Bury Art Museum

Bury Art Museum occupies a red brick structure with a prominent stone staircase and original stained glass installations connecting the first-floor galleries. The building features mosaic floors and displays art across multiple connected spaces that were significantly expanded following renovation work completed in 2005.

Thomas Wrigley established the museum in 1897 by donating over 200 paintings, watercolors, prints, and ceramics to mark Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee. Manchester architects Woodhouse and Willoughby won a competition to design the Grade II listed building that houses the collection.

The building's name comes from its role as a cultural hub that Thomas Wrigley envisioned for the town, combining art with community learning. Rotating exhibitions show works alongside decorative objects, creating a space where visitors encounter both familiar masterworks and emerging contemporary art.

The galleries flow naturally from one to another through the connected spaces, making it straightforward to navigate the artwork displays. Plan enough time to explore the art collection and other areas without rushing, as the building offers plenty of rooms to discover on multiple levels.

The building won a prestigious design competition in 1897, establishing it as an important architectural work rather than just a display space. The original stained glass installations connecting the galleries represent handcrafted artistry that enhances the museum experience beyond the paintings on display.

Location: Bury

Inception: 1901

Address: Moss Street, Bury, BL9 0DR

Website: https://buryartmuseum.co.uk

GPS coordinates: 53.59173,-2.29885

Latest update: December 12, 2025 12:04