Nantwich Museum: The Heart of Cheshire’s Rich Heritage
Discover Nantwich’s captivating history from Roman salt making to industrial heritage at this welcoming, free-entry museum in the town center.
Nantwich Museum, located in the historic town center on Pillory Street, offers a captivating journey through the local history of Nantwich. From Roman salt making and the Great Fire of Tudor times to the Civil War Battle of Nantwich and the town’s industrial heritage in shoe and clothing manufacturing, the museum presents these stories with engaging displays and special exhibitions. Open Tuesday to Saturday, it is a cultural gem with free admission and a welcoming atmosphere.
A brief summary to Nantwich Museum
- 29 Pillory St, Nantwich, CW5 5BQ, GB
- +441270627104
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Plan for a 1 to 2-hour visit to fully explore the main galleries and special exhibitions.
- Check the museum’s website for current exhibitions and special events like walking tours.
- Visit between Tuesday and Saturday, 10am to 4pm; the museum is closed on Sundays and Mondays.
- Admission is free, making it an accessible cultural experience for all visitors.
- Combine your visit with nearby historic sites such as the Parish Church of St Mary for a fuller Nantwich experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Local bus services connect Nantwich town center with surrounding Cheshire areas, with regular routes stopping near Pillory Street. Travel times vary from 15 to 45 minutes depending on origin. Tickets cost approximately £2 to £5. Buses run frequently Tuesday to Saturday but are limited on Sundays and Mondays.
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Train
Nantwich railway station is about 2.5 km from the museum. A taxi or local bus from the station takes 10 to 15 minutes. Train services link Nantwich with Crewe and Chester, with fares ranging from £5 to £15 depending on departure point.
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Car
Driving to Nantwich Museum is straightforward with several public car parks nearby. Parking fees typically range from £2 to £6 for a half-day. Note that the museum is in a pedestrian-friendly zone, so some walking from parking areas is required.
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Walking
If staying in central Nantwich, the museum is easily accessible on foot via flat, paved streets. Walking times from most town center hotels range from 5 to 15 minutes. The route is suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
Nantwich Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Nantwich Museum
A Window into Nantwich’s Past
Nantwich Museum is dedicated to preserving and presenting the rich history of one of Cheshire’s most charming towns. Established in 1980, the museum is housed in a historic building on Pillory Street, right in the heart of Nantwich. Its galleries trace the town’s development from Roman times, highlighting the significance of salt production in the area, through the dramatic Great Fire of Nantwich in the Tudor period, to the pivotal Civil War battle fought here in 1644. Each exhibit is thoughtfully curated to bring these eras to life, combining artifacts, interactive displays, and detailed narratives.Exploring Local Industry and Culture
Beyond the early history, the museum delves into Nantwich’s more recent industrial past, focusing on its once-thriving shoe and clothing industries that shaped the town’s economy and community. Visitors can explore dedicated rooms that showcase the craftsmanship and daily lives of workers, offering insight into the social fabric of the town during the 19th and 20th centuries. Rotating exhibitions and community gallery spaces often feature local artists and thematic displays, adding contemporary cultural layers to the museum’s offerings.Events and Educational Programs
Nantwich Museum is not just a static collection but an active cultural hub. It hosts a variety of events, including walking tours that explore different facets of Nantwich’s heritage, such as its historic pubs and riverside areas. Educational programs and family-friendly activities are regularly scheduled, making it an engaging destination for visitors of all ages. The museum also celebrates local traditions and festivals, enriching the visitor experience with seasonal and thematic events.Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
The museum’s atmosphere is intimate and atmospheric, with well-lit galleries and carefully arranged exhibits that invite exploration and reflection. Its location on Pillory Street places it within easy reach of Nantwich’s other historic sites and charming town center amenities. Admission is free, encouraging spontaneous visits and repeat exploration. The museum’s staff and volunteers are known for their welcoming approach, enhancing the sense of community and shared heritage.Architectural and Visual Appeal
While the museum itself is housed in a building that reflects Nantwich’s historic character, the interior design balances traditional and modern elements to create an accessible and engaging environment. Exhibits are arranged to maximize visitor flow and understanding, with clear signage and comfortable viewing areas. The museum’s visual appeal is complemented by its proximity to other landmarks, including the nearby Parish Church of St Mary, known as the 'Cathedral of South Cheshire'.Planning Your Visit
Open from Tuesday to Saturday, 10am to 4pm, Nantwich Museum offers a manageable visit duration of about 1 to 2 hours, ideal for a half-day cultural outing. Its central location and free entry make it an excellent choice for visitors seeking to deepen their understanding of Cheshire’s heritage without extensive planning or expense. Nearby amenities include cafes, shops, and other attractions, allowing for a well-rounded day in Nantwich.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Burma Star Island
4.9 km
A serene memorial island in Crewe honoring the courage and sacrifice of World War II’s Burma Campaign heroes.
