Warrington Museum & Art Gallery: A Victorian Treasure of Art and History
Explore Victorian charm and global treasures in Warrington’s historic museum and art gallery, where culture and community come alive.
Warrington Museum & Art Gallery, housed in a Grade II listed Victorian building since 1857, offers a rich collection of over 200,000 artifacts spanning fine art, archaeology, natural history, and world cultures. Located in Warrington’s Cultural Quarter, it features permanent and rotating exhibitions, including works by renowned artists and local creators, alongside interactive family-friendly activities and archives exploring the town’s heritage.
A brief summary to Warrington Museum & Art Gallery
- Museum & Art Gallery, Bold St, Warrington, WA1 1JG, GB
- +441925442399
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Wednesday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 11 am-3 pm
Local tips
- Plan your visit on weekdays for quieter galleries and more space to explore the exhibits.
- Check the museum’s website for current temporary exhibitions and special events.
- Bring a packed lunch to enjoy in the Creativity Cove area, as there is no café on-site.
- Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to fully appreciate the diverse collections and interactive displays.
- Visit the Local Studies and Archives Searchroom for a fascinating dive into Warrington’s history.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Bus
Multiple local bus routes serve Warrington town center with stops approximately a 5-minute walk from the museum entrance. Bus travel times vary by starting point but typically range from 10 to 30 minutes within Warrington. Tickets cost around £2-£4 one way.
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Train
Warrington Bank Quay and Warrington Central railway stations are both about a 7 to 10-minute walk from the museum. Trains connect from Liverpool, Manchester, and other regional hubs. Tickets vary by route, generally £5-£15.
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Car
Visitors driving can find limited free parking at the nearby Pyramid Arts Centre and paid parking in Golden Square Shopping Centre. Travel times depend on traffic but typically range from 10 to 30 minutes from surrounding areas. Parking fees vary from £1 to £5 per hour.
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Walking
For those staying in central Warrington, the museum is accessible on foot via paved urban streets. Walking times from the bus interchange or train stations are approximately 7 to 10 minutes on level terrain, suitable for most mobility levels.
Warrington Museum & Art Gallery location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Warrington Museum & Art Gallery
A Historic Home for Art and Heritage
Warrington Museum & Art Gallery stands as one of the UK’s earliest civic museums, established in a building whose foundation stone was laid in 1855 and opened in 1857. The museum retains much of its Victorian charm, including original glass display cabinets that beautifully frame its extensive collections. This Grade II listed building is not only a vessel for art and artifacts but also a significant architectural landmark in Warrington’s Cultural Quarter.Diverse and Expansive Collections
The museum’s holdings encompass over 200,000 objects across 11 galleries, including three dedicated art galleries. Visitors can explore fine art masterpieces from the 19th and 20th centuries featuring artists such as Henry Woods, L.S. Lowry, and Sir Luke Fildes, alongside contemporary urban art from figures like Banksy and Tracey Emin. Beyond art, the museum showcases archaeological finds from local Roman settlements, natural history specimens including fossils and taxidermy, and cultural artifacts from around the world, such as Egyptian coffins and Japanese netsuke.Engaging Experiences for All Ages
Warrington Museum & Art Gallery offers an immersive visitor experience with interactive exhibits like the Time Tunnel, where guests can dress in Victorian clothing and learn about Warrington’s role in the Industrial Revolution. Family-friendly activities and free craft sessions on weekends encourage hands-on learning and creativity. The museum also houses the Local Studies and Archives Searchroom, a resource rich with documentary material on Warrington’s history, supporting deeper exploration for researchers and enthusiasts alike.Community Connection and Contemporary Exhibitions
The museum is deeply connected to its community, regularly hosting temporary exhibitions that showcase local artists and engage with current cultural themes. Its program includes events and workshops that invite visitors to participate actively in the arts. The adjacent Community Sky Garden atop Golden Square’s car park adds a unique green space element to the museum’s offerings, blending nature with culture.Visitor Amenities and Accessibility
While the museum does not have an on-site café, visitors are welcome to bring food and enjoy it in designated areas. Cold drinks can be purchased from the shop. The museum is accessible via the library entrance and makes accommodations for visitors with mobility needs. Nearby public transport options include Warrington Bus Interchange and Warrington Bank Quay Station, both within a short walking distance.Opening Hours and Admission
Open Wednesday to Friday from 10:00am to 4:30pm, Saturday until 4:00pm, and Sunday from 11:00am to 3:00pm, the museum is closed on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Bank Holidays. Admission is free, making it an inviting cultural destination for locals and travelers alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Golden Gates
0.3 km
Victorian ironwork masterpiece with royal rejection and industrial heritage.
