Nottingham Industrial Museum: A Journey Through Nottinghamshire’s Industrial Heritage
Discover Nottinghamshire’s rich industrial past through working engines, vintage machinery, and engaging exhibits in a historic 17th-century stable block.
Nestled in the historic 17th-century stable block of Wollaton Hall, Nottingham Industrial Museum offers a fascinating exploration of Nottinghamshire’s rich industrial past. Featuring five distinct galleries dedicated to textiles, transport, communication, mining, and steam power, the museum showcases working engines, vintage machinery, and iconic local industry artefacts. Volunteer-run and family-friendly, it provides an immersive experience into the city’s industrial revolution legacy with special engine running days and engaging exhibits.
A brief summary to Nottingham Industrial Museum
- Wollaton Hall, Gardens and Deer Park The Courtyard, Nottingham, NG8 2AE, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Budget
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Thursday 10 am-3 pm
- Saturday 11 am-4 pm
- Sunday 11 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit on the last Sunday of the month to see steam and diesel engines in operation during ‘Steaming Days.’
- Children enter free when accompanied by an adult, making it a great family-friendly destination.
- Check opening times before visiting as the museum is open only on Thursdays, Saturdays, Sundays, and some bank holidays.
- Engage with enthusiastic volunteers who can provide detailed tours and fascinating stories about the exhibits.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Bus
Take Nottingham City Transport buses 35 or 35B from the city center to Wollaton Park, with a journey time of approximately 20-30 minutes. Buses run frequently but check schedules for weekend and bank holiday service. A single adult fare costs around £2.50.
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Car
Driving to Wollaton Hall offers convenient parking with a fee for coach parking. The journey from Nottingham city center takes about 15 minutes. Parking fees apply, typically around £5 for all-day access to Wollaton Park.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from Nottingham city center to Wollaton Hall takes approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. This option is flexible but more costly, generally costing £8-£15.
Nottingham Industrial 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 Nottingham Industrial Museum
Historic Setting and Architectural Character
The Nottingham Industrial Museum is housed within the beautifully preserved 17th-century stable block of Wollaton Hall, itself a striking Elizabethan mansion set in expansive deer parkland. This historic setting provides a fitting backdrop for the museum’s collection, blending architectural heritage with industrial history. The stable block’s original features complement the museum’s exhibits, offering visitors a tangible link between Nottingham’s aristocratic past and its industrial evolution.Exploring Nottinghamshire’s Industrial Legacy
The museum’s five galleries delve into key sectors that shaped Nottinghamshire’s economy and identity: textiles, transport, communication, mining, and steam power. The textile gallery highlights Nottingham’s famed lace and cotton industries, displaying ancient machines that once mass-produced delicate fabrics. Transport exhibits include rare artefacts such as two 17th-century carriages and a Brough Superior motorcycle, illustrating the region’s engineering prowess. Communication is celebrated through interactive displays like a model spark transmitter where visitors can tap out Morse code, while mining and steam galleries showcase powerful engines and mining equipment that fueled the industrial revolution locally.Living History Through Working Exhibits
One of the museum’s unique features is its collection of working steam and diesel engines, which come alive on the last Sunday of every month during special 'Steaming Days.' These events offer visitors a rare opportunity to experience the sights and sounds of industrial machinery in operation, bringing history vividly to life. The museum also houses a working Basford Beam engine and an original Thomas Humber bicycle, emphasizing the practical and technological advances of the era.Volunteer Spirit and Educational Engagement
Entirely managed and operated by dedicated volunteers, Nottingham Industrial Museum benefits from passionate staff eager to share their knowledge and stories. Their enthusiasm enriches the visitor experience, offering guided tours and answering questions with detailed anecdotes. The museum is also a valued educational resource, welcoming school groups and providing tailored activities aligned with curriculum topics such as energy and transport. Admission is affordable, with free entry for accompanied children, reinforcing its role as an accessible community hub.Location and Visitor Experience
Situated within the scenic Wollaton Hall, Gardens and Deer Park, the museum is part of a larger visitor destination that includes beautiful parkland and a café. Plenty of parking is available, though a charge applies for coach parking. The museum’s opening times are limited to Thursdays, Saturdays, Sundays, and some bank holidays, from 11:00 to 16:00, encouraging visitors to plan ahead. The tranquil yet lively atmosphere, combined with engaging exhibits and historic surroundings, makes it a rewarding stop for families, history enthusiasts, and cultural explorers alike.Preserving Nottingham’s Industrial Heritage for the Future
As Nottingham’s only industrial museum, it plays a crucial role in preserving and interpreting the city’s industrial past. The museum’s collections and events foster appreciation for the technological innovations and social history that contributed to Nottinghamshire’s development. Supported by charitable donations and volunteer efforts, it remains a vibrant cultural institution dedicated to education, heritage, and community engagement.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Gazebo
0.1 km
A serene early 19th-century stone pavilion nestled in Wollaton Park, blending heritage charm with tranquil garden beauty.
