About the National Conservation Centre

An Egyptian mummy

The National Conservation Centre isn't like other museums. Here we focus on the hidden stories behind the objects in our museums. We show you how science and investigation are used to discover all sorts of things about an object and its history. And it is all FREE!

What to see in National Conservation Centre

Ground floor

'Reveal' is the main display on the ground floor. There's a lot to see and do here. Meet the pests that damage your valuables. Find out how we look after objects from the finest fabric to wooden ships. See how lasers, x-rays and CT scanning help us reveal the hidden stories behind objects like Egyptian mummies. You might even see a conservator hard at work on one of our objects.

There's more on Reveal here.

The shop and toilets are also on the ground floor.

First floor

Up here is the café and the temporary exhibition gallery.

Sculptures and a conservator

What to do at National Conservation Centre

As well as the permanent displays on the ground floor we also have special events and exhibitions. These are all FREE.

Exhibitions

These are temporary displays and can be seen in the exhibition space on the first floor. You can find out about current exhibitions by following the 'Exhibitions' link in the main navigation panel beneath the National Conservation Centre logo on this page.

Events

We regularly hold talks, workshops, walks and other activities, often to tie in with the current exhibition. Our behind the scenes tours are especailly popular. You can find out what is available on the day you visit by following the 'Events and activities' link in the main navigation panel beneath the National Conservation Centre logo. All events and activities are free.

Planning your visit

The visitor information page should tell you all you need to know about getting to the centre, opening times, facilities etc.

Two conservators in a studio, one working on a painting on an easel, the other looking at a large x-ray of a painting

 

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