Generated by Rank Math SEO, this is an llms.txt file designed to help LLMs better understand and index this website. # Bradford Museums and Galleries ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://bradfordmuseums.org/sitemap_index.xml): Includes all crawlable and indexable pages. ## Posts - [Bolling family descendants return to their ancestral home](https://bradfordmuseums.org/bolling-family-visit-bolling-hall/): Descendants of the Bolling family travelled from across the United States to reconnect with their Bradford roots during a special visit to their ancestral home, Bolling Hall. - [From Tiny Tapestries to Museum Collections: Young Ambassadors in Action](https://bradfordmuseums.org/from-tiny-tapestries-to-museum-collections-young-ambassadors-in-action/): Our Young Ambassadors have been getting creative and going behind the scenes, from leading a community tapestry workshop to exploring Bradford Museums' collections. - [Bradford Museums & Galleries Service wins prestigious Sandford Award for Heritage Learning](https://bradfordmuseums.org/bradford-museums-galleries-service-wins-prestigious-sandford-award-for-heritage-learning/): Bradford Museums & Galleries has received the prestigious Sandford Award for Heritage Learning 2026, recognising the outstanding quality of its educational programmes and learning experiences for children and young people. - [Rare Ellis-Briggs bicycle joins Bradford District Museums & Galleries collection](https://bradfordmuseums.org/rare-ellis-briggs-bicycle-joins-bradford-district-museums-galleries-collection/): A rare Ellis-Briggs bicycle with a rich history of journeys across Britain and Europe has joined Bradford District Museums & Galleries’ collection. - [Share Your Sporting Stories at Cliffe Castle Heritage Open Day](https://bradfordmuseums.org/share-your-sporting-stories-at-cliffe-castle-heritage-open-day/): Sports clubs, community groups and local history enthusiasts are invited to help bring Keighley's sporting heritage to life at Cliffe Castle Museum's Heritage Open Day on Sunday 13 September 2026. The museum is seeking displays, talks, activities and stories celebrating the sports and pastimes that have shaped local life through the years. - [Blog: Signs of Change: Why Makaton Belongs in Our Museums Today](https://bradfordmuseums.org/blog-signs-of-change-why-makaton-belongs-in-our-museums-today/): Maleeha Amin has seen first hand how museums can bring people together through inclusion, creativity and representation. From exploring the role of Makaton in making cultural spaces more accessible, to volunteering with local communities and celebrating South Asian artists' voices at Cartwright Hall, she reflects on the small changes and meaningful conversations that help make Bradford's heritage spaces welcoming for everyone. - [Blog: From Volunteer to Lead Ambassador: My Journey with Bradford District Museums and Galleries](https://bradfordmuseums.org/blog-from-volunteer-to-lead-ambassador-my-journey-with-bradford-district-museums-and-galleries/): Khadijah Ali reflects on her journey from volunteering to being appointed as a Lead Museum Young Ambassador. - [Blog: Decolonising Our Museum Practice – The Schools Team Perspective](https://bradfordmuseums.org/blog-decolonising-our-museum-practice-the-schools-team-perspective/): Our museums are continually evolving as new research, perspectives and community voice deepen our understanding of the past. - [Blog: Zone of Dreams](https://bradfordmuseums.org/blog-zone-of-dreams/): Being a part of the “Portrait of Us” Exhibition truly allowed me to tap into a part of myself I hadn't given the chance to grow... - [Blog: ‘The Pre-Raphaelites Reframed’ at Cartwright Hall, Bradford](https://bradfordmuseums.org/blog-the-pre-raphaelites-reframed-at-cartwright-hall-bradford/): Written by Simon Poe, originally written for the Review of the Pre-Raphaelite Society and edited with permission. - [Blog: Wellbeing](https://bradfordmuseums.org/blog-wellbeing/): Discover how community partnerships enhance creativity, nature, and wellbeing through Bradford's museums and green spaces. - [Blog: Maudella Patterns – a very Bradford Story.](https://bradfordmuseums.org/blog-maudella-patterns-a-very-bradford-story/): The name Maudella may be one familiar to those who make their own clothing, as the company was a key producer of dress making patterns for the best part of the 20th century. - [Blog: Behind the Curtain, Pre Raphaelites and Equity Partnership](https://bradfordmuseums.org/blog-behind-the-curtain-pre-raphaelites-and-equity-partnership/): Equity Partnership discuss their work with us on the new Pre-Raphaelite exhibition at Cartwright Hall - [Blog: the Herbarium](https://bradfordmuseums.org/blog-the-herbarium/): Did you know Cliffe Castle houses over 60,000 herbarium specimens? - [Blog: Morris Month](https://bradfordmuseums.org/blog-morris-month/): Here in Bradford, we have some significant Morris connections to explore. - [Blog: Butterfield Women (a brief overview)](https://bradfordmuseums.org/blog-butterfield-women-a-brief-overview/): For Women's History Month a brief overview of some of the women in the Butterfield Family. - [Blog: The Lambert Spell Book](https://bradfordmuseums.org/blog-the-lambert-spell-book/): Dr Lauren Padgett, shines a light on one of the most superstitious objects in our collection.. - [Blog: Heritage Craft @ Bradford Industrial Museum](https://bradfordmuseums.org/blog-heritage-craft-at-bradford-industrial-museum/): what is wonderful about the collections that we look after is the sheer range and variety of what we hold and the stories that we can tell with them. - [Blog: From the Butterfield Archive: Mrs Mckay’s Musicale](https://bradfordmuseums.org/blog-from-the-butterfield-archive-mrs-mckays-musicale/): It's time for another delve into the Butterfield archive with our volunteer Ian - [Disability History Month 2025](https://bradfordmuseums.org/disability-history-month-2025/): Learning and Outreach Manager Pen Foreman, a disabled person and access specialist, explores what it means to explore disability heritage in museums - [Blog: Isabel – Young Creative Placement](https://bradfordmuseums.org/blog-isabelle-young-creative-placement/): Isabel, a Young Creative with Bradford 2025 City of Culture writes: - [Blog: Keighley Happenings in 18??](https://bradfordmuseums.org/blog-keighley-happenings-in-18/): Ian, one of our brilliant volunteers is still working away on the Butterfield Archive, and found a rather intriguing (and entertaining) newspaper cutting that the family had saved... - [Blog: Maleehah – My Journey with Mai](https://bradfordmuseums.org/maleehah-my-journey-with-mai/): My name is Maleehah Hussain. I have been involved in the Portrait of Mai Project since April 2025 - [Blog: British Wool in Bradford](https://bradfordmuseums.org/blog-british-wool-in-bradford/): British Wool is a non-profit farmer run organisation that collects, grades, promotes and sells wool produced in the UK. - [Blog: John Greenhough of Africa: Some Yorkshire Connections to a Congo Mission ](https://bradfordmuseums.org/john-greenhough-of-africa-some-yorkshire-connections-to-a-congo-mission/): A blog written about an interesting local (and not-so-local) story about three Victorian photographs taken in England of people of African heritage. - [Blog: Ukiyo-e (Japanese Wood Prints)](https://bradfordmuseums.org/blog-ukiyo-e-japanese-wood-prints/): Exploring the next exhibition at Cliffe Castle Museum - [Blog: Work Placement: Alicia](https://bradfordmuseums.org/work-placement-alicia/): I’m proud to share that I was recently selected as a Young Ambassador for the Museums – a role offered through a highly competitive application process. As part of this position, I’ll be helping to shape and promote youth engagement in the museum sector. I was first introduced to the programme in 2024, when I assisted with the Young Ambassadors’ Finale event. I helped lead activities including festive decorating and marbling, which gave me a firsthand look at how creative and impactful the role could be. - [Blog: A musical placement at Cliffe Castle: Erin](https://bradfordmuseums.org/a-musical-placement-at-cliffe-castle-erin/): Blog by Erin, currently studying for an MA in Art Gallery and Museum Studies. - [Blog: A Youth Perspective on Portrait of Mai](https://bradfordmuseums.org/a-youth-perspective-on-portrait-of-mai/): I serve as a Youth Representative for Bradford District Museums and Galleries in a national partnership project called Journeys with Mai. - [Blog: Ice Age Art Now: Celebrating BDMG’s collection](https://bradfordmuseums.org/ice-age-art-now-celebrating-bdmgs-collection/): The Ice Age Art now exhibition has been an amazing process, working with the British Museum team and Bradford 2025 to bring national collections up to the district and link them to Bradford's own history & heritage. - [Blog: Curating Bradford’s Textile Heritage: Woven Through Time](https://bradfordmuseums.org/curating-bradfords-textile-heritage-woven-through-time/): Our Assistant Curator of Collections, Emma Longmuir, shares the journey of curating 'Woven through Time' - [Blog: Ice Age Art Now](https://bradfordmuseums.org/ice-age-art-now/): As we look forward to the opening of Ice Age Art Now at Cliffe Castle Museum, British Museum curator Jill Cook introduces the themes of the exhibition. - [Blog: The Ghost of Bolling Hall: A Journey of Healing](https://bradfordmuseums.org/the-ghost-of-bolling-hall-a-journey-of-healing/): Fatima looks back on the change between when she started volunteering and now - [Blog: A Recipe for Success – The Fountains Café Project](https://bradfordmuseums.org/a-recipe-for-success-the-fountains-cafe-project/): an insight into the behind the scenes work around the new display - [Blog: 80th Anniversary of VE Day](https://bradfordmuseums.org/80th-anniversary-of-ve-day/): Here at Bradford District Museums & Galleries Photo Archive we are celebrating the stories of two Bradfordian war veterans - [Blog: The memory will last for decades to come](https://bradfordmuseums.org/the-memory-will-last-for-decades-to-come/): written for us by Arlo, who was involved with the selection and creation of the 'I AM ME' exhibition - [Blog: Fighting to be heard: a Blog by Wahaaj Ul-Haq](https://bradfordmuseums.org/fighting-to-be-heard-a-blog-by-wahaaj-ul-haq/): Our newest blog has been written by one of the participants involved in 'Fighting to be heard' at Cartwright Hall Art Gallery - [Blog: Contemporary Women Artists in Bradford District Museums & Galleries Collections](https://bradfordmuseums.org/contemporary-women-artists-in-bradford-district-museums-galleries-collections/): We're taking a look at contemporary artworks by women artists in the Bradford District Museums and Galleries collection. - [Blog: Mrs Smith’s – Travel diaries – Calcutta & South Africa](https://bradfordmuseums.org/mrs-smiths-travel-diaries-calcutta-south-africa/): We came across a fascinating set of travel diaries by Mrs Smith, a relative of the Butterfields - let us use her own words to tell the story - [Blog: Our time as Young Ambassadors](https://bradfordmuseums.org/our-time-as-young-ambassadors/): Learn more about the 2024 Cohort of Young Ambassadors - [Blog: Cliffe Castle – a museum with musical links](https://bradfordmuseums.org/cliffe-castle-a-museum-with-musical-links/): examining the long-standing links that the building, the family and the collections have to music, - [Blog: Savage Ground: new artworks by ceramic artist Emilie Taylor](https://bradfordmuseums.org/savage-ground-new-artworks-by-ceramic-artist-emilie-taylor/): In this blog, Lowri, our Curator of Collections invites us to take a closer look at two new ceramic pots, created specially for Bradford District Museums and Galleries by ceramicist Emilie Taylor - [A blog from James…](https://bradfordmuseums.org/a-blog-from-james/): James Steward, our Museums ＆ Galleries Manager, agreed to write our latest blog - looking back at 2024 and forward to 2025! - [Blog: Redeveloping the 1970s Back to Back](https://bradfordmuseums.org/redeveloping-the-1970s-back-to-back/): Our Assistant Curator of Collections, Emma Longmuir was tasked with leading on an updating of the 1970s focused 'Back to Back' house (part of the ever-popular run of houses illustrating changing lifestyles. - [Blog: Mills Transformed – Neil Horsley](https://bradfordmuseums.org/mills-transformed-neil-horsley/): Our latest exhibition at Bradford Industrial Museum is gorgeous photography by Neil Horsley, looking at the repurposing and re-use of Mill Buildings. He kindly agreed to write this blog for about the project. - [Blog: Bairds Television: Research and remembering](https://bradfordmuseums.org/bairds-television-research-and-remembering/): If you visited Bradford Industrial Museum earlier this year you might have spotted the display on Baird Television & Thorn Electricals that we had in our small cafe gallery there. - [Blog: Butterfield Brothers – the Businessmen](https://bradfordmuseums.org/butterfield-brothers-the-businessmen/): This latest blog from our volunteer Ian looks at the Butterfield Brothers as business men - which isn't a story we've told before. - [Blog: Building an Exhibition with the Bradford Society of Architects and Surveyors](https://bradfordmuseums.org/building-an-exhibition-with-the-bradford-society-of-architects-and-surveyors/): Bradford District Museums and Galleries (BDMG) have worked with the Bradford Society of Architects and Surveyors to co-curate an exhibition marking their 150-year anniversary. - [Blog: British Wool Collection – Round up](https://bradfordmuseums.org/british-wool-collection-round-up-blog/): Callum finished his placement with us over the summer, but has written one more blog for us to share with you about the project. - [Blog: British Wool Collection Project -2](https://bradfordmuseums.org/british-wool-collection-project-blog-2/): We are back with the Woolmark project! ## Pages - [Sensory Trigger Information](https://bradfordmuseums.org/families-guide/sensory-trigger-information/) - [Cliffe Castle Museum](https://bradfordmuseums.org/families-guide/cliffe-castle-museum/): Cliffe Castle in Keighley, with its diverse displays and big park, is a welcoming place for all the family, and it's completely free of charge. - [Bradford Industrial Museum](https://bradfordmuseums.org/families-guide/bradford-industrial-museum/): In Bradford Industrial Museum, we warmly welcome families of all shapes and sizes to explore displays of textile machinery, steam power, engineering innovations and motor vehicles, completely free of charge - [Bolling Hall Museum](https://bradfordmuseums.org/families-guide/bolling-hall-museum/): Bolling Hall Museum, with its rich history and beautiful surroundings, is a great place for families with children to discover together. - [Cartwright Hall Art gallery](https://bradfordmuseums.org/families-guide/cartwright-hall-art-gallery/): At Cartwright Hall, we warmly welcome all families and children to explore the world of art and enjoy quality time together, completely free of charge. - [Families Guide](https://bradfordmuseums.org/families-guide/): Our museums offer welcoming and inclusive experiences for families of all ages, with interactive activities, family trails and comfortable spaces to pause and relax. - [Cliffe Castle Museum](https://bradfordmuseums.org/wellbeing/cliffe-castle-museum/): Slow down with Tai Chi, crafts, wellbeing walks, slow art, a seasonal tea ceremony and a phone photography walk. - [Bradford Industrial Museum](https://bradfordmuseums.org/wellbeing/bradford-industrial-museum/): Bradford Industrial Museum offers a welcoming space where people can connect, create and explore local heritage while supporting their wellbeing. - [Bolling Hall Museum](https://bradfordmuseums.org/wellbeing/bolling-hall-museum/): Bolling Hall offers opportunities to connect with nature, heritage and community in a peaceful and welcoming setting. - [Cartwright Hall Art Gallery](https://bradfordmuseums.org/wellbeing/cartwright-hall-art-gallery/): Set within the beautiful surroundings of Lister Park, Cartwright Hall offers a wide range of activities that support wellbeing through creativity, culture, movement and connection. - [Health and Wellbeing](https://bradfordmuseums.org/wellbeing/): Bradford District Museums and Galleries are committed to improving health and wellbeing. We use our unique combination of collections, heritage buildings and green spaces to reduce health inequalities. We provide opportunities to increase wellbeing through activities that connect heritage, creativity and health. Because we know our museums can play an important role in improving mental and physical wellbeing, we are developing a health and wellbeing programme by working closely with community groups and health partners during 2026. - [Survey – Museums for everyone](https://bradfordmuseums.org/survey-museums-for-everyone/) - [Disability Access Forum](https://bradfordmuseums.org/get-involved/disability-access-forum/): Bradford District Museums and Galleries are establishing an “Access Forum”. This will be a group of people who bring the perspective of disabled, d/Deaf and neurodivergent lived experience to the Museums. - [English for Everyone – Museums Pathway to Volunteering](https://bradfordmuseums.org/get-involved/english-for-everyone-museums-pathway-to-volunteering/): Some of our volunteers are participating in a museums’ English for Everyone volunteering programme developed in partnership with Skills House Bradford. - [Visit Virtually – Bolling Hall Museum](https://bradfordmuseums.org/visit-bolling-hall-museum-virtually/): Bolling Hall Museum's virtual tour brings the past to life. - [Free Gallery Guide: Bloomberg Connects](https://bradfordmuseums.org/free-gallery-guide-bloomberg-connects/): Explore our new gallery guide with Bloomberg Connects - [Thanks for subscribing](https://bradfordmuseums.org/thanks-for-subscribing/) - [Confirm your subscription](https://bradfordmuseums.org/confirm-your-subscription/) - [Newsletter](https://bradfordmuseums.org/newsletter/): First name Email I accept the privacy policy

