Rushden Museum

About the museum

The idea of a museum for Rushden began in 1999, when local historians led by Susan Hollowell worried that the rapid growth of the town left nowhere to preserve and show its history. Several sites were considered over the years, but all proved unsuitable or too expensive. Funds were nevertheless raised under the name Friends of Rushden Museum. After the death of its leader the group stood still for a time, until in November 2005 a new constitution and a new group of trustees took over.

Today the museum occupies the former stable block in Hall Park, behind the historic Rushden Hall and next to the walled garden. It is run by volunteers and has a different exhibition each year, using pictures, maps, photographs and objects to tell the town’s social history. The collection has more than 5,000 artefacts, including material on the shoe and boot industry, agriculture and lace-making, as well as displays on local sports teams, schools and well-known residents.

An IT kiosk gives access to the town’s archives. The museum’s website adds articles on local history, and the volunteers give talks to local groups. Visits to Rushden Hall itself can also be arranged as historic tours.

Highlights

• Yearly changing exhibition on Rushden’s social history
• More than 5,000 artefacts, including shoemaking and lace-making objects
• Photographs and maps of the town
• IT kiosk with the town’s archives
• Setting in the old stable block of Hall Park

Permanent exhibition

• Rushden’s town history displays – Changing yearly displays of photographs, maps and objects on the social history of Rushden, including shoemaking, agriculture and lace-making.

Founded

2006

Operated by

Friends of Rushden Museum

Admission & discounts

Admission is free.

Admission is free.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible
• Elevator: no information
• Accessible restroom: no information
• Accessible parking: no information
• Service dogs welcome: no information
• Tactile models & exhibits: no information
• Sign language tours: no information
• Easy-to-read materials: no information
• Audio description: no information

The museum is wheelchair accessible.

Kids & families

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Getting there & parking

Vehicle access is to the rear of Rushden Hall in Hall Park. Pedestrians can enter the park from High Street South, Wymington Road or Hall Avenue; the museum is to the left of the hall, through the arch and past the toilets.

Amenities & dining

Public toilets are in the park near the museum entrance.

Events & venue rental

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Plan your visit