Walmoor Hill (Douglas Castle)
26.9 km
Explore Walmoor Hill, the grand Elizabethan-style Douglas Castle perched above the River Dee, a historic gem of Chester’s architectural heritage.
Uffington House, Chester
27.6 km
Victorian literary landmark where author Thomas Hughes built his Chester residence in 1885.
Statue of Richard Grosvenor, Second Marquess of Westminster
27.7 km
Discover the monumental Statue of Richard Grosvenor in Chester, a testament to history and artistry surrounded by the charm of this ancient city.
Overleigh Water Tower
27.8 km
Discover the Overleigh Water Tower, a stunning historical landmark in Chester, offering a blend of rich heritage and scenic beauty for all visitors.
Churchill House
27.8 km
A vibrant academic landmark on Chester’s Queen’s Park campus, blending historic charm with modern learning and scenic riverside views.
Chester Shot Tower
27.8 km
Explore Chester’s 168-foot-tall 1799 Shot Tower, a rare industrial relic and symbol of Britain’s lead shot manufacturing heritage.
Queens Park Bridge
27.8 km
A historic Victorian-era suspension footbridge spanning the River Dee with elegant lattice ironwork and timeless charm.
Knutsford Obelisk
27.8 km
An 18th-century memorial obelisk honoring the Legh family, standing as a historic symbol amidst Knutsford’s rich heritage.
Grosvenor Park
27.8 km
Discover the beauty and tranquility of Grosvenor Park, Chester's Victorian gem, perfect for relaxation, nature walks, and family fun.
Goddess Minerva's Shrine
27.9 km
Explore the serene beauty of Goddess Minerva's Shrine in Handbridge, Chester, a captivating blend of history and tranquility amidst lush surroundings.
Parish Church of St John the Baptist, Chester
27.9 km
Discover the captivating history and stunning architecture of the Parish Church of St John the Baptist in Chester, a must-visit Anglican gem.
Wishing Steps
28.0 km
Historic stone steps at Chester’s medieval walls where wishes come true through a charming local tradition.
Old Palace Chester
28.0 km
Explore Old Palace Chester, a stunning historic venue for weddings and events, set in the heart of Chester's rich heritage.
Bridge Gate and Old Dee Bridge
28.0 km
Historic medieval gateway and ancient stone bridge spanning the scenic tidal River Dee in Chester’s charming riverside setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
Northern Belle
0.1 km
Step aboard the Northern Belle for a timeless journey of vintage luxury, gourmet dining, and breathtaking British landscapes.
St Mary’s Church, Nantwich
0.2 km
Discover the medieval grandeur and intricate vaulting of Nantwich’s iconic St Mary’s Church, the ‘Cathedral of South Cheshire.’
Hack Green Secret Nuclear Bunker
4.3 km
Explore the secret underground Cold War bunker near Nantwich, revealing Britain's nuclear defense history in an immersive museum experience.
