8 8LW (on A665 0.50m from City Centre)

Manchester Jewish Museum is located in the premises of the former Spanish and Portuguese Synagogue on Cheetham Hill Road. The building, completed in 1874, is a listed building of historical importance. It is, indeed, a beautiful example of Victorian architecture, executed in Moorish style. Particularly noteworthy are the splendid stained glass windows and the distinctive cast-iron fitments. Since the building became redundant through the movement of the Jewish population away from the area, it has been completely restored, returned to its former glory and listed Grade II*. It re-opened as a museum in March 1984.

Tel: 0161 275 2634
The University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL

Explore 600 million years of life, and discover ancient civilisations all in the space of one visit. Live reptiles and crocodilians in the vivarium, collections of mammals and fossils and 2000 year old mummies from Egypt.

The collection covers the history of the Regiment from the raising of the 2nd Bn 8th Foot in 1756, through the formation of the Manchester Regiment in 1881 to that Regiment’s amalgamation to form The King’s Regiment in 1958. Its history is illustrated in the context of the local community from which it stemmed and the social history section covers topics such as Women in Wartime, War Poets, The Spanish Civil War, the Home Guard and National Service. There are displays of uniforms, weapons, medals, badges and regimental memorabilia related to its major campaigns in the American War of Independence, the Crimea, South Africa, both World wars, Palestine and Malaya.

Endless fascination for adults and children is offered at this museum - see colourful displays and hands-on exhibitions from steam to space, history to Hi-tech. Located in the buildings of the world's oldest passenger railway station the fun-filled galleries amaze, amuse and entertain. You can take off to the Air and Space Gallery which is packed with the plans that made flying history. Visit the textile exhibition - Fibres, Fabrics and Fashion.

The Museum of Transport is located approximately one mile north of Manchester City Centre, at the junction of the A665 (Cheetham Hill Road) and the A6010 (Queens Road). It is at the north end of Boyle Street, adjoining First Manchester's bus garage.

The Museum reflects over 100 years of public road transport history in Greater Manchester from the horse bus to Metrolink. Annual Vintage Vehicle Rally and other special events.

Exhibition on Wigan Life, including the Romans, your family history and where you live, objects and documents from the past, fun acitvities for all the family, a shop with local gifts.

Behind the Central Library and a ten minute walk from Oldham Mumps railway station.

Exhibitions changed frequently and displays of permanent collections of 19th, 20th century and contemporary art, craft, photography, the natural and human history of Oldham from pre history to the present.

The hall is situated in the Ordsall District of Salford on Ordsall Lane, near to Salford Quays.

Ordsall Hall – Salford’s Grade 1 listed Tudor manor house – was first recorded in 1210. Since then, it has been home to medieval gentry, Tudor nobility, Catholics loyal to the crown, butchers, farmers, an Earl, an artist, priests, scout troops, mill workers, cows and several ghosts! A major restoration of the building from 2009-2011 means that on a visit to the Hall you can: - Wander back through time and soak up the atmosphere in our re-created room settings. - Discover the story of the Hall and the people who lived here in our hands-on family friendly exhibitions. - Find out what was cooked in a Tudor kitchen. - Explore and enjoy nationally significant features. - Relax in the beautifully landscaped gardens. - Enjoy a coffee in our new refreshment area

The birthplace of the Suffragette movement is now the Pankhurst Centre, a women’s community centre. This historically significant building was the home of Emmeline Pankhurst and family who led the Suffragette campaign for Votes for Women. Heritage area Within the Centre there is a small heritage area with information about the Pankhursts and the Suffragette movement. This is open to the general public. A women’s community centre As a women’s community centre it provides and offers space for activities and events run by women for women. It offers a unique place in which women can learn together, work on projects and socialise. This vibrant centre plays host to a number of women’s organisations and projects that support women.

Tel: 0161 330 9613
Medlock Valley, Ashton-under-Lyne, Tameside, Greater Manchester

A fascinating early industrial settlement founded to supply the cotton industry over 200 years ago. Surrounded by lovely countryside, including an industrial Heritage Trail and a Visitor Centre.

