The Shoemakers Museum, Street – A New Family-Friendly Museum to Visit in Somerset
If you’re searching for things to do in Somerset with kids, The Shoemakers Museum in Street is a fantastic new discovery. Opened in September 2025, this family-friendly museum in Somerset celebrates 200 years of Clarks shoemaking where it all began. The museum marks the journey from small workshop to global footwear brand.
The Shoemakers Museum is run by the Alfred Gillett Trust, the charity that preserves the Clarks family archive. It explores Quaker values, innovation and social change through the history of Clarks shoes. This is the only place where the full Clarks story is told in the town that shaped it.
More than a shoe museum, it’s an engaging family attraction in Somerset, about the local people behind the Clarks brand. Discover interactive galleries, films and recreated shops which bring Street’s shoemaking history to life. It’s an ideal choice for a family day out near Glastonbury or a rainy day activity, exploring Somerset museums with children.
A Brief History of Clarks Shoes in Street, Somerset
The story of Clarks in Somerset begins in 1825, when brothers Cyrus and James Clark started making slippers from their sheepskin rug workshop in Street, using the offcuts.
What sets Clarks apart, and what makes this such an interesting educational museum for families, is how deeply the founders’ Quaker beliefs shaped the company.
Their values such as fairness, community, innovation and social responsibility influenced everything from factory conditions to design and marketing. Over 200 years later, Clarks has grown from a small Somerset business into a world-famous shoe brand. The Shoemakers Museum does an excellent job of explaining how this happened in a way children can understand.
This isn’t just a museum about shoes, it’s a museum about people, work and changing society. I enjoyed learning about Helen and Esther Clark marching from North Petherton to Bridgwater in 1913, supporting the campaign for women to get the vote.
I also really enjoyed watching the films playing throughout the museum, especially the interviews with past factory workers. It was so interesting to hear their stories and learn how whole families worked together at Clarks, often across multiple generations. You really get a sense of how important the factory was to the local community, not just as a workplace but as part of everyday family life.
Visiting Street, Somerset – A Great Base for a Family Day Out
Street, Somerset is best known today for Clarks Village shopping outlet, but its history is closely tied to shoemaking and industry. Visiting The Shoemakers Museum helps families understand how the town grew and why it became such an important place.
Its location makes it ideal if you’re planning days out in Somerset, with Glastonbury, the Somerset Levels, and Somerton all close by. Combine a visit to the museum with shopping, lunch or a walk and you’ve got a relaxed, varied family day out.
Inside The Shoemakers Museum
Shoemaking Galleries – 200 Years of Footwear History
The museum’s four permanent exhibition galleries explore 200 years of shoemaking in Street, from handmade shoes to large-scale factory production. These galleries are visually engaging, clearly laid out and full of fascinating detail, telling the story of Clarks.
Children can see how shoes were made in the past, while adults will also enjoy the wider social history of shoemaking, including working life, advertising, fashion and identity. It’s a strong example of a family-friendly history museum that keeps all ages engaged.
1950s and 1980s Shoe Shops – Step Back in Time
Our favourite areas of the Shoemakers Museum is the recreated 1950s and 1980s shoe shops. These immersive displays allow visitors to experience what shoe shopping in the past was like, complete with period décor, signage and fashion.
Kids love the interactive elements, and adults will enjoy the nostalgia. It’s a brilliant way to bring British social history to life and makes this a standout interactive museum in Somerset. I think most people have worn a Clarks shoe at some point in their lives, particularly school shoes. So, it’s a walk down memory lane trying to spot shoes from your childhood.
Interactive Exhibits and Things for Kids to Do
If you’re looking for museums in Somerset for children, this one really delivers. Throughout the museum you’ll find hands-on interactives, archive film footage and activities designed to encourage learning through play.
From foot measuring to exploring how shoes were advertised, there’s plenty to keep younger visitors engaged. There’s also a dedicated education and creative space, making this a great option for school-age children, rainy days and repeat visits.
We enjoyed dressing up as a Clarks shop assistant in the vintage clothing and measuring our feet using the traditional foot measuring gauge.
Fossils Under the Factory – A Surprise Highlight
One of the most unexpected parts of the museum is the collection of marine reptile fossils, including sea dragons, found beneath the Clarks factories. Discovered by Alfred Gillett, a member of the Clark family, these fossils add a fun and surprising twist.
For us, this is a perfect way to spend a rainy afternoon. This family attraction in Somerset offers much more than you might expect.
Café and Gardens
The museum café serves locally sourced Somerset food and drink, making it easy to stop for lunch or a snack. There are also gardens and a walled orchard where families can relax or enjoy a picnic.
Their annual wassail is held in the orchard every January, with theatre, song and ceremony. We were lucky enough to visit during the Wassail weekend and we enjoyed watching while they blessed their orchard to promote a good apple harvest.
Practical Information for Families Visiting The Shoemakers Museum
Location: Shoemakers Museum, Clarks Village, Street, Somerset BA16
Opening times: Typically 10am–5pm (check ahead before visiting)
Ticket prices: Adults from £12, children from £5
Parking: Free parking permits available for ticket holders
Check out Half Term Activities, such as children’s trails and crafting
Good to know: Pay-once annual tickets and online discounts available
This makes it excellent value for families looking for affordable days out in Somerset.
FAQ
Is the Shoemakers Museum accessible?
Yes. As an accessible museum in Somerset, The Shoemakers Museum offers lifts, accessible toilets, changing facilities and accessible interactives, making it welcoming for all visitors.
Is The Shoemakers Museum Worth Visiting with Kids?
Absolutely. The Shoemakers Museum in Street is one of the best new family attractions in Somerset, combining history, creativity and hands-on fun. It’s educational, interactive without being overwhelming, and rooted in a story that connects generations.
Are Clarks shoes still made in Street Somerset?
No, Clarks shoes are no longer manufactured in Street, Somerset. While the company headquarters are there, they closed their last UK manufacturing plant in 2019 after a brief attempt to revive local, robot-assisted production of desert boots. Most production moved to the Far East in 2005.
Where is the Shoemakers Museum in Somerset?
The Shoemakers Museum is now open next to the company’s headquarters in Street, Somerset. You’ll find it next to the Clarks Village entrance at car park 2, postcode BA16 0HH.
If you’re planning things to do in Street Somerset, family days out near Glastonbury, or exploring Somerset museums with kids, this one is well worth a visit.
Looking for more family days out across Somerset and beyond?
Have a browse through our other ideas here on Somerset Family Adventures or, join our Facebook group for more inspiration.
More 'Somerset Days Out' Guides
Before you go, check out these blog posts:
The Best Days Out and Unmissable Things To Do in Somerset
Top Ten Day Trips From Bristol
A Guide To Visiting Cheddar Gorge
Visit Glastonbury: Top Ten Things To See And Do
The Best Things To See and Do in Dunster
50+ Free Things To Do In Somerset: Budget Friendly Adventures
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Disclaimer: Whilst we endeavour to provide accurate information, please always check the details with the venue before you leave in case there are any changes or closures. If you have any more suggestions for family-friendly days out in Somerset, we’d love to hear from you!
