Lord and Lady Armstrong used their wealth, art and science in a most ingenious way, and Cragside house was the first in the world to be lit by hydroelectricity. Cragside features exhibits related to: costume and textiles, decorative and applied art, weapons and war, natural sciences, maritime, science and technology, fine art and personalities. Key themes, people and exhibits in the museum include: first house to be lit by hydro-electricity, 19thc norman shaw furniture and william armstrong.
History & Anthropology Science & Technology Applied art Historic house Industrial heritage Person & Artist War
#55 History & Anthropology in England #17 Science & Technology in England #5 Applied art museums in England #26 Historic houses in England #13 Industrial & heritage museums in England #13 Person & artist museums in England #15 War museums in England #71 History & Anthropology in United Kingdom #20 Science & Technology in United Kingdom #6 Applied art museums in United Kingdom #37 Historic houses in United Kingdom #17 Industrial & heritage museums in United Kingdom #16 Person & artist museums in United Kingdom #19 War museums in United Kingdom #85 Science & Technology in Europe #17 Applied art museums in Europe #49 Industrial & heritage museums in Europe #98 Person & artist museums in Europe #61 War museums in Europe
Cragside, Rothbury
No exhibitions in Cragside have been found.
Cragside has 1 rating.
Cragside, located in Rothbury, England, is a remarkable Victorian country house that offers visitors a glimpse into the ingenuity of the late 19th century. The estate, once home to Lord Armstrong, a Victorian inventor and industrialist, is known for being the first house in the world to be lit by hydroelectricity.
The house itself is an architectural marvel, showcasing a blend of Tudor and Gothic revival styles. Visitors often praise the well-preserved interiors, which feature an impressive collection of furniture, artwork, and household gadgets from the Victorian era. The attention to detail in the restoration and presentation of the rooms allows guests to feel as if they've stepped back in time.
One of the main highlights of Cragside is its extensive grounds. The estate boasts over 1,000 acres of gardens, woodland, and lakes. Many visitors enjoy exploring the rock garden, one of the largest in Europe, as well as the formal gardens and the numerous walking trails. The variety of landscapes provides something for everyone, from casual strollers to more adventurous hikers.
The museum aspect of Cragside is particularly commendable. Exhibits and displays throughout the house and grounds effectively explain Lord Armstrong's innovations and the technological advancements of the time. Visitors often find the demonstrations of the hydroelectric system and other Victorian gadgets to be both educational and entertaining.
While most reviews are overwhelmingly positive, some visitors mention that the property can get quite busy during peak seasons, which may impact the overall experience. Additionally, due to the vast size of the estate, some guests find it challenging to see everything in one visit and recommend allocating ample time or planning return trips.
The staff at Cragside generally receive high praise for their knowledge and friendliness, enhancing the visitor experience with informative tours and helpful assistance. However, a few reviews note that more guided tours or interactive experiences could further improve the visit.
In terms of facilities, the property offers good amenities including a café and shop, though some visitors find the prices a bit high. Accessibility might be a concern for some, as the house has multiple levels and the grounds feature some steep paths.
Overall, Cragside offers a rich, educational, and visually stunning experience that appeals to history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and families alike. Its blend of Victorian innovation, beautiful architecture, and stunning landscapes makes it a standout attraction in Northumberland.
This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.
Discover museums near Cragside in or around Rothbury.