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The MAD Museum: UK's Premier Mechanical Art & Design Experience

Explore the UK’s only permanent mechanical art museum, where interactive kinetic sculptures and automata bring creativity and engineering to life.

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Located on Henley Street in Stratford-upon-Avon, The MAD Museum is the UK's only permanent venue dedicated to mechanical art and design. It showcases over 70 interactive kinetic art pieces and automata, blending creativity, engineering, and physics in a playful, hands-on environment ideal for all ages. Visitors can explore whimsical machines, marble runs, and intricate contraptions that inspire curiosity and imagination.

A brief summary to The MAD Museum

  • 4-5, Henley St, Stratford-upon-Avon, Stratford-upon-Avon, CV37 6PT, GB
  • +441789269356
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 2 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 10 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5:30 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5:30 pm

Local tips

  • Allow 1 to 2 hours to fully explore and interact with the exhibits at your own pace.
  • Visit on weekdays for a quieter experience and more hands-on interaction with exhibits.
  • Check the museum’s website for occasional maintenance closures before planning your visit.
  • Don’t miss the gift shop for unique mechanical toys and creative kits perfect for all ages.
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Getting There

  • Train and Walk

    Take a train to Stratford-upon-Avon station, approximately 1.5 km from the museum. The walk through the town center takes about 20 minutes on mostly flat, paved streets suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.

  • Car and Parking

    Drive to Stratford-upon-Avon and use nearby public car parks such as the Arden Street or Bridge Street car parks, located within a 10-minute walk. Parking fees range from £2 to £5 per hour depending on the lot and time of day.

  • Bus

    Local buses serve Stratford-upon-Avon town center from surrounding areas. From the bus stops, the museum is a 10-15 minute walk. Bus fares vary but typically cost £2-£4 for local journeys.

The MAD Museum location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about The MAD Museum

An Unparalleled Collection of Mechanical Art

The MAD Museum stands out as the UK’s sole permanent home for mechanical art and design, presenting a captivating collection of over seventy exhibits. These range from intricately crafted automata to kinetic sculptures that move with mesmerizing precision. The pieces, sourced from pioneering artists worldwide, blend old-fashioned craftsmanship with modern innovation, offering a unique glimpse into the world of mechanical creativity.

Interactive Exhibits for All Ages

Designed to engage visitors of every age, The MAD Museum encourages hands-on interaction. Children delight in pressing buttons to activate dancing lasers, rolling ball machines, and whirligigs, while adults can marvel at the sophisticated engineering behind the exhibits. The museum’s playful atmosphere invites everyone to explore physics and design principles through tactile experiences, making it both educational and entertaining.

Inspiration Rooted in Creativity and Engineering

The museum’s exhibits evoke the spirit of inventors like Heath Robinson and Rube Goldberg, combining wit and whimsy with mechanical ingenuity. Visitors can explore marble runs, sound machines, and robotic contraptions that demonstrate the beauty of movement and design. This blend of art and science inspires creativity and curiosity, appealing especially to those fascinated by engineering, physics, and design.

A Family-Friendly and Educational Destination

The MAD Museum is a perfect destination for families seeking an enriching outing. Its exhibits align well with educational curricula in Design & Technology and Science, offering children a fun way to learn complex concepts. Activity sheets and holiday competitions further enhance the experience, encouraging young minds to engage deeply with the exhibits.

Supporting Local Art and Innovation

Beyond exhibiting mechanical art, The MAD Museum supports resident artists and offers personalized laser cutting services. Its gift shop features quirky gadgets, marble kits, and unique toys that promote creativity and learning. The museum’s commitment to innovation extends to commissioned pieces and live demonstrations, making it a vibrant hub for mechanical art enthusiasts.

Accessible and Conveniently Located

Situated in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon on lively Henley Street, the museum is easily accessible and wheelchair friendly. It operates year-round with seasonal opening hours and occasional maintenance closures. Visitors can enjoy a visit lasting from one to two hours, immersing themselves in a world where art, science, and play converge seamlessly.

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