399 High St, Brentford TW8 0DU
The Musical Museum
The Musical Museum is a charity, museum and concert venue located in Brentford, London Borough of Hounslow, a few minutes' walk from Kew Bridge railway station.
Location
About
If you're a music lover and happen to be in Brentford, England, then you must visit The Musical Museum, one of the most fascinating and unique museums in the country. This museum, located in the West London area, is a celebration of the history of mechanical music, and it has a vast collection of instruments and artifacts that dates back to the 18th century.
The Musical Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in music, history, and technology. The museum is housed in a restored Victorian waterworks building, and it is home to one of the most comprehensive collections of self-playing musical instruments in the world. The collection includes an impressive array of musical instruments such as organs, pianos, and gramophones.
One of the most exciting things about this museum is that visitors are allowed to play some of the instruments. So if you're a musician or just someone who loves to play around with musical instruments, you can have a great time playing some of the self-playing instruments on display.
The museum is well laid out, with each exhibit thoughtfully designed to provide a comprehensive and educational experience. You can learn about the history of mechanical music through interactive exhibits, audio-visual displays, and guided tours. The museum's staff is very knowledgeable and friendly, and they're always happy to answer any questions you might have.
One of the most popular exhibits in the museum is the Mighty Wurlitzer Theatre Organ, which is a massive instrument that was originally designed to accompany silent movies. The organ has over 1,600 pipes and can create an incredibly diverse range of sounds. Visitors can enjoy regular demonstrations of the organ, and if you're lucky, you might even catch a live performance.
Aside from the impressive collection of musical instruments, The Musical Museum also has a unique collection of music boxes, which were very popular in the 19th century. The collection includes a range of different types of music boxes, from tiny handheld ones to large, ornate machines that were designed for public display.
The museum also has a gift shop, which is stocked with an extensive range of musical souvenirs and memorabilia. You can purchase CDs, books, and other merchandise related to mechanical music and the museum's collection.
In conclusion, The Musical Museum is a fantastic destination for anyone interested in music and history. The museum offers an unparalleled insight into the fascinating world of mechanical music, and it is a unique and unforgettable experience that you won't want to miss. So if you're in Brentford, make sure to add The Musical Museum to your itinerary, and be prepared to be amazed by the collection of self-playing instruments and music boxes.
Gallery
Things to do nearby
If you're a music lover visiting The Musical Museum in Brentford, London, there are plenty of nearby attractions and activities to explore. Here are some top picks for places to visit and things to do in the area:
1. Kew Gardens: Just a short distance from The Musical Museum is Kew Gardens, a beautiful botanical garden that's home to thousands of plants and trees from all over the world. Take a stroll through the various gardens, including the Palm House and the Princess of Wales Conservatory, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
2. Syon House: Syon House is a stunning stately home located on the banks of the River Thames, just a few miles from The Musical Museum. Take a guided tour of the house and explore the beautiful gardens, which were designed by Capability Brown.
3. Richmond Park: One of the largest Royal Parks in London, Richmond Park is home to over 600 deer and is a great place to go for a walk or a picnic. Enjoy the beautiful views of the park and the surrounding area, and keep an eye out for the wildlife.
4. London Museum of Water and Steam: Just a short walk from The Musical Museum is the London Museum of Water and Steam, which is housed in a beautiful Victorian pumping station. Learn about the history of London's water supply and see the steam engines in action.
5. Chiswick House: Another beautiful stately home, Chiswick House is located just a few miles from The Musical Museum. Take a guided tour of the house and explore the gardens, which were designed by William Kent.
6. River Thames: The River Thames is just a short walk from The Musical Museum, and there are plenty of boat trips and river cruises to choose from. Take a relaxing trip down the river and enjoy the stunning views of London's skyline.
7. Brentford Lock: Brentford Lock is a picturesque spot on the River Brent, just a short walk from The Musical Museum. Take a stroll along the towpath and watch the boats go by, or enjoy a drink or a meal at one of the nearby pubs or restaurants.
8. Isleworth Ait: If you're looking for a peaceful spot to relax, head to Isleworth Ait, a small island on the River Thames. Take a picnic and enjoy the views of the river and the surrounding area.
9. Musical Museum: Of course, don't forget to spend plenty of time exploring The Musical Museum itself! This unique museum is dedicated to the history of mechanical musical instruments, and features a collection of over 1,000 instruments from around the world.
Whether you're interested in history, nature, or just want to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings, there's plenty to see and do near The Musical Museum in Brentford. Plan your visit today and make the most of your time in this beautiful part of London.
Opening Hours
| Thursday | Closed |
|---|---|
| Friday | 10 am–4 pm |
| Saturday | 10 am–4 pm |
| Sunday | 10 am–4 pm |
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | Closed |
| Wednesday | Closed |