Tel: 0161 839 6061
Left Bank, Spinningfields, Manchester M3 3ER
From motorways, follow brown signs to Castlefield, then signs to Salford Central Station or Gartside Street car park.

The People’s History Museum’s collection relates to the history of working people in Britain. Details on the website.

By car, there are signs from A635 Ashton By-pass (Park Parade). Drivers will need to locate the roundabout halfway along the Ashton by-pass (near Asda), drive westwards towards Manchester and turn second left into Welbeck Street, following this straight ahead and the museum is on the left.

Housed within the restored nineteenth century Ashton Canal Warehouse the museum combines a lively modern interior with a peaceful canal side setting. Portland Basin Museum is an exciting family friendly museum, with something for all the family! Step back in time on our 1920s street, as the sights and sounds of bygone Tameside are brought to life. Take a look into our kitchen and parlour to find out how we used to live.

Tel: 01706 524920
31 Toad Lane, Rochdale
Rear of Rochdale Exchange Shopping Precinct on Hunters Lane

This is a fascinating insight into how our ancestors did their shopping 150 years ago and houses the original store of the Rochdale Pioneers containing documents, pictures and other material of British and international co-operative interest.

The story of Saddleworth - a Yorkshire community on the Lancashire side of the Pennines is brought to life in an old canalside mill. Explore the area's traditions, textile industry, transport and people. Family-friendly with activity boxes and 'Get your Hands on This' gallery. Art Gallery with varied exhibition programme. Museum Shop and Tourist Information Centre.

The Museum is located next to Salford University and is approximately a 20 minute walk from central Manchester, via Chapel Street to the Crescent.

With the popular permanent attractions of The Victorian Gallery and Lark Hill Place, as well as the ever changing temporary exhibitions, there is always something for everyone at Salford Museum and Art Gallery, from hands-on activities to modern art!

When visiting Staircase House you will journey from 1460 to WWII and experience every century in between. Learn how people used to live and how society and our attitudes have changed over time. The audio tour can take between one and two hours depending on how much of the audio guide you choose to listen to along the way. Once your journey is complete you can browse in the Staircase House gift shop and enjoy a relaxing hot drink in Blackshaw’s Café.

Stockport Story Museum houses a fascinating collection stretching back 10,000 years and its all FREE to explore! Delve into Stockport’s rich history and time travel from Palaeolithic to present day Stockport. On your journey you will discover five fascinating galleries . . . Origins Gallery - Stockport's hidden archaeological treasures The Making of the Town Gallery - Medieval Stockport and the Industrial Revolution Work and Play Gallery - Explore Victorian Stockport Changing Lives Gallery - Stockport during the last 100 years Exhibitions Gallery - Programme of changing exhibitions.

Newly restored art gallery and museum, Tourist Information Centre and shop, local studies centre, education and performance venue. Explore Rochdale's Pioneering Spirit with the extensive Borough collection and archives.

Visit this fascinating museum, one of the first purpose built museums in the country. Discover the hidden treasures and treats, especially the realistic looking Egyptian Mummy, and its famous hand, which remains a favourite with visitors of all ages. Explore the museum by following the trails which take you on a magical journey through time. Look at the variety of interesting objects, which date back to the Stone Age. Listen to fabulous stories that recapture the past whilst watching the audio-visual show. Learn about 'On One Round Hill' the past and present story of Stockport, a typical market town in Northern England. Children love the ground floor and its host of interactive displays, especially the plasma ball. Search the basement floor, labelled the floor of curiosities, for its cabinets full of wonderful surprises.

A fascinating collection of local memorabilia, built up over many years. The mines, the moors, the wars and the chores - the lives of ordinary Lancashire folk seen through the objects, tools and clothes of their everyday existence.

Imagine experiencing the most sensational story the pop world has ever known - in the City where it all began. Relive the sights and sounds of the sixties. Take a trip to Hamburg 'feel' the cavern beat, 'tune in' to flower power, board the yellow submarine. The Beatles Story is the ultimate tribute to the City's most famous sons - John, Paul, George and Ringo. A magical tour for all the family.

