Dorman Museum
Middlesbrough's Dorman Museum offers local history, natural science, and the largest collection of objects designed by Christopher Dresser.
With its ornamental copper domed tower, Dorman Museum has become a Middlesborough landmark. Founded in 1904, the museum was presented to the town by Sir Arthur Dorman as a memorial to his son and other soldiers the Yorkshire Regiment who lost their lives. Today the museum offers a captivating journey through local and social history, plus exhibits ranging from the natural world to space exploration.
Linthorpe Art Pottery and Christopher Dresser
The Dorman Museum houses the world's largest collection of Linthorpe Art Pottery. This exquisite pottery, produced locally in the late 19th century, is renowned for its vibrant colours and bold designs. Alongside the Linthorpe collection, the museum presents works by Victorian designer Christopher Dresser. Dresser is considered a pioneer of modern industrial design, and the museum offers a fascinating look at his work, not only in design, but also a writer and lecturer.
Permanent exhibitions
Explore eight permanent galleries covering everything from archaeology, ethnography and natural science to the history of Middlesbrough. The museum also has a dedicated space for temporary exhibitions, which means there's always something new to discover.
Families and young people
The museum has a host of engaging activities for all ages, including family workshops, toddler takeovers, archaeology clubs and Museum By Me, where under 30s can apply to have their own curated collection on show for a few weeks.
Other attractions in the local area include Captain Cook Birthplace Museum and Kirkleatham Museum, both less than an hour’s bus ride from the Dorman Museum.
Visitor information
Address
Linthorpe Road, Middlesbrough, Cleveland, TS5 6LA
01642 813781
Opening times
Tue – Sun, 10.00am – 4.00pm please see website for details.
Exclusions and safety measures
Closed 24 – 26 Dec, 1 Jan.
Refurbishments
Dresser’s Tea Room is open Tuesday – Friday 9:30am – 3:30pm, Saturday 10:30am – 3:30pm, Sunday 11:00am – 3:00pm. Sample freshly made hot and cold food, while relaxing in our comfy seating area. Why not try a mouth-watering cake accompanied by one of our fabulous coffees. We serve a variety of adult and children’s meals, cakes, snacks, soft drinks, and much more. Enjoy a latte or cappuccino and a homemade scone while the kids tuck into some beans on toast! We do not serve fast food – we serve fresh food as fast as we can!
Visitor information
The more you see, the more we do.
The National Art Pass lets you enjoy free entry to hundreds of museums, galleries and historic places across the UK, while raising money to support them.