Cartwright Hall Art Gallery

Black Brain Health Across Generations

24 October 2026 12:00 pm – 24 October 2026 3:00 pm

Explore art, learning and community through Bradford’s Black African and Caribbean communities, with work exploring dementia, lifestyle and brain health.

A historical outdoor portrait of four men in traditional Somali dress, with Sultan Ali standing beside three bodyguards holding spears and shields, in front of a tree and tent-like structure.

Cartwright Hall Art Gallery

A Somali Village in Lister Park: Weaving Together Industry, Culture and Empire

9 May 2026 – 1 November 2026

This exhibition revisits a key moment in Bradford’s history: the 1904 Great Exhibition in Lister Park.

A colourful collage-style illustration combining overlapping silhouettes of tools, objects, and symbols in blue, yellow, pink, and grey. Items include a boot, bucket, axe, chisel, spade, pliers, a bird, a crowned female head, and various hand tools, arranged in an abstract layered composition.

Bradford Industrial Museum

Made by Many Hands: A Heritage Craft exhibition

3 May 2026 – 18 November 2026

Celebrate some of the many crafts that have taken place in the Bradford District

a painting of an arab weaver, sat in the open area inside house, surrounded by thread and fabric and other figures.

Cartwright Hall Art Gallery

The Big Picture

28 March 2026 – 31 December 2026

Large scale paintings from the 18th Century onwards

Items from Fountains Cafe - table, mural, painting etc

Bradford Industrial Museum

Fountains Café: Serving Bradford for Fifty-Five Years

13 February 2025 – 13 February 2027

This display at Bradford Industrial Museum showcases iconic and recognisable objects from the well-known and much-loved Fountains Café, Bradford

A pressed botanical specimen of a flowering plant with a slender brown stem, narrow elongated leaves, and several purple, veined, five‑petalled flowers arranged along the upper stem, mounted on a light background.

Cliffe Castle Museum

Lady’s Slipper and Bees – Pressed Orchids and their collectors

27 March 2026 – 14 February 2027

The display highlights how Victorian plant collectors created these nationally important collections, and the local stories behind them.

close up on woven fabric , with blues, reds and yellow

Cliffe Castle Museum

Woven Through Time: Bradford’s Textile Industry – Past and Present

19 April 2025 – 14 February 2027

The past and present of the Bradford textile industry are explored in this exhibition featuring beautiful costume, fascinating sample books and tools from the industry. Objects from our designated worsted collection sit alongside stunning visuals taken by photographer Ian Beesley

the house body at Bolling Hall. It is full of victorian furniture.

Bolling Hall Museum

110 Years of Bolling Hall Museum

3 September 2025 – 21 February 2027

As Bolling Hall Museum reaches 110 years of being a museum in 2025, come see new displays

Cliffe Castle Museum

Keighley Cougars

10 August 2026 – 21 February 2027

Celebrating 150 years of Keighley Cougars history and heritage.

Bradford Industrial Museum

Bradford’s Retrospective: DNA Tapestries

5 December 2026 – 21 February 2027

COMING SOON! Explore the DNA of Bradford through art, heritage, film and museum objects in this youth-led pop-up exhibition created by BDMG’s Young Ambassadors.

photo of a person (details unclear as figure has back to viewer and is in shadow, looking over a large settlement

Cartwright Hall Art Gallery

Global Perspectives and Islamic calligraphy

28 March 2026 – 28 March 2027

A celebration of creativity that crosses borders and generations.

Pop Art at Cartwright Hall Art Gallery

Cartwright Hall Art Gallery

Pop Art at Cartwright Hall

11 September 2026 – 28 March 2027

Discover the vibrant world of pop art.

- [Exhibitions and Tours](https://bradfordmuseums.org/exhibitions-tours/) - [Dreams and Songs to Sing](https://bradfordmuseums.org/dreams-and-songs-media/): Listen to the audio clips below to hear the text from the panels in the exhibition. - [Privacy notice](https://bradfordmuseums.org/privacy-notice/): From time to time we gather information from our audiences and visitors to our website for various purposes and this policy sets out what information we hold, how we keep it safe and how we use it.
young family playing outside, with tools and pinecones. Bolling Hall in the background
Bolling Hall Museum

Museums for Play & Growth – Bolling Hall

21 October 2026 10:30 am – 21 October 2026 12:30 pm

Museums for Play and Growth are FREE drop-in sessions for children 0–5 years old inspired by “50 Things to Do Before You’re Five”.
Cliffe Castle Museum

Museums for Play & Growth – Cliffe Castle

22 October 2026 10:30 am – 22 October 2026 12:30 pm

Museums for Play and Growth are FREE drop-in sessions for children 0–5 years old inspired by “50 Things to Do Before You’re Five”.
Cliffe Castle Museum

Diwali Celebrations

27 October 2026 11:00 am – 27 October 2026 3:00 pm

Celebrate Diwali with free family activities including animal yoga, lantern making and colourful rangoli-inspired designs.
Cartwright Hall Art Gallery

Action for Nature Day

29 October 2026 11:00 am – 29 October 2026 4:00 pm

Enjoy a free family day celebrating nature with wildlife activities, walks, talks and workshops.

