Headstone Manor and Museum: A Journey Through Harrow’s Rich Heritage
Explore centuries of Harrow’s history at Headstone Manor and Museum, a stunning 14th-century moated manor with engaging exhibits and family activities.
Headstone Manor and Museum, located in Harrow, London, is a captivating historic site featuring a 14th-century moated manor house and several listed buildings. The museum showcases Harrow’s history from ancient times to the present through extensive collections, exhibitions, and family-friendly activities. Set within beautiful grounds including the only surviving filled moat in Middlesex, it offers visitors a unique blend of architectural heritage, local stories, and engaging learning experiences.
A brief summary to Headstone Manor and Museum
- Headstone Manor, Headstone Recreation Ground, Pinner View, Harrow, HA2 6PX, GB
- +442088636720
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- 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
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit the Granary Learning Centre for hands-on craft activities perfect for families and children.
- Take a stroll around the moat and gardens, and enjoy feeding the ducks with food available at the Moat Café.
- Check the museum’s event calendar for talks, exhibitions, and seasonal activities like the Christmas Light Trail.
- Explore the Harrow Local History Collection and Archive for deeper insights into the borough’s past.
- Don’t miss the Great Barn, a beautifully restored historic building often used for weddings and community events.
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 Transport
Take the London Underground Metropolitan Line to Harrow-on-the-Hill station, then catch bus route 258 or H12 towards Headstone Manor. The journey from the station to the museum takes approximately 15–20 minutes on the bus. Buses run frequently but check schedules for weekend variations. A single bus fare costs around £2.00 with contactless payment.
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Car
Driving to Headstone Manor and Museum from central Harrow takes about 10–15 minutes depending on traffic. Limited on-site parking is available, so arriving early is recommended. Parking is free but spaces can fill quickly during weekends and events.
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Walking
If you are staying nearby, walking to the museum is a pleasant option. From Harrow town centre, it is approximately a 30-minute walk on mostly flat terrain through residential areas and parks. The route is accessible but may not be suitable for all mobility levels.
Headstone Manor and 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 Headstone Manor and Museum
Historic Foundations and Architectural Legacy
Headstone Manor stands as one of the oldest surviving timber-framed buildings in Middlesex, with origins dating back to the early 14th century. The manor’s land was first recorded in 825 AD when Archbishop Wulfred acquired it, and the construction of the manor house began around 1310. The site is notable for its medieval moat, built in 1344 as a status symbol, which remains filled with water and is the only surviving moat in Middlesex. Over centuries, the manor passed through the hands of Archbishops of Canterbury, the Crown under Henry VIII, and private owners, each leaving architectural marks such as the 18th-century brick façade. Despite periods of disrepair, restoration efforts have preserved the manor’s historic fabric, making it a tangible link to Harrow’s past.The Museum’s Role in Preserving Local History
Established in 1986 by local volunteers, Headstone Manor and Museum serves as the custodian of Harrow’s heritage. It houses over 15,000 artefacts that narrate the borough’s social, industrial, and cultural evolution. These include archaeological finds from prehistoric and Roman times, industrial relics from the Kodak factory, Whitefriars Glassworks, and Hamilton’s Brushworks, as well as fine art and natural history specimens. The museum’s four historic buildings—the Manor House, Great Barn, Granary, and Small Barn—each contribute unique contexts for exhibitions and learning, with the Granary serving as a vibrant educational centre after its 2017 restoration.Engaging Experiences for Families and Visitors
Headstone Manor and Museum offers a variety of interactive activities designed for families and children. Visitors can enjoy dressing up, crafting, and hands-on learning in the Granary Learning Centre. The grounds feature a nature trail around the moat, where guests can spot local wildlife and feed ducks with food available at the Moat Café. The museum regularly hosts exhibitions, talks, and community events, fostering a dynamic environment that connects visitors of all ages with Harrow’s stories. The Great Barn, restored and transformed into an event space, also hosts weddings and special occasions, adding to the site’s communal significance.The Harrow Local History Collection and Archive
Since 2013, the museum has been home to the Harrow Local History Collection and Archive, which holds over 60,000 items including documents, photographs, maps, and ephemera related to the borough’s past and present. This archive supports research and public interest in Harrow’s heritage, with ongoing efforts to improve accessibility through a new research area. The collection complements the museum’s exhibits by providing deeper insights into the people and places that shaped the local community over centuries.Natural Beauty and Surrounding Grounds
The museum is set within Headstone Recreation Ground, featuring beautifully maintained gardens and the historic moat that encircles the manor. The outdoor environment offers a tranquil setting for visitors to relax and explore. Seasonal events such as the Christmas Light Trail enhance the experience with festive atmosphere and community engagement. The combination of historic architecture and natural surroundings makes the site a scenic and peaceful destination in the heart of Harrow.Preservation and Community Significance
