Our Collections

The collection tells the story of Harrow and its people, past and present. We care for thousands of objects that reflect everyday life, work, faith, creativity and change across the borough.

It spans archaeology, social history, clothing and textiles, photographs and art, alongside material connected to local industry, education and community life. From early settlement to suburban growth and the borough’s diverse communities, the collection traces how Harrow has evolved over time.

We continue to collect material relating to Harrow and its residents, ensuring contemporary stories sit alongside historic ones. Through community partnerships and projects, we work to better represent the lived experiences of the people who call Harrow home.

The collection is managed to recognised museum standards, with ongoing documentation, conservation and storage improvements supporting its long-term care. Through exhibitions, research, learning and digital access, we make these collections available for everyone to explore and connect with Harrow’s shared heritage.

A selection of museum objects arranged on a table, including a green toy tank marked “M-40,” a Kodak Brownie 127 camera, two boxes of Hamilton’s varnish brushes, a small wooden pipe in a clear bag, a medicine dropper box, a printed Aladdin booklet, a rolled textile, and a small glass. Behind the objects is a framed painting of a church set in a wooded landscape.

Selection of objects from the Harrow Museum Collection

A small decorative duck made by Whitefriars Glass, formed from deep ruby-red translucent glass with a clear glass beak and rounded clear base. The stylised duck has a smooth, curved body and upright posture, typical of mid-20th-century studio glass design. It is photographed against a plain white background.

Whitefriars Glass Duck

A round cream-coloured metal cake tin with three stacked tiers and a fitted lid. The lid is worn with chipped paint revealing bare metal beneath. The word “CAKES” is painted in large green capital letters around the side. The tin shows signs of age and use and is photographed against a plain white background.

Metal Cake Tin


Collection enquires 

In order for us to answer your enquiry, we kindly request that you complete a short enquiry form here. We then aim to respond to your enquiry via email within 14 days.