Four people in colourful costumes
Bolling Hall Museum

Halloween Hyacinths

31 October 2026 11:00 am – 31 October 2026 3:00 pm

Celebrate Halloween with Hyacinths at Bradford’s Bolling Hall
Bradford Industrial Museum

Spooky BIMoween

31 October 2026 11:00 am – 31 October 2026 3:00 pm

Celebrate Halloween with a spooky trail, skeleton rat hunt, crafts, face painting, ghosts in the machines and a disco.
Bradford Industrial Museum

Museums for Play & Growth – Bradford Industrial Museum

7 November 2026 11:00 am – 7 November 2026 1:00 pm

Museums for Play and Growth are FREE drop-in sessions for children 0–5 years old inspired by “50 Things to Do Before You’re Five”

a young child in a white gallery space, looking through a tube at the viewee
Cartwright Hall Art Gallery

Museums for Play & Growth – Cartwright Hall

13 November 2026 10:30 am – 13 November 2026 12:30 pm

Museums for Play and Growth are FREE drop-in sessions for children 0–5 years old inspired by “50 Things to Do Before You’re Five”.

young family playing outside, with tools and pinecones. Bolling Hall in the background
Bolling Hall Museum

Museums for Play & Growth – Bolling Hall

18 November 2026 10:30 am – 18 November 2026 12:30 pm

Museums for Play and Growth are FREE drop-in sessions for children 0–5 years old inspired by “50 Things to Do Before You’re Five”.
Bradford Industrial Museum

Baby Week Bradford – Toddlers Takeover

19 November 2026 11:00 am – 19 November 2026 2:00 pm

Babies and toddlers are invited to take over museum's jobs for a day.

Young
Bolling Hall Museum

Bolling Hall: Deck the Halls 2026

21 November 2026 11:00 am – 21 November 2026 3:00 pm

Help us Deck the Halls! Create a Christmas decoration to take home or add to Bolling Hall’s tree, with traditional Victorian festive music too.
Cliffe Castle Museum

Museums for Play & Growth – Cliffe Castle

26 November 2026 10:30 am – 26 November 2026 12:30 pm

Museums for Play and Growth are FREE drop-in sessions for children 0–5 years old inspired by “50 Things to Do Before You’re Five”.
Cliffe Castle Museum

Museums for Play & Growth – Cliffe Castle

26 November 2026 10:30 am – 26 November 2026 12:30 pm

Museums for Play and Growth are FREE drop-in sessions for children 0–5 years old inspired by “50 Things to Do Before You’re Five”.
Bradford Industrial Museum

Bradford Industrial Museum Christmas Market

28 November 2026 10:00 am – 29 November 2026 4:00 pm

Step into the festive season with a weekend of Christmas shopping, handmade crafts, unique gifts, delicious treats and local creativity.
Bradford Industrial Museum

Museums for Play & Growth – Bradford Industrial Museum

5 December 2026 11:00 am – 5 December 2026 1:00 pm

Museums for Play and Growth are FREE drop-in sessions for children 0–5 years old inspired by “50 Things to Do Before You’re Five”

Christmas Tree by a malachite chimney piece (Green and gold)
Cliffe Castle Museum

Christmas at the Castle 2026

5 December 2026 11:00 am – 6 December 2026 3:00 pm

Christmas magic returns to Cliffe Castle! Browse festive craft stalls, find unique gifts, and meet Father Christmas in the Grand Drawing Room for a truly magical day out.

a young child in a white gallery space, looking through a tube at the viewee
Cartwright Hall Art Gallery

Museums for Play & Growth – Cartwright Hall

11 December 2026 10:30 am – 11 December 2026 12:30 pm

Museums for Play and Growth are FREE drop-in sessions for children 0–5 years old inspired by “50 Things to Do Before You’re Five”.

young family playing outside, with tools and pinecones. Bolling Hall in the background
Bolling Hall Museum

Museums for Play & Growth – Bolling Hall

16 December 2026 10:30 am – 16 December 2026 12:30 pm

Museums for Play and Growth are FREE drop-in sessions for children 0–5 years old inspired by “50 Things to Do Before You’re Five”.
Bradford Industrial Museum

Museums for Play & Growth – Bradford Industrial Museum

2 January 2027 11:00 am – 2 January 2027 1:00 pm

Museums for Play and Growth are FREE drop-in sessions for children 0–5 years old inspired by “50 Things to Do Before You’re Five”

a young child in a white gallery space, looking through a tube at the viewee
Cartwright Hall Art Gallery

Museums for Play & Growth – Cartwright Hall

8 January 2027 10:30 am – 8 January 2027 12:30 pm

Museums for Play and Growth are FREE drop-in sessions for children 0–5 years old inspired by “50 Things to Do Before You’re Five”.

young family playing outside, with tools and pinecones. Bolling Hall in the background
Bolling Hall Museum

Museums for Play & Growth – Bolling Hall

20 January 2027 10:30 am – 20 January 2027 12:30 pm

Museums for Play and Growth are FREE drop-in sessions for children 0–5 years old inspired by “50 Things to Do Before You’re Five”.
Cliffe Castle Museum

Museums for Play & Growth – Cliffe Castle

28 January 2027 10:30 am – 28 January 2027 12:30 pm

Museums for Play and Growth are FREE drop-in sessions for children 0–5 years old inspired by “50 Things to Do Before You’re Five”.
Bradford Industrial Museum

Museums for Play & Growth – Bradford Industrial Museum

6 February 2027 11:00 am – 6 February 2027 1:00 pm

Museums for Play and Growth are FREE drop-in sessions for children 0–5 years old inspired by “50 Things to Do Before You’re Five”

a young child in a white gallery space, looking through a tube at the viewee
Cartwright Hall Art Gallery

Museums for Play & Growth – Cartwright Hall

12 February 2027 10:30 am – 12 February 2027 12:30 pm

Museums for Play and Growth are FREE drop-in sessions for children 0–5 years old inspired by “50 Things to Do Before You’re Five”.

young family playing outside, with tools and pinecones. Bolling Hall in the background
Bolling Hall Museum

Museums for Play & Growth – Bolling Hall

17 February 2027 10:30 am – 17 February 2027 12:30 pm

Museums for Play and Growth are FREE drop-in sessions for children 0–5 years old inspired by “50 Things to Do Before You’re Five”.
Cliffe Castle Museum

Museums for Play & Growth – Cliffe Castle

25 February 2027 10:30 am – 25 February 2027 12:30 pm

Museums for Play and Growth are FREE drop-in sessions for children 0–5 years old inspired by “50 Things to Do Before You’re Five”.
Bradford Industrial Museum

Museums for Play & Growth – Bradford Industrial Museum

6 March 2027 11:00 am – 6 March 2027 1:00 pm

Museums for Play and Growth are FREE drop-in sessions for children 0–5 years old inspired by “50 Things to Do Before You’re Five”

a young child in a white gallery space, looking through a tube at the viewee
Cartwright Hall Art Gallery

Museums for Play & Growth – Cartwright Hall

12 March 2027 10:30 am – 12 March 2027 12:30 pm

Museums for Play and Growth are FREE drop-in sessions for children 0–5 years old inspired by “50 Things to Do Before You’re Five”.

young family playing outside, with tools and pinecones. Bolling Hall in the background
Bolling Hall Museum

Museums for Play & Growth – Bolling Hall

17 March 2027 10:30 am – 17 March 2027 12:30 pm

Museums for Play and Growth are FREE drop-in sessions for children 0–5 years old inspired by “50 Things to Do Before You’re Five”.
Cliffe Castle Museum

Museums for Play & Growth – Cliffe Castle

25 March 2027 10:30 am – 25 March 2027 12:30 pm

Museums for Play and Growth are FREE drop-in sessions for children 0–5 years old inspired by “50 Things to Do Before You’re Five”.
Cliffe Castle Museum

Family Art Day with Staying Put

26 September 2026 11:00 am – 26 September 2026 2:00 pm

Get creative at this free Family Art Day with Staying Put, exploring how art can help children and families express emotions and share stories.

Bradford Industrial Museum
Bradford Industrial Museum

Heritage Open Day at Bradford Industrial Museum 2026

20 September 2026 11:00 am – 20 September 2026 3:00 pm

Explore heritage crafts inspired by 'Made by Many Hands' as part of Heritage Open Days 2026.
Cliffe Castle Museum

Heritage Open Day at Cliffe Castle Museum 2026

13 September 2026 11:00 am – 13 September 2026 3:00 pm

Explore the district’s sporting and leisure heritage at Cliffe Castle Museum. Discover stories of local clubs, hobbies and pastimes as part of Heritage Open Days 2026.
Bradford Industrial Museum

Storytelling and Miniature Books

21 August 2026 11:00 am – 21 August 2026 3:00 pm

Join our workshop to experience the magic of storytelling with your family.

Cliffe Castle Museum

“Savages” – Free Family Film and Activities

18 August 2026 11:00 am – 18 August 2026 3:00 pm

Join us for Savages, a free family film and engaging activities at Cliffe Castle.

Bradford Industrial Museum

Clay Bugs & Insects Workshop with Jessica Swift

16 August 2026 11:30 am – 16 August 2026 3:00 pm

Create bugs and insects from clay, learn sculpting techniques, and take your creations home to decorate.
Cartwright Hall Art Gallery

Summer Celebration in Lister Park and Cartwright Hall

14 August 2026 3:00 pm – 14 August 2026 7:00 pm

Join us for hands-on activities, workshops, and fun at Cartwright Hall this summer holidays!

Bradford Industrial Museum

Upcycling Clothes with Dye

14 August 2026 11:00 am – 14 August 2026 3:00 pm

Join our upcycling clothes workshop for families to inspire creativity and sustainability.

Case file with sticky notes - 12th August
Bradford Industrial Museum

Moorside Mill Mystery

12 August 2026 11:00 am – 12 August 2026 3:00 pm

Solve the Moorside Mill Mystery at Bradford Industrial Museum with live suspects, clue‑hunting and family activities.
Bradford Industrial Museum

Jowett Cars at the Mill

8 August 2026 11:00 am – 8 August 2026 3:00 pm

Explore family activities featuring Jowett Cars.

