Grantham Museum: A Gateway to Local Heritage and Notable Lives
Explore Grantham’s rich heritage and meet its famous figures at this community-driven museum in a charming historic setting.
Grantham Museum, located on St Peter's Hill in Grantham, Lincolnshire, offers visitors a rich insight into the town’s history and its famous figures such as Sir Isaac Newton, Margaret Thatcher, and Edith Smith. Housed in a historic building since 1926, the museum features diverse exhibits including aviation heritage and wartime stories. Open Thursday to Saturday, it combines community-driven preservation with engaging displays for all ages.
A brief summary to Grantham Museum
- St Peter's Hill, Grantham, NG31 6PY, GB
- +441476568783
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit between Thursday and Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm, when the museum is open to the public.
- Take time to explore the aviation exhibits, including the rare Lancaster bomber gunner’s hatch.
- Enjoy a break at the museum’s café and browse the gift shop for unique local souvenirs.
- Consider leaving a donation to support ongoing renovations and community projects.
- Check the museum’s website or contact ahead for any special events or educational programs.
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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Bus
Local bus services connect Grantham town centre with nearby areas; from the main bus station, a 10-15 minute walk leads to the museum. Bus tickets cost approximately £2-4 depending on route. Services run frequently during the day but reduce in evenings and weekends.
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Train
Grantham railway station is about 1.5 miles from the museum. A taxi or local bus can be taken from the station to the museum, with taxi fares around £6-10 and bus fares around £2. The train station offers regular services to London, Nottingham, and other regional hubs.
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Car
Visitors arriving by car can use nearby public car parks on Welham Street and Watergate, both within a 5-10 minute walk of the museum. Parking fees typically range from £1.50 to £3 per hour. The museum area is pedestrian-friendly but parking is limited in peak times.
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Walking
For those staying in Grantham town centre, the museum is accessible on foot within 10-20 minutes via mostly flat, paved streets. The route is suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
Grantham Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Grantham Museum
A Historic Home for Grantham’s Stories
Grantham Museum is nestled in a historic building on St Peter’s Hill, which has served as its home since 1926. The museum’s origins trace back to the efforts of Henry Preston, its first curator and founder, whose extensive collection laid the foundation for the museum’s local history archives. Over the decades, the museum has evolved into a community hub that preserves and celebrates Grantham’s rich heritage, reflecting the town’s industrial past, social history, and cultural milestones.Celebrating Grantham’s Influential Figures
The museum’s exhibitions prominently feature notable personalities connected to Grantham. Among them is Sir Isaac Newton, who attended school nearby and whose scientific legacy is showcased through artifacts and interpretive displays. Margaret Thatcher, the UK’s first female prime minister and a Grantham native, is another focal point, with exhibits highlighting her life and political career. Edith Smith, recognized as the first female police officer with full powers in Britain, is also honored, underscoring the museum’s commitment to showcasing pioneering local figures.Aviation Heritage and Wartime Remembrances
Grantham’s significant role in aviation history is vividly captured through the museum’s dedicated displays. These include exhibitions on the Polish Airmen who were stationed in the area during World War II and the famed Dambusters raid. A remarkable artifact on loan from the Royal Air Force is the underbelly gunner’s hatch from Lancaster ED825, a bomber involved in critical wartime missions. The museum recounts the story of this aircraft’s final mission in 1943, offering visitors a poignant connection to the sacrifices made during the war.Community-Led Preservation and Future Plans
Since its closure threat in 2011, Grantham Museum has been revitalized by the Grantham Community Heritage Association, a group of dedicated volunteers who have managed its operations and development. The museum is currently undergoing renovations to enhance its exhibits and visitor experience, with plans to introduce more interactive and educational offerings. The community’s involvement is central to the museum’s mission, encouraging visitors to engage with local history and contribute ideas for its future.Visitor Experience and Facilities
Visitors to Grantham Museum can expect a welcoming environment with free admission, open Thursday through Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm. The museum includes a café, gift shop, and accessible facilities such as restrooms and seating areas. Its compact size allows for a visit lasting around 30 to 60 minutes, making it an ideal stop for those interested in history, families, and educational groups. The friendly volunteer staff provide insightful information, enhancing the experience for all ages.Location and Accessibility
Situated in the heart of Grantham, the museum is easily accessible and close to local amenities. Nearby parking is available on Welham Street and Watergate, supporting convenient access for visitors arriving by car. The museum’s central location also makes it a fitting cultural highlight within Lincolnshire’s broader heritage landscape, contributing to the town’s appeal as a destination for history enthusiasts and tourists alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Stamford Castle
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St Leonard's Priory, Stamford
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Old Trent Bridge
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Bunkers Hill
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16 Stoney Street
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Nottingham Contemporary
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City of Caves
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Weekday Cross Monument
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Watson Fothergill's Office
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Citylife UK
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Framework Knitters Museum
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St Peter's Church, Nottingham
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Unmissable attractions to see
Grantham House
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Margaret Thatcher birthplace
0.7 km
Explore the modest birthplace of Britain’s first female Prime Minister in Grantham, where history and legacy converge on Broad Street.
Belton Park
3.9 km
Explore 1,300 acres of historic gardens, ancient woodlands, and family-friendly adventures at Belton Park near Grantham.
Belton Park walk
4.0 km
Explore Belton Estate’s majestic house, exquisite gardens, and vast parkland for a perfect blend of history, nature, and family fun.
Bellmount Tower
4.6 km
Experience the charm of Bellmount Tower, a historic landmark offering breathtaking views and scenic walks in the heart of Lincolnshire's countryside.
Easton Walled Gardens
9.0 km
Discover the historic charm and seasonal beauty of Easton Walled Gardens, a tranquil haven near Grantham blending heritage and horticulture.