Camellia House
0.2 km
Explore the historical beauty of Camellia House in Nottingham, a landmark showcasing exquisite architecture and serene gardens.
The Hemlock Stone
1.2 km
Towering sandstone sentinel amid Nottinghamshire woods, blending ancient geology, whispered legends, and sweeping valley views for an effortless nature immersion.
Cathedral Hall
3.7 km
Pugin's masterpiece: England's grandest post-Reformation Catholic cathedral, where Gothic Revival vision endures.
St Barnabas Cathedral Nottingham
3.7 km
A Gothic Revival masterpiece in the heart of Nottingham, home to centuries of Catholic worship and Pugin’s architectural vision.
King Charles I Standard Hill Monument
3.7 km
Historic site where King Charles I raised his standard in 1642, igniting the English Civil War and shaping Nottingham’s rich heritage.
Statue of Captain Albert Ball
3.9 km
A striking bronze tribute in Nottingham Castle Gardens honoring WWI flying ace Captain Albert Ball’s valor and legacy.
Scale Space Nottingham
3.9 km
Experience collaboration and innovation at Scale Space Nottingham, the premier co-working space in the heart of the city, perfect for entrepreneurs and remote workers.
The Belgrave Rooms
4.0 km
Discover The Belgrave Rooms, Nottingham's premier venue for conferences and weddings, blending elegance and modern amenities for unforgettable events.
The Spot
4.0 km
Discover Nottingham’s historic heart at The Spot, a tranquil city centre landmark blending heritage with urban life.
St Nic's Church
4.1 km
Medieval survivor rebuilt from Civil War ashes, standing as Nottingham's testament to faith and resilience.
Speakers' Corner
4.2 km
Nottingham’s vibrant Speakers' Corner offers a historic platform for free speech, lively debates, and community connection in the heart of the city.
Right Lion
4.2 km
Discover Nottingham’s iconic Right Lion, a historic stone sculpture and beloved meeting point near the Council House in Old Market Square.
The Left Lion
4.2 km
Meet Nottingham’s iconic Left Lion, a historic stone sentinel and beloved city landmark at the heart of Old Market Square.
St Peter's Church, Nottingham
4.2 km
A medieval sanctuary and historic gem in Nottingham’s city centre, blending centuries of architecture and community spirit.
Unmissable attractions to see
Treasure Trove - Nottingham Industrial Museum
0.0 km
Unearth industrial relics and charity gems in Wollaton's historic stables—a hidden trove blending Nottingham's manufacturing past with eclectic finds in an Elizabethan setting.
Nottingham Natural History Museum
0.1 km
Explore natural wonders and Elizabethan grandeur at Nottingham’s iconic Wollaton Hall and its captivating Natural History Museum.
Wollaton Hall.
0.1 km
An Elizabethan prodigy house turned natural history museum, Wollaton Hall rises above Nottingham’s parkland with centuries of grandeur and a cinematic legacy as Wayne Manor.
Climbing Tree
0.2 km
Adventure and tranquility blend seamlessly at Nottingham’s Climbing Tree, nestled beside the historic Camellia House in scenic Wollaton Park.
