From culture lovers to art aficionados, or those merely wishing to absorb the stunning countryside and local ambience – there’s something for everyone in this delightful market town.
Parul Sharma GAU audience writer
08:00, 01 Feb 2026
It’s brimming with culture, history, and natural beauty
A popular market town in Lancashire is home to the ‘finest house and garden’ in the ceremonial county – and you can visit it absolutely free of cost.
Lancashire’s hidden gem, the town of Accrington, is bursting with culture, natural beauty, and history, guaranteeing there’s something for everyone who visits.
Encircled by the scenic countryside and featuring a thriving market at the centre of the town, visitors will have plenty to occupy them when discovering this attractive mill town.
One such attraction that is a ‘must visit’ in Accrington is an art gallery that houses the stunning Tiffany Glass Collection.
The Haworth Art Gallery and Museum is the destination for enthusiasts of art and history, and it’s also the location of ‘Lancashire’s finest house and garden’ according to Visit Lancashire, reports Lancs Live.
It’s being hailed a ‘must visit attraction’ by travellers
Originally named Hollins Hill, Haworth Art Gallery and Museum was first constructed for brother-sister duo William and Anne Haworth and has been carefully ‘designed in the Arts and Crafts style’.
Bequeathed by the sibling pair to be utilised as a museum, art gallery and public park for the residents of Accrington, this historically important building can be explored year-round, completely free of charge.
Packed with intricate details and beautiful accents, every inch of this building has been ‘inspired by nature and made with a love of materials and craftsmanship’.
In its current state, the property’s historic stables and coach house have been transformed into Artists’ Studios which provide a base for numerous skilled artisans who operate from these workshops and showcase their creations on the gallery-museum’s prestigious premises.
Extending over nine acres of parkland, the heritage site provides refuge in its rose garden, areas to relax on sweeping lawns, or chances to discover the woodland encircling this residence-turned-art-gallery.
Guests can also enjoy an genuine dining experience in the property’s licensed Gallery Kitchen located in Haworth’s original Arts and Crafts dining room.
However, arguably, the jewel in the crown of the Haworth Art Gallery and Museum is its spectacular Tiffany Collection.
It’s home to the magnificent Tiffany Glass Art Collection(Image: Rory Lushman)
This assemblage of beautiful American glassware was presented to the town by Accrington-born Joseph Briggs, who, following an apprenticeship as an engraver, relocated to New York at the tender age of 17.
Joseph worked roughly 40 years at Tiffany, starting his journey as an errand boy before eventually ascending to become managing director of the internationally celebrated company.
This glassware collection, crafted by the legendary designer Louis Comfort Tiffany, was dispatched by Joseph to Accrington in 1933. The remarkable pieces continue on permanent public display throughout four themed galleries within the art museum.
One Tripadvisor review of the art gallery cum museum reads: “Beautiful art gallery with a wonderful collection of tiffany glass. The surrounding gardens are very pretty. Had a fantastic lunch in the cafe.”
Whilst another delighted visitor shared: “Most interesting place which still has the feel of a large family home in the Arts and Crafts style with superb Tiffany exhibits and other items of interest. Excellent tea room and gift shop with pleasant gardens . We will definitely come again.”
Key information for visitors
Entry to the Haworth Art Gallery and Museum in Accrington, including the on-site gallery parking, is entirely free of charge. For 2026, the venue welcomes guests from January 1 to December 20, Wednesday through Sunday from 12pm to 4.30pm.
The Gallery Kitchen operates on the same days and dates, though opening hours differ slightly, with service beginning from 11.30pm to 4.30pm. Final admission to the house is at 4pm and the facility closes over Christmas and New Year.
Accrington’s beloved attractions
The Victorian Market Hall in Accrington is a major highlight of the town
Tourists wishing to discover more of Accrington should venture to Oswaldtwistle Mills, another essential destination amongst the town’s attractions. This historic cotton mill played a crucial role during the Industrial Revolution and functioned as the birthplace of the spinning Jenny.
Accrington features an abundance of superb green spaces, including Oak Hill Park and Memorial Park situated in Great Harwood. History and architecture enthusiasts should make certain they allocate time during their stay for the Victorian Market Hall – which initially opened its doors and began trading in 1869 and continues to remain at the centre of the community – along with the Town Hall, considered a favoured venue for weddings and celebrations.
This delightful market town is also renowned for its yearly celebrations such as the Soapbox Challenge and The Accrington Food Festival, which offer visitors a tantalising glimpse of the regional culture and gastronomy.
From heritage enthusiasts to art aficionados, or those merely wishing to absorb the countryside and local ambience, Accrington boasts more than sufficient attractions to cater for all preferences, enabling visitors to discover this town’s enchantment for themselves.
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