At Braintree District Museum the story of the District and its diverse industrial and cultural history unfolds. The Main Galleries examine the development of the area from prehistory to the twenty-first century, focusing upon the textile and manufacturing industries of Courtaulds, Warners and Crittalls, as well as displays of Castle Hedingham pottery, the work of the Great Bardfield artists and Essex straw and lace. A vibrant calendar of temporary exhibitions complements the Main Galleries throughout the year.

The Museum is housed in the converted Victorian Manor Street Junior and Infant Schools that were built in 1862 and 1897 respectively. The main building is home to the Museum Reception and Shop; Temporary Exhibition Gallery; Main Galleries; Victorian Schoolroom and John Ray Gallery, and opened in 1993. The second building was converted in 2002 and contains the Cafe and the Learning for Life Centre. Please use the links on the left to explore our collections and find out what's on at the Museum.

Click on the thumbnails below to view some snapshots of the Museum: