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Blackburn Museum & Art Gallery

Blackburn, United Kingdom•4.6(356)•Art Gallery, Museum

Explore diverse collections spanning fine art, Egyptian artefacts, natural history and local heritage in this historic purpose-built museum with free entry and family-friendly facilities.

Blackburn Museum & Art Gallery stands as one of the first purpose-built free museums established outside London, opening its doors in 1874. The venue houses an exceptionally rich and diverse collection that appeals to visitors of all ages, featuring fine art, decorative art, Japanese prints, Christian icons, medieval manuscripts, Egyptian artefacts, natural history specimens, coins and social history exhibits. Families visiting can explore multiple galleries showcasing the museum's impressive collections across various disciplines. Current exhibitions include 'Art and Industry' (July – January 2027) and 'Collected Creatures' (March – January 2027), which explore the fascinating creatures within the collection. The museum offers dedicated family visits and a free Saturday Art Club, providing creative workshops for young people passionate about making and crafts. The venue provides an accessible and welcoming environment for families, with pushchair-friendly facilities and free admission. Educational learning sessions are available for school and college groups, making it an ideal destination for both casual family visits and structured learning experiences. With its accessible floorplans, digital guides via Bloomberg Connects app, and comprehensive amenities, Blackburn Museum & Art Gallery creates memorable cultural experiences for visitors of all backgrounds and interests.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 11:00 – 16:45
Wednesday: 11:00 – 16:45
Thursday: 11:00 – 16:45
Friday: 11:00 – 16:45
Saturday: 11:00 – 16:45
Sunday: Closed

Venue Details

Venue Type

Indoor

Typical visit duration

All day

Booking

Walk-in

What this place offers

ToiletsToilets
Public transportPublic transport nearby
Accessible toilets
Free WiFi
Baby changingBaby changing facilities
Food available
On-site parking
🐕Dog-friendly
Parking nearby
Pushchair friendlyPushchair friendly
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Google Reviews

4.6(356 reviews)
S
stella

stella

a week ago

lovely staff and amazing collection!! ❤️ both ladies made us feel so so welcome and gave us other recommendations for us during our stay. these ladies are a credit to your town and museum! thank you so much for making us feel very welcomed in Blackburn today! ☺️

C
CliveN

CliveN

a month ago

An extraordinary collection that seems to be off the radar but really deserves a long look. Some amazing art from 400 BCE to the present day. Fabulous, welcoming and knowledgeable staff and volunteers who will make your visit one to remember and repeat. A wonderful day.

H
Harry Lad

Harry Lad

4 months ago

Amazing museum. The Industrial Revolution section was incredible. The man working there who spoke to us about the machines etc was lovely. Would definitely come again. The artwork is some of the best I have seen compared to a couple museums I have visited. The last I spoke to upstairs who asked me to fill a survey was also very helpful and kind. Would recommend to anyone from Blackburn or anyone who’s visiting the town and wants to learn more about its history. And it won’t cost you a penny

J
Jan Acton

Jan Acton

5 months ago

Lots to see and do, especially for children. I called to see the paintings, both the Open Art 2026 which is made up of local people's artwork and the gallery of old masters. The museum part houses lots of interesting objects including; a small Egyptian section, Chinese prints, pots and religious icons, all upstairs. Downstairs are a number of old spinning and weaving machines from factories in Lancashire as well as other memorabilia from 1920s onwards as well as some stuffed animals and birds. Definitely worth a visit. The staff are also very friendly, knowledgeable and helpful.

A
Abdul Shafi

Abdul Shafi

10 months ago

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.

Reviews last updated: 7 October 2026

Events at Blackburn Museum & Art Gallery

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 7 October 2026

Frequently asked questions about Blackburn Museum & Art Gallery

Is Blackburn Museum & Art Gallery free to visit?

Entry to Blackburn Museum & Art Gallery is completely free — there are no admission charges, making it a great no-cost option for a family day out.

Is Blackburn Museum & Art Gallery dog-friendly?

Dogs are not permitted at Blackburn Museum & Art Gallery.

Is there parking at Blackburn Museum & Art Gallery?

Blackburn Museum & Art Gallery doesn't have on-site parking, but parking is available nearby.

Is there food at Blackburn Museum & Art Gallery?

Blackburn Museum & Art Gallery doesn't have food on site — bring snacks or grab something nearby.

Is Blackburn Museum & Art Gallery pushchair-friendly?

Yes, Blackburn Museum & Art Gallery is pushchair, pram and buggy friendly — most areas are step-free so you can navigate easily with little ones in tow.

How long should we plan to spend at Blackburn Museum & Art Gallery?

Blackburn Museum & Art Gallery is a full-day experience — plan accordingly.

How do I get to Blackburn Museum & Art Gallery by public transport?

Blackburn Museum & Art Gallery is well-served by public transport.

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