The Folly's facade
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Folly Museum

4.5
·180 reviews·, United Kingdom

A free museum in a historic building, showcasing Settle's rich local history, art, and geology with a delightful cafe.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
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The Folly's facade

Folly Museum

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A free museum in a historic building, showcasing Settle's rich local history, art, and geology with a delightful cafe.

4.5
(180 reviews)

"A superb museum, well laid out and much better curated than the usual small town museum."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Free Entry, Donate Generously

Admission is free, but donations are vital for this community museum. :heart:

☕ Delicious Cakes & Coffee

Don't miss the adjoining cafe for freshly baked cakes, especially the carrot cake! :cake:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Folly Building Itself

The Folly Building Itself

The Museum's historic structure

Explore the fascinating history of this Grade 1 listed building, with clues hidden in its stonework and beams.

Settle-Carlisle Railway Exhibit

Settle-Carlisle Railway Exhibit

Interactive display area

An engaging look at the construction of this iconic railway line, featuring an interesting computer program.

Local Women's Lives

Local Women's Lives

Dedicated display section

Discover the extraordinary stories and contributions of remarkable women from the local area.

Endangered Curlew Exhibit

Endangered Curlew Exhibit

Natural history section

A thought-provoking exhibition on the plight of the endangered curlew and its conservation needs.

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Planning Your Visit

Free Entry, Big Impact

The Folly Museum offers free admission, making it an accessible gem. Donations are encouraged and greatly appreciated by the knowledgeable volunteers who staff the museum. Plan for a visit that blends history, local art, and geology, with a delightful cafe for refreshments.

Discover Local Stories

This museum shines a light on the unique history of Settle and the surrounding Yorkshire Dales. From the building's own past to the Settle-Carlisle railway and local women's lives, there's a rich tapestry of stories waiting to be uncovered. It's a perfect stop for a few hours of engaging learning.

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend mornings
Why
Catch the volunteers' energy
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

One of the most magical places in Yorkshire - Mother Shipton’s Cave ✨ Where: Knaresborough, HG5 8DD. Parking on site (parking is only for Mother Shipton’s, you cannot park on site then walk into Knaresborough). Mother Shipton’s is a five minute walk from Knaresborough station. Dog friendly?: Yes! And they even sell Puppuccinos. Refreshments: Hot drinks and refreshments served on site and there is ...
@yorkshirefi
62K likes • 990.1K views

🎯 Free Entry, Donate Generously

Admission is free, but donations are vital for this community museum. :heart:

☕ Delicious Cakes & Coffee

Don't miss the adjoining cafe for freshly baked cakes, especially the carrot cake! :cake:

This is the @Ryedale Folk Museum - a hidden gem in the North York Moors National Park. Postcode: YO62 6UA Car park: Park at the Crown Inn pub next door, £3 for the day (their machine is cash only!) Price: adults £10.50, kids £9, under 4s free. Tickets allow unlimited entry for one year. Check the Rydedale Folk Museum website for opening times as they change depending on the time of year. Access:...
@yorkshirefi
32.5K likes • 423.6K views
This past weekend, the Folly Beach History Museum opened its doors for the very first time—and we’re honored to be part of their debut exhibit, Surfing on the Edge. 🏄‍♂️🌊 The exhibit celebrates the deep roots and vibrant stories of surfing here on Folly Beach, and Warrior Surf Foundation is proud to be woven into that history. Our Surf Operations Coordinator spoke on the opening panel, sharing ho...
warriorsurf
82 likes • 1.8K views

🤝 Knowledgeable Volunteers

Chat with the friendly volunteers; they're a wealth of local history and information. :speech_balloon:

♿ Wheelchair Accessible

The museum is accessible, allowing the whole family to enjoy the exhibits together. :wheelchair:

enjoying a lovely cuppa at the Folly Museum in Settle 🫖🍪🌟 #sunnyday #thegoodlife #local #museums #history #afternoontea #taketimeout #yorkshire #marketowns #worthavisit #welcome
maxandmetogether
19 likes • 221 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Entry, Donate Generously

Admission is free, but donations are vital for this community museum. :heart:

☕ Delicious Cakes & Coffee

Don't miss the adjoining cafe for freshly baked cakes, especially the carrot cake! :cake:

🤝 Knowledgeable Volunteers

Chat with the friendly volunteers; they're a wealth of local history and information. :speech_balloon:

♿ Wheelchair Accessible

The museum is accessible, allowing the whole family to enjoy the exhibits together. :wheelchair:

🕰️ Check Opening Times

Opening hours can vary, so check their website before you visit. :clock:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(180 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Folly Museum for its free entry, engaging exhibits, and the warmth of its knowledgeable volunteers. The adjoining cafe, particularly for its cakes, is also a popular highlight. While some may find the exhibits compact, the overall experience is highly valued as a worthwhile and accessible glimpse into local history and culture.