Warrington Transporter Bridge
0.8 km
Explore the world’s only rail transporter bridge, a striking industrial landmark spanning the River Mersey, embodying Warrington’s rich heritage.
The Sankey Viaduct (Nine Arches)
7.6 km
Discover the stunning Sankey Viaduct in Leigh, a masterpiece of Victorian engineering featuring breathtaking views and rich historical significance.
Norton Water Tower
8.1 km
A majestic Victorian water tower in Runcorn, blending historic engineering with enduring utility and striking red sandstone architecture.
Sussex Road
10.9 km
Discover the charm of Cadishead at Sussex Road, your convenient gateway to local attractions and the vibrant culture of Manchester.
Taylor Park
12.9 km
Discover the natural beauty and tranquility of Taylor Park in Saint Helens, a perfect destination for relaxation and outdoor fun.
Sussex Close
16.7 km
Discover the charm of Wigan through Sussex Close, your essential bus stop to explore local attractions and immerse in the vibrant culture.
Eleanor Rigby Gravesite
18.1 km
Visit the poignant gravesite of Eleanor Rigby, the real-life inspiration behind The Beatles’ haunting song, nestled in historic Woolton churchyard.
Knutsford Obelisk
18.9 km
An 18th-century memorial obelisk honoring the Legh family, standing as a historic symbol amidst Knutsford’s rich heritage.
Barton Swing Aqueduct
18.9 km
Explore the world’s only swing aqueduct, a Victorian engineering marvel carrying the Bridgewater Canal over the Manchester Ship Canal since 1894.
National Trust - Speke Hall, Garden and Estate
19.3 km
Explore the enchanting Speke Hall, Garden and Estate in Liverpool - a historical gem with stunning gardens and rich heritage.
Abbeywood Gardens
20.2 km
Discover the enchanting beauty of Abbeywood Gardens in Delamere, a serene sanctuary filled with unique flora and stunning landscapes for every nature lover.
Stretford Weir
20.3 km
Historic riverside weir on the Mersey offering scenic walks, flood management insight, and a peaceful nature escape near Manchester.
St Barnabas Penny Lane
21.1 km
Historic church on iconic Penny Lane, blending Beatles heritage with vibrant community music and remembrance.
12 Arnold Grove
21.3 km
The humble Victorian birthplace of George Harrison, where The Beatles' quiet genius began his extraordinary journey.
Unmissable attractions to see
River Mersey
0.8 km
The River Mersey: Liverpool’s historic tidal estuary, offering iconic waterfront views, ferry crossings, and a deep connection to the city’s maritime soul.
Manchester Ship Canal
2.0 km
A monumental Victorian waterway that transformed Manchester into Britain’s third busiest port, linking industry and ocean trade 40 miles inland.
Gulliver's World Theme Park
2.5 km
A vibrant, family-friendly theme park in Warrington with rides, shows, and historic heritage for children aged 2 to 13.
Walton Hall and Gardens
2.9 km
Historic Walton Hall and Gardens blend Cheshire heritage with family-friendly attractions in a scenic, welcoming parkland setting.
Moore Nature Reserve
3.7 km
Explore nearly 200 acres of restored natural beauty and diverse wildlife at Moore Nature Reserve in Warrington, a tranquil haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike.
