Clipstone Headstocks and Raleigh Museum

About

Clipstone Headstocks Museum offers visitors a truly unique experience, taking them on a journey back in time, beginning in 1885 when the Raleigh bicycle manufacturer first started production. The museum’s display of Raleigh bikes spans all decades—and now, it is proudly home to the largest Raleigh collection in the world. This remarkable collection includes over 50 bicycles from all eras, alongside 5 mopeds, motorcycles, 2 rare Safety Seven Raleigh 3-wheeled cars, a Light Delivery Vehicle, and an original 1932 Karryall. Complementing this is a fantastic display of posters, banners, as well as original spares and tools.

The tour continues with little-known historical facts. A steam roller is on display, highlighting the world’s first tarmac road, laid in Nottinghamshire. Clipstone was also the first place in Britain to hold speed time trials in 1900, commemorated by the display of a Nottingham-made Brough Superior motorcycle, once used on the Clipstone Drive “one-mile straight.”

The journey progresses to 1914, where visitors step into the Clipstone Camp display, showcasing the largest army training camp in Britain, which accommodated 30,000 troops at a time. Exhibits include the huts where soldiers stayed, remnants of their time there, the artillery they used, and even a Model T Ford featuring genuine bullet holes in its door.

The wartime theme continues into 1939 with an exhibit displaying equipment, vehicles, and a gallery detailing Nottinghamshire’s significant role in World War II.

The Cold War period is represented by an extensive collection of unusual military vehicles, including amphibious vehicles, scout cars, and a tank equipped with four anti-aircraft guns capable of firing 4,000 rounds per minute.

Coal also played a vital role in the war effort, particularly in steel production for Sheffield’s industries. Clipstone Colliery, which operated from 1922 to 2003, is brought to life through an underground training experience. Here, guides explain how 1,300 miners extracted one million tons of coal per year from a depth of 3,000 feet, using the world’s tallest headstocks.

The museum also highlights local innovations, including the invention of the circular saw in Mansfield. With a wealth of historical insight, Clipstone Headstocks Museum provides an educational, informative, and engaging experience for all visitors.

Guided tours run every Friday at 11am and take approximately 1 hour. £8 per person.

Please note: there are stairs involved, so accessibility may not be suitable for everyone.