Child and adult Wet felting
Bradford Industrial Museum

Wet Felting

7 August 2026 11:00 am – 7 August 2026 3:00 pm

Discover the art of wet felting.
Bradford Industrial Museum

Yorkshire Day at Bradford Industrial Museum 2026

1 August 2026 11:00 am – 1 August 2026 3:00 pm

Join us to celebrate Yorkshire Day 2026

- [Family Learning](https://bradfordmuseums.org/family-learning/): Bradford District Museums and Galleries are offering an engaging, inclusive, and creative experience for families of all ages. - [The Cliffe Castle Support Group](https://bradfordmuseums.org/friends/the-cliffe-castle-support-group/): The Cliffe Castle Support Group (CCSG) is a small charity made up of supporters who work with Cliffe Castle Museum and Park in the engagement of visitors, particularly those from the local community, by providing free participative, experiential and informative activities. - [Friends of Bradford Art Galleries and Museums](https://bradfordmuseums.org/friends/friends-of-bradford-district-museums-and-galleries-2/): Become a member of the Friends of Bradford Art Galleries and Museums today! - [Downloadable Resources](https://bradfordmuseums.org/learning-in-the-classroom/downloadable-resources/): Help inspire your pupils with this series of resources and curriculum linked activities based on people from Bradford who have achieved amazing things. - [Topic Boxes](https://bradfordmuseums.org/learning-in-the-classroom/topic-boxes/): Get learners hands on with history from the comfort of your classroom. Our topic boxes are packed with objects and activities designed to bring the past to life! - [Videos](https://bradfordmuseums.org/learning-in-the-classroom/film-and-activity-shorts/): We have created a series of short videos based on some of our most popular workshops. These explore and give information on museum/gallery objects followed by a demonstration of a hands-on creative, linked activity. - [Dreams and Songs to Sing – Media](https://bradfordmuseums.org/dreams-and-songs-media-2/):   - [Photography and Filming](https://bradfordmuseums.org/photography-and-filming/): Photography on site is allowed but only for personal use. For filming enquiries please email Eventbooking@bradford.gov.uk - [Work Placement and Work Experience](https://bradfordmuseums.org/work-placement-and-work-experience/): We offer a range of work experience within the service.
Cartwright Hall Art Gallery

Black Brain Health Across Generations

24 October 2026 12:00 pm – 24 October 2026 3:00 pm

Explore art, learning and community through Bradford’s Black African and Caribbean communities, with work exploring dementia, lifestyle and brain health.

A historical outdoor portrait of four men in traditional Somali dress, with Sultan Ali standing beside three bodyguards holding spears and shields, in front of a tree and tent-like structure.
Cartwright Hall Art Gallery

A Somali Village in Lister Park: Weaving Together Industry, Culture and Empire

9 May 2026 – 1 November 2026

This exhibition revisits a key moment in Bradford’s history: the 1904 Great Exhibition in Lister Park.

A colourful collage-style illustration combining overlapping silhouettes of tools, objects, and symbols in blue, yellow, pink, and grey. Items include a boot, bucket, axe, chisel, spade, pliers, a bird, a crowned female head, and various hand tools, arranged in an abstract layered composition.
Bradford Industrial Museum

Made by Many Hands: A Heritage Craft exhibition

3 May 2026 – 18 November 2026

Celebrate some of the many crafts that have taken place in the Bradford District

a painting of an arab weaver, sat in the open area inside house, surrounded by thread and fabric and other figures.
Cartwright Hall Art Gallery

The Big Picture

28 March 2026 – 31 December 2026

Large scale paintings from the 18th Century onwards

Items from Fountains Cafe - table, mural, painting etc
Bradford Industrial Museum

Fountains Café: Serving Bradford for Fifty-Five Years

13 February 2025 – 13 February 2027

This display at Bradford Industrial Museum showcases iconic and recognisable objects from the well-known and much-loved Fountains Café, Bradford

A pressed botanical specimen of a flowering plant with a slender brown stem, narrow elongated leaves, and several purple, veined, five‑petalled flowers arranged along the upper stem, mounted on a light background.
Cliffe Castle Museum

Lady’s Slipper and Bees – Pressed Orchids and their collectors

27 March 2026 – 14 February 2027

The display highlights how Victorian plant collectors created these nationally important collections, and the local stories behind them.

close up on woven fabric , with blues, reds and yellow
Cliffe Castle Museum

Woven Through Time: Bradford’s Textile Industry – Past and Present

19 April 2025 – 14 February 2027

The past and present of the Bradford textile industry are explored in this exhibition featuring beautiful costume, fascinating sample books and tools from the industry. Objects from our designated worsted collection sit alongside stunning visuals taken by photographer Ian Beesley

the house body at Bolling Hall. It is full of victorian furniture.
Bolling Hall Museum

110 Years of Bolling Hall Museum

3 September 2025 – 21 February 2027

As Bolling Hall Museum reaches 110 years of being a museum in 2025, come see new displays

Cliffe Castle Museum

Keighley Cougars

10 August 2026 – 21 February 2027

Celebrating 150 years of Keighley Cougars history and heritage.
Bradford Industrial Museum

Bradford’s Retrospective: DNA Tapestries

5 December 2026 – 21 February 2027

COMING SOON! Explore the DNA of Bradford through art, heritage, film and museum objects in this youth-led pop-up exhibition created by BDMG’s Young Ambassadors.

photo of a person (details unclear as figure has back to viewer and is in shadow, looking over a large settlement
Cartwright Hall Art Gallery

Global Perspectives and Islamic calligraphy

28 March 2026 – 28 March 2027

A celebration of creativity that crosses borders and generations.

Pop Art at Cartwright Hall Art Gallery
Cartwright Hall Art Gallery

Pop Art at Cartwright Hall

11 September 2026 – 28 March 2027

Discover the vibrant world of pop art.

Bradford Industrial Museum

Music at the Museum 2026: May Contain Notes

18 October 2026 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Enjoy free live music from May Contain Notes at Bradford Industrial Museum.
Bradford Industrial Museum

Heritage Craft Workshop: Mosaic Garden Slate

18 October 2026 11:00 am – 4:00 pm

Join our heritage craft workshop to design a stunning Mosaic Garden Slate
Bradford Industrial Museum

Conversation Café: My Bradford

22 October 2026 11:00 am – 1:00 pm

Share memories of Bradford at a special Conversation Café with archive photographs, music, refreshments and time to explore.
Bradford Industrial Museum

Still Lives, Living Stories: The Heart of Bradford

23 October 2026 11:00 am – 24 October 2026 3:00 pm

Be part of a new portrait of Bradford. Have your portrait taken, share your story and help create a photographic record of Bradford today.
Cliffe Castle Museum

Music at the Museum 2026: May Contain Notes

25 October 2026 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Enjoy free live music from May Contain Notes at Cliffe Castle.

Cliffe Castle Museum

Slow Sunday at Cliffe Castle

25 October 2026 11:00 am – 3:30 pm

Slow down with Tai Chi, crafts, wellbeing walks, slow art, a seasonal tea ceremony and a phone photography walk.
Cliffe Castle Museum

Diwali Celebrations

27 October 2026 11:00 am – 3:00 pm

Celebrate Diwali with free family activities including animal yoga, lantern making and colourful rangoli-inspired designs.
Bolling Hall Museum

Boll-O-Ween!

28 October 2026 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Experience Bolloween with eerie tours, spell-making activities, spooky surprises and an evening of Halloween fun.
Cartwright Hall Art Gallery

Action for Nature Day

29 October 2026 11:00 am – 4:00 pm

Enjoy a free family day celebrating nature with wildlife activities, walks, talks and workshops.
Cliffe Castle Museum

SENDsation: Multi-sensory session for ages 8–17

30 October 2026 11:00 am – 11:50 am

A multi-sensory experience for children and young people aged 8–17 with PMLD, featuring rocks, crystals, movement, sound, textures and collaborative sculpture.
Cliffe Castle Museum

SENDsation: Multi-sensory session for ages 4–12

30 October 2026 12:20 pm – 2:40 pm

A multi-sensory experience for children aged 4–12, featuring sparkling crystals, sound, movement, fabrics, textures and collaborative creativity.
Cartwright Hall Art Gallery

Lister Park Lantern Parade 2026: Celebration of Life

30 October 2026 10:00 am – 7:30 pm

Make a lantern at Cartwright Hall, then join a magical evening parade through Lister Park featuring illuminated puppets, live music and a theatrical finale.

Four people in colourful costumes
Bolling Hall Museum

Halloween Hyacinths

31 October 2026 11:00 am – 3:00 pm

Celebrate Halloween with Hyacinths at Bradford’s Bolling Hall
Bradford Industrial Museum

Spooky BIMoween

31 October 2026 11:00 am – 3:00 pm

Celebrate Halloween with a spooky trail, skeleton rat hunt, crafts, face painting, ghosts in the machines and a disco.
Bradford Industrial Museum

Upcycle Clothing: Teens Workshop 1 – Embroidery & Visible Mending

31 October 2026 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Give your clothes a second life at this creative upcycling workshop for teens. Learn embroidery and visible mending techniques, customise your wardrobe and transform old favourites into something new.

Big band in purple Stroke Association shirts performing under a white tent with brass instruments and a vocalist in front.
Bradford Industrial Museum

Music at the Museum 2026: Stroke of Genius Big Band

15 November 2026 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Enjoy free live music at Bradford Industrial Museum.

Bradford Industrial Museum

Baby Week Bradford – Toddlers Takeover

19 November 2026 11:00 am – 2:00 pm

Babies and toddlers are invited to take over museum's jobs for a day.

Young
Bolling Hall Museum

Bolling Hall: Deck the Halls 2026

21 November 2026 11:00 am – 3:00 pm

Help us Deck the Halls! Create a Christmas decoration to take home or add to Bolling Hall’s tree, with traditional Victorian festive music too.
Cliffe Castle Museum

Music at the Museum 2026: Bradford Voices

22 November 2026 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Enjoy free live music from Bradford Voices at Cliffe Castle.

Bradford Industrial Museum

Bradford Industrial Museum Christmas Market

28 November 2026 10:00 am – 29 November 2026 4:00 pm

Step into the festive season with a weekend of Christmas shopping, handmade crafts, unique gifts, delicious treats and local creativity.
Bradford Industrial Museum

Bradford’s Retrospective: DNA Tapestries Exhibition Launch

5 December 2026 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Celebrate the launch of DNA Tapestries, meet BDMG’s Young Ambassadors and explore a new youth-led exhibition inspired by Bradford’s heritage and creativity.
Bradford Industrial Museum

Upcycle Clothing: Teens Workshop 2 – Sew a Bag from Repurposed Fabric

5 December 2026 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Learn how to use a sewing machine and transform old clothing or fabric into a unique handmade bag. A fun, practical introduction to upcycling for ages 13-19.

Christmas Tree by a malachite chimney piece (Green and gold)
Cliffe Castle Museum

Christmas at the Castle 2026

5 December 2026 11:00 am – 6 December 2026 3:00 pm

Christmas magic returns to Cliffe Castle! Browse festive craft stalls, find unique gifts, and meet Father Christmas in the Grand Drawing Room for a truly magical day out.
Bradford Industrial Museum

Music at the Museum 2026: Nightflyers Big Band

13 December 2026 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Enjoy free live music from Nightflyers Big Band at Bradford Industrial Museum.

Father Christmas sat on a gold charge, in front of a CHristmas tree and a large green (malachite) Chimneypiece
Cliffe Castle Museum

Meet Father Christmas at Cliffe Castle 2026

12 December 2026 11:00 am – 13 December 2026 3:00 pm

Father Christmas returns to Cliffe Castle! Book a magical festive visit in the beautiful Grand Drawing Room.
Cliffe Castle Museum

Music at the Museum 2026: Craven Accordion Orchestra

20 December 2026 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Enjoy free live music from Craven Accordion Orchestra at Cliffe Castle.

