About Thirsk Museum

Thirsk Museum was established in 1975 with the aim of preserving objects that were disappearing from everyday use, but which told something of the history and customs of past generations who had lived and worked in Thirsk and the surrounding district.

The building chosen for the Museum is itself of historical interest. In 1755 Thomas Lord, founder of Lord’s Cricket Ground, was born here. It also stands close to the surgery where the author and vet James Herriot worked for many years. The Museum opened its doors to the public in 1977 and has been the centre for local history ever since.

Thirsk Museum today

The main role of the Museum - to preserve and display items of historical interest - remains unchanged. But now we provide a wide range of services too. Tracing family history, identifying unusual items and providing access to archive material are just a few of the many areas in which we can help. We encourage visits from school parties and always strive to form a close association with local schools.

We play a very active part in the life of the town, offering talks to groups and organising town walks in summer. The Museum is also home to the Thirsk and District Museum Society, which has over 90 members.

Thirsk Museum is staffed entirely by volunteers. We are a Registered Charity (No. 505106) and are a member of the Association of Independent Museums (AIM), the Yorkshire & Humberside Federation of Museums & Art Galleries and the Hambleton & Richmondshire Museums Forum.