Headstone Manor and Museum stands as a testament to community-driven preservation and historical education. Its status as a scheduled monument and the listing of its buildings underscore its cultural importance. Continuous restoration and programming ensure that the site remains relevant and accessible, celebrating Harrow’s heritage while serving as a vibrant community hub. The museum’s dedication to storytelling through artefacts, architecture, and activities invites visitors to connect with the rich tapestry of local history in an immersive and meaningful way.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Aparthotel Adagio London Brentford
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Portobello Road Market
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Courtyard London Heathrow Airport
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Unmissable attractions to see
The Weald Stone
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St George's Shopping Centre
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A vibrant three-floor shopping and leisure centre in Harrow offering diverse retail, dining, and entertainment options for all ages.
St Ann's Shopping Centre
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Pinner Memorial Park
2.1 km
A historic and tranquil green space in Pinner with gardens, wildlife, playgrounds, and cultural gems for all ages to enjoy.
Heath Robinson Museum
2.2 km
Discover the whimsical world of William Heath Robinson in a charming museum set within Pinner's tranquil Memorial Park.
Pinner Hill Golf Club
3.3 km
Historic parkland golf with sweeping London views, challenging terrain, and a welcoming club atmosphere in tranquil Pinner Hill.
Eastcote House Gardens
3.5 km
Discover Tudor heritage and tranquil beauty in Eastcote House Gardens, a lovingly restored green oasis with historic buildings and vibrant horticulture.
St John the Evangelist, Stanmore
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Bernays Gardens
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Stanmore Country Park, London
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Essential places to dine
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Miller & Carter Ruislip
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St James Restaurant
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Arens Bar & Grill at The Six Bells
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Discover the perfect blend of grilled delights and crafted cocktails at Arens Bar & Grill - your go-to dining destination in Ruislip.
Tamara Lounge
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Man vs Food
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La Rosetta Restaurant
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Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm family hospitality at La Rosetta, a beloved Brentford dining destination.
Fez Mangal Ladbroke Grove
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Experience authentic Turkish barbecue and vibrant atmosphere at Fez Mangal Ladbroke Grove, a beloved London institution for kebab lovers.
Portobello Garden Arcade Italian Restaurant
13.3 km
Authentic Italian dining in a rustic, cozy setting nestled in the heart of vibrant Notting Hill’s Portobello Road.
La mia Mamma Notting Hill
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The Pheasant Inn & Restaurant Heathrow (over 18s only)
13.5 km
A refined adult-only pub and restaurant near Heathrow offering generous British fare, excellent gluten-free options, and warm hospitality.
Osteria Napoletana
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The Sushi Co - Notting Hill
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Fresh, flavorful sushi and Asian dishes served late in a casual Portobello Road spot with friendly service and gluten-free options.
Lytton Restaurant
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Elegant English dining with seasonal menus and tranquil garden views in the heart of Chalfont St Peter.
Ci Tua Osteria Romana
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Experience authentic Roman cuisine and warm Italian hospitality in the heart of London’s vibrant Portobello Road.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Copper Collection
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Fabulous Woman Limited
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Chamak Craft Art & Decor | Handmade Gifts for Home and Business | Stanmore, Harrow
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Unique Globe Curiosities Gift Shop
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Neelam Post Office & Convenience
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The Discount Store
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Stuff
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Gift Centre London
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Unique London
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The London Heritage
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The White Hart Harlington
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The Little Yellow Door
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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Winkers Nightclub
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Monster Queen
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Privilege Entertainment Ltd
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Club Stable
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Lockside
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Electric Ballroom
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Family Friendly
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
