Explore the diverse heritage of London’s East End at the Hackney Museum, which provides an intimate look into the borough’s history, spotlighting the lives and narratives of its residents over time. The museum has permanent displays and temporary exhibitions providing insights into Hackney’s ongoing transformation.
![Hackney Museum is just off Mare Street in a building shared with a public library. (Photo: Tarquin Binary [CC BY-SA 2.5])](https://englandrover.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/hackney-museum.jpg)
What to see at the Hackney Museum
The Hackney Museum offers an intimate insight into the social and cultural heritage of the London Borough of Hackney.
The museum’s permanent collection is centred on the lives of the borough’s inhabitants, covering themes such as immigration, local businesses and community experiences. Visitors can see Victorian-era toys and games alongside exhibits showcasing the contributions of refugee businesses to Hackney’s economy.
With a strong emphasis on community involvement, local residents often contribute stories and objects to museum displays, providing a personal perspective on Hackney’s history. This collaborative approach ensures the museum reflects the diverse voices and experiences of the borough.
Temporary exhibitions at the Hackney Museum
In addition to its permanent displays, the Hackney Museum also hosts a programme of temporary exhibitions.
Making Carnival: Five Decades of Mas, Music and Movement in Hackney
This exhibition (opening early September 2024) chronicles the evolution of Hackney Carnival since the 1970s. As Caribbean communities settled in the borough, carnival became a vibrant community event featuring mas bands, steel pans and soca music. The exhibition will showcase 50 years of carnival history through costumes, photos, videos, and interactive displays.
Visiting the Hackney Museum
The Hackney Museum is just off Mare Street in the centre of Hackney, next to Hackney Town Hall in a building shared with a public library.
It is easily accessible by public transport with Hackney Central and London Fields railway stations (both served by the Overground) only a six-minute walk away and bus routes 30, 55, 106, 236, 254, 276, 277 and 394 stopping outside.
The museum is open Tuesday to Saturday (closed on Mondays and Sundays) and admission is free of charge.
Although the museum doesn’t have a cafe, its location in the centre of Hackney means that there are plenty of options for eating and drinking nearby.
It is a relatively small museum so an hour should be sufficient time for a visit.
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