Rochdale Pioneers Museum and its collection

The Rochdale Pioneers Museum is situated in the very building where the Rochdale Equitable Pioneers Society began its operations on 21 December 1844. This location in Rochdale, Greater Manchester, England, is considered the birthplace of the modern co-operative movement. The museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the origins of this influential movement in its original setting.

Recreation of the Original Shop

One of the key features of the Rochdale Pioneers Museum is a recreation of the original shop. This includes the rudimentary furniture, scales, and various items that were sold at the store. Visitors can get a real sense of what the shop was like in its early days, providing a tangible link to the past.

Influence of the Co-operative Movement

The Rochdale Pioneers Museum not only showcases the history of the co-operative movement but also highlights its influence on various social issues. These include women's rights, poverty, education, fair trade, and social reform. Visitors can learn about the significant impact the movement has had on these areas.

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Rochdale Pioneers Museum
31 Toad Lane
OL12 0NU Rochdale

Visitor information Rochdale Pioneers Museum

Opening hours

Monday Closed
Tuesday Closed
Wednesday
10:30 – 16:00
Thursday
10:30 – 16:00
Friday
10:30 – 16:00
Saturday
10:30 – 16:00
Sunday Closed

We are CLOSED on the following Saturdays:

Saturday 7th October 2023

Saturday 21st October 2023

Saturday 4th November 2023

Saturday 18th November 2023

Admission

0+Free

Facilities

Museum shop

Location & Map

31 Toad Lane, Rochdale

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Exhibitions

No exhibitions in Rochdale Pioneers Museum have been found.

Rochdale Pioneers Museum Reviews

Rochdale Pioneers Museum has 1 rating.

  • Apollo's Insights AI-Generated

    The Rochdale Pioneers Museum offers visitors an informative look into the history of the cooperative movement. Located in the original store opened by the Rochdale Pioneers in 1844, this small museum provides an authentic setting for learning about social and economic reform. Exhibits detail the struggles and achievements of the early cooperators, showcasing period artifacts and interactive displays. While some visitors appreciate the museum's historical significance and educational value, others note that the exhibits can feel somewhat dated and limited in scope. The museum's size means a visit is typically brief, which some find disappointing, while others see it as a concise and focused experience. Staff members are generally described as knowledgeable and passionate about the subject matter. The museum's central location in Rochdale makes it easily accessible, though parking can sometimes be a challenge. Overall, the Rochdale Pioneers Museum offers a niche but important historical perspective, particularly appealing to those interested in social history, economics, or the cooperative movement.

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  • Aggregated rating

    This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.

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