The Long Shop Museum

Under 5's go free!

Visit The Long Shop Museum in Leiston, Suffolk

  • Explore The Long Shop Museum, a dramatic, cathedral-like workshop built in 1852
  • Discover one of the first purpose-built production lines in the world
  • See steam engines, agricultural machinery and engineering marvels that powered Victorian Britain
  • Enjoy fantastic exhibits, interactive displays and activities that bring history to life!

Celebrate Britain's industrial heritage at The Long Shop Museum

  • Age Restrictions: Suitable for all ages! Under 5's go free
  • Duration: Visitors spend around 1.5 - 2 hours onsite
  • Location: The Long Shop Museum, 15 Main St, Leiston IP16 4ES
  • Tickets include: Full access to all museum galleries and exhibits, Entry to the historic Long Shop building, access to interactive displays and activities for children, acess to seasonal events and exhibitions

What's On at the Long Shop Museum in Suffolk?

The Long Shop Museum in Leiston, Suffolk, is a hidden gem that celebrates Britain’s industrial heritage with a distinctly local twist. From the manufacturing cathedral that the Long Shop Museum is hosted in, to the stories and achievements of the people who worked there, get ready to celebrate the skill and effort that turned a Suffolk coastal market town into a Victorian engineering powerhouse. 

  • The museum is housed in the original works of Richard Garrett & Sons, a pioneering engineering firm founded in 1778
  • The centerpiece is the Long Shop itself - one of the first purpose-built production lines in the world
  • Explore the building that doubles as a dramatic, cathedral-like workshop built in 1852
  • Industrial Revolution artifacts: See steam engines, agricultural machinery, and engineering marvels that powered Victorian Britain
  • Garrett family legacy: Learn about Elizabeth Garrett Anderson, the UK’s first female doctor, and Millicent Fawcett, a leading suffragist - both part of the Garrett family
  • Themes and Stories: Go on a journey through Suffolk, starting from 1914 - the 1970's and learn about Leiston during the war
  • Hands-on exhibits: Great for families, with interactive displays and activities that bring history to life! From the 'tiny-house' that is the living-van to drawing your favourite museum objects, there's a fantastic range of things to do for all ages.

Get ready to spend a family day out in Suffolk, filled with steam and stories! Book The Long Shop Museum tickets today & have them delivered via email & SMS. 

Location

The Long Shop Museum

15 Main St,
Leiston,
IP16 4ES
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How to find us

By Car:

  • Postcode: IP16 4ES
  • what3words: limits.ruler.snows
  • Free parking onsite

By Bicycle:

  • There are a number of locations around the museum site where you are welcome to secure bikes.

By Train:

  • Nearest rail station: Saxmundham
  • This is on the Lowestoft to Ipswich line, via Beccles

By Bus:

  • Bus services are available from Aldeburgh, Dunwich, Halesworth, Saxmunham and Woodbridge
Facilities
  • Free parking
  • Public transport accessible
  • Picnic area
More Info
Is The Long Shop Museum wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the Long Shop Museum in Leiston is wheelchair accessible in many areas, though with a few caveats due to the historic nature of the buildings.

Wheelchair-Friendly Areas:

  • Community Hub: Step-free access via a smooth concrete path suitable for wheelchairs, pushchairs, and mobility scooters.
  • Ground Floor Exhibits: Most areas have firm, even flooring. Some parts of the Long Shop retain original wooden block floors, which may feel slightly uneven.
  • Toilets: All three lavatories are on the ground floor with step-free access. One is fully equipped with wheelchair access rails and space for a carer.
  • Garden: Accessible via the Community Hub with flat, step-free entry.

Limited Access:

  • Upper Gallery: Only reachable via a steep original wooden staircase, which may be difficult or impossible for wheelchair users.

Parking:

  • Free disabled parking is available near the entrance for Blue Badge holders.
Is there food and drink available at The Long Shop Museum?

The Long Shop Museum does not offer food or drink onsite. However, there is a lovely garden area where visitors are welcome to sit and enjoy a picnic. 

Is The Long Shop Museum suitable for children?

The Long Shop Museum is suitable for all ages, with family activities available. 

Where can I get the cheapest tickets for The Long Shop Museum?

You can get cheapest tickets for The Long Shop Museum on Lovetovisit.com. Lovetovisit guarantees price match or better, so you always know you'll get the best price.

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