Bradford Industrial Museum

Upcycle Clothing: Teens Workshop 3 – Reimagine Your Wardrobe

9 January 2027 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Turn an unloved item of clothing into something you'll want to wear again. Use creative upcycling techniques to refresh your wardrobe and develop new sewing skills. Suitable for ages 13-19.
Bradford Industrial Museum

BIM Wool Festival 2027

27 February 2027 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

Bradford Industrial Museum Wool Festival returns with textile stalls, demonstrations, crafts, live music, food and more.

A four‑image collage showing views of the Bradford Industrial Museum. Top left: an indoor café with wooden floors, metal tables and chairs, framed pictures on the walls, and a service counter at the back. Top right: a brick exterior doorway marked “Main Entrance” in blue and white signage. Bottom left: the full exterior of a large multi‑storey stone mill building with tall windows and a matching “Main Entrance” sign above the door. Bottom right: a person indoors wearing a black shirt with a “Bradford Industrial Museum” logo.
Bradford Industrial Museum

Conversation Cafe at Bradford Industrial Museum

Join us every month for Conversation Cafe, where we have a cuppa, a chat, and there will always be something going on to enjoy
Bradford Industrial Museum

Museums for Play & Growth – Bradford Industrial Museum

Every first Saturday of the month, 11:00 am – 1:00 pm

Museums for Play and Growth are FREE drop-in sessions for children 0–5 years old inspired by “50 Things to Do Before You’re Five”

young family playing outside, with tools and pinecones. Bolling Hall in the background
Bolling Hall Museum

Museums for Play & Growth – Bolling Hall

Every third Wednesday of the month, 10:30 am – 12:30 pm

Museums for Play and Growth are FREE drop-in sessions for children 0–5 years old inspired by “50 Things to Do Before You’re Five”.

staff serving a customer
Cartwright Hall Art Gallery

Brew & Board

Every Wednesday

Join us weekly for fun board games at the Refreshment Room café.
Cartwright Hall Art Gallery

The Bradford Book Nook

Every other Sunday

Enjoy a cosy Sunday escape for book lovers

Close up detail of blacksmith
Bradford Industrial Museum

Visit our Volunteer Blacksmith – Reviving the Blacksmith’s craft in a living setting.

Every Wednesday and Sunday

Discover blacksmithing and metalworking in action and explore this craft here at Bradford Industrial Museum.

a young child in a white gallery space, looking through a tube at the viewee
Cartwright Hall Art Gallery

Museums for Play & Growth – Cartwright Hall

Every second Friday of the month

Museums for Play and Growth are FREE drop-in sessions for children 0–5 years old inspired by “50 Things to Do Before You’re Five”.
Cliffe Castle Museum

Museums for Play & Growth – Cliffe Castle

Every fourth Thursday of the month

Museums for Play and Growth are FREE drop-in sessions for children 0–5 years old inspired by “50 Things to Do Before You’re Five”.

Image of a man in victorian costume
Bradford Industrial Museum

Meet Mr Moore, Mill Manager

Every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday

Visit the Mill Owner’s House with Mr Moore.

Image of a man in victorian costume
Bradford Industrial Museum

Meet Mr Moore, Mill Manager

16 October 2026 11:00 am – 3:00 pm

Visit the Mill Owner’s House with Mr Moore.

Image of a man in victorian costume
Bradford Industrial Museum

Meet Mr Moore, Mill Manager

15 October 2026 11:00 am – 3:00 pm

Visit the Mill Owner’s House with Mr Moore.

Image of a man in victorian costume
Bradford Industrial Museum

Meet Mr Moore, Mill Manager

14 October 2026 11:00 am – 3:00 pm

Visit the Mill Owner’s House with Mr Moore.

staff serving a customer
Cartwright Hall Art Gallery

Brew & Board

14 October 2026 10:00 am – 11:00 am

Join us weekly for fun board games at the Refreshment Room café.

A four‑image collage showing views of the Bradford Industrial Museum. Top left: an indoor café with wooden floors, metal tables and chairs, framed pictures on the walls, and a service counter at the back. Top right: a brick exterior doorway marked “Main Entrance” in blue and white signage. Bottom left: the full exterior of a large multi‑storey stone mill building with tall windows and a matching “Main Entrance” sign above the door. Bottom right: a person indoors wearing a black shirt with a “Bradford Industrial Museum” logo.
Bradford Industrial Museum

Conversation Cafe at Bradford Industrial Museum

13 October 2026 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm

Join us every month for Conversation Cafe, where we have a cuppa, a chat, and there will always be something going on to enjoy

Image of a man in victorian costume
Bradford Industrial Museum

Meet Mr Moore, Mill Manager

9 October 2026 11:00 am – 3:00 pm

Visit the Mill Owner’s House with Mr Moore.

a young child in a white gallery space, looking through a tube at the viewee
Cartwright Hall Art Gallery

Museums for Play & Growth – Cartwright Hall

9 October 2026 10:30 am – 12:30 pm

Museums for Play and Growth are FREE drop-in sessions for children 0–5 years old inspired by “50 Things to Do Before You’re Five”.

Image of a man in victorian costume
Bradford Industrial Museum

Meet Mr Moore, Mill Manager

8 October 2026 11:00 am – 3:00 pm

Visit the Mill Owner’s House with Mr Moore.

Image of a man in victorian costume
Bradford Industrial Museum

Meet Mr Moore, Mill Manager

7 October 2026 11:00 am – 3:00 pm

Visit the Mill Owner’s House with Mr Moore.

staff serving a customer
Cartwright Hall Art Gallery

Brew & Board

7 October 2026 10:00 am – 11:00 am

Join us weekly for fun board games at the Refreshment Room café.
Cliffe Castle Museum

DNA Tapestries

4 October 2026 11:00 am – 3:00 pm

Create with artist Donna Templeman and young ambassadors!
Bradford Industrial Museum

Museums for Play & Growth – Bradford Industrial Museum

3 October 2026 11:00 am – 1:00 pm

Museums for Play and Growth are FREE drop-in sessions for children 0–5 years old inspired by “50 Things to Do Before You’re Five”

- [What’s on](https://bradfordmuseums.org/whats-on/): Discover what's on at Bradford Museums and Galleries venues. - [Volunteering](https://bradfordmuseums.org/volunteering/): Could you support our work by sponsoring, donating or volunteering? All opportunities have flexible commitment requirements and aim to provide a rewarding and enriching experience for all. - [Visit Virtually – Cliffe Castle Museum](https://bradfordmuseums.org/visit-cliff-castle-museum-virtually/): Cliffe Castle Museum has a feast for your eyes with their new virtual reality tour. - [Staff Talks and Tours](https://bradfordmuseums.org/staff-talk-and-lectures/): Bradford District Museums and Galleries staff can offer talks and presentations to the public and to groups and societies depending on their availability. Below is a list of talks available. - [See and Do](https://bradfordmuseums.org/see-and-do/) - [Programming & Exhibitions](https://bradfordmuseums.org/programming-exhibitions/): Bradford Museums and Galleries receive a considerable number of applications for exhibitions across our venues, particularly from individuals wanting to display their work. - [Our Venues ](https://bradfordmuseums.org/our-venues/): Bradford District is home to some of the most exciting museums and galleries in Yorkshire. From the Baroque splendour of Cartwright Hall Art Gallery to the spectacular building of Keighley’s Cliffe Castle Museum, there is always something new to do or see, and admission is free! - [News](https://bradfordmuseums.org/news/): Bradford District is home to some of the most exciting museums and galleries in Yorkshire. Come and see for yourself - [Learning on Site](https://bradfordmuseums.org/learning-on-site/): Inspired by our fantastic collections, our workshops are a brilliant opportunity to take learning beyond the classroom. All learners are welcome in our museums, so get in touch to arrange a visit now! - [Learning in the Classroom ](https://bradfordmuseums.org/learning-in-the-classroom/): Can't make it to the museum? Don't worry! We have topic boxes covering a range of topics to support your curriculum. Packed with objects and activities, these boxes are a great way for learners to get hands on with history. - [How To Get Here](https://bradfordmuseums.org/how-to-get-here/): We want to ensure your visit is as seamless as possible. To help you find your way to our four venues, we’ve provided detailed instructions for each location below.
Cartwright Hall Art Gallery

Black Brain Health Across Generations

24 October 2026 12:00 pm – 24 October 2026 3:00 pm

Explore art, learning and community through Bradford’s Black African and Caribbean communities, with work exploring dementia, lifestyle and brain health.

A historical outdoor portrait of four men in traditional Somali dress, with Sultan Ali standing beside three bodyguards holding spears and shields, in front of a tree and tent-like structure.
Cartwright Hall Art Gallery

A Somali Village in Lister Park: Weaving Together Industry, Culture and Empire

9 May 2026 – 1 November 2026

This exhibition revisits a key moment in Bradford’s history: the 1904 Great Exhibition in Lister Park.

A colourful collage-style illustration combining overlapping silhouettes of tools, objects, and symbols in blue, yellow, pink, and grey. Items include a boot, bucket, axe, chisel, spade, pliers, a bird, a crowned female head, and various hand tools, arranged in an abstract layered composition.
Bradford Industrial Museum

Made by Many Hands: A Heritage Craft exhibition

3 May 2026 – 18 November 2026

Celebrate some of the many crafts that have taken place in the Bradford District

a painting of an arab weaver, sat in the open area inside house, surrounded by thread and fabric and other figures.
Cartwright Hall Art Gallery

The Big Picture

28 March 2026 – 31 December 2026

Large scale paintings from the 18th Century onwards

Items from Fountains Cafe - table, mural, painting etc
Bradford Industrial Museum

Fountains Café: Serving Bradford for Fifty-Five Years

13 February 2025 – 13 February 2027

This display at Bradford Industrial Museum showcases iconic and recognisable objects from the well-known and much-loved Fountains Café, Bradford

A pressed botanical specimen of a flowering plant with a slender brown stem, narrow elongated leaves, and several purple, veined, five‑petalled flowers arranged along the upper stem, mounted on a light background.
Cliffe Castle Museum

Lady’s Slipper and Bees – Pressed Orchids and their collectors

27 March 2026 – 14 February 2027

The display highlights how Victorian plant collectors created these nationally important collections, and the local stories behind them.

close up on woven fabric , with blues, reds and yellow
Cliffe Castle Museum

Woven Through Time: Bradford’s Textile Industry – Past and Present

19 April 2025 – 14 February 2027

The past and present of the Bradford textile industry are explored in this exhibition featuring beautiful costume, fascinating sample books and tools from the industry. Objects from our designated worsted collection sit alongside stunning visuals taken by photographer Ian Beesley

the house body at Bolling Hall. It is full of victorian furniture.
Bolling Hall Museum

110 Years of Bolling Hall Museum

3 September 2025 – 21 February 2027

As Bolling Hall Museum reaches 110 years of being a museum in 2025, come see new displays

Cliffe Castle Museum

Keighley Cougars

10 August 2026 – 21 February 2027

Celebrating 150 years of Keighley Cougars history and heritage.
Bradford Industrial Museum

Bradford’s Retrospective: DNA Tapestries

5 December 2026 – 21 February 2027

COMING SOON! Explore the DNA of Bradford through art, heritage, film and museum objects in this youth-led pop-up exhibition created by BDMG’s Young Ambassadors.

photo of a person (details unclear as figure has back to viewer and is in shadow, looking over a large settlement
Cartwright Hall Art Gallery

Global Perspectives and Islamic calligraphy

28 March 2026 – 28 March 2027

A celebration of creativity that crosses borders and generations.

