Explore local heritage through interactive exhibits on history, geology, archaeology and industry in a converted Victorian swimming baths.

Charnwood Museum is housed in a historic Victorian swimming baths building and showcases the rich heritage of the local area. The museum features a wide range of exhibits reflecting the history, geology, archaeology and industries of Charnwood and surrounding areas, making it an engaging destination for families interested in learning about their local heritage. Permanent displays include 'Coming to Charnwood', 'The Natural World of Charnwood', 'Living off the Land' and 'Earning a Living', each offering insights into different aspects of the region's past. The museum also hosts the Charnwood Gallery, a main changing exhibition space that features a variety of different displays throughout the year, ensuring there's always something new to discover. The venue is particularly family-friendly with dedicated accessibility features including sensory backpacks, a quiet zone, social stories and a sensory map to support visitors with different needs. School and group visits are welcome, and the on-site café Olivia's at Queens Park provides refreshments. The museum is dog-friendly, making it accessible to visitors with pets. Free entry and indoor facilities make it an ideal rainy-day activity for families exploring local history.

Venue Details

What this place offers

Toilets

Public transport nearby

Accessible toilets

Free WiFi

Baby changing facilities

Food available

On-site parking

🐕Dog-friendly

Parking nearby

Pushchair friendly

☕ Food & Drink

J

Jay HZ

3 weeks ago

A small but ram packed museum of local history, with so much for younger kids. The cafe (separately run, but accessible from both outside and the back of the gallery) has a a great choice of food and drink. Children's play area is well stocked in the museum with the outdoor park playground, duck ponds and aviary seconds away. Perfect hub for a day in the park.

A

Alice Goss

2 months ago

What a brilliant museum. There's so much on display relating to the history of Loughborough. There are displays for children and many objects and archaeology finds on display. Free entry also.

T

Thu Ya Win

6 months ago

It's a small musuem located in the park. It's free, which is good, and the exhibits are well curated.

L

Lara Keats

10 months ago

It's a super nice museum, good especially for children to learn and improve knowledge about history!

P

Paul McCullock

11 months ago

Absolutely superb museum for its size. We spent at least an hour here. With the grand children. Well worth a visit. The cafe is also very nice.

Reviews last updated: 29 September 2026