Wollaton Hall, Gardens and Deer Park
0.5 km
Elizabethan grandeur meets natural history in 500 acres of deer-roamed parkland—the real Wayne Manor.
Wollaton Park Lake
0.6 km
A tranquil 25-acre lake set within Nottingham’s historic Wollaton Park, offering scenic walks, rich wildlife, and Georgian landscape charm.
Walled Garden, Wollaton Park
0.6 km
A beautifully restored historic walled garden offering a peaceful retreat and heritage horticulture within Nottingham’s Wollaton Park.
Wollaton Village Dovecote Museum
0.9 km
Explore a rare Elizabethan dovecote museum in Nottingham, showcasing centuries of rural heritage and architectural charm.
Harrison's Plantation Nature Reserve
1.1 km
A tranquil woodland retreat in Nottingham featuring diverse trees, peaceful ponds, and rich birdlife for immersive nature walks.
Nottingham City of Literature
1.8 km
A vibrant arts hub blending theatre, galleries, and music set beside a scenic lake in Nottingham’s University Park.
The University of Nottingham Museum of Archaeology
1.9 km
Explore 250,000 years of regional archaeology at the University of Nottingham’s award-winning museum, set within the vibrant Lakeside Arts Centre.
Highfields Park
2.0 km
A historic 21-hectare park in Nottingham offering boating, adventure golf, scenic walks, and family-friendly fun near the university campus.
Statue of Honeycomb
2.3 km
A lifesize tribute to Beeston’s bee heritage, this serene beekeeper statue blends nature and urban life on High Road.
King's Meadow Nature Reserve
3.0 km
A vibrant urban nature reserve in Nottingham blending meadows, streams, and woodland for a peaceful wildlife retreat.
The Museum Of Curiosities
3.5 km
Explore Nottingham’s eerie Museum of Curiosities, where haunted artifacts, real skulls, and horror props create a spine-chilling, immersive experience.
Essential places to dine
Mr Man's Restaurant
0.6 km
Spacious Cantonese dining in Wollaton Park offering authentic Chinese flavors and generous portions in a relaxed suburban setting.
Wollaton Fish Bar
0.7 km
Nottingham's go-to chippie for crispy battered fish, chunky chips, and massive kebabs in hearty, wallet-friendly portions.
Wheelhouse
0.8 km
Cosy family-friendly pub in Wollaton, Nottingham, serving classic British fare with welcoming service and a lively, casual atmosphere.
Admiral Rodney
0.9 km
A traditional Nottingham pub offering hearty food, friendly service, and a cozy atmosphere on Wollaton Road.
Wollaton Pub & Kitchen
0.9 km
A vibrant pub and kitchen in Wollaton blending traditional charm with modern British cuisine and community spirit.
Miller & Carter Wollaton
1.0 km
Savor 30-day aged steaks from British farms in a warm, intimate steakhouse near Wollaton Park—where butchery expertise meets grilled perfection daily.
SUDA Delicatessen & World Kitchen
1.3 km
A lively Nottingham eatery blending global flavours with vegan and gluten-free options in a vibrant, welcoming setting.
ZHUG
1.4 km
Savor vibrant Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors with fresh, bold dishes and a lively atmosphere in Nottingham’s Bramcote Lane.
Spicy House
1.9 km
Experience authentic Szechuan spice and flavor at Spicy House, Nottingham’s go-to for bold Chinese cuisine with customizable heat levels.
BEST FOOD Chinese And Thai Takeaway
1.9 km
Experience authentic Chinese and Thai cuisine at BEST FOOD Takeaway in Wollaton—delicious meals made with quality ingredients at affordable prices.
Alchemilla
3.2 km
Discover Alchemilla, Nottingham’s Michelin-starred fine dining gem blending historic charm with innovative, sustainable cuisine.
Sans Patrie
3.4 km
Discover Nottingham’s Sans Patrie, where inventive tasting menus meet artistic presentation in a relaxed, inclusive fine dining setting.