Wybunbury Moss NNR SSSI site
4.9 km
Discover the serene peatland beauty and rich wildlife of Wybunbury Moss, a tranquil nature reserve in the heart of Cheshire’s Meres and Mosses.
Dagfields Craft & Antiques
5.8 km
Explore 25 unique shops of antiques, crafts, vintage toys, and enjoy homemade food in a welcoming Cheshire complex.
Crewe Heritage Centre
6.5 km
Discover Crewe’s transformation from farmland to railway capital through interactive exhibits, miniature trains, and rich industrial heritage.
Crewe War Memorial
6.5 km
A solemn bronze tribute in Crewe’s Memorial Square honoring local heroes from world conflicts with striking artistry and historic reverence.
Bunbury Mill
9.8 km
Explore a fully operational historic watermill in Cheshire, where tradition, hands-on learning, and rural charm meet.
Cholmondeley Castle Gardens
10.4 km
Explore 70 acres of romantic gardens, rare plants, and tranquil woodland walks surrounding the private Cholmondeley Castle in Cheshire.
BeWILDerwood Cheshire
10.9 km
Step into a magical woodland world of adventure, storytelling, and giant treehouses at BeWILDerwood Cheshire, a wild day out for all ages.
Land Rover Experience Cheshire
13.2 km
Master off-road driving in iconic Land Rover vehicles amidst the stunning landscapes and historic charm of Peckforton Castle.
Peckforton Castle
13.2 km
Experience timeless grandeur and modern luxury at Peckforton Castle, Cheshire’s enchanting medieval-style Victorian fortress hotel.
Beeston Castle
13.5 km
Historic castle ruins with legendary treasure, panoramic views, and enchanting woodland trails in the heart of Cheshire.
Sandbach Crosses
13.7 km
Discover the historical significance and stunning artistry of Sandbach Crosses, a must-visit landmark nestled in the heart of Sandbach, England.
Raw Head
14.6 km
Explore Raw Head, Cheshire’s highest sandstone summit offering stunning panoramic views, rich geology, and tranquil woodland trails.
Essential places to dine
Academy Restaurant
5.2 km
Experience fine dining crafted by rising hospitality stars in a stylish, award-winning training restaurant in Crewe.
The Coast Tarporley
14.3 km
Savor fresh Italian-inspired cuisine in the heart of Tarporley with warm service and a breezy coastal ambiance.
Wild Shropshire Restaurant
15.2 km
Discover Wild Shropshire, a Michelin Green Star restaurant offering a micro-seasonal, sustainable tasting menu that celebrates North Shropshire’s wild flavors.
Docket Restaurant
15.3 km
Exquisite modern British tasting menus in Whitchurch, blending local seasonal produce with culinary artistry and impeccable service.
The Fishpool Inn
17.8 km
A warm, family-friendly gastropub in Northwich blending rustic charm with modern British cuisine and a scenic beer garden.
Vale Royal Abbey Arms
18.7 km
Traditional Cheshire pub serving hearty British fare with vegan options, cozy fires, and friendly service in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Vines at Carden Park
19.2 km
Award-winning fine dining at Carden Park with seasonal British cuisine, an onsite vineyard, and an intimate, elegant atmosphere near Chester.
Pecks Restaurant
19.9 km
A refined British dining experience in Cheshire, blending seasonal flavors with a theatrical tasting menu and a welcoming countryside atmosphere.
Marloes Restaurant
20.8 km
An intimate British bistro in Newcastle-under-Lyme, where seasonal European cuisine and a legendary beef Wellington make every meal feel like a celebration.
Ostler Restaurant
20.9 km
A charming British dining experience blending historic ambiance with quality cuisine in the heart of Newcastle-under-Lyme.
The Yellow Broom Restaurant
21.0 km
Elegant countryside dining in Cheshire with superb cuisine, warm service, and a versatile venue for lunches, afternoon teas, and weddings.
The English Restaurant
21.3 km
Classic British chippy in Northwich serving hearty fish and chips with warm, friendly service in a casual setting.
