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Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens and its collection

Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens
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The Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens, located in Sunderland, England, is a municipal museum that was established in the year 1846. It holds the distinction of being one of the first municipally funded museums in the country outside London. The museum was initially set up in the Athenaeum Building on Fawcett Street and has since moved to a larger building next to Mowbray Park.

Unique Exhibits at the Museum

One of the unique exhibits at the Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens is the only known British example of a gliding reptile, which is also the oldest known vertebrate capable of gliding flight. This exhibit was discovered in Eppleton quarry and is a testament to the rich biodiversity that once existed in the region.

Designated Collection of National Importance

The Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens is recognized for its Designated Collection of national importance. This collection includes a wide range of artifacts and exhibits that hold significant historical, cultural, and scientific value. The Designated Collection status highlights the museum's role in preserving and showcasing the nation's heritage.

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History & Anthropology History & Anthropology Nature & Natural History Nature & Natural History Animals Geology Historic house Plants

#1 Free museums in Sunderland #1 History & Anthropology in Sunderland #2 Historic houses in Sunderland #95 Free museums in England #148 Nature & Natural History in England #26 Animal museums in England #16 Geology museums in England #28 Plant museums in England #132 Free museums in United Kingdom #168 Nature & Natural History in United Kingdom #31 Animal museums in United Kingdom #21 Geology museums in United Kingdom #33 Plant museums in United Kingdom #138 Geology museums in Europe #92 Plant museums in Europe

#1 Free museums in Sunderland #1 History & Anthropology in Sunderland #2 Historic houses in Sunderland #95 Free museums in England #148 Nature & Natural History in England #26 Animal museums in England #16 Geology museums in England #28 Plant museums in England #132 Free museums in United Kingdom #168 Nature & Natural History in United Kingdom #31 Animal museums in United Kingdom #21 Geology museums in United Kingdom #33 Plant museums in United Kingdom #138 Geology museums in Europe #92 Plant museums in Europe

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Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens
Burdon Road
SR1 1PP Sunderland

Images of Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens

Visitor information Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens

Opening hours

Monday
9:30 – 17:00
Tuesday
9:30 – 17:00
Wednesday
9:30 – 17:00
Thursday
9:30 – 17:00
Friday
9:30 – 17:00
Saturday
10:00 – 16:00
Sunday Closed
More opening hours

Admission

0+Free

Donations are welcome

More ticket prices

Facilities

Wheelchair accessible
Museum shop
Restaurant

Location & Map

Burdon Road, Sunderland

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Exhibitions

No exhibitions in Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens have been found.

Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens Reviews

Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens has 1 rating.

  • Apollo's Insights AI-Generated

    The Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens offers a diverse experience for visitors interested in local history, art, and nature. The museum houses a range of exhibits that showcase Sunderland's rich heritage, including its industrial past and maritime history. Many visitors appreciate the well-curated displays on local glassmaking and shipbuilding industries.

    The Winter Gardens, a Victorian-style glass house, is often highlighted as a pleasant feature of the museum. It contains a variety of exotic plants and provides a tranquil space for visitors to relax. However, some reviewers mention that the Winter Gardens section could benefit from expansion or renovation.

    The museum's art gallery receives positive feedback for its collection of L.S. Lowry paintings and changing exhibitions featuring both local and national artists. The natural history section, including the famous Wallace the Lion exhibit, is popular among families and children.

    While many visitors find the museum informative and enjoyable, some reviewers note that certain areas of the museum could use updating or more interactive elements to enhance the visitor experience. The cafe receives mixed reviews, with some praising its offerings while others suggest improvements.

    Overall, the Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens provides a good overview of the area's history and culture, making it a worthwhile visit for those interested in learning about Sunderland. It's generally seen as a valuable community resource, though there's room for some modernization and expansion of exhibits.

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  • Aggregated rating

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