The landmark new museum and national visitor attraction will give visiting groups the chance to learn about Wrexham’s local heritage and rich footballing history in one place.
The new Football Museum of Wales and Wrexham Museum will see the stories and heritage of the city’s communities exhibited alongside the nation’s football history in one ambitious museum experience when it opens on 25th September.
This opening follows a major transformation of the existing Wrexham Museum and the development of the all-new Footballl Museum of Wales, both based in the city’s historic County Buildings.
The museum spaces will feature state-of-the-art displays, interactive areas and games. The Wrexham Galleries explore the city’s fascinating past with items on display dating as far back as the Bronze Age, while the Football Galleries celebrate Wales’ connection with the game from grassroots to the national teams.
“We are proud that Welsh Government trusted Wrexham – the birthplace of Welsh football – to celebrate its heritage for national and international visitors to enjoy.”
Cllr Mark Pritchard, leader of Wrexham Council
Heledd Fychan, cabinet minister for culture and sport, said: “This is a fantastic milestone - the Football Museum of Wales and Wrexham Museum will be a landmark attraction, bringing our nation’s footballing heritage to life while celebrating the rich history and communities of Wrexham.
“It’s great that Welsh Government support, joining that of other funders, has helped make this ambitious project possible. I look forward to visiting once the doors open in September, and I’d encourage everyone from Wrexham - and right across Wales - to come and experience this superb new venue for themselves.”
A new attraction for groups
The Football Museum of Wales and Wrexham Museum is expected to be a significant draw to the city for visitors both from Wales and further afield, boosting Wrexham’s current tourism offering.
Ian Jones, chief officer for economy and planning at Wrexham Council, said: “There is overwhelming interest in the new museum from far and wide, we’ve received messages from international visitors who are keen to get a glimpse of the National Wales Football collection while they’re in the region.”
Wrexham Museum has been closed since November 2023 for the redevelopment which has created a new museum experience in a significantly expanded and modernised venue within the historic County Buildings. It is said that the redevelopment retains the character and heritage of the Grade II Listed building, while creating a contemporary visitor experience.
Cllr Mark Pritchard, leader of Wrexham Council, said: “The transformation of Wrexham Museum into a state-of-the-art heritage experience, and the opening of the Football Museum of Wales, have made this a destination venue right here in Wrexham.
“There was a great deal of competition across Wales to find the right home for the Football Museum. We are proud that Welsh Government trusted Wrexham – the birthplace of Welsh football – to celebrate its heritage for national and international visitors to enjoy.”
Cllr Paul Roberts, lead member with responsibility for museums, added: “The redevelopment represents a significant investment in Wrexham’s cultural offer and will quickly become a popular new destination for residents and visitors, celebrating the people, places, stories and sporting achievements that have helped shape the county and football communities across Wales.”
What groups can expect
History-loving groups can learn about life and industry in Wrexham from present day to almost 3,000 years ago in the Wrexham Galleries. Items from the region’s 18th-century ironworks, heavy coal and lead mining, tanneries and clock-making industry are on display, as well as toys, games, textiles and photographs looking at life in Wrexham over several generations.
The Football Museum of Wales will display the Welsh Football Collection, comprised of over 10,000 objects relating to the game in Wales both past and present, from entry-level leagues to the national teams.
Groups will be able to see trophies, historic documents, memorabilia and items belonging to major Welsh players across the men’s and women’s divisions in the state-of-the-art Football Galleries. There will also be video displays and interactive exhibits, including a goalkeeper reaction game.
The museums are free to visit but pre-booking is required. Free tickets will be available to book soon. Open Wednesday-Monday, the museums also include a temporary exhibitions gallery, a shop and the Courtyard Cafe.
To find out more and plan your visit, go to: wrexhammuseum.wales.
