This fascinating museum shares the stories of the people and places of the Yorkshire Dales past and present.
Discover how Dales has developed from prehistoric times to the present day. Themes include archaeology, local crafts and industry, lead mining, textiles and knitting, farming, school days, home life, leisure time, religion, transport, communication and tourism.
The Museum has an exciting events programme including workshops, experience days, family activities and demonstrations. Temporary exhibitions run throughout the year and mean there is always something new to see. There is also a research room if you wish to delve a little deeper into the history of the area or your family.
The Museum itself is housed in an exciting and imaginative conversion of the Hawes railway station in Wensleydale in the north of the National Park. It is fully accessible for wheelchair users and a wheelchair can be borrowed on site.
The Museum has many interactive and hands-on exhibits and offers a range of learning activities. Object handling sessions and other experiences can be arranged for pre-booked groups. The site is coach friendly and on-site catering can be arranged for large groups.
Hawes National Park Centre can be found in the same building as the Museum, providing advice on how to make the most of your visit. The shop features Distinctly Dales products created by local artists and makers as well as maps, books and all you need to make the most of your trip to the Yorkshire Dales.
The Firebox Café offers high quality light refreshments, made where possible from ingredients sourced from local suppliers based in the Yorkshire Dales. You can enjoy lovely Wensleydale Ice-cream and for those on the move they provide Grab and Go Bags. Dogs are very welcome in the outside area. The Firebox Café is a perfect place to recharge, refuel and recharge. It is part of Stage1Cycles which offers bike hire, repair, sales and activities.
The Museum is owned and managed by the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority.
