Explore hidden treasures in a seventeenth-century half-timbered cottage museum showcasing Hinckley's rich textile and hosiery heritage.

Hinckley & District Museum is housed in a remarkable pair of seventeenth-century half-timbered cottages, the most complete example of such buildings remaining in Hinckley. Originally constructed as a farmhouse with box-frame construction and tie-beam roof, the cottages were restored and altered to their present appearance in 1927-28. The museum has occupied these historic buildings since 1996, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into local history. The museum showcases the area's significant textile and hosiery heritage through carefully curated displays and interactive resources. Visitors can explore themes including framework knitting, the textiles heritage project, and exhibitions such as "Nobody Told Us" and "Keep the Home Fires Burning," which explore local stories and the homefront experience during wartime. The venue is run entirely by dedicated volunteers and holds full Accredited Museum status from Arts Council England, as well as VisitEngland Quality Assured status. Suitable for families with children aged 5 and above, the museum offers affordable admission with special discounts for young visitors. The intimate setting and volunteer-led approach create a welcoming atmosphere for those interested in local history, heritage, and the fascinating story of Hinckley's industrial past. Bookable events and seasonal activities provide engaging experiences throughout the year.

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

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Audrey&Tony Gray

3 months ago

Lovely visit. Enthusiastic and friendly volunteers. Great little kids dress up area and cheap snacks.

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Janine Farmer

4 months ago

Went to visit Hinckley museum today, wonderful experience, very interesting and enjoyed my visit, had a couple of members telling us about the history surrounding Hinckley. Very good, well worth visit

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Karen B

8 months ago

I visited here in May 2025. It is an interesting local museum with a lot of information about the history of the local hosiery industry, including the machines people would have used at home, and you may also get the opportunity to have a go yourself. If you have ancestors who worked in the industry, it is a good way to get an idea of what it was like for them.

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Alan McConnell

2 years ago

Small but very interesting, with a chance to operate a sock knitting machine. I particularly liked the map of Roman finds in the area and the link to the Atkins knitting factory and family. The cottage that houses the museum has a fascinating history too. Well worth a visit.

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Mohamed Mohamed

3 years ago

Hinckley & District Museum is a historical place about history in Hinckley. There is a toilet, restaurant, wheelchair accessible entrance and car park. It is recommended to bring your kids around and it is very cheap to get in. The car park needs to be paid unless you have a disability blue badge

Reviews last updated: 29 September 2026