Pop Art at Cartwright Hall Art Gallery
Cartwright Hall Art Gallery

Pop Art at Cartwright Hall

11 September 2026 – 28 March 2027

Discover the vibrant world of pop art.

- [Home](https://bradfordmuseums.org/): Bradford District Museums & Galleries includes four wonderful sites – Bolling Hall, Bradford Industrial Museum, Cartwright Hall Art Gallery and Cliffe Castle Museum. - [Get Involved](https://bradfordmuseums.org/get-involved/): Find out more on you can get involved with Bradford District Museums & Galleries. - [Friends](https://bradfordmuseums.org/friends/): There are two groups who support sites across the district. These groups are set up to promote enjoyment and interest in the collections of Bradford Museums and Galleries.
Cartwright Hall Art Gallery

Black Brain Health Across Generations

24 October 2026 12:00 pm – 24 October 2026 3:00 pm

Explore art, learning and community through Bradford’s Black African and Caribbean communities, with work exploring dementia, lifestyle and brain health.

A historical outdoor portrait of four men in traditional Somali dress, with Sultan Ali standing beside three bodyguards holding spears and shields, in front of a tree and tent-like structure.
Cartwright Hall Art Gallery

A Somali Village in Lister Park: Weaving Together Industry, Culture and Empire

9 May 2026 – 1 November 2026

This exhibition revisits a key moment in Bradford’s history: the 1904 Great Exhibition in Lister Park.

A colourful collage-style illustration combining overlapping silhouettes of tools, objects, and symbols in blue, yellow, pink, and grey. Items include a boot, bucket, axe, chisel, spade, pliers, a bird, a crowned female head, and various hand tools, arranged in an abstract layered composition.
Bradford Industrial Museum

Made by Many Hands: A Heritage Craft exhibition

3 May 2026 – 18 November 2026

Celebrate some of the many crafts that have taken place in the Bradford District

a painting of an arab weaver, sat in the open area inside house, surrounded by thread and fabric and other figures.
Cartwright Hall Art Gallery

The Big Picture

28 March 2026 – 31 December 2026

Large scale paintings from the 18th Century onwards

Items from Fountains Cafe - table, mural, painting etc
Bradford Industrial Museum

Fountains Café: Serving Bradford for Fifty-Five Years

13 February 2025 – 13 February 2027

This display at Bradford Industrial Museum showcases iconic and recognisable objects from the well-known and much-loved Fountains Café, Bradford

A pressed botanical specimen of a flowering plant with a slender brown stem, narrow elongated leaves, and several purple, veined, five‑petalled flowers arranged along the upper stem, mounted on a light background.
Cliffe Castle Museum

Lady’s Slipper and Bees – Pressed Orchids and their collectors

27 March 2026 – 14 February 2027

The display highlights how Victorian plant collectors created these nationally important collections, and the local stories behind them.

close up on woven fabric , with blues, reds and yellow
Cliffe Castle Museum

Woven Through Time: Bradford’s Textile Industry – Past and Present

19 April 2025 – 14 February 2027

The past and present of the Bradford textile industry are explored in this exhibition featuring beautiful costume, fascinating sample books and tools from the industry. Objects from our designated worsted collection sit alongside stunning visuals taken by photographer Ian Beesley

the house body at Bolling Hall. It is full of victorian furniture.
Bolling Hall Museum

110 Years of Bolling Hall Museum

3 September 2025 – 21 February 2027

As Bolling Hall Museum reaches 110 years of being a museum in 2025, come see new displays

Cliffe Castle Museum

Keighley Cougars

10 August 2026 – 21 February 2027

Celebrating 150 years of Keighley Cougars history and heritage.
Bradford Industrial Museum

Bradford’s Retrospective: DNA Tapestries

5 December 2026 – 21 February 2027

COMING SOON! Explore the DNA of Bradford through art, heritage, film and museum objects in this youth-led pop-up exhibition created by BDMG’s Young Ambassadors.

photo of a person (details unclear as figure has back to viewer and is in shadow, looking over a large settlement
Cartwright Hall Art Gallery

Global Perspectives and Islamic calligraphy

28 March 2026 – 28 March 2027

A celebration of creativity that crosses borders and generations.

Pop Art at Cartwright Hall Art Gallery
Cartwright Hall Art Gallery

Pop Art at Cartwright Hall

11 September 2026 – 28 March 2027

Discover the vibrant world of pop art.

llustration of four women engaged in traditional craft activities. One woman on the left, dressed in red and yellow, styles the hair of a doll. Nearby stand two dress forms with simple garment outlines, one white and one pink. In the center, a woman in a blue dress sits behind a large white textile decorated with small floral motifs, stitching embroidery into the fabric. On the right, a woman in green paints at an easel, working on an image of a mountain landscape, while another woman in green kneels on the floor examining or arranging small embroidered motifs. Along the right edge of the image are repeated illustrations of hands in different positions
Cartwright Hall Art Gallery

(Un)Layering the Future Past of South Asia: Young Artists’ Voices

28 March 2026 – 31 August 2026

This is a selection of twelve artists’ voices from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

a painting of a black and white magpie on a very bright colourful background
Cartwright Hall Art Gallery

Jim Moir: Neo Fauna

28 March 2026 – 31 August 2026

Artist Jim Moir, widely known as Vic Reeves, presents new artworks created for this exhibition.
Bradford Industrial Museum

Portraits of our Time

29 January 2026 – 29 March 2026

Part of the Bradford Care Association and Bradford District Museums and Galleries Creative Connecting and Contemporary Reminiscence Programme

image of a model of a half cyborg animal,
Bradford Industrial Museum

Z Open Exhibition Art Work by Young Bradford Creatives

7 December 2025 – 8 March 2026

Z OPEN 2025 is an open exhibition opportunity brought to you by the Bradford District Museums & Galleries' Young Ambassadors ‘Generation Z’ cohort.

Japanese woodblock print. Artwork depicts what appears to be an octopus and some sort of sea creature
Cliffe Castle Museum

Ukiyo-e

1 November 2025 – 1 March 2026

Explore the beauty and delicacy of Japanese objects that form part of our wonderful and varied museum collection.

Images of the 4 nominated artists
Cartwright Hall Art Gallery

Turner Prize 2025

27 September 2025 – 22 February 2026

The Turner Prize is one of the world’s best-known prizes for the visual arts. It aims to promote public debate around new developments in contemporary British art.

close up on woven fabric , with blues, reds and yellow
Bradford Industrial Museum

Woven Through Time: Bradford’s Textile Industry – Past and Present

19 April 2025 – 16 November 2025

The past and present of the Bradford textile industry are explored in this exhibition featuring beautiful costume, fascinating sample books and tools from the industry. Objects from our designated worsted collection sit alongside stunning visuals taken by photographer Ian Beesley

an colour photograph , showing pink arches in front of Bradford City Hall
Bradford Industrial Museum

Unmistakably Bradford 2025

1 May 2025 – 8 October 2025

An annual project with York St John University, where BA Photography students were asked to respond to the unique qualities of the City of Bradford in 2025

Z open promo poster (all info in event text)
Bradford Industrial Museum

Z OPEN 2025 – Call for Submissions

7 August 2025 10:00 am – 28 September 2025 4:00 pm

Z Open – Young Creative Call ages 16 to 25 for Exhibition Bradford Museums and Galleries

students looking at stained glass
Cliffe Castle Museum

Design Lab Nation

20 June 2025 10:00 am – 21 September 2025 4:00 pm

Celebrating historic collections through sustainable design

Reindeer bone (metatarsal) with a carving of a cow-like creature
Cliffe Castle Museum

Ice Age Art Now

21 June 2025 – 14 September 2025

Travel back in time at this British Museum Partnership Exhibition with Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture and encounter works of art dating back thousands of years.

shows a figure (in shadow and only part of face visible) holding a broken plate or dish with islamic (?) calligraphy visible on the plate
Cartwright Hall Art Gallery

Jameel Prize: Moving Images

23 May 2025 – 17 August 2025

The Jameel Prize is the V&A’s award for contemporary art inspired by Islamic culture, history, society and ideas. This edition is devoted to moving image and digital media.

