SPECIAL EXHIBITION open now

Step behind the scenes with this brand new exhibition for 2025, bringing rarely seen objects out of the store to showcase the fascinating and unique stories from Pickering’s past.

From everyday objects with surprising histories to remarkable finds, these objects have been carefully selected by volunteers and community groups.

Which will be your favourite? Look out for the ‘Vote for Me’ signs to have your say. 

There’s also a special trail to help younger visitors explore.

This exhibition has been brought to you with funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Find out more and cast your vote online.

EVERY WEDNESDAY from Wednesday 23 April at 1pm

From the Ice Age to the Modern Age, join us on Wednesday afternoons for a guided walk to explore the hidden history of this thriving market town. Discover historic buildings, famous landmarks and royal connections and learn about the notable people who shaped the town. Book via the website or by calling into the museum to meet a member of our friendly team.

The walk is approximately one mile and has a slight gradient and some steps. Meet at the museum.

If you would like to book for a group at an alternative time or through the winter please email us:  [email protected] (Charges are £60 for a maximum of 8 people.)

EVERY THURSDAY from Thursday 24 April at 11am

From the Ice Age to the Modern Age, join us on Thursday mornings for a guided walk to explore the hidden history of this thriving market town. Discover historic buildings, famous landmarks and royal connections and learn about the notable people who shaped the town. Book via the website or by calling into the museum to meet a member of our friendly team.

The walk is approximately one mile and has a slight gradient and some steps. Meet at the museum.

If you would like to book for a group at an alternative time or through the winter please email us:  [email protected] (Charges are £60 for a maximum of 8 people.)

Saturday 30 August, 10-3pm

These wonderful artisan markets run once a month from March to November. You’ll find a selection of stalls based just outside the museum, in picturesque surroundings next to the beck.

When you’ve finished browsing the stalls why not pop into our museum shop to look at our selection of unusual and unique handcrafted gifts, cards, pottery and jewellery.

The museum shop is free to visit. Usual museum entry charges apply for the museum and your ticket is valid for a year.

From Monday 1 September

Explore our brand new exhibition, sharing the story of this wonderful Pickering man and the Smith family more widely – including Sydney’s wife Maud, and children Barbara and Eddie.

‘Sydney Smith / Beyond Photography’ sets the context of studio photography in the first half of the 20th century and the way this artform was changing and developing in exciting ways. There’s also a chance to explore previously rarely-scene photos of the Smith family at leisure. 

Monday 8 September, 10.30am – 3pm

Discover the artistry of traditional crafts, with a range of demonstrations taking place across the museum.

Each month will showcase a selection, from blacksmithing to printing, lacemaking to willow weaving. There’s a fascinating selection of heritage skills, perfect for craft lovers and curious minds alike.

This event is FREE, included within the normal museums admission ticket or by bringing your annual entry ticket along.

FULLY BOOKED Tuesday 23 September, 1 – 3pm

Tickets £20

Come and learn the art of quilling, making your own decorated card to take home. All materials are included as part of this relaxed, two-hour workshop.

Saturday 27 September 2025, 1pm – 3pm. 

Tickets £20

Learn about the process of screen printing with artist Hannah Turlington. Hannah has been spending quite a bit of time with us this summer as one of our artists in residence, exploring and responding to the collection and working with visitors.

In this workshop, you can learn how to set up a screen, create a template (using a silhouette of an object from the Museum’s collections) and then print your own bag to take home.

All material required are provided. Book your tickets online – here

Monday 29 September 2025, 1.00 pm – 3.30pm

Tickets £20

Learn to crochet a Granny Square in a warm and welcoming environment with Imelda.

No experience or equipment required – only your enthusiasm.

Take home your crocheted Granny Square, your crochet hook and a new skill.

Book your tickets online – here