"Beautiful building housing the free museum and adjoining café. Museum and gallery is upstairs with the shop downstairs. Plenty of information boards about local life and when I visited there was a thought provoking exhibition about the plight of the endangered curlew. The RSPB logo is the curlew. And who knew, but in order to survive, only one curlew chick needs to survive every two years - this is not happening. Mousie Thompson furniture about, so keep an eye open for his meeces. Worth a visit, as is the caff next door."

Photos Only as G Maps deletes reviews

"Lovely building with exhibitions about life in the Dales. Tea room was good, freshly baked cakes. Volunteers are really knowledgeable and helpful. Free entry, just asks for donations."

Chris Walton

"Superb museum which is well laid out and very much better curated than the usual, small town museum.
Highlights for me were the sections of the displays dealing with (1) the extraordinary lives of some local women and (2) the building of the Settle to Carlisle railway line. The interactive computer programme on the latter was especially interesting."

Rich B

What People Like

Free entry and donations
Knowledgeable volunteers
Engaging local history exhibits

What People Dislike

Can be compact

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Folly Museum is located in the heart of Settle, Yorkshire. It's easily accessible on foot from the town center. If arriving by train, Settle station is a short walk away.TikTok Parking is available in nearby public car parks.

While there isn't dedicated parking directly at the museum, Settle has several public car parks within easy walking distance. Some local pubs might offer parking for patrons.TikTok

Yes, the Folly Museum is wheelchair accessible, ensuring everyone can enjoy the exhibits and facilities.Reddit This makes it a great option for extended families.

Settle is a charming market town. After your museum visit, explore the local shops, enjoy a meal at a cafe, or take a stroll through the picturesque streets.Instagram

Absolutely! The Folly Museum is a perfect addition to a day trip to the Yorkshire Dales. It's easily combined with exploring the town of Settle and the surrounding natural beauty.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the Folly Museum is free! However, they kindly request donations to help maintain the museum and its exhibits.Reddit

No, advance booking is not required for the Folly Museum as entry is free. You can typically walk in during their opening hours.

Opening hours can vary seasonally and may differ on public holidays. It's always best to check the official Folly Museum website or their social media for the most up-to-date information before your visit.TikTok

The museum often hosts thought-provoking temporary exhibitions, such as the one on the endangered curlew.Reddit Check their website for current displays.

Yes, donations are gratefully accepted at the Folly Museum. There are usually donation boxes available, and your contribution helps support this valuable local resource.Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You'll find a diverse range of exhibits covering local life in the Dales, the history of the Folly building itself, geology, and local art. There are also special displays like the Settle-Carlisle railway and the curlew.Reddit+1

The volunteers are consistently praised for being knowledgeable and helpful, offering insights into the exhibits and local history.Reddit+1

Yes, the museum offers something for most visitors, including interactive elements that can engage younger audiences. The variety of topics ensures there's something to spark interest.Reddit

Generally, photography for personal use is permitted, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific signage or ask a volunteer if you're unsure, especially regarding flash photography.

A visit can range from an hour to a couple of hours, depending on your interest in the exhibits and if you plan to enjoy the cafe afterwards.Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is an adjoining cafe that is highly recommended. It's a great spot to relax after exploring the museum.Reddit+1

The cafe offers refreshments, including hot drinks and freshly baked cakes. The carrot cake is particularly noted as delicious.InstagramReddit

While the cafe is known for its cakes and refreshments, it's primarily a tea room. You can enjoy a lovely snack or light bite there.

As the museum is in the center of Settle, you'll find numerous other pubs, cafes, and restaurants in the immediate vicinity offering a wider range of dining choices.

Information on dog-friendliness for the cafe isn't explicitly stated in the provided reviews, but many cafes in Yorkshire welcome well-behaved dogs. It's best to inquire directly.