- [Exhibitions](https://bradfordmuseums.org/whats-on/exhibitions/): View exhibitions and tours from the venues of Bradford District Museums & Galleries ## Collections - [Collections Development Policy](https://bradfordmuseums.org/collection/collections-development-policy/): We work with our communities and partners to develop and care sustainably for our shared heritage so that everyone can have fun, learn, find their voice, create, be ambitious, connect with others and better understand their place in the wider world. - [Bradford Photographic Archive](https://bradfordmuseums.org/collection/photographic-archive/): A large collection of photographs and negatives, comprising of over 450,000 items. - [Social History](https://bradfordmuseums.org/collection/social-history/): The majority of material is local social history, including agricultural and craft tools, and comprises some 57,837 objects. - [Natural Science: Botany](https://bradfordmuseums.org/collection/natural-science-botany/): The museum’s botany collections comprise the nationally and internationally important F.A. Lees collection and W.A. Sledge collection of flowering plants and other nationally important lichen and bryophyte collections totalling approximately 60,000 specimens. - [Natural Science: Geology](https://bradfordmuseums.org/collection/natural-science-geology/): There are approximately 80,000 geological specimens. The fossil and rock collections come from world-wide and British sources and includes fossil collections. - [Natural Science: Zoology](https://bradfordmuseums.org/collection/natural-science-zoology/): There are approximately 90,000 zoology specimens of which over 70% are invertebrate zoology including entomology and conchology. - [Industrial](https://bradfordmuseums.org/collection/industrial/): This collection began in 1966, and includes textiles, engineering, public and domestic transport, the history of science, motive power, printing, communications, crafts and professions, as well as technical information. - [Decorative Art](https://bradfordmuseums.org/collection/decorative-art/): This collection comprises some 5000 items, shared almost equally between furniture and ceramics. - [Fine Art](https://bradfordmuseums.org/collection/fine-art/): The print collection includes works by master printmakers such as Francisco Goya, William Blake and Walter Sickert and by modern masters – Pop Artists Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein and Richard Hamilton. - [Archaeology](https://bradfordmuseums.org/collection/archaeology/): The collection comprises some 38,000 items, the majority of which is excavated pot sherds. - [A Brief History of the Collections](https://bradfordmuseums.org/collection/bradford-district-museum-and-galleries/): Bradford District Museums & Galleries (BDMG)’s collections have developed over more than 150 years, even before a museum service existed in the district. ## Events - [Black Brain Health Across Generations](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/black-brain-health-across-generations/): Explore art, learning and community through Bradford’s Black African and Caribbean communities, with work exploring dementia, lifestyle and brain health. - [Still Lives, Living Stories: The Heart of Bradford](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/still-lives-living-stories-the-heart-of-bradford-3/): Be part of a new portrait of Bradford. Have your portrait taken, share your story and help create a photographic record of Bradford today. - [Meet Father Christmas at Cliffe Castle 2026](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/father-christmas-at-cliffe-castle/): Father Christmas returns to Cliffe Castle! Book a magical festive visit in the beautiful Grand Drawing Room. - [Bolling Hall: Deck the Halls 2026](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/bolling-hall-deck-the-halls-2026/): Help us Deck the Halls! Create a Christmas decoration to take home or add to Bolling Hall’s tree, with traditional Victorian festive music too. - [Bradford: Our Memories, Our Home](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/bradford-our-memories-our-home/): Seven local photographers capture Bradford from the 1950s to today, exploring memories, community and what makes the city feel like home. - [Woven Through Time: Bradford’s Textile Industry – Past and Present](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/woven-through-time-bradfords-textile-industry-past-and-present-2/): The past and present of the Bradford textile industry are explored in this exhibition featuring beautiful costume, fascinating sample books and tools from the industry. Objects from our designated worsted collection sit alongside stunning visuals taken by photographer Ian Beesley - [SENDsation: Multi-sensory session for ages 4–12](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/sendsation-multi-sensory-session-for-ages-4-12/): A multi-sensory experience for children aged 4–12, featuring sparkling crystals, sound, movement, fabrics, textures and collaborative creativity. - [SENDsation: Multi-sensory session for ages 8–17](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/sendsation-multi-sensory-session-for-ages-8-17/): A multi-sensory experience for children and young people aged 8–17 with PMLD, featuring rocks, crystals, movement, sound, textures and collaborative sculpture. - [Upcycle Clothing: Teens Workshop 3 – Reimagine Your Wardrobe](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/upcycle-clothing-teens-workshop-3-reimagine-your-wardrobe/): Turn an unloved item of clothing into something you'll want to wear again. Use creative upcycling techniques to refresh your wardrobe and develop new sewing skills. Suitable for ages 13-19. - [Upcycle Clothing: Teens Workshop 2 – Sew a Bag from Repurposed Fabric](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/upcycle-clothing-teens-workshop-2/): Learn how to use a sewing machine and transform old clothing or fabric into a unique handmade bag. A fun, practical introduction to upcycling for ages 13-19. - [Upcycle Clothing: Teens Workshop 1 – Embroidery & Visible Mending](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/upcycle-clothing-teens-workshop-1-embroidery-visible-mending/): Give your clothes a second life at this creative upcycling workshop for teens. Learn embroidery and visible mending techniques, customise your wardrobe and transform old favourites into something new. - [The David Hockney Gallery](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/the-david-hockney-gallery/): Before the world knew Hockney, his story began in Bradford. The David Hockney Gallery at Cartwright Hall Art Gallery reopens this October. - [Bradford’s Retrospective: DNA Tapestries Exhibition Launch](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/bradfords-retrospective-dna-tapestries-exhibition-launch/): Celebrate the launch of DNA Tapestries, meet BDMG’s Young Ambassadors and explore a new youth-led exhibition inspired by Bradford’s heritage and creativity. - [Bradford’s Retrospective: DNA Tapestries](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/bradfords-retrospective-dna-tapestries/): COMING SOON! Explore the DNA of Bradford through art, heritage, film and museum objects in this youth-led pop-up exhibition created by BDMG’s Young Ambassadors. - [Lister Park Lantern Parade 2026: Celebration of Life](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/lister-park-lantern-parade-2026-celebration-of-life/): Make a lantern at Cartwright Hall, then join a magical evening parade through Lister Park featuring illuminated puppets, live music and a theatrical finale. - [Family Art Day with Staying Put](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/family-art-day-with-staying-put/): Get creative at this free Family Art Day with Staying Put, exploring how art can help children and families express emotions and share stories. - [BIM Wool Festival 2027](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/bim-wool-festival-2027/): Bradford Industrial Museum Wool Festival returns with textile stalls, demonstrations, crafts, live music, food and more. - [Spooky BIMoween](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/spooky-bimoween/): Celebrate Halloween with a spooky trail, skeleton rat hunt, crafts, face painting, ghosts in the machines and a disco. - [Boll-O-Ween!](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/bolloween/): Experience Bolloween with eerie tours, spell-making activities, spooky surprises and an evening of Halloween fun. - [Diwali Celebrations](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/diwali-celebrations/): Celebrate Diwali with free family activities including animal yoga, lantern making and colourful rangoli-inspired designs. - [Conversation Café: My Bradford](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/conversation-cafe-my-bradford/): Share memories of Bradford at a special Conversation Café with archive photographs, music, refreshments and time to explore. - [Slow Sunday at Cliffe Castle](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/slow-sunday-at-cliffe-castle/): Slow down with Tai Chi, crafts, wellbeing walks, slow art, a seasonal tea ceremony and a phone photography walk. - [Action for Nature Day](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/action-for-nature-day/): Enjoy a free family day celebrating nature with wildlife activities, walks, talks and workshops. - [Brew & Board](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/brew-board/): Join us weekly for fun board games at the Refreshment Room café. - [Baby Week Bradford – Toddlers Takeover](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/baby-week-bradford-toddlers-takeover/): Babies and toddlers are invited to take over museum's jobs for a day. - [Car Boot Sale](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/car-boot-sale-2/): Our car boot sale is back! - [Keighley Cougars](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/keighley-cougars/): Celebrating 150 years of Keighley Cougars history and heritage. - [Pop Art at Cartwright Hall](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/pop-art-at-cartwright-hall/): Discover the vibrant world of pop art. - [DNA Tapestries](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/a-free-tiny-tapestry-workshop/): Create with artist Donna Templeman and young ambassadors! - [Calico Dress Project – Calico Dress patch making sessions.](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/calico-dress-project-calico-dress-patch-making-sessions/): Join us for patch-making sessions and explore the Calico Dress Project - [Heritage Open Day: Arabic Calligraphy with Razwan Ul-Haq](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/heritage-open-day-arabic-calligraphy-with-razwan-ul-haq/): Join Razwan Ul-Haq for a captivating Arabic calligraphy workshop - [Weaving Words: Kebed Songs and Creative Writing Workshop with Ibrahim Hirsi](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/weaving-words-kebed-songs-and-creative-writing-workshop-with-ibrahim-hirsi/): Join Ibrahim Hirsi for a creative writing workshop inspired by Kebed songs - [Still Lives, Living Stories: The Heart of Bradford](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/still-lives-living-stories-the-heart-of-bradford-2/): Join us as we launch a new photography project by Carolyn Mendelsohn. - [Still Lives, Living Stories: The Heart of Bradford](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/still-lives-living-stories-the-heart-of-bradford/): Join us as we launch a new photography project by Carolyn Mendelsohn. - [Clay Bugs & Insects Workshop with Jessica Swift](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/clay-bugs-insects-workshop/): Create bugs and insects from clay, learn sculpting techniques, and take your creations home to decorate. - [Identity & Culture Zine-Making Workshop](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/identity-culture-zine-making-workshop/): Explore Somali heritage and identity through collage and craft at this free zine-making workshop. - [Christmas at the Castle 2026](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/christmas-at-the-castle-2026/): Christmas magic returns to Cliffe Castle! Browse festive craft stalls, find unique gifts, and meet Father Christmas in the Grand Drawing Room for a truly magical day out. - [Bradford Industrial Museum Christmas Market](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/bradford-industrial-museum-christmas-market-2/): Step into the festive season with a weekend of Christmas shopping, handmade crafts, unique gifts, delicious treats and local creativity. - [Visit the Mill Owner’s House](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/visit-the-mill-owners-house/): Discover the history and charm of the Mill Owner's House. - [Heritage Open Day at Bradford Industrial Museum 2026](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/heritage-open-day-bradford-industrial-museum-2026/): Explore heritage crafts inspired by 'Made by Many Hands' as part of Heritage Open Days 2026. - [Heritage Open Day at Cliffe Castle Museum 2026](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/heritage-open-day-cliffe-castle-2026/): Explore the district’s sporting and leisure heritage at Cliffe Castle Museum. Discover stories of local clubs, hobbies and pastimes as part of Heritage Open Days 2026. - [Music at the Museum 2026: Nightflyers Big Band](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/music-at-the-museum-nightflyers-big-band/): Enjoy free live music from Nightflyers Big Band at Bradford Industrial Museum. - [Music at the Museum 2026: Phoenix Band Wakefield](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/music-at-the-museum-pheonix-band/): Enjoy free live music from Phoenix Band Wakefield at Bradford Industrial Museum. - [Temporary Closure Notice: Bolling Hall](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/temporary-closure-notice-bolling-hall/): Bolling Hall will be closed to the public to allow for essential decorating works. Plan your visit accordingly. - [Summer Celebration in Lister Park and Cartwright Hall](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/summer-celebration/): Join us for hands-on activities, workshops, and fun at Cartwright Hall this summer holidays! - [Halloween Hyacinths](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/halloween-hyacinths-2/): Celebrate Halloween with Hyacinths at Bradford’s Bolling Hall - [The Bradford Book Nook](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/the-bradford-book-nook/): Enjoy a cosy Sunday escape for book lovers - [Pre-Raphaelite Portraits](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/pre-raphaelite-portraits/): Create your own portrait inspired by Pre-Raphaelites - [Islamic Art](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/islamic-art/): Explore Geometric Patterns and decorate a coaster to take home. - [International Day of Friendship](https://bradfordmuseums.org/event/international-day-of-friendship/): Join us for a day of friendship! ## Projects - [Creative Connecting 
