Since 1865 Northampton Museum and Art Gallery have celebrated Northampton locally, and internationally with their shoe collection. Northampton Museum and Art Gallery are proud to be a vibrant space for all people and they continue to be free for all. They aim to inspire discussion, debate and social interaction – a place where everyone is welcome, whether for an exhibition visit, a specific event or meeting up with friends in the café.

The original museum was founded on principles of helping people to learn about the world following the Museums Act of 1845, which enabled boroughs with populations of 10,000 or more to raise a tax to set up libraries and museums. The Shoe Collection was specifically founded as a reference collection for the shoemakers of Northampton to help them in their craft.

This collection now inspires shoemakers and creativity across the world. Today the museum welcomes formal learners through schools, colleges and universities in organised sessions alongside informal learners curious about their world and town.