Description
Hat Works is the UK's first and only museum dedicated to the hatting industry and hats. It is the winner of "Best Small Visitor Attraction 2002" awarded by England's Northwest Tourist Board. Hat Works is situated in an old cotton mill opposite Stockport Bus Station and only a two minute walk from Stockport Train station. At Hat Works you can learn about Stockport's fantastic historic history with hats and how the industry flourished othroughout the 19th century.
Watch the hat makers as they reveal the art and mystery of hat making with working machinery. Enjoy the vast collection of hats on display ranging from the fine felt hats of the early 1800's to the catwalk fashion of the 21st century! Visit Stockport's very own Yurt (felt tent).
And there's more… Relax whilst having a bite to eat or drink in the level 2 Internet Café.
Collections description
The Hat Works is home to a fantastic collection of hats and headgear with some hats dating as far back as the 18th century. There are hats for every occasion, contemporary hats from todays top milliners, hats from all over the world and the worlds tallest top hat! The museum also houses a vast collection of Victorian millinery machinery which has been restored back to full working order.
Key artists and exhibits
The Hat Works houses hats from top milliners such as Phillip Treacy and David Shilling.
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A fantastic selection of millinery has been on the display in the changing exhibition area and have included hats and costumes from the hit movie Titanic and hats from characters in childrens literature.
General Information
Brochure or leaflet available with directions to museum
Pre-booking service for groups
Foreign language audio guide available
Information point provided
Parking for coaches
Guided tours
Collections
General guide to collections available
Object identification and/or written enquiry service
Object study facilities available (enquire in advance)
Disability Access
Audio guides specifically for blind and partially sighted people
Sign language interpretation available
Toilets for disabled
Touch exhibits and/or handling sessions
Wheelchair access to all public areas
Children and Families
Activities for pre-school children
Baby changing facilities
Children's play area
Events and resources for children and families
Indoor soft play area
Picnic area
General Education
Adult lectures and courses held
CD-ROM guide available
Education facilities available
Member of staff available with responsibility for education
Reception and lunch facilities for educational groups
Schools Education
Direct teaching services for schools
Primary school education service available
Secondary school education service available
Facilities
Cafeteria
Facilities for private functions and events
Meeting room available
Object study facilities available (enquire in advance)
Picnic area
Refreshments
Research facilities for academics
Shop
