Venue Description

The Birthplace of the Co-operative Movement at 31 Toad Lane. Here at 8pm on 21 December 1844, 28 working people known as the Rochdale Pioneers opened the world's first successful co-op shop. Today we are a museum dedicated to their achievements and exploring the co-operative movement both in Rochdale and around the globe. We have a regular programme of exhibitions and events with things to do for all the family.

Accessibility

Our entrance has no steps and is flat coming into the building. The door is not automatic but is wide enough for a wheelchair. There is a further push pad automatic door leading into the main exhibition space. The rest of the doors in the building are not automatic but wide enough for a wheelchair. The floor surface on the ground floor is slightly uneven as it is stone flags. The rest of the building has flight, laminate flooring. We have a standard lift which is for the use of all of our visitors, it is large enough to take a wheelchair and carer.

Accessibility Guide

Accessibility Guide Link: https://www.rochdalepioneersmuseum.coop/visiting-the-museum/accessibility/

Access Statement

Access Statement Link: https://www.rochdalepioneersmuseum.coop/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/Access-Statement-For-Rochdale-Pioneers-Museum.pdf

Accessible Performances

As part of our 'Cinema Saturday' events we offer free Autism Friendly showings of popular family films. All of these are bookable via telephone, email and our social media accounts.

Awards List

Visit England membership and Hidden Gem Award 2016 Accredited Museum Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence 2017 Historic England: 100 Irreplaceable Places

Toilets

We have one accessible toilet with step free access. There is another toilet with step free access but it is not fully accessible for wheelchair users. The accessible toilet has a wide swing door suitable for manual and powered wheelchairs. There are grab rails, easy turn locks and taps and a bag hook which is at a suitable height for wheelchair users.

Staff

Information about the staff has not been added for this venue.

Assistance dog facilities

Other assistance dog facilities

We can offer water on request for assistance dogs.