Grappenhall Heys Walled Garden
3.7 km
A peaceful 19th-century walled garden near Warrington, where ornamental ponds, kitchen plots, and Victorian glasshouses create a timeless green escape.
Lewis Carroll Centre
5.7 km
Discover the enchanting world of Lewis Carroll at All Saints Church, Daresbury, where literary history meets serene village charm.
Norton Priory Museum & Gardens
7.5 km
Explore Europe’s most excavated monastic site with medieval ruins, a stunning Georgian walled garden, and 900 years of rich history in tranquil woodland.
Risley Moss
7.6 km
Explore the serene peat bogs and woodland trails of Risley Moss, a protected nature reserve rich in wildlife and family-friendly charm near Warrington.
Lewis Carroll Centenary Wood
7.7 km
A peaceful woodland sanctuary near Warrington celebrating Lewis Carroll’s legacy with nature trails, memorial oaks, and serene rural charm.
Lymm Heritage Centre (Legh St)
7.8 km
Explore Lymm’s vibrant local history and traditions in this welcoming village heritage centre with interactive exhibits and community spirit.
Lymm Cross
7.9 km
Discover the historical charm of Lymm Cross, an iconic landmark nestled in the scenic village of Lymm, England, steeped in rich local heritage.
Lymm Village
7.9 km
Discover Lymm Village’s timeless charm with its historic 17th-century cross, scenic waterways, and vibrant community spirit in the heart of Cheshire.
Sutton Manor Woodland
8.8 km
A peaceful woodland sanctuary in Saint Helens featuring the striking Dream sculpture, blending art with nature and industrial heritage.
Victoria Park Widnes
9.0 km
A historic green sanctuary in Widnes offering botanical beauty, sports, family fun, and peaceful lakeside strolls all year round.
Essential places to dine
Spirit Restaurant & Lounge
1.3 km
Elegant contemporary British dining and versatile event venue set in the tranquil surroundings of Victoria Park, Warrington.
La Boheme
9.8 km
A long-standing French bistro in Lymm serving rich, traditional dishes in a relaxed, unpretentious setting.
Cock O’ Budworth
11.4 km
Historic 400-year-old coaching inn with cosy snugs, open fires, and classic British fare in the heart of Great Budworth village.
Restaurant Next Door
13.5 km
Intimate modern British dining in a historic 17th-century timber-framed building with seasonal, locally sourced menus and expert wine pairings.
The English Restaurant
15.3 km
Classic British chippy in Northwich serving hearty fish and chips with warm, friendly service in a casual setting.
Gallimore's Fine Restaurant
17.8 km
Contemporary British dining in Wigan’s historic town centre, offering quality menus in a stylish, welcoming setting.
The Wheel Restaurant
18.1 km
Experience award-winning, student-prepared cuisine in a warm, welcoming setting at Wigan’s unique Wheel Restaurant.
Fat Olive Restaurant
18.3 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean and British flavors in a welcoming, lively setting at Wigan’s beloved Fat Olive Restaurant.
Bells of Peover
19.5 km
Historic Cheshire gastropub blending rustic charm with fresh, seasonal dining in a picturesque countryside setting near Knutsford.
The Goshawk
19.6 km
Historic 19th-century coaching inn in Cheshire offering seasonal British fare, quality cask ales, family-friendly amenities, and a welcoming countryside atmosphere.
Vale Royal Abbey Arms
19.8 km
Traditional Cheshire pub serving hearty British fare with vegan options, cozy fires, and friendly service in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Dun Cow
20.2 km
A charming family-run gastropub near Knutsford offering hearty British classics and quality ales in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Ewe Restaurant and Bar
20.3 km
Modern British cuisine meets stylish comfort in Bolton’s Ewe Restaurant and Bar, perfect for memorable meals and special occasions.
