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Explore women's history at these museums and historic places

Mansfield Labour Party Women’s Section banner, 1980s. People's History Museum.

From a leading suffragette's home to a museum dedicated to women's history, here are some of the best places to celebrate International Women's Day and Women's History Month.

Taking place every year on 8 March, International Women's Day is an annual celebration of women and a day of global collective activism. This year the theme is 'Inspire Inclusion', a reminder to always remember to include women in order to create a better world for everyone.

We've rounded up a selection of museums, galleries and historic houses across the UK that are doing brilliant work to preserve women's history and celebrate their contributions to culture.

From the former home of a leading suffragette in Manchester to the only accredited museum in the UK dedicated to women's lives, history and achievements, there are lots of brilliant venues where you can celebrate International Women's Day – and Women's History Month, which runs through March.

And don't forget to pack your National Art Pass for great offers at every venue.

Explore women's history this month with an Art Pass

01
Inside the Pankhurst Centre, Manchester

The Pankhurst Centre

The former home of Emmeline Pankhurst and her family, the Pankhurst Centre tells their extraordinary story and traces the birth of the suffragette campaign that paved the way for women's right to vote. Visit the parlour where the first ever suffragette meeting was held in 1903 and explore the permanent exhibition to learn about this radical family. The centre is now run entirely by women and also houses the headquarters of Manchester Women's Aid.

Please note, the Pankhurst Centre is only open to visitors on Thursdays and Sundays.

02
Inside the library at Chawton House

Chawton House

Immerse yourself in the work of women writers at Chawton House, which takes care of a unique collection of books by leading literary figures including Mary Shelley and Jane Austen, whose brother owned the house – which she called the 'Great House'. Discover fascinating exhibitions, wander through the relaxing gardens, and find inspiration in the lives and works of the women who make up the collection.

03
Glasgow Women’s Library, Art Fund Museum of the Year finalist, 2018

Glasgow Women's Library

No ordinary library – Glasgow Women's library is the only accredited museum in the UK dedicated to women's lives, history and achievements. They host an innovative programme of events, run an active lending library and take care of important archives and a museum collection that's a treasure trove of artefacts, from historical books to suffragette memorabilia. They also run a range of services and programmes to help thousands of women across Scotland improve their lives, supporting people on issues such as poverty, health and sexuality.

04
Exploring the Florence Nightingale Museum

Florence Nightingale Museum

Step into the world of the founder of modern nursing at the Florence Nightingale Museum. Discover the story of her life, her impact on the profession and her campaigns for better healthcare for all. See the objects she cherished and meet her pet owl who kept her company.

05
Playing Match Girls’ Strike game at People’s History Museum

People's History Museum

The People's History Museum preserves and celebrates the stories of people who have come together and fought for change to build a fairer world. Learn about the radical women who contributed to creating a better Britain, from improving women's working conditions to enabling their right to vote. With inspiring displays and interactive trails around the museum, including a little suffragettes trail for kids, the People's History Museum is a great place for everyone to learn about women's history in a fun and engaging way.

06
The Women’s Library at Compton Verney

Compton Verney

Created around 1860, Compton Verney's Women's Library was built by Georgiana Verney, who was a passionate advocate for women's literacy, education and suffrage. Every year, they invite a guest curator to fill the bookshelves with books they've found inspirational or enjoyable.

Please note, the Women's Library is temporarily closed and will reopen on Thursday 21 March.

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