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Woodhorn Museum: Mining Heritage and Art in Ashington

Explore Northumberland’s mining heritage and vibrant art scene at Woodhorn Museum, set in a historic colliery within QEII Country Park.

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Woodhorn Museum, located in QEII Country Park, Ashington, celebrates Northumberland’s rich mining heritage through immersive exhibitions, historic pit buildings, and the renowned Ashington Group Collection of artworks known as the ‘Pitmen Painters’. Open Wednesday to Sunday, it offers interactive displays, contemporary arts, a café, and family-friendly amenities, making it a vibrant cultural hub in a former colliery site.

A brief summary to Woodhorn Museum

  • QEII Country Park, Ashington, NE63 9YF, GB
  • +441670624455
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 2 to 3 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 10 am-4 pm
  • 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

  • Plan for 2 to 3 hours to fully explore the museum’s exhibitions and historic buildings.
  • Visit during Northumberland school holidays for daily opening, otherwise open Wednesday to Sunday.
  • Don’t miss the free daily Spotlight Tours for deeper insights into the mining community’s history.
  • Enjoy locally sourced food and refreshments at the Winding House Café or bring a picnic for outdoor seating.
  • Accessible taxis can be booked in advance from Ashington stations to ease your journey to the museum.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    Take the Arriva number 35 bus from Morpeth Bus Station to Ashington Bus Station, a journey of about 19 minutes. From Ashington Bus Station, it is approximately a 25–30 minute walk to the museum across QEII Country Park.

  • Train and Taxi

    Arrive at Ashington Train Station, then book an accessible taxi with Phoenix Taxis (call 01670 817900) for a short ride to the museum. The taxi ride takes around 5 minutes and accommodates accessibility needs.

  • Train and Walk

    From Ashington Train Station, enjoy a 25–30 minute walk through QEII Country Park to reach Woodhorn Museum. The terrain is relatively flat but may not be suitable for all mobility levels.

Woodhorn Museum location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
  • Weather icon Cold Weather

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Discover more about Woodhorn Museum

Echoes of a Mining Legacy

Woodhorn Museum stands on the site of the former Woodhorn Colliery, once part of the largest pit village in the world. The museum preserves and showcases the profound history of coal mining in southeast Northumberland, offering visitors a window into the lives of miners and their communities. Many original pit buildings remain intact, allowing you to explore the industrial architecture and machinery that powered the colliery’s operations. Through engaging exhibits and interactive displays, the museum tells the story of the coal industry’s rise and decline, highlighting its impact on local society and culture.

The Art of the Pitmen Painters

At the heart of Woodhorn’s collection is the Ashington Group Gallery, home to the famous ‘Pitmen Painters’. This unique assembly of artworks, created by miners in the 1930s, captures everyday life above and below ground with remarkable authenticity and emotion. It is considered one of the first permanent displays of amateur art worldwide, offering an intimate artistic perspective on mining communities. Alongside these, the museum features contemporary exhibitions and photography, such as Mik Critchlow’s Coal Town Collection, which documents the end of the mining era through powerful black-and-white images.

Immersive Experiences and Community Stories

Woodhorn’s Coal Town exhibition invites visitors to experience the social and cultural fabric of Ashington’s mining community. Through multimedia and interactive elements, you gain insight into the daily lives, struggles, and celebrations of the people who lived in this coal town. Free daily ‘Spotlight Tours’ led by knowledgeable hosts deepen this connection, providing personal stories and historical context. The museum’s commitment to community heritage is reflected in its dynamic programming and events, which blend history with contemporary arts and culture.

Facilities and Family-Friendly Atmosphere

Beyond the exhibitions, Woodhorn offers a welcoming environment for families and visitors of all ages. The Winding House Café serves locally sourced food and drinks, complemented by picnic areas with outdoor seating and a retractable canopy. A children’s play area adds to the family appeal, while the gift shop features unique items inspired by the museum’s collections and Northumberland’s heritage. Assistance dogs are welcome, and family pets may accompany visitors outside the main buildings, ensuring an inclusive experience.

Setting within QEII Country Park

Situated within the scenic Queen Elizabeth II Country Park, Woodhorn Museum benefits from a tranquil natural setting that contrasts with its industrial roots. The park’s open spaces and walking paths invite visitors to combine cultural exploration with outdoor relaxation. This blend of heritage and nature enhances the museum’s appeal as a destination for day trips and weekend getaways, offering a peaceful yet stimulating environment.

Visiting Practicalities and Accessibility

Woodhorn Museum operates Wednesday through Sunday from 10am to 4pm during term time and is open daily during Northumberland school holidays. Admission fees apply for adults, with under-18s and carers admitted free. The museum is accessible by public transport, with bus services connecting Ashington and nearby towns, and is a 25–30 minute walk from Ashington train and bus stations. Taxi services are also available, including accessible options. On-site amenities include restrooms, seating, and information boards, ensuring a comfortable visit.

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