Some of these you may have heard of – but the chances are that there are some you’ve never seen even though they’re on your doorstep.
With the school summer holidays just a couple of weeks away now, we have put together a list of some of the hidden museums in and around Sheffield, and South Yorkshire – many of which you may never have heard of, or never visited.
Some of these museums are pretty big, while others are really small, and run by teams of dedicated volunteers. Many of them are only open on certain days, so you have to make sure you plan in advance.
Either way, these are some great places to spend some time.
1. Hidden gems in and around Sheffield
These 12 hidden gems are museums, many run largely by enthusiasts, in and around Sheffield - and would make great trips out during the holidays Photo: National World
2. Barrow Hill Roundhouse
Situated between Chesterfield and Sheffield, Barrow Hill Roundhouse dating back to 1870 was threatened with demolition in 1991 when the site was closed by British Rail. It was saved by a group of dedicated volunteers who have transformed it into a unique railway museum and events venue. During 2023 it is open from March 4 March until December 10 on Saturdays and Sundays from 10am until 4pm. Photo: Chris Etchells
3. Turner Museum of Glass
Professor William E S Turner was arguably the most knowledgeable person of his era on the history of glass. His collection of glass objects, acquired throughout a lifetime of travels and research during the first half of the twentieth century, makes up the basis of the museum’s exhibits. The Turner Museum is in the Robert Hadfield Building, Mappin Street, near Sheffield city centre, which is managed by the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at the University of Sheffield. It is open to the public Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm, excluding Bank Holidays. Photo: Simon Hulme
4. Cawthorne Museum
Cawthorne Museum, in the picturesque Barnsley village of Cawthorne, is a small village museum which opens on Saturday and Sunday afternoons, as well as Bank Holidays. It is best known locally for its stuffed, two headed, goat Photo: David Kessen