and Contemporary Reminiscence Programme](https://bradfordmuseums.org/project/creative-connecting-and-contemporary-reminiscence-programme/): During 2025 Bradford District Museums and Galleries worked in partnership with Bradford Care Association (BCA) on a project funded by the Bradford 2025 Creative Health Programme. - [Being Young in Bradford](https://bradfordmuseums.org/project/being-young-in-bradford/): An exhibition drawing upon the experiences of six residents who grew up during the vibrant music scene of 1970s Bradford. - [Stitch Club in the Park for Sew Keighley Pride](https://bradfordmuseums.org/project/stitch-club-in-the-park-for-sew-keighley-pride/): Take a look at ICLS and Keighley Pride’s work on creating a Pride flag with the help from people across the town who came each with a patchwork. - [Jadughor: The Magic Room](https://bradfordmuseums.org/project/jadughor-the-magic-room/): Come and see household objects that have come to us from a variety of Bradford homes and vary from 20 to 70 years old. - [The Lions Den (Men’s Shed)](https://bradfordmuseums.org/project/the-lions-den-mens-shed/): In the Lion’s Den, those activities include woodwork, horticulture and fish keeping – the attendees decide what they want to do. - [Together We Can](https://bradfordmuseums.org/project/together-we-can/): Funded by Bradford council, the exhibition is the result of a creative writing competition between 300 of Keighley’s young people. - [Oakworth Shed’s Graffiti Wall](https://bradfordmuseums.org/project/oakworth-sheds-graffiti-wall/): Come and see one of the first activities the Oakworth Shed did during the first lockdown was create an Oakworth Shed patchwork – called the Graffiti Wall. - [The Flourish Project: We Cannot Walk Alone](https://bradfordmuseums.org/project/the-flourish-project-we-cannot-walk-alone/): This exhibition is a culmination of work made by the participants of the Flourish Project delivered by Hive. The project worked with refugees and residents. - [The Unfurlings: banners for hope and change created by people living with dementia](https://bradfordmuseums.org/project/the-unfurlings-banners-for-hope-and-change-created-by-people-living-with-dementia/): Artist Ian Beesley, designer Martyn Hall, cartoonist Tony Husband and poet Ian McMillan, have worked with people with dementia and their carers to create a series of sixteen large banners - [Art for All – Keighley Healthy Living](https://bradfordmuseums.org/project/art-for-all-keighley-healthy-living/): We’re delighted to host an exhibition of created by member of the Keighley Healthy Living Art 4 All groups to showcase all the work they have done. - [Music At the Museum](https://bradfordmuseums.org/project/music-at-the-museum/): Cliffe Castle Museum in Keighley will be hosting a season of community music performances featuring local musicians and groups from Keighley and the surrounding area. - [Spiders – Work from Keighley Healthy Living](https://bradfordmuseums.org/project/spiders-work-from-keighley-healthy-living/): We are absolutely delighted to be able to show a range of arts works painted by Art Group members of Keighley Healthy Living at Cliffe Castle Museum. ## Venues - [The Heritage Craft Room](https://bradfordmuseums.org/venue/the-heritage-craft-room/) - [Cliffe Castle Museum](https://bradfordmuseums.org/venue/cliffe-castle-museum/): See the exhibitions and what's on at Cliffe Castle Museum - [Bolling Hall Museum](https://bradfordmuseums.org/venue/bolling-hall-museum/): Bolling Hall is Situated just a mile from Bradford city. - [Cartwright Hall Art Gallery](https://bradfordmuseums.org/venue/cartwright-hall-art-gallery/): One of the UK’s leading regional art galleries. - [Bradford Industrial Museum](https://bradfordmuseums.org/venue/bradford-industrial-museum/): Bradford Industrial Museum has permanent displays of textile machinery, steam power, engineering, printing machinery and motor vehicles, along with an exciting exhibitions programme. ## Volunteers - [English for Everyone Volunteer](https://bradfordmuseums.org/position/english-for-everyone-volunteer/): English for Everyone volunteers ensure that our spaces are welcoming to everyone in the Bradford district whilst improving their English and gaining new skills. - [Café Volunteers](https://bradfordmuseums.org/position/cartwright-hall-cafe-volunteers/): We are seeking volunteers to support us in the Refreshment Room Café at Cartwright Hall Art Gallery, Lister Park. - [Corporate Volunteering](https://bradfordmuseums.org/position/corporate-volunteering/): Many businesses offer their employees an opportunity to volunteer in work time. ## Workshops - [Faith and Art in Islam](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/faith-and-art-in-islam/): A collections led workshop, learners explore the Islamic faith and the rich artistic traditions of the Muslim world. - [The Battle of Hastings and Medieval Bradford: the Wheel of (mis)Fortune](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/the-battle-of-hastings-and-medieval-bradford-the-wheel-of-misfortune/): Explore how the Battle of Hastings affected the lives of four Bradford families! - [Civil War Legends: The Ghost of Bolling Hall](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/civil-war-legends-the-ghost-of-bolling-hall/): This literacy workshop is based on the legend of the Ghost of Bolling Hall. - [Rocks and Minerals](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/rocks-and-minerals-2/): Like true geologists, learners observation skills are put to the test as they learn to classify different rocks. - [Art and Science of Noticing (KS3/KS4)](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/art-and-science-of-noticing-ks3-ks4/): Learners are encouraged to respond to museum and gallery objects which inspire them. - [The Art and Science of Noticing](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/the-art-and-science-of-noticing/) - [Pupil Take Over (KS3/KS4)](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/pupil-take-over-ks3-ks4/): Support the development of career-based skills within the museum setting. - [Did Bradford ever belong to the Romans?](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/where-are-the-romans/): Learners use original artefacts to explore life in Roman Yorkshire. - [India and Pakistan: Partition and Art](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/under-development-india-and-pakistan-partition-and-art/): Use artwork from the collections to explore this landmark event. - [Local Landscapes](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/a-look-at-the-local/): Learners use maps, museum displays, and objects to explore the physical and human features of Bradford. - [Mary Anning: How to find a fossil](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/mary-anning-how-to-find-a-fossil/): Become a fossil explorer and find out more about Bradford’s very own famous fossil - Pholiderpeton! - [Local tales: Boars and Ghosts at Bolling Hall](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/local-tales-boars-and-ghosts-at-bolling-hall/): Find out more about two real tales from Bradford’s history involving Bolling Hall. - [Explorers from the Past](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/explorers-from-the-past/): Become an intrepid explorer on a journey around the museum discovering objects and treasures from the past - [1666 Street](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/1666-street/): Pupils meet and assist Samuel Pepys’s housekeeper to experience street life 1666 style! - [Dinosaurs Roar!](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/dinosaurs-roar/): A hands-on exploration of the of world of dinosaurs supported by the book Dinosaur Roar! - [Henry VIII visits Bolling Hall](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/henry-viii-visits-bolling-hall/): Learners have an immersive experience participating in various household tasks for a visit by Henry VIII. - [World War II and Bradford](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/world-war-ii-and-bradford/): Using objects, photographs and writing, learners think about life in Bradford during World War Two. - [Biodiversity & Me – David Attenborough and the natural world](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/biodiversity-me-david-attenborough-and-the-natural-world/): Learners use the Natural History Collections to think about how human actions can shape different habitats. - [Pupil Takeover](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/pupil-takeover/): Let your learners take over the museum! - [We work at the Museum](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/we-work-at-the-museum/): An interesting & immersive workshop where learners take on the role of a museum/ gallery employee. - [Museum Explorer](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/museum-explorer-2/): Learners become explorers to see and discover machines, cars and even trains. Ideal for a first visit to a museum. - [Cave Baby](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/cave-baby/): Learners immerse themselves in the world of ‘Cave Baby’ through storytelling, drama, movement and painting. - [Dinosaur Explorer](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/dinosaur-explorer-3/): Explore dinosaur features by looking at and handling real fossils. - [Ancient Egyptian Civilisation](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/ancient-egyptian-civilisation/): Revamped for September 2026, this workshop guides learners down the Nile to uncover the secrets of Ancient Egyptian Civilisation. - [The Art of Early Islamic Civilisation](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/the-art-of-early-islamic-civilisation/): Using artwork and artefacts pupils will explore the historic origins of Early Islamic civilisation, its influences and contribution to world culture. - [Evolution](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/evolution/): Learners figure out what fossils tell us about life millions of years ago. - [Hockney Techniques](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/hockney-techniques/): Using a range of Hockney artworks, learners investigate the different techniques and mediums Hockney works with. - [Local Legends: The Bradford Boar](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/local-myths-and-legends-the-bradford-boar/): Learners explore the legend of the Bradford Boar. - [Local Legends: The Bradford Ghost](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/myths-and-legends-the-bradford-ghost-ks2/): Learners will find out more about how the ghost of Bolling Hall saved Bradford. - [Stone Age to Iron Age](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/stone-age-to-bronze-age/): Learners will get hands-on with real Stone Age objects and use archaeological techniques. - [A Local History Experience: A Victorian Classroom](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/a-local-history-experience-a-victorian-classroom/): Experience a real Victorian Classroom at Moorside Board School. - [Weaving in the Mill: A Material Journey](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/weaving-in-the-mill-a-material-journey/): Learners get ‘hands on’ with the basic processes by which the fleece of a sheep is turned into cloth. - [Rocks and Fossils](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/rocks-and-fossils/): As budding rock star geologists, learners examine and identify a wide selection of rocks and fossils. - [The Art & Science of Noticing (KS2)](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/the-art-science-of-noticing-ks2/): A workshop which encourages learners to look closely at museum and gallery objects which inspire them. - [The Art & Science of Noticing (KS3)](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/the-art-science-of-noticing-2/): Encourage learners to respond to museum and gallery objects which inspire them. - [The Stranger’s Case (A Tudor Mystery)](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/the-strangers-case-a-tudor-mystery/): Using the setting of the hall to tell a story about the religious turmoil of the Elizabethan age. - [Rocks and Minerals](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/rocks-and-minerals/): Learners investigate the processes involved in the ever-changing landscape of rocks on our earth. - [Myths and Legends: The Bradford Ghost](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/myths-and-legends-the-bradford-ghost/): Using the setting of the hall as inspiration, pupils will find out more about the link between the Civil War and the legend of the Bradford Ghost. - [Local Human Geography](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/local-human-geography/): Investigate the physical and human factors that have contributed to the continuously changing landscape of Keighley. - [Belonging: The ethics of museum objects](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/belonging/): Encourage your learners to develop their debating skills by getting involved in a global discussion. - [The Art & Science of Noticing KS1](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/the-art-science-of-noticing/): A workshop which encourages learners to look closely at museum and gallery objects which inspire them. - [Great Fire of London: Life at the Time](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/great-fire-of-london-life-at-the-time/): Immerse your learners in London, 1666. - [Lowry Landscapes](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/lowry-landscapes/): Learners explore LS Lowry’s original painting ‘An Industrial Landscape’ from 1952. - [Hello Hockney](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/hello-hockney/): An introduction to Bradford artist David Hockney. - [Toy Detective](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/toy-detective/): Handling toys from the past 100 years, explore the working mechanisms and everyday materials of toys. - [Let’s Explore Transport](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/lets-explore-transport/): Learners go on their own transport journey throughout the museum using maps, role play and our amazing transport collection. - [Great Grandma’s Washday Memories’](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/great-grandmas-washday-memories/): In a typical Bradford back-to-back house, take part in a ‘hands on’ washday experience. - [Living Things & Their Habitats: Who’s Coming to Dinner?](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/living-things-their-habitats-whos-coming-to-dinner/): In this hands-on and fun workshop, learners prepare for an animal dinner party. - [Dinosaur Detective](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/dinosaur-detective/): Learners go on a dinosaur adventure, handling real dinosaur fossils. - [Museum Explorer](https://bradfordmuseums.org/workshop/museum-explorer/): Pupils will meet a Victorian Explorer and discover some of the fascinating world objects in the museum. ## Testimonials - [Tester](https://bradfordmuseums.org/testimonial/tester/): “Quote to go here. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit. Aenean commodo ligula eget dolor. Aenean massa. Cum sociis natoque penatibus et magnis dis parturient montes, nascetur ridiculus mus. Donec quam felis,”