Bushey Museum and Art Gallery

Bushey Museum and Art Gallery is a small local museum in Bushey, Hertfordshire, on the northern edge of London. It stands on Rudolph Road, in a building put up in 1909, and it is best known for preserving the artistic heritage of a town that once had its own art school.

What is the history of the building?

The building dates from 1909, when it was erected as the offices of Bushey Urban District Council. After local government reorganisation in 1974 it passed to Hertsmere Borough Council. The civic architecture of the early twentieth century now houses a collection about the town itself, which gives the visit a pleasing sense of continuity.

When did the museum open?

It was officially opened as a volunteer-run museum in October 1993, after achieving Full Registration with the Museums and Galleries Commission. In the week before the opening it won joint first prize in the Gulbenkian Foundation Awards, given for the best achievement by museums working with limited resources. For a museum run by volunteers, this was a notable early recognition.

What can you see inside?

The strongest theme is Sir Hubert von Herkomer and the art school he founded in Bushey. The museum holds artworks, objects and ephemera linked to him and to his students. Paintings by Lucy Kemp-Welch, her cousin Margaret Kemp-Welch and Lucy Marguerite Frobisher are also part of the collection, so the museum is a good place to see how the Bushey art community worked.

Alongside the art there is local history material. The collections include Bushey Heath lustre pottery, historic church silver, and costume and embroidery. There is also a display of memorabilia connected with the pop duo Wham!

Are there exhibitions and activities?

Yes. The museum runs a programme of temporary exhibitions and offers hands-on education sessions for primary schools. Its website lists current, future and past exhibitions, so it is worth checking before you go.

Who is it for?

It suits anyone interested in British painting, local history or the story of English artist colonies. It is a compact visit, easy to combine with a walk around Bushey.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Bushey Museum and Art Gallery? On Rudolph Road in Bushey, Hertfordshire, at approximately 51.645 N, 0.365 W.

Who runs it? It opened in 1993 as a volunteer-run museum and has been registered with the national museums body since then.

What is the main collection about? Sir Hubert von Herkomer, his Bushey art school and its pupils, plus local history and decorative arts.

Is it worth visiting with children? The museum offers education sessions for primary schools, and the varied local objects give younger visitors plenty to look at. Check the website for current programmes.

Should I check opening times first? Yes. Hours and exhibitions can change, so confirm them on the museum's website before travelling.