Pontefract Museum

Pontefract Museum occupies an Art Nouveau building dating to 1904 with original fixtures and a tiled entrance hall in the town centre. The interior features exhibition areas with polished wood floors and a reference room displaying local history and archaeological collections.

The building was designed in 1904 by George Pennington as a Carnegie library and served that purpose for decades. It was converted into a museum in 1975 to preserve the town's history and collections.

The collections showcase archaeological finds from Pontefract Castle and objects from the town's mining history. Visitors also see old packaging and tools from liquorice production, which was once a major local industry.

The museum provides level access throughout its exhibition areas and is relatively easy to navigate. Staff members in black uniforms are available to answer questions and help visitors find their way around.

The museum displays a notable collection of coins from the English Civil War period, found during excavations at and around the old castle. These coins offer a rare glimpse into the economy during one of England's most turbulent historical moments.

Location: Wakefield

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible

Operator: Wakefield Museums & Castles

Address: Salter Row, Pontefract WF8 1BA

Phone: +441977722740

Email: museums@wakefield.gov.uk

Website: https://wakefield.gov.uk/museums-and-castles/pontefract-museum

GPS coordinates: 53.69200,-1.31200

Latest update: December 14, 2025 09:44