Belvoir Castle
9.7 km
Regency splendour on a hilltop, where a thousand years of aristocracy meets Hollywood glamour.
National Trust - Woolsthorpe Manor
11.3 km
Explore the birthplace of Sir Isaac Newton and discover the origins of gravity in this historic Lincolnshire manor with interactive science exhibits.
Grimsthorpe Castle Park & Gardens
18.2 km
Explore centuries of history, art, and nature at Grimsthorpe Castle Park & Gardens, a majestic estate with elegant gardens and vast wildlife-rich parkland.
Sleaford Museum
18.2 km
Discover Sleaford’s rich heritage through engaging exhibits and community stories at this volunteer-run local history museum with free entry.
Cogglesford Watermill
19.0 km
Discover England’s only working Sheriff’s watermill, where centuries of milling history and riverside charm come alive in Sleaford.
Temple Bruer Knights Templar Preceptory Tower
20.3 km
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Sconce and Devon Park
21.5 km
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Newark Castle and Gardens
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Newark Air Museum
22.0 km
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Essential places to dine
Restaurant Jericho
14.4 km
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Taylor's Fine Dining
21.8 km
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Six Bells
23.8 km
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The Bridge & Bayleaf
24.4 km
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The Five Bells
24.5 km
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Tom Browns - Nottingham
24.6 km
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The Old Vol
25.8 km
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The Wheatsheaf
27.8 km
A classic village pub in Burton Joyce offering hearty meals, traditional ales, and a welcoming countryside atmosphere.
Hambleton Hall
28.1 km
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Perkins Bar & Bistro
29.8 km
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The Gedling Inn
30.4 km
Neighbourhood pub and restaurant serving quality British fare with exceptional value and genuine warmth.
Windmill Farm - Dining & Carvery
32.3 km
A welcoming farmhouse pub and carvery in Lincoln serving hearty daily roasts and classic British dishes in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.
The Kongo
32.7 km
Experience authentic Nigerian cuisine and warm hospitality at The Kongo, Nottingham’s vibrant African restaurant in Sneinton.
Homestead
33.0 km
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Hammer & Pincers
33.3 km
A refined modern British restaurant in historic Wymeswold blending heritage charm with creative cuisine and boutique stays.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Scarlet Gifts
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Discover magical gothic treasures and vintage charm at Scarlet Gifts, Newark’s enchanting boutique for unique gifts and collectibles.
Lace Boutique
21.8 km
Discover exclusive UK designer fashion at Lace Boutique, Newark’s premier destination for premium and unique clothing collections.
Newark Antiques & Interiors Ltd
22.4 km
Discover Newark’s largest antiques centre with 13,500 sq ft of rare furniture, collectibles, and timeless treasures from over 80 trusted dealers.
Unique Boutique Ltd
23.2 km
Discover Unique Boutique Ltd, a charming clothing shop offering personalized fashion finds in the historic market town of Melton Mowbray.
Navenby Antiques Centre
23.2 km
Discover timeless treasures and local heritage in the heart of Navenby’s charming antiques centre.
Treat Boutique
30.4 km
A charming independent gift shop in Keyworth, Nottingham, offering stylish, affordable treasures for every occasion in a warm, welcoming setting.
The Little Boutique Co UK Ltd
30.4 km
A stylish ladies’ boutique in Keyworth offering fresh fashion, unique gifts, and warm, personalized service in a charming village setting.
Brant Road Shopping Centre
31.7 km
A compact and community-focused shopping centre in Lincoln with diverse shops and eateries open daily from early morning to late evening.
Iguazu Fair Trade Superstore
32.6 km
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Vintage Emporium
33.5 km
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That Weird Shop
33.7 km
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Blend
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Luisa's Vegan Chocolates
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Megan Crook Textiles
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Catori's Gift Shop
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Nags Head
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The Royal Oak
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The Nelson
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The Wine Bar Stamford
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The Bertie Arms
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The Test Match
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The New Castle
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King William IV
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The Bath Inn
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31K
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Bunk
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Pitcher & Piano Nottingham
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Cock & Hoop
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Revolution Nottingham - Hockley
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Dive into Hockley's nightlife heartbeat at Revolution, where masterful cocktails, fresh bites, and non-stop party vibes flow from noon till the early hours.
BrewDog Nottingham
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Craft beer paradise in a historic lace factory: 28 taps, sourdough pizzas, dog-friendly vibes, and Lace Market energy await in Nottingham's ultimate brew hub.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Tubes
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Lincoln Rock N Roll Club
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The Brickworks
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NG-One
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Eleven
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The Cell
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Dive into Nottingham's pulsing heart at The Cell, where affordable drinks, diverse beats, and Hockley's electric vibe fuel unforgettable nights of dance and discovery.
Tantra Night Clubs
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The Bodega Nottingham
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Popworld - Nottingham
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Ocean Nightclub
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Unit 13
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Dive into Nottingham's underground bassline haven at Unit 13, where industrial beats and stellar DJs fuel unforgettable warehouse raves.
Love zoo
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Dive into Nottingham's electrifying beats at Love Zoo, where house rhythms, dazzling lights, and cocktail-fueled nights create pure nightlife magic on Weekday Cross.
ICON
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VIBES NIGHTLIFE
34.7 km
Dive into Nottingham's pulsating party hub where weekend beats, neon lights, and vibrant crowds fuel epic nights until 2am—pure vibes unleashed.
Tunnel Club
34.7 km
Loud. Intimate. Disruptive. Dive into Nottingham's raw underground beats at this city-center nightclub powerhouse.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Cultural Heritage
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
- Photowalk
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
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
