The Centre is run by a group of dedicated volunteers providing displays, regular illustrated talks and various exhibitions on all aspects of the town’s history. We are committed to supporting the local community. Art groups, community groups, ‘friends of’ groups, schools and social groups are welcome to use the Heritage Centre by prior booking for a nominal fee.
Meeting Rooms are available for all community groups.
Corporate and Private bookings can be made.
******GOOD NEWS******
The Trustees of DHC are happy to report that the Heritage Centre will
re-open to the public on Wednesday 4th August at 10 am.
Please note that we have revised opening times:
Wednesday 10am-1pm
Friday 1pm-4pm
Saturday 11am-3pm
Also that we will be open every Saturday until further notice.
Please enter the Centre by the side entrance on Church Street in order to maintain social distancing. Hand sanitizers are available in the Centre and if you wish to wear a face covering whilst inside the building please do so.
In the heart of this town Holker House has become the home for the Darwen Heritage Centre. A building dedicated to the prolific history of this cotton mill town steeped in stories and stunning architecture. Darwen was home to a strong cotton industry and boasts a visit from Gandhi in September 1931 to address concerns with cotton trading. It was home for Samuel Crompton, inventor of the spinning mule, who lived in Bury Fold Lane, Darwen.
Other famous Darreners include Sam Wadsworth who became a professional footballer winning 9 caps playing for England between 1922 and 1926; world renowned strong man Bill Hunt; professional golfer Dick Burton who held the Open Champion title for seven years; Margaret Chapman the illustrator and painter; Sigrid Augusta Green, female spy in World War 2 and lead singer of Blancmange, Neil Arthur.
The town is nestled in a valley overlooked by the Victoria Tower, or Darwen Tower as it is more commonly known. Families and visitors walk the moor to this famous landmark for the breathtaking views, whilst down in the town the Grade 2* listed India Mill Chimney rises magnificently 300 feet into the air in the style of an Italian campanile, (bell tower).