20 Forthlin Road - "Mum and Dad would have been dead chuffed to think our little council house would end up with The National Trust. It's a fantastic honour for me and our family" Sir Paul McCartney

Mendips - "Now everyone who loves John's music and his message of peace can see for themselves where it all began." Yoko

Victorian period room with displays of costume and toys and local and natural history galleries. There is also a display about Southport lifeboat.

Tel: 0151 327 3565
The Hangars, South Road, Hooton Park Airfield, Ellesmere Port, CH65 1BQ

An Aerodrome with history. Guided tours and special events. Aero memorabilia and vehicle exhibits from 1940.

Tel: 0151 207 0001
Merseyside Maritime Museum Albert Dock, Liverpool, Merseyside L3 4AQ

Experience the activities of customs officers today through interactive, hands-on displays.Spot the suspect traveller and help search for contraband. Explore the age old battle between the revenue men and the smugglers. Learn about the latest technology used by Customs and Excise officers today Wide range of confiscated goods displayed, sniffer dog demonstrations and an exhibition on 18th century smuggling.

The museum explores both the historical and contemporary aspects of slavery. The museum addresses the many legacies of the slave trade and tells stories of bravery and rebellion amongst the enslaved people. These are stories which have been largely untold.

See the following - Some of the fastest Lawnmowers in the world as seen on TV. The Unique Cordless Electric Ride on Mower. Lawnmowers being used before the time of Custers Last Stand. The water cooled 'Egg Boiler' Lawnmower. A genuine 2" Lawnmower. Some of the most expensive Lawnmowers in the world. A snow scooter & outboard motor powered by Lawnmower engines. Some of the first Atco & Ransome Lawnmowers. The Mower Great Granddad used. The first Solar Powered ROBOT mowers, Lawnmowers of the rich and famous.

Liverpool Museum is an encyclopaedia brought to life where you can discover the wonders of Time and Space, Dazzling fish in the Aquarium, the fascinating hands-on Natural History Centre, Egyptian mummies, wonderful African carvings, sculptures from ancient Greece and Rome and much much more.

The Museum of Liverpool reflects the city's global significance through its unique geography, history and culture. Visitors can explore how the port, its people, their creative and sporting history have shaped the city. Find out more about the galleries and displays inside in the Your visit section. The museum opened on 19 July 2011 in a purpose-built landmark building on Liverpool's famous waterfront.

The Merseyside Maritime Museum tells the history of one of the world's greatest ports and the people who used it. For many it was a gateway to a new life in other countries. For others, its importance to the slave trade had less happy consequences. From slavers to luxury liners, submarine hunters to passenger ferries, discover Liverpool's central role in centuries at sea.

The elegent Georgian terraced house was home and workplace to one of Liverpool's best known photographers, the celebrity photographer of his day, and is now a multi-award winning attraction and the only example in the country of an intact studio of its era. It contains exhibitions of Hardman's photographs, the studio where they were taken, the darkroom where they were developed and printed, and the Hardman's living quarters, complete with all the ephemera of post-war daily life.

Open: Every Tuesday to Saturday 10am -1pm and 2pm - 5pm and Sunday 2pm - 5pm. Also open Monday's by appointment. The Museum is closed on Bank Holidays.
Admission - Free

An attractive 18th-century town house which contains exhibits relating to the clock, watch and tool-making industries of the area. The display includes a reconstruction of part of a traditional watch-maker's workshop and examples of hand tools and machinery used to make the intricate parts of clock and watch movements. Various events arranged.

The North West Museum of Road Transport (formerly St.Helens Transport Museum) is a voluntary organisation, with members freely giving of their time work towards re-opening the Museum to the public, keen to show them the rich transport heritage of the region. The Museum houses the North West Museum of Transport Limited's collection of vehicles. It can trace its roots back over thirty years, when a group of enthusiasts from the St.Helens area got together to raise funds to preserve an ex St.Helens trolleybus which was still running in Bradford.

Exit the M62 at jct 4, follow the city centre sign on Edge Lane (A5047). Edge Lane will change into Mount Vernon, then Pembroke Rd. Pembroke Rd will change into London Rd stay on London Rd till it ends. Turn Right onto Churchhill Way (Elevated Rd) stick to the left hand Lane. This road turns into Dale St, then Water St. Rumford St is situated on your right.

