Our Beautiful Oldham – a brand-new family nature gallery opens at Gallery Oldham on Saturday 27 June 2026.
Families across Oldham are invited to step into a world of wonder as Our Beautiful Oldham, a vibrant new permanent nature gallery, opens its doors on Saturday 27 June.
Bursting with colour, curiosity and creativity, this exciting new space celebrates the wildlife, landscapes and habitats right on our doorstep – and it’s designed especially with families in mind. From the moment you enter, you’ll be transported into a playful natural world where imaginations can run free. Swim beneath the water with a shimmering shoal of fish, curl up with a story inside the hollow of a tree, or pause to listen to birdsong as you explore.
Inspired by Mary Higgs’ question from nearly 150 years ago — “Beautiful Oldham, why not?” — the gallery brings nature to life through immersive environments and hands-on fun. Visitors can journey through Oldham’s diverse habitats, Parks and Gardens, Woods, Meadows, Water and Moors. Along the way, families can discover fascinating insects and animals, follow animal tracks, get close to mini beasts, and even try their hand at a playful pond-dipping game.
A highlight of the gallery is a stunning immersive projection, created by Leo & Hyde in collaboration with artist Kim Hubball, local Early Years families and Whitegate End Primary School, showcasing how Oldham’s landscape has changed over time. And when it’s time for a moment of calm, take a deep breath and relax in the soothing underwater space, designed to bring the peaceful magic of nature indoors.
Our Beautiful Oldham doesn’t just celebrate nature – it also encourages visitors of all ages to think about the future. Discover the challenges facing local habitats today and find out simple, practical ways your family can help protect them.
Our Beautiful Oldham has been developed in partnership with Early Years families, Northern Roots, and Oldham Family Hubs, with support from Art Fund. The exhibition has been designed by Creative Core.
Linked events
Launch of Our Beautiful Oldham Gallery
Join us on Saturday 27 June, 10am – 2pm for a special opening celebration packed with activities for families. There will be storytelling sessions in the Children’s Library, craft activities in the Creator Space and two Extra Small Cinema screening of The Gruffalo in the Theatre Space -book your cinema tickets via Eventbrite.
Tiny Nature Explorers at Northern Roots
27 July and 10 August | 10.30 – 11.30am
Perfect for children aged 2–4, these fun sessions combine nature, creativity, and storytelling in the great outdoors.
Free – book via Northern Roots Eventbrite page.
Gallery Talk: Discover Our Beautiful Oldham
Wednesday 22 July | 2pm
Learn more about the fascinating natural history and habitats featured in the gallery with our Natural History curator.
Free – no booking required
