Hat Works Museum Museums

The UK's first and only museum dedicated to the exciting world of hats and hat making. Watch the hatting demonstrators as they reveal the art and mystery of hat making. See the planking kettle where mercury was once used in the felting process and discover the origins of the term 'mad as a hatter'. Enjoy the stunning display of hat through the centuries from the fur felt hats of the early 1800's to catwalk fashion of the 21st century.

Step back in time with one of our expert demonstrators, and experience the world of hatting, from its humble beginnings in the cottage industry to the mass production of early 19th century when hat manufacturing was a thriving industry with over 100 hat factories and businesses in the area.

Hat Works has over 20 fully restored working Victorian Style machines, rescued from former local hat factories along with a reconstructed hatter's cottage, working office and shop front. .