The Fishpool Inn
20.6 km
A warm, family-friendly gastropub in Northwich blending rustic charm with modern British cuisine and a scenic beer garden.
Spire
21.1 km
Modern European dining with seasonal creativity and a plush, welcoming atmosphere in Liverpool’s vibrant Wavertree district.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Assortment Boutique Fashion and Home
0.4 km
A charming boutique in Warrington blending unique women's fashion with quirky homewares for a personalized shopping experience.
Cheshire & Hampton Vintage Emporiums @ Lady heyes (SHOPS)
14.0 km
Explore timeless treasures and vintage charm at Cheshire & Hampton Vintage Emporiums nestled in the heart of Lady Heyes, Frodsham.
Twisted Earth
14.9 km
Discover gothic, hippy, and rock-inspired gifts and fashion at Twisted Earth, Northwich’s premier alternative shop.
Quirky Cute Boutique
16.6 km
Discover vintage charm and handmade fashion treasures at Altrincham’s creative hotspot, The Quirky Cute Boutique.
Cocaranti I Premium Womenswear Cheshire
17.4 km
Discover unique, premium womenswear in Knutsford’s charming independent boutique blending style, sustainability, and personalized service.
The Hollies Farm Shop
20.3 km
Experience the best of Cheshire at The Hollies Farm Shop, where local produce meets artisanal delights in a charming countryside setting.
The Penny Lane Shopping Centre
21.2 km
Explore The Penny Lane Shopping Centre in Liverpool—your gateway to unique shops, delightful cafés, and the local culture of this iconic city.
Penny Lane Emporium
21.3 km
Discover unique vintage treasures and antiques in a warm, nostalgic setting at Liverpool’s Penny Lane Emporium.
The Body Shop
22.0 km
Compact MediaCityUK branch of The Body Shop with core cruelty‑free ranges, seasonal gifts and refill options on the Salford Quays Quayside.
The Works
22.1 km
Unleash creativity at unbeatable prices: books, crafts, toys and more in Salford Quays' discount haven.
Next Outlet
22.1 km
Discounted designer fashion, homewares and shoes in Salford Quays' bustling MediaCityUK hub – style-savvy shopping with premium brands at outlet prices.
Flock and Gaggle
22.1 km
Discover handcrafted gifts and local artistry in MediaCity UK's creative gem, where independent makers shine amid Salford's quayside buzz.
M&S Outlet
22.1 km
Bargain-hunting haven in Salford Quays: M&S discounted fashion, homeware, and beauty amid MediaCityUK's creative buzz.
The Sweet Emporium
22.2 km
Discover UK's vastest sweet collection at The Sweet Emporium in MediaCityUK—a family-run paradise of nostalgic candies, retro treats, and global confections that sparks joy for every sweet tooth.
SPAR Salford Quays
22.7 km
Small, practical 24-hour convenience store on Trafford Road serving Salford Quays visitors, residents and shift workers.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bold Street House
0.1 km
A lively cocktail bar and coffee shop in Warrington offering expertly crafted drinks, delicious food, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Salty Dog
15.0 km
A lively, dog-friendly pub in Northwich offering great beer, live music, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Cheshire Tap
16.2 km
Discover Cheshire Tap, Altrincham’s cozy craft beer bar with top local ales, a lively atmosphere, and a spacious garden retreat.
Lost & Found Knutsford
17.4 km
A stylish bar and pub in historic Knutsford blending vibrant atmosphere with contemporary dining and drinks.
Little Fifteen
17.8 km
Stylish wine bar and Italian restaurant in Wigan, blending vibrant atmosphere with classic design and a curated wine selection.
The Wiend Bar
17.8 km
Energetic cocktail bar and nightclub in Wigan offering strong drinks, vibrant DJ sets, and a lively atmosphere for late-night socializing.
