14-16 Kirkgate, Thirsk, North Yorkshire YO7 1PQ

01845 527707

The Thomas Lord Room
Here you’ll find cricketing memorabilia including a portrait of Thomas Lord presented by the MCC, a copy of his only known surviving signature, and a number of items connected with Yorkshire cricket and Yorkshire players. For non-cricket fans there are maps, drawings and photographs tracing the changes in Thirsk over the last 200 years, and there’s a fine example of an early bicycle.

The Herriot Room
Evoking the farming life of the 1930s and 1940s, this room contains a collection of agricultural and dairy tools, and a display of the blacksmith’s craft. A series of illustrative panels traces the development of agriculture in the Vale of Mowbray and explains the processes of butter- and cheese-making.

The Cottage Kitchen
With its stone sink, cast-iron range and linen hanging above to air, this is where the 19th century housewife spent her time washing, cleaning and cooking. The kitchen has a variety of household utensils once in daily use, including an early washing machine and a heavy mangle. High up on the wall (so you can’t sit on it!) is the infamous Busby Stoop Chair.

The First Floor Display Area
Just feel the nostalgia! There are collections of toys and childhood possessions, items reflecting the experiences of two World Wars, and documented photographs telling the lives and fortunes of families from the area. A special exhibition follows the rise and fall of Bamlett’s, the agricultural engineering firm synonymous with Thirsk for over a century. Some displays here are temporary - we change them regularly to reflect topical themes or recent anniversaries.

The Reynolds Room
Here are some of the ceramics, coins, jewellery and tools found by archaeologists around Thirsk, many from Roman, Anglo-Saxon and Mediaeval times. They’ve unearthed more sinister things too, which we normally keep hidden from view. What are they? Click on the picture to find out! This room is named after Bernard Reynolds who converted the room for the Museum’s use.

The Shops
Here’s your chance to do some old-fashioned window shopping! A series of shop fronts convey the atmosphere of some of the well-known family businesses that once served the people of Thirsk. There’s a striking panorama of the Market Place as it was in 1969, the Thirsk Banner - a fabric montage of over 60 photographs, “The Undercover Story” - lingerie of the 1920s and 30s and "Jolly Ripping Bodices" - bodices and blouses of Victorian and Edwardian times.

The Edwardian Sitting Room
Step back in time to the beginning of the 20th century. An invalid lady’s wheelchair can be seen by the fireside, surrounded by cabinets of fine china, intricate needlework and other treasures. Her furniture, sewing machine, harmonium, pictures, books and curios complete the scene.

The Victorian Bedroom
Peep into the bedroom - don’t be shy! A traditional iron and brass bed is covered by a patchwork bedspread originally from a maid's bedroom in Thirsk Hall. Freshly laundered undergarments are laid out ready to wear, while the gentle ticking of the grandfather clock leaves the quiet of the room undisturbed.

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