Warsaw Diner
3.5 km
Experience hearty American-Polish breakfasts in a lively 1950s-style diner with generous portions and bottomless coffee in Nottingham’s Derby Road.
Hart's Hotel and Kitchen
3.7 km
Stylish boutique hotel with contemporary comfort and acclaimed dining, set steps from Nottingham Castle in a peaceful city centre courtyard.
Browns Nottingham
3.8 km
Elegant British brasserie in Nottingham’s historic heart, perfect for classic dining, afternoon tea, and special occasions.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
B & V Thornhill
0.7 km
Discover B & V Thornhill, your friendly neighborhood newsagent in Wollaton, Nottingham, offering local news, snacks, and convenience items.
Rico’s Vape Store Wollaton
0.7 km
Explore a diverse range of vaporizers and e-liquids at Rico's Vape Store Wollaton, Nottingham's premier destination for vaping enthusiasts.
Aryaan Straps
1.1 km
Explore the vibrant world of fashion accessories at Aryaan Straps in Beeston, Nottingham, where style meets uniqueness in every piece.
Marks and Spencer
1.2 km
24-hour M&S haven at Wollaton BP: gourmet groceries, stylish clothes, and convenience essentials in Nottingham's suburban heart.
Indigo Ladieswear, Gifts & Accessories
1.3 km
Discover unique ladies' fashion, gifts, and jewelry at Indigo Ladieswear, Gifts & Accessories in Nottingham, a stylish destination for every shopper.
Stratus Wallets
1.3 km
Discover unique gifts and treasures at Stratus Wallets, Nottingham's charming gift shop for memorable souvenirs and accessories.
Grocery Store & Florist
1.3 km
Explore Nottingham's local culture at this delightful grocery store and florist, perfect for unique gifts and fresh flowers.
Catherine’s Exclusive Fashion
1.4 km
Discover unique fashion treasures at Catherine's Exclusive Fashion, Nottingham's premier boutique for stylish clothing and accessories.
Iguazu Fair Trade Superstore
2.2 km
Discover ethically crafted furniture, gifts, and clothing at Iguazu Fair Trade Superstore in Beeston, Nottingham’s hub for sustainable shopping.
Fromno19
2.9 km
Small-batch, handcrafted bags and home gifts where vintage-inspired fabrics meet practical, well-finished design.
Happy Sunday Vintage & Antiques
3.5 km
A joyful vintage boutique in Nottingham offering bold fashion, unique antiques, and a welcoming atmosphere for vintage lovers.
Castle Marina Retail Park
3.5 km
Nottingham's go-to retail park for home essentials, pet supplies, and coffee breaks, with free parking and canal-side convenience.
ChicChoiceHub
3.8 km
Discover Eastern elegance on Nottingham's historic Standard Hill at ChicChoiceHub, where oriental treasures meet Civil War legacy in a treasure trove of Asian artistry and crafts.
Common Choice
3.8 km
Curated fashion finds on Nottingham's historic Standard Hill—unique clothing blending trends, quality, and local flair for effortless style.
OH DUCK IT
4.0 km
Dive into duck-tastic humor and Nottingham dialect delights at this cheeky gift shop, where quirky souvenirs and local crafts quack up the city's shopping scene.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Nurseryman - Pub & Grill
1.5 km
Flame-grilled feasts and cask ales in a refreshed Beeston pub, perfect for family meals and relaxed evenings on Derby Road.
The Pelican
2.2 km
Cozy Nottingham pub on Bracebridge Drive, pouring pints and pub classics in a relaxed suburban haven—perfect for casual drinks and community vibes.
Crafty Crow
3.9 km
A vibrant Nottingham pub offering innovative vegetarian dishes and a diverse craft beer selection near the historic Castle.
Tap & Tumbler
4.0 km
Nottingham’s legendary rock pub with live music, real ales, and a quirky, welcoming atmosphere in the city’s cultural heart.
Malt Cross
4.0 km
Historic Victorian music hall pub in Nottingham offering award-winning ales, live music, and a vibrant community atmosphere in a stunning heritage setting.
