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Exhibition: Folklore

16 October 2026 - 3 May 2027
Poster advertising a Museum of Cambridge Folklore 16 October – 3 May'. A large, black etching of a dog, ‘Black Shuck’ fills the centre of the page. Beneath the etching, red text reads ‘Folklore’ in a rough wood-cut style against a plain cream background. Beneath the title text sit the logos of sponsors Menor, Define Creative and the Folklore Society. In the top right corner, there is a black Museum of Cambridge logo which includes an illustration of a historical building and the information 'Registered Charity 311309'.

Folklore is made up of stories, myths, legends, and the lessons that we pass down from generation to generation. It surrounds us, calls to us, invites us to listen closely.

Folklore, the upcoming exhibition at the Museum of Cambridge, is an exploration of stories from Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, and beyond. Featuring tales of people, magic, medicine, and the things that we still can’t quite explain.

This exhibition will feature bewitching objects and stories collected by legendary folklorist Enid Porter, the Curator of this museum from 1947 until 1976, as well as never-before-seen artworks and tales still being told today. From witches’ bottles used to ward off witches to moles’ paws carried in the Fenman’s pocket for good health, this exhibition showcases a wide range of folkloric practices and explores the logic behind them, developed over generations. Contemporary artworks inspired by objects featured in the exhibition will also be displayed for the first time.

Featuring community contributions of modern folklore, this exhibition encourages us to ask: is folklore a thing of the past, or is it still being written today?

Standard entry applies. Children 16 and under visit free.

With thanks to our sponsors Menor, Define Creative and the Folklore Society. Poster art by Zoe Ansari.

Folklore
16 October – 3 May
Entry: Adults: £7.70, Children: Free.

Getting Here:

We are in the centre of Cambridge. You’ll find us at the corner of Castle Street and Northampton Street. We are right beside Kettle’s Yard and only a 15-minute walk from King’s College.

You can park your bike at the bike parks on Bridge Street or on Northampton Street. There is a bus stop nearby on Bridge Street. Find out more about how to get here by train, bike, bus, car or on foot on our website.

Accessibility:

We have a large print guide and SEND sensory totes available for visitors.

Our large print guide accompanies the Folklore exhibition.

Our SEND sensory totes include:

  • Ear defenders
  • Activity sheets
  • A magnifying glass
  • Fidget ball
  • Jacob’s ladder
  • Small cat toy

The guide and sensory totes are available on Front of House free of charge, just ask at the desk.

Please visit our Accessibility page for further accessibility information. Accessibility – The Museum of Cambridge

Exhibition: Folklore

Details

Organiser

  • Museum of Cambridge
  • Phone 01223 355159

Venue