85 Secret Garden
21.3 km
Discover the enchanting blend of fine dining, creative cocktails, and soulful ambiance at 85 Secret Garden in Newcastle-under-Lyme.
Cornichon
21.9 km
A charming French bistro in a historic Victorian building offering seasonal classics and warm hospitality in Tarvin, Chester.
Orange Tree Bar and Grill
22.1 km
Stylish bar and grill in Stoke-on-Trent offering creative grill dishes, excellent steaks, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Walk The Line Vintage
0.0 km
Discover timeless style and unique vintage fashion treasures in the heart of Nantwich at Walk The Line Vintage.
The Market Shopping Centre
6.5 km
Conveniently located in Crewe town centre, The Market Shopping Centre offers a practical and accessible retail experience for everyday shopping needs.
Crafts of Cheshire (Ltd)
7.3 km
Discover handmade gifts and holistic wellbeing products that inspire positivity through scent and colour in the heart of Crewe.
Cabin Boutique
11.5 km
Discover stylish women's fashion in a charming log cabin boutique nestled within Middlewich’s Hopley House Shopping Village.
Stitch
14.3 km
Discover Tarporley’s premier craft boutique offering quality yarns, sewing supplies, and expert knitting workshops in a charming village setting.
LOLA | Clothes shop in Tarporley
14.4 km
Discover timeless, ethical ladies’ fashion and accessories in the heart of Tarporley’s charming High Street.
Nike Clearance Store
17.2 km
Discover discounted Nike gear and footwear at Talke Retail Park’s dedicated clearance store in Stoke-on-Trent.
Roebuck Shopping Centre
20.5 km
A historic-rooted shopping centre blending national brands and local charm in the heart of Newcastle-under-Lyme’s vibrant High Street.
Twisted Earth
21.8 km
Discover gothic, hippy, and rock-inspired gifts and fashion at Twisted Earth, Northwich’s premier alternative shop.
Festival Heights Retail Park
22.4 km
A modern, accessible retail park in Stoke-on-Trent offering diverse shopping options and convenient amenities for a seamless shopping experience.
Sign of the Times Antiques ltd
22.6 km
Discover quirky antiques and vintage treasures at Sign of the Times Antiques Ltd, a unique shop in Stoke-on-Trent’s historic Burslem district.
Hippie at Heart
23.4 km
Discover vibrant fair trade fashion and unique bohemian styles at Hippie at Heart, Stoke-on-Trent’s ethical clothing boutique.
The Potteries Centre
23.5 km
Staffordshire’s largest shopping and leisure destination with over 50 stores, dining, cinema, and community events all under one roof.
Trentham Shopping Village
24.5 km
Explore over 77 charming timber lodges filled with unique shops, cafés, and restaurants in a friendly village atmosphere near Trentham Gardens.
Goomoo
24.5 km
Discover unique, fair-trade gifts and curiosities at Goomoo, nestled in the scenic Trentham Shopping Village in Stoke-on-Trent.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Boars Head
5.6 km
A charming gastropub near Nantwich serving refined British cuisine in a cozy countryside setting with welcoming service and a lively beer garden.
The Pheasant Inn
13.6 km
Charming 5-star country inn with panoramic Cheshire views, renowned food, and cozy rooms on the Sandstone Trail.
The Beer Emporium
13.7 km
Discover Sandbach’s craft beer gem with a vast selection of ales, a cozy atmosphere, and a welcoming community spirit.
The Shady
14.4 km
A charming canalside country pub offering classic British fare, scenic castle views, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in Tarporley.
Fox & Barrel
15.8 km
Charming Cheshire country pub offering exceptional British fare, a welcoming atmosphere, and scenic beer garden in Cotebrook near Tarporley.
The Swan With Two Necks
18.0 km
A stylish gastropub in Blackbrook blending classic British flavours with modern comfort and scenic countryside charm.