Sherringtons Bar
18.9 km
A welcoming and lively bar in Wigan offering great drinks and a cozy atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Waggon & Horses
20.0 km
A lively traditional British pub in Westhoughton offering hearty fare, well-kept beers, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
The Dockyard
21.9 km
Rugged dockside pub in MediaCityUK: cask ales, hearty pies, and industrial charm for after-work vibes and Quays camaraderie.
SEVEN BRO7HERS BEERHOUSE Media City
22.0 km
Craft beer haven in MediaCityUK: house-brewed IPAs, pizzas, and lively vibes await at Seven Bro7hers' Salford outpost, perfect for post-work pints or casual hangs.
Craftbrew
22.0 km
Salford Quays' craft beer haven: artisan brews, tapas, and coffee in industrial-chic style, from dawn brunch to midnight pours.
11 Central
22.1 km
Riverside bar in MediaCityUK serving craft brews and bites amid Salford's creative quayside energy—ideal for relaxed evenings with canal views.
Fox & Barrel
22.3 km
Charming Cheshire country pub offering exceptional British fare, a welcoming atmosphere, and scenic beer garden in Cotebrook near Tarporley.
Reflexion Lounge Manchester Shisha
22.6 km
Luxury glass-fronted shisha lounge on Salford Quays, blending waterfront views, flavorful hookahs, Moroccan teas, and plush VIP vibes for unforgettable evenings.
Matchstick Man
22.6 km
Waterside, budget-friendly pub serving hearty classics and live sport in a modern, family-friendly setting at Salford Quays.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Babylon Retro Bar
0.2 km
Dive into Warrington’s vibrant retro nightlife with classic 80s and 90s tunes at Babylon Retro Bar, your weekend hotspot for music and fun.
Reflex & Babylon
0.2 km
Experience Warrington’s vibrant nightlife at Reflex & Babylon, a lively nightclub and bar blending energetic music with a welcoming atmosphere.
The Establishment
9.4 km
A vibrant Widnes nightclub offering lively events, friendly staff, and a spacious venue for unforgettable nights out.
Ibiza Nightclub
17.7 km
Experience Wigan’s vibrant nightlife at Ibiza Nightclub, where music, dance, and unforgettable Saturday nights come alive until dawn.
Pure Nightclub
17.8 km
Experience Wigan’s vibrant nightlife at Pure Nightclub, where energetic beats, stylish vibes, and unforgettable late-night memories come alive every Saturday.
Underground
22.4 km
Experience classic rave vibes and late-night energy at Underground, Bolton’s intimate clubbing hotspot in Farnworth.
Level Nightclub
23.9 km
Experience Bolton’s vibrant nightlife at Level Nightclub, where dynamic music, affordable drinks, and lively atmosphere create unforgettable nights.
Ark Manchester
24.9 km
Multi-room beats and canal-side cocktails fuel Manchester's electric Deansgate Locks nightlife at Ark—dance, drink, repeat till dawn.
Popworld Manchester
24.9 km
Dance to cheesy pop anthems amid neon lights and poptail cocktails in Manchester's ultimate throwback nightclub.
Royal Vida Night Club
25.0 km
Dive into Manchester's underground pulse at Royal Vida, where Castlefield's industrial shadows host thumping beats and endless nights from 11pm to 4am.
History Nightclub
25.0 km
Experience Manchester’s lively hip hop and house beats at History Nightclub, a large, energetic venue open late into the night.
Bliss Club Manchester
25.1 km
Experience Manchester’s authentic late-night vibe at Bliss Club, where music and local energy blend into a spirited urban nightlife hub.
42's
25.1 km
Manchester’s iconic indie nightclub blending rich musical heritage with a lively, inclusive nightlife experience.
Venue Nightclub
25.2 km
Manchester's underground indie haven: cheap drinks, packed dance floors, and anthems till dawn in Deansgate's electric night scene.
The Blue Angel Nightclub
25.3 km
Liverpool's dingy dive for 60s rock legends, dirt-cheap drinks, and sweaty throwback dances—where The Beatles once rocked and students still rage till dawn.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
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
- Family Friendly
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly