
Queen Street Mill Textile Museum Burnley
Step into the last 19th-century steam-powered weaving mill, where history roars to life with operational looms and engines.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more focus

Queen Street Mill Textile Museum Burnley
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more focus

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into the last 19th-century steam-powered weaving mill, where history roars to life with operational looms and engines.
"A fabulous Mill, wonderful to see the old and still working machinery, the weaving machines were in action on our visit, what a treat."

Don't Miss the Tour!
Staff are incredibly knowledgeable and make the history come alive. Colin weaving is fascinating! :star:
Support the Mill
It's a unique place; visiting and buying from the shop helps preserve this heritage. :heart:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Working Steam Engines
Main Weaving Shed
Witness the power of a 19th-century steam engine and hear the roar of operational weaving looms.

Historic Weaving Shed
Main Weaving Floor
Explore the vast space filled with original machinery, offering a tangible connection to industrial past.

Guided Tours
Throughout the Mill
Gain in-depth knowledge from passionate guides about the mill's history and textile production.
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Planning Your Visit
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Don't Miss the Tour!
Staff are incredibly knowledgeable and make the history come alive. Colin weaving is fascinating! :star:
Support the Mill
It's a unique place; visiting and buying from the shop helps preserve this heritage. :heart:
Family Friendly
Great for kids aged primary school upwards. Educational and engaging. :children_crossing:
Cafe & Shop
Enjoy a cuppa and grab some calico from the small shop. :coffee:
Tips
from all over the internet
Don't Miss the Tour!
Staff are incredibly knowledgeable and make the history come alive. Colin weaving is fascinating! :star:
Support the Mill
It's a unique place; visiting and buying from the shop helps preserve this heritage. :heart:
Family Friendly
Great for kids aged primary school upwards. Educational and engaging. :children_crossing:
Cafe & Shop
Enjoy a cuppa and grab some calico from the small shop. :coffee:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Queen Street Mill for its authentic steam-powered machinery and the captivating experience of watching looms in action. The knowledgeable and friendly staff are a major highlight, making the visit both educational and enjoyable. It's highly recommended for anyone interested in industrial heritage.
"Excellent place, lots of free parking, marvelous staff, huge weaving shed, great cafe, toilet facilities, little shop with some Calico for sale.
Very friendly and educational, I lov d visiting here. Such a rich history to textiles in Lancashire.
I went for a weaving workshop and a visit to the British Textile Biennial installation there. Just beautiful."
Dawn Abbey
"A fabulous Mill, wonderful to see the old and still working machinery, the weaving machines were in action on our visit, what a treat.
We visited to watch a really good event all about Ethel Carnie Holdsworth... What an inspiring strong woman she was ( and is)...
Friendly and welcoming staff, a small cafe on site and small gift shop too.
Definitely worth a visit for adults and primary school children upwards."
Claire Waddington
"Make sure you do the tour, everybody is so knowledgeable and watching Colin weaving wonders on the looms is fascinating.
Everyone working in the mill is so friendly, helpful and welcoming, they're a credit to the county. Please go and support them, it would be a tragedy to lose it"
Bosch's Mum
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Queen Street Mill is located in Burnley, Lancashire. Many visitors arrive by car, and there is ample free parking available on-site. For those using public transport, local bus routes serve the area, and Burnley Manchester Road train station is a short taxi ride away.
Yes, there is plenty of free parking available at the museum, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Absolutely! While driving is convenient, you can reach the mill via local bus services that stop nearby. Check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary, so it's always best to check the official Queen Street Mill Textile Museum website or contact them directly before your visit. They are often open on specific days of the week.
While not always mandatory, booking in advance, especially for guided tours or special events, is recommended to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.
Admission prices are generally very reasonable, and the museum is often supported by grants and donations. Check their official website for the most current admission fees.
Yes, guided tours are highly recommended! The staff are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate, offering fascinating insights into the mill's history and machinery.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can witness the only surviving 19th-century steam-powered weaving mill in the world still in operation. See the massive steam engines, watch the looms in action, and explore the historic weaving shed. They also host special events and exhibitions.
Yes, it's considered very suitable for children, particularly those in primary school and upwards. It offers an educational and engaging experience that brings industrial history to life.
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, allowing you to capture the impressive machinery and atmosphere. Always be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage.
The mill offers toilet facilities and a small cafe where you can enjoy refreshments. There's also a little shop selling items like calico.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a small cafe on-site where you can purchase refreshments and light snacks during your visit.
While there's a cafe, it's always a good idea to check their policy on bringing outside food. Picnics might be permitted in designated areas if available.
📸 📸 Photography
The main weaving shed with the operational looms offers incredible photographic opportunities. The steam engines themselves are also very photogenic, especially when in motion.
Yes, personal photography is generally allowed. Capture the unique atmosphere of this historic industrial site, but be respectful of other visitors and any operational machinery.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Plan your visit around the demonstrations to see the machinery in full swing. The cafe offers a good spot for a break, and the overall experience is safe and well-managed. It's a great opportunity to spark curiosity about industrial heritage and the past.
📚 History Enthusiasts & Researchers
Recommendations: Take advantage of the guided tours led by knowledgeable staff who can provide in-depth historical context. Consider attending any special events or workshops that might offer deeper dives into specific aspects of textile history or the lives of mill workers.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Power of Steam: Machinery in Action
The rhythmic clatter and hum of the looms are a defining characteristic of a visit. Watching the weavers at work, manipulating threads with practiced skill, offers a tangible connection to the past. This isn't just a static museum; it's a living testament to industrial heritage, where the past actively comes to life before your eyes. The staff, many of whom have deep connections to the textile industry, are often on hand to explain the intricate workings of the machinery and the historical significance of each piece.
A Glimpse into Mill Life and History
Visiting Queen Street Mill is more than just seeing old machines; it's about understanding the industrial revolution's impact on society, the economy, and the lives of ordinary people. The knowledgeable guides and volunteers are crucial in bringing this history to life, sharing anecdotes and historical context that enrich the visitor experience. It's a place that educates and inspires, reminding us of the foundations upon which modern industry was built.

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