Twice voted Derbyshire Museum of the Year, the Old House Museum nestles away behind Bakewell’s historic church and is the town’s best kept secret.
The building tells the history of the last five hundred years in its structure and exhibits.
Beginning life as a Tudor tax collector’s house, the Old House was enlarged in Elizabethan times to become a residence of the Gell family.
In 1777 Richard Arkwright built Lumford cotton mill nearby and needed housing for his mill workers. He converted the Old House into six cottages. Arkwright’s mill was then a major employer in Bakewell.
The building eventually fell into disrepair and in the 1950’s was destined for demolition. A local builder recognised its historic features. He unearthed the great Tudor fireplace hidden behind a false wall, stripped plaster off a Tudor wattle and daub wall and even found a Tudor cupboard plastered over to create a partition.
The Bakewell and district Historical Society was formed to save the building and use it as a museum. A rare Tudor toilet was later discovered.
With beamed ceilings and the great fireplace, this enchanting building now provides an atmospheric setting for a large collection of fascinating items. There are specialist displays of toys, costumes, lace, farm tools and wartime relics with information on local history. In 2011 the costume display features historic eveningwear.
A new purpose built gallery houses items from Bakewell’s industrial past. The blacksmith’s forge, wheelwright and cobbler share this space with the history of Arkwright’s mill, which was more recently the DP Battery works.
Part of the great waterwheel from Lumford mill, is situated in the new courtyard and a sculptural interpretation stands testament to a proud period of our engineering history.
Enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in the courtyard which is ideal for your picnic lunch.
There are also a number of courtyard and house events throughout the season.
With costumes to try on, a quiz sheet to do and a dolls house to play with, the Old House appeals to adults and children of all ages.
Adult groups are welcomed daytime or evening for guided or behind the scenes tours. A variety of delicious catering can be booked in advance.
School, youth groups are also welcome for a guided tour or a costumed, Victorian washday experience and other National Curriculum linked activities.
Blue badge holders are welcome to park on the museum forecourt. The museum has uneven floors on varying levels, which may prove difficult to less abled visitors.
Bakewell’s Old House Museum is open from 1st April (or Good Friday if earlier) until 5th November. Ticket prices remain at Adults £3, Child £1.50.
For further information or to book a guided tour please contact Anita Spencer on 01629 813642 e-mail bakewellmuseum@googlemail.com or visit the website:www.oldhousemuseum.org.uk
