If you’re looking for an interesting and unique experience in Stockport, then the Hat Works Museum of Hatting is definitely worth a visit. This award-winning and very interesting museum is housed in a beautifully restored Grade II listed Victorian mill, and offers visitors the chance to explore the fascinating history of what was a thriving hatting industry in the UK.
From the construction of the factories to the factory floor, the Hat Works Museum offers a detailed and interactive experience that is perfect for both adults and children. You can learn about the different types of hats that were made in the 19th century, as well as the techniques used to create them. The museum also hosts a range of events throughout the year, including guided tours and interactive exhibits, which are perfect for anyone interested in the history of hatting.
History of Hatting in Stockport
If you’re interested in the history of hatting, then Stockport is the place for you. This town in the north of England has a long and proud history of hat-making, dating back to the 16th century. In this section, we’ll take a look at how hatting came to Stockport, and how it developed over the years.
From Luton to Stockport
Hat-making was already well-established in Luton, in the south of England, by the 16th century. However, in the early 19th century, the industry began to expand northwards, and Stockport was one of the towns that benefited from this expansion. The town was ideally situated for hat-making, with plenty of water to power the mills, and a ready supply of wool from the surrounding countryside.
The first hatters in Stockport were small-scale producers, making hats in their own homes. However, as the industry grew, larger factories were built, and the town became a hub for hat-making. By the mid-19th century, there were over 100 hat factories in Stockport, employing thousands of people.
The Rise and Fall of the Hatting Industry
The heyday of the hatting industry in Stockport was in the mid-19th century. At this time, the town was producing millions of hats every year, and the industry was a major employer in the area. However, by the early 20th century, the industry was in decline. Cheaper hats were being imported from overseas, and the demand for hats was falling.
Despite this, some hat factories in Stockport continued to operate well into the 20th century. However, by the 1970s, the industry had all but disappeared from the town. Today, there are only a handful of hat manufacturers left in Stockport, and the industry is a shadow of its former self.
Hat Works Museum: The Legacy of Hatting in Stockport
Although the hatting industry in Stockport is no longer what it once was, its legacy lives on. Today, the town is home to the hatting Hat Works Museum, which tells the story of hat-making in Stockport and beyond. The museum is housed in a restored Victorian mill on Wellington Road South, and features a range of exhibits, including vintage hat-making machinery and displays on the history of hatting.
Visitors to the Hat Works Museum can learn about the different types of hats that were made in Stockport, from the famous bowler hat to the humble flat cap. They can also see how hats were made, from the initial stages of felting to the finishing touches of trimming and blocking.
The history of hatting in Stockport is a fascinating story of innovation, industry, and decline. Although the industry is no longer what it once was, its legacy lives on in the town’s museums and archives, and in the memories of those who worked in the factories and mills.
Exhibition and Interactive Exhibits
The museum’s exhibition offers an in-depth look at the history of hatting, from the early days of hand-crafted hats to the mass production techniques of the industrial revolution. You can explore the museum’s collections and learn about the different types of hats that have been worn throughout history. Interactive exhibits allow you to try your hand at hat-making techniques and learn about the materials used to create different styles of hats.
Factory Floor
One of the highlights of the museum is the factory floor, where you can see the machines and tools used in hat-making. You can watch demonstrations of hatting techniques and learn about the different stages of the production process. The factory floor is a fascinating glimpse into the history of industrial manufacturing in the UK.
Events and Booked Tours
Hat Works Museum hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including talks, workshops, and special exhibitions. You can also book a guided tour of the museum, which will take you through the history of hatting and give you a behind-the-scenes look at the factory floor. Tours can be tailored to suit your interests and are a great way to get the most out of your visit.
Café and Shop
After exploring the museum, you can relax and enjoy a coffee or light lunch in the museum’s café. The café offers a selection of sandwiches, cakes, and snacks, as well as a range of hot and cold drinks. The museum shop is also a great place to pick up a souvenir of your visit, with a range of hats, books, and other gifts available for purchase.