📸 📸 Photography

The historic Folly building itself offers great exterior shots. Inside, the exhibits on the Settle-Carlisle railway and local history provide interesting visual content. Look for details in the stonework and wooden beams.Instagram

Personal photography is generally allowed, but always check for specific signage or ask a volunteer. Avoid flash photography, especially near delicate displays.

Settle's market square and surrounding streets offer picturesque views. The nearby Ribblehead Viaduct, a key part of the Settle-Carlisle line, is a must-photograph spot if you have time.

Weekday afternoons might offer softer light and fewer people, making for more relaxed photography. The exterior can look lovely in morning or late afternoon light.

While one review mentioned ghost stories related to a 'Riddick's Folly House Museum' in Suffolk,Instagram there's no indication of such stories being associated with the Folly Museum in Settle in the provided content.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Folly Museum is a great option for families looking for an engaging and educational outing. With free entry, it's budget-friendly, and the variety of exhibits, from local history to the Settle-Carlisle railway, can capture children's imaginations.Reddit The museum's accessibility also means the whole family can explore comfortably together.Reddit

Consider making a stop at the adjoining cafe for a treat after your visit; the cakes are a hit! The interactive elements, particularly the railway exhibit, can be a highlight for younger visitors. It's a perfect way to spend a few hours learning about the Yorkshire Dales in a relaxed setting.

💰 Budget Travelers

For travelers mindful of their spending, the Folly Museum is an absolute gem. Its free admission policy makes it an excellent attraction that doesn't cost a penny to enter.Reddit This allows you to allocate your budget towards other experiences or local treats.

While entry is free, remember that donations are highly encouraged and crucial for the museum's upkeep. You can also enjoy affordable refreshments at the adjoining cafe, making it a complete and inexpensive outing. It's a fantastic way to experience local culture and history without breaking the bank.

📚 History Buffs

History enthusiasts will find plenty to appreciate at the Folly Museum. The deep dive into the building's own Grade 1 listed history, with its hidden clues in stonework and beams, is fascinating.Instagram The exhibits on the Settle to Carlisle railway, complete with an interactive computer program, offer a detailed look at a significant engineering feat.Reddit

Don't miss the sections dedicated to local women's lives and the natural history displays, such as the curlew exhibit.Reddit The knowledgeable volunteers are also a fantastic resource for deeper insights and context, making it a truly enriching experience for anyone passionate about history.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Folly Building: A Historical Marvel

The Folly Museum is housed within a building that is itself a significant historical artifact, being Grade 1 listed. Builders have uncovered exciting details about its past, with clues subtly integrated into the stonework and wooden lintel beams.Instagram This layered history makes exploring the museum a journey through time, not just of the area, but of the very structure you're in.

Visitors can appreciate the architectural nuances and imagine the lives of those who inhabited or worked in the building throughout its existence. The museum's exhibits often tie back to the building's heritage, providing context for its preservation and current use as a community hub.

Voices of the Dales: Local Stories

A significant draw of the Folly Museum is its dedication to showcasing the rich tapestry of local life in the Yorkshire Dales. The exhibits delve into the extraordinary lives of local women, highlighting their often-unsung contributions to the community and beyond.Reddit This focus provides a unique and personal perspective on regional history, moving beyond broader narratives.

Furthermore, the museum offers insights into pivotal local developments, such as the challenging construction of the Settle to Carlisle railway line. The interactive computer program dedicated to this topic is particularly lauded, offering an engaging way to understand the engineering feats and human stories behind this iconic route.Reddit These narratives bring the history of the Dales to life, making it relatable and memorable for visitors.

Community Spirit and Volunteer Power

The Folly Museum thrives on the dedication of its volunteers, who are frequently commended for their friendliness, knowledge, and helpfulness.Reddit+1 These individuals are often locals with a deep connection to the area, eager to share their passion and insights with visitors. Their presence significantly enhances the museum experience, transforming it from a passive viewing of artifacts into an interactive and informative encounter.

This strong community involvement is also reflected in the museum's free entry policy, with a reliance on donations to sustain its operations.Reddit This model fosters a welcoming atmosphere and encourages a sense of shared ownership and appreciation for the local heritage. The volunteers are not just staff; they are ambassadors for the museum and the Settle community.

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