Museums and galleries

Blackburn Museum and Art Gallery is described as mildly Gothic with touches in the direction of Arts and Crafts. It is a beautiful building sited in the town centre, near the Town Hall. 

It is best known for being a treasure house of the Hart bequest, the unique collection of local notable Robert Edward Hart (1876-1946). His gift of coins, manuscripts and books cannot be matched by any public collection outside London and give the museum its international reputation.

Opened in 1874 originally as a purpose built museum and library, the space is now entirely devoted to modern displays of Hart’s treasures, the history of Blackburn, the Egyptian Mummy, South Asian culture, Fine and Decorative Art and the Bowdler collection of world beetles, among other sights.

With the lively programme of exhibitions and events for all the family, visitors will want to return again and again. 

Open: Tuesday to Saturday: 10am to 4.45pm

Closed: Sunday and Monday and all Bank Holidays

Admission: Free