Pickford's House Museum and Garden
This gorgeous Georgian townhouse in Derby was home to and designed by Joseph Pickford (1734-82), telling the story of the Enlightenment architect and domestic life in centuries gone by.
The dining, drawing and morning rooms, bedroom and dressing room at Pickford's House are presented as they might have been when Joseph Pickford and his family lived there. These beautifully preserved period rooms give an insight into domestic life as it would have been in the 18th and 20th centuries, and there is even an air raid shelter to explore.
Life below stairs is illustrated by the reconstructed kitchen and laundry, cellar, pantry and housekeeper's cupboard. Other highlights include the museum's excellent collection of historic costumes and textiles and the French parterre-inspired symmetrical gardens. On the top floor of the house lives the magical toy theatre room, where you can see exquisite set-models of Sleeping Beauty, Treasure Island, Little Red Riding Hood and more.
Look out for The Wild Escape at museums and galleries in the next few months. Many have special events, or you can use our audio introduction to help children get involved at any cultural venue.
Visiting with children?
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