Congleton Museum offers a fascinating journey through the town’s history, showcasing life, culture, and industry from prehistoric times to the present day. With engaging, family-friendly exhibits, visitors can explore six historic coin hoards, a medieval log boat, Bronze Age weapons, and many other remarkable artefacts.
Located behind the Town Hall in the town’s former police station, the museum brings Congleton’s past to life through interactive displays, relief maps, and storytelling. Figures from history share insights into what life was like during periods of war, revolution, and disease.
The museum’s extensive collection explores major themes and events such as the English Civil War, the rise of the textile industry, and the impact of the First and Second World Wars. Highlights include the story of John Bradshaw – the man who signed the death warrant of King Charles I – as well as Roman coins over 2,000 years old and vivid accounts of life during the Industrial Revolution.
Visitors can imagine being locked in the old town stocks, wearing the scold’s bridle, or being evacuated from Manchester during wartime – all brought to life through immersive displays.
In addition to permanent exhibits, the museum offers:
The museum shop features a range of souvenirs, original cards and prints, local history books, and an exclusive series of over 50 booklets covering many aspects of Congleton’s past.
Entry is free.
Please note: Opening times are accurate at the time of publication but are subject to change. For the latest information, visit the Congleton Museum website.
Open Tuesday – Saturday 10.30 am – 4.15 pm (last entry 3.45 pm)
Sunday 12 pm – 4.15 pm (last entry 3.45 pm)
Visitor Parking
Parking directly outside Congleton Museum is limited and includes one designated disabled parking space. All spaces are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and unfortunately, the museum is unable to reserve parking for individual visitors or groups.
For those arriving by car, several large and low-cost car parks are available in Congleton Town Centre. The nearest is the Fairground car park on Market Street, opposite Morrisons supermarket – just a two-minute walk from the museum.
For up-to-date parking options and guidance, please visit Cheshire East Council’s car park information page.
Group Visits
Congleton Museum welcomes all types of groups, including adult visitors, schools, and SEND groups. Whether planning a day trip or arranging a tailored educational experience, the museum team is happy to support bespoke visits.
For wheelchair users and people with impaired mobility
For blind and partially sighted visitors
Congleton Museum is fully wheelchair accessible. The building features double doors at the entrance, and volunteers are available to assist visitors as needed. A stair lift is available to access the first floor and can accommodate one wheelchair user at a time, with volunteer assistance provided. Interactive exhibits in the main gallery are positioned at a lower height for ease of use.
Several interactive exhibits in the main exhibition offer oral histories about life, work, and health in Congleton, designed to enhance the experience for blind and partially sighted visitors.
Family Friendly Leisure Natural
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Historical Natural
Discover Congleton’s hidden gem — a restored Georgian bath house and tranquil Physic Garden.
Family Friendly Natural
Described as the ‘Jewel in Congleton’s Crown’ Astbury Mere Country Park is a beautiful area for the enjoyment of local residents and visitors to the historic market town of Congleton.
Historical
Iconic Tudor Manor House with wonky angles and quirky character.
Discover a fascinating display of life, culture, and industry dating from the pre-historic period to the present day. There is something for everyone at Congleton Museum.
Recognised nationally and the only grade 1 listed building in the town centre, it is a must see for any visitors interested in the heritage of the town.
Leisure
Everybody Health and Leisure, contains some of the most up-to-date leisure and fitness amenities, including spacious fitness and cycling studios, a four-court sports hall, and a touch of luxury in the form of a thermal spa.
Cultural
Daneside Theatre is a 300-seat venue. Its mission is to serve as a welcoming space for the entire community, offering cultural and creative opportunities for people of all ages.
The Cloud - Enjoy sweeping views across the Cheshire Plain on this short but rewarding walk.
Family Friendly
A Great Day Out for All Ages - Glebe Farm offers a delightful experience for families, combining a range of attractions in a relaxed countryside setting.
A life-size sculpture of Elizabeth Wolstenholme Elmy, a nationally recognised campaigner for women’s, children and human rights stands proudly in Bridge Street in Congleton town centre.
Family Friendly Leisure
The town’s Paddling Pool has entertained children throughout the summer months from the 1930s and continues to be a source of summer fun and delight to the younger age group.
At Biddulph Grange Garden you can take on a global journey, from Egyptian pyramids, a Himalayan Glen through an Italian Garden to a Victorian vision of China.
The 35 hectares were originally part of the larger Biddulph Grange estate. The mixture of landscaped views and natural features was designed by Victorian industrialists James Bateman and Robert heath.
Located in one of Congleton's historic buildings Victoria Mill has 50+ dealers situated over 3 floor.
A non profit artist run venture consisting of artists' studios, gallery/community art space. Providing access to arts and culture through exhibitions, workshops, performances, music and community events.
Treo, an army dog who was awarded the Dickins Medal for saving many lives in Afghanistan. Treo spent his final years in retirement with his handler here in Congleton.