Overall, Hat Works Museum is a fascinating and engaging museum that offers a unique insight into the history of hatting in the UK. Whether you are a history buff, a fashion lover, or just looking for a fun day out, this museum is definitely worth a visit.
Wellington Mill
If you’re visiting the Hat Museum in Stockport, you’ll definitely want to take a look at the Wellington Mill. This Grade II listed building has a rich history dating back to 1830 when it was built by Thomas Marsland, a prominent figure in the calico printing industry in Stockport.
The Wellington Mill was originally a spinning mill and was later converted into a hat factory. The building was also used as a bicycle factory, snooker hall, and bike shop at various times throughout its history.
One of the most interesting things about the Wellington Mill is that it was designed to be fireproof. This was a major concern for mill owners in the 19th century, as fires were a common occurrence in cotton mills. The Wellington Mill was constructed with brick walls and cast-iron columns, making it one of the safest mills in the area.
Today, the Wellington Mill is home to the Hat Museum and is a popular attraction for visitors to Stockport. The museum is located on the lower floors of the building, while the upper floors are used for offices and other purposes.
Overall, the Wellington Mill is a fascinating piece of history that offers a glimpse into the industrial past of Stockport. Whether you’re interested in hats, textiles, or just history in general, a visit to the Wellington Mill and the Hat Museum is definitely worth your time.
Visiting the Hat Works Museum
If you’re interested in the history of hatting, a visit to the Hat Works Museum in Stockport is a must. Here’s what you need to know before you go.
Location Information
The Hat Works Museum is located in the heart of Stockport on the A6, just a short walk from Stockport Railway Station and Merseyway Shopping Centre. If you’re driving, the nearest main car park is the NCP at Redrock. Just be aware that the walk up to the Hat Works from the car park does have a rather steep and long incline on the main road.
Guided Tours
Guided tours of the Hat Works Museum are available for those who want a more in-depth experience. The tours are led by knowledgeable staff members who can answer any questions you may have about the history of hatting.
Tickets for guided tours of the Hat Museum Stockport are £5 for adults and £3.75 for 60+ and students. Children accompanied by adults are free
For Children
The Hat Works Museum is a great visitor attraction for children to learn about the history of hatting. There are interactive exhibits and activities that will keep them engaged and entertained. They can even try their hand at felting and create their own unique museum hat to take home. And of course there’s the recently refurbished gift shop to visit at the end!
General Tips
To make the most of your visit to the Hat Works Museum, here are a few general tips:
- The museum can get busy, so it’s a good idea to book your tickets in advance.
- Don’t forget your camera! There are plenty of photo opportunities throughout the museum.
- The atmosphere inside the museum is unique and atmospheric, so take your time and enjoy the experience.
- The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, so don’t hesitate to ask them any questions you may have.
Conclusion
Visiting the Hat Works Museum of Hatting in Stockport is a unique experience that offers a glimpse into the rich history of the hat-making industry in the UK. With its interactive exhibits, Victorian machinery, and informative displays, the museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in fashion, history, or industrial heritage.
One of the highlights of the museum is the opportunity to see the hat-making process in action. From the raw materials to the finished product, you can follow the journey of a hat from start to finish. The museum also offers workshops where you can learn how to make your own hat, which is a fun and educational activity for all ages.
The museum’s collection of hats is impressive, with examples of headwear from around the world and throughout history. From top hats to bowlers, fedoras to fascinators, there is something for everyone. The museum also has a collection of military headwear, including helmets and caps, which is fascinating to explore.
The Hat Works Museum of Hatting is a well-curated and informative museum that celebrates the heritage of the hat-making industry in the UK. Whether you are a fashion enthusiast, a history buff, or just looking for a fun and educational day out, the museum is definitely worth a visit. So put on your favourite hat and head to Stockport to discover the fascinating world of hatting.