Ye Olde Salutation Inn
4.0 km
Step into Nottingham’s oldest pub, where medieval history meets lively rock vibes and ghostly legends in a welcoming atmosphere.
Bunk
4.0 km
Quirky basement cocktail bar serving bold wings and inventive drinks in Nottingham's electric city center hideaway.
Cucamara
4.0 km
Lively late-night cocktail bar in Nottingham’s Hurts Yard, blending vibrant atmosphere with creative drinks and social energy.
Six Richmond House
4.0 km
Elegant cocktails and modern British dining blend seamlessly in Nottingham’s intimate and stylish Six Richmond House.
400 Rabbits
4.0 km
Intimate Hurts Yard cocktail bar specialising in tequila and mezcal cocktails with a theatrical, cosy atmosphere.
The Stage Pub Nottingham
4.0 km
Traditional Nottingham pub with live music, cosy nooks, and late-night vibes near Theatre Royal – perfect for drinks, dancing, and city-centre camaraderie.
The Bierkeller Nottingham
4.1 km
Experience lively Bavarian beer hall vibes with authentic brews, live Oompah bands, and festive fun in Nottingham’s city centre.
Slug & Lettuce - Market Square Nottingham
4.1 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Nottingham’s Market Square, known for lively atmosphere, diverse menu, and all-day 2-4-1 cocktails.
O'Neill's Market Square Nottingham
4.1 km
Lively Irish pub in Nottingham's Market Square: pub grub, live sports, DJ nights, and pints in a buzzing city-centre spot that parties till late.
Revolución de Cuba Nottingham
4.1 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Havana with authentic Cuban cuisine, cocktails, and live Latin music in the heart of Nottingham.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
CRISIS
3.9 km
Experience Nottingham’s legendary live music and nightlife at Rock City, a vibrant venue with a rich history and dynamic club nights.
Rock City
4.0 km
Experience Nottingham’s iconic live music and nightclub venue, where legendary acts and vibrant club nights come alive in an intimate, energetic setting.
Tunnel Club
4.0 km
Loud. Intimate. Disruptive. Dive into Nottingham's raw underground beats at this city-center nightclub powerhouse.
ICON
4.0 km
A compact, DJ-driven late-night club on St James’s Street — small footprint, high-energy nights and a tight city-centre atmosphere.
Rescue Rooms
4.0 km
Nottingham's intimate live music powerhouse: raw gigs, electric crowds, and beats till 3am in a historic nook.
Stealth
4.0 km
Nottingham's drum and bass dynamo: world-ranked beats, epic nights, and unrelenting energy since 2004 in the heart of Goldsmith Street.
VIBES NIGHTLIFE
4.0 km
Dive into Nottingham's pulsating party hub where weekend beats, neon lights, and vibrant crowds fuel epic nights until 2am—pure vibes unleashed.
Ocean Nightclub
4.2 km
Unpretentious beats and dazzling lights fuel all-night dances at Nottingham's go-to multi-room nightclub on Greyfriar Gate.
Unit 13
4.2 km
Dive into Nottingham's underground bassline haven at Unit 13, where industrial beats and stellar DJs fuel unforgettable warehouse raves.
Love zoo
4.2 km
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.
Popworld - Nottingham
4.3 km
A neon-soaked, singalong pop-club in Nottingham city centre — colourful cocktails, nostalgic anthems and compact dancefloor energy.
The Cell
4.4 km
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
4.4 km
Dive into Nottingham's electric nightlife at Tantra Night Clubs, where pulsating beats, dazzling lights, and stylish vibes create unforgettable nights of dance and discovery in the city center.
The Bodega Nottingham
4.4 km
Intimate two-level live-music bar and late-night club on Pelham Street — gritty, affordable and centred on close-up gigs and local sounds.
The Hockley Arts Club
4.5 km
Discover Nottingham's vibrant cocktail culture at The Hockley Arts Club, where innovative drinks and artistic ambiance come together for an unforgettable night out.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Educational
- Tranquil
- Lively
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly