Overview

Hackney Council has secured a £2.24 million grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund to redesign and transform Hackney Museum. The project will create a more dynamic and inclusive museum space, with the aim of using the museum’s unique historical collections in bold and exciting new ways.

This once-in-a-generation transformation will ensure Hackney Museum remains a trusted and inspiring space where local people can explore their heritage, share their stories, and reflect on Hackney’s past, present and future.

What we’re doing

The project includes:

• A new permanent exhibition exploring 300,000 years of migration and settlement in Hackney
• A redesigned visitor reception and shop
• Two new temporary exhibition areas
• A redeveloped community room
• New event and teaching spaces
• Enhanced digital resources to make Hackney’s histories more accessible

Stories will reflect the area’s long history of activism, community solidarity and cultural change – from prehistoric discoveries to the Blitz, the Kindertransport, housing struggles and more recent waves of gentrification.

Why we’re doing it

The current museum displays opened in 2002. This transformation will help ensure Hackney Museum reflects the stories and needs of today’s communities and remains a vital place for learning, inspiration and connection.

It also supports wider investment in cultural facilities in the area including Hackney Central Library, which shares the same building, and Hackney Town Hall Square, just outside.

How we’re doing it

Hackney Museum is working closely with local communities to shape the new displays, digital content and programmes. Community groups, volunteers and local organisations are helping to inform the project’s development through co-creation and skills programmes.

Thanks to funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the museum will be closed for a year from late 2025 and is expected to reopen by early 2027. During this time, it will continue its work through projects and events across the borough, with a full relaunch programme planned for 2027 and 2028.