Liverpool's World War II underground headquarters for the Battle of the Atlantic. Re-live the times of 1940s Britain. Visit the 50,000 sq ft. Labyrinth of audio linked original rooms including main operations room, Admirals office, Teleprinter station and also a re-constructed educational centre, with Anderson shelter, and bombed-out room. See the life and work of Wrens and Waafs working under constant pressure in the original area command headquarters for the battle of the Atlantic.

Situated in the centre of St Helens, near the M62 (Junction 7) and the M6 (Junction 23) Motorways.

The World of Glass takes visitors on a journey of discovery into the story of glass. State-of-the-art special effects look back at the use of glass through the ages, from its discovery by ancient civilisations to its utilisation as part of the Internet today. A fun zone features distorting mirrors, kaleidoscopes, periscopes and you will be able to see live glass-blowing displays. The exhibition is built around the Jubilee Cone Building which is a listed building and houses the oldest glass-making tank furnace in the world, which was recently discovered and excavated from beneath a concrete floor on the site.

Explore the former canal port and experience life afloat aboard the collection of canal and river boats. Discover the stories of the people who worked on our waterways through interactive displays, film and audio recordings. Step back in time at the dock workers' cottages and see how people lived from the 1840s to the 1950s.

23 King George's Drive, Port Sunlight, Wirral. CH62 5DX – opposite Lady Lever Art Gallery

Located in the heart of Port Sunlight, a world famous 19th century garden village, Sunlight Vision Museum offers a unique insight into the origins and social history of one of Britain’s finest and most intact model villages. Today the village consists of over 900 Grade II Listed buildings and has one of the largest War Memorials outside of London. Discover within Sunlight Vision Museum what it would have been like to live and work in this village during the late 1800s and early 1900s. Meet a set of characters created to represent the real people who lived and worked in Port Sunlight.

A visit to Sunlight Vision Museum is a must for those wanting to find out about Port Sunlight’s origins and social history. Pre-booked guided village tours can also be arranged for groups. The tour takes in the principal buildings in the village and further information about life in this extraordinary village is revealed.

View the amazing life on board a real German U-boat. With original film archive and interactive displays, you will witness all the dramatic action. U-boat Story is a £5m attraction telling the story of World War II German submarine U-534. You will see into the cross-sectioned submarine and discover its amazing story through a highly interactive and exciting exhibition.

This purpose built Art Gallery was opened in December 1928 and housed the vast majority of Birkenhead's collection of artistic masterpieces in a series of varied and well proportioned galleries. On permanent display are Victorian oil paintings, English watercolours, Liverpool Porcelain, DellaBir Robbia Pottery. A range of collections from local history and ship models to fine decorative arts. Part of the Merseyside Embroidery Trail. All year round programme of temporary exhibitions.

Former Town Hall houses many fine collections relating to Wirral's History, Cammel Laird Archive, Della Robbia Collection, Mayoral Silver Collection and much more.

Birkenhead is the historic home of the first street tramway in Europe. It was here on August 29 1860 that Europe's first tramway was established, running from Woodside to Birkenhead Park. This early system was horse-drawn and was the brainchild of flamboyant American, George Francis Train, the real life character upon whom Jules Verne based his fictitious character Phileas Fogg in "Around the World in 80 days". The tramway was electrified in 1901 and continued to operate throughout the town until it's eventual closure on 17 July 1937. By this time the petrol engine bus had taken over all routes. We are extremely lucky to have one of the fine examples of one of the double decker units, which inaugurated the first electric tram service in 1901. This vehicle, Birkenhead 20 is a fine example of an Edwardian tram. this tram and many others have been restored over a number of years by members of the Merseyside Tramway Preservation Society.

The trams you will ride on may look and sound old but in fact they are fairly new! They were built in Hong Kong in 1992 with a U.K. chassis gauge specification, painted in original Birkenhead Livery and shipped to Wirral courtesy of P&O Containers. The design is a 1948 pattern and the vehicles approximate to the type common on the streets of Britain in the Forties and Fifties. They still operate in large numbers in the city of Hong Kong.