Step behind the scenes at Shropshire Museums’ Collections Centre in Ludlow
Visitors are being invited to discover some of Shropshire’s remarkable historic artifacts and artworks, through a series of curator-led Behind the Scenes Tours at the Shropshire Museums Collections Centre in Ludlow.
Behind the Scenes Store Tour: Shropshire Mammoths
The programme offers an opportunity to explore collections that are not normally on public display and learn more about the vital work involved in caring for the county’s heritage.
The Shropshire Museums Collections Centre, located at 7–9 Parkway in Ludlow, is home to thousands of objects, artworks, archives and natural history specimens from across Shropshire.
It serves as the working heart of Shropshire Museums, housing collections that are preserved, researched and conserved by museum staff. Although it is not a traditional museum site, visitors can enjoy access to a ground-floor exhibitions free of charge and gain entry to the collections stores through pre-booked tours or by prior appointment.
Discover Shropshire’s Hidden Treasures
If you have ever wondered what happens behind the scenes in a museum, these tours are for you. This summer, visitors have the opportunity to step inside the Shropshire Museums Collections Centre and explore areas not normally open to the public. Led by expert curators, these tours offer a fascinating glimpse into the care, conservation and research that takes place behind the scenes, while bringing visitors closer to some of the county’s most remarkable collections.
The Behind the Scenes Store Tour: Shropshire Mammoths gives visitors the chance to come face-to-face with the fossilised remains of the five mammoths discovered at Condover. Guided by a curator, visitors will hear the story of how these Ice Age giants were uncovered and preserved for future generations. Tours take place at 10am on Tuesday 25 August and Wednesday 26 August 2026
Visitors can also join the Behind the Scenes Tour: Ludlow Art, which provides exclusive access to the museum’s picture store and the opportunity to view artworks inspired by Ludlow and the surrounding landscape. The tours take place at 1pm on Tuesday 25 August and Wednesday 26 August 2026. Tickets for both tours cost £15 per person and can be booked through the Shropshire Museums website at Shropshire Museums. Places are limited to 20 people per tour and advance booking is required.
Councillor Alex Wagner, Portfolio Holder for Regeneration and Economic Growth at Shropshire Council, said:
“These tours provide a fascinating opportunity to go behind the scenes and see how Shropshire’s collections are cared for and preserved, while learning more about the important work carried out by our museum staff. It is a experience for residents and visitors alike, showcasing our county’s remarkable heritage and strengthening Shropshire’s appeal as a visitor destination.”
The Shropshire Museums Collections Centre, 7–9 Parkway, Ludlow, is open to visitors on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9.30am to 5pm, and on Saturdays from 9.30am to 1pm. The centre is closed on Thursdays. Access to the collections stores is by prior appointment only or through one of the scheduled Behind the Scenes Tours. The building has lift access throughout, is wheelchair accessible and includes visitor toilet facilities.
Media Enquiries
For interviews and images contact Paul.gossage@shropshire.gov.uk