The Swettenham Arms
21.1 km
Traditional Cheshire country pub with scenic gardens, classic British fare, and a charming wedding venue in the heart of Swettenham village.
The Salty Dog
21.7 km
A lively, dog-friendly pub in Northwich offering great beer, live music, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
DV8 Bar & Lounge
23.2 km
A vibrant bar and lounge in Congleton offering excellent cocktails, hearty food, and a warm, lively atmosphere in a charming historic setting.
Basement
23.4 km
Experience Stoke-on-Trent’s vibrant nightlife in the Basement, a cool underground bar and events venue in the heart of Hanley.
Sutherland Arms
23.4 km
A welcoming pub and cozy B&B in Stoke-on-Trent offering quality ales, lively events, and comfortable rooms with self-catering facilities.
The Cheshire Cat
24.6 km
Historic country pub in Christleton offering hearty seasonal fare, cask ales, and warm hospitality in a charming rural setting near Chester.
No.41
25.4 km
A stylish pub in Milton, Stoke-on-Trent, known for its eclectic decor, craft ales, cocktails, and extensive gin selection.
Fitzherbert Arms
25.9 km
Historic Staffordshire pub blending award-winning cuisine, rustic charm, and warm hospitality in the heart of Swynnerton village.
The Plume of Feathers- With Neil Morrissey
27.2 km
A friendly canalside pub in Barlaston offering fresh local food, Neil Morrissey’s ales, and a welcoming atmosphere for all ages and pets.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Studio
0.2 km
Experience Nantwich’s energetic nightlife at The Studio, a vibrant club known for live DJs, dance music, and late-night fun in the town center.
Reflex - Newcastle Under Lyme
20.6 km
Experience vibrant nightlife at Reflex, Newcastle Under Lyme’s central nightclub and lounge with lively music and social vibes.
3D Congleton
23.3 km
A vibrant and affordable nightclub in Congleton’s town centre, perfect for late-night dancing and fun weekends.
Gossip!
23.3 km
Stoke-on-Trent’s premier gay nightclub with vibrant bars, dance floor, and beer garden offering lively, inclusive nightlife in Hanley.
The Club
23.3 km
A lively nightclub and sports bar at Congleton’s heart, blending live music, casual vibes, and affordable fun.
TTL Nightclub
23.3 km
Experience Stoke-on-Trent’s vibrant nightlife at TTL Nightclub, Hanley’s energetic hub for dance, music, and social nights.
Pink Nightclub - Stoke on Trent
23.4 km
Experience the vibrant and friendly nightlife of Pink Nightclub, Hanley’s lively late-night venue with great drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
Reflex - Hanley
23.4 km
Energetic and inclusive nightclub in Hanley, offering classic 80s/90s tunes, affordable drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere for memorable nights out.
BONOBO Bar & Canteen
28.1 km
A vibrant two-floor bar and canteen in Chester blending American eats, cocktails, video games, and lively music for a unique nightlife experience.
Cruise
28.1 km
A multi-floor nightclub in Chester offering vibrant music, premium drinks, and lively nightlife across seven bars.
The Live Rooms
28.2 km
Discover Chester's vibrant nightlife at The Live Rooms, where live music, comedy, and unforgettable experiences await.
Mandy & Graham’s
28.2 km
Experience Chester’s vibrant nightlife at Mandy & Graham’s, where pulsating beats and lively crowds create unforgettable party nights.
Rosies - Chester
28.4 km
Experience Chester’s vibrant nightlife at Rosies, a multiroom club with rooftop terrace, VIP lounges, and cutting-edge sound over three lively floors.
Chester City Club
28.5 km
Experience Chester’s vibrant nightlife at City Club, where modern beats meet historic charm in the heart of St Peters Churchyard.
The Magnet Club
31.8 km
Wrexham’s independent venue since 1984, The Magnet Club blends live music, sports, and social games in a welcoming, refurbished space on King Street.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
