Staff are happy to discuss your access requirements, please contact us in advance of your visit.

Below you can find information which may assist in planning a visit to Rochdale Pioneers Museum.

Physical access

The Museum is fully accessible for wheelchairs and buggies. There is level access to the front door of the Museum and a lift which enables full access to each floor. The floor surface on the ground floor is traditional slate and as such can be uneven in places. On the first floor, there is an accessible toilet and baby changing facilities. Buggies can be parked near reception if you wish.

Please be aware that the front door is not automatic and Toad Lane is a traditional cobbled street with stone kerbs and flagged pavements. Parking for Blue Badge holders is available in Rochdale Town Centre, the closest being in the Hunter’s Lane Service Area. Unfortunately dogs are not allowed in the Museum with the exception of hearing dogs and guide dogs.

Facilities in the building

The building does not have a café, but is able to provide hot drinks for booked groups as well as facilities for external caterers. The closest venues serving food are the Baum Public House, next door to the museum and Brown's Cakes on St Mary's Gate at the top of Toad Lane.

Access for deaf and hard of hearing visitors

Hearing dogs are welcome and water bowls are available from reception. There is an induction loop fitted in the building.

Access for blind and partially sighted visitors

Guide dogs are welcome and water bowls are available from reception.

The staff are happy to answer any enquiries and offer assistance to visitors. The museum's most recent Access and Collaboration policy can be downloaded here : CHT_Access_and_Collaboration_Policy_2019.pdf

Please download our Access Statement here: Access_Statement_For_Rochdale_Pioneers_Museum_2019-converted.pdf