Rochdale Pioneers Museum named as a ‘hidden gem’

The Rochdale Pioneers Museum has been named as a ‘hidden gem’ by VisitEngland. Housed in the original building where the Rochdale Pioneers opened its shop on 21 December...

The Rochdale Pioneers Museum has been named as a ‘hidden gem’ by VisitEngland.

Housed in the original building where the Rochdale Pioneers opened its shop on 21 December 1844, the Toad Lane museum gave birth to modern retail co-operatives.

The accolade, introduced by VisitEngland for the first time in October 2014, recognises outstanding attractions going the extra mile to create an enjoyable and memorable experience for visitors.

Museum manager Jenny Mabbott said: “It is a great opportunity for us to reach out to visitors who don’t already know about the museum. We are delighted that all our hard work since our 2012 refurbishment has been recognised.”

The museum re-opened on 29 October 2012 following a major Heritage Lottery Funded refurbishment. Since the museum reopened it has welcomed over 16,000 visitors from across the UK and over 35 different countries.

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