About the Garstang Museum and Research Centre
Connecting our past to a new era of research and discovery
The Liverpool Institute of Archaeology was founded in 1904 by John Garstang in association with the University of Liverpool, and included a museum and library to support teaching, research and discovery.
Over the past century, that original vision has grown and adapted—driven by new discoveries, expanding collections and shifting research priorities—to become today’s Garstang Museum and Research Centre.
This section traces that journey, from its early beginnings to its role today at the heart of the University of Liverpool’s research, teaching and global engagement.
40-42 Bedford Street, the first home of the Museum
The Museum itself began modestly, supported largely by private benefactors, it was housed in four small rooms on the ground floor of 40–42 Bedford Street. From the outset, it offered something special: carefully arranged collections, rich in Egyptian antiquities, many newly uncovered through the Institute’s own excavations.
The Museum’s story has not been without challenges. In 1941, during the heavy bombing of Liverpool, the building was struck. To protect the collection, objects were moved for safekeeping. They remained on campus, and after the war, they were moved to our current location in 14 Abercromby Square.
14 Abercromby Square, which has housed the Museum since the late 1960s
A new chapter began in 1948, when the Institute of Archaeology formally became part of the University of Liverpool. Over time, the Museum evolved alongside the University, and in 2004 it was renamed the Garstang Museum of Archaeology to mark the centenary of the Institute’s founding. Today, it forms a key part of the University’s vibrant heritage offer.
At its heart is a remarkable collection shaped by exploration and research. Much of it comes from the pioneering excavations of John Garstang across Egypt, Sudan and the Near East, alongside material from other early Institute expeditions in the UK and beyond. Over the years, the collection has been carefully developed to support teaching and bring the ancient world to life.
In June 2026, the Garstang Museum enters a new era with the opening of the Garstang Research Centre - bringing together world-class collections, expertise and facilities in one place.
Through projects such as Reconstructing the Ancient Past, the Museum is working in partnership with National Museums Liverpool to identify, connect and make accessible collections held across more than 100 institutions worldwide. This project is funded through the RICHeS programme by the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC), supporting innovative digital approaches to reunite dispersed collections and unlock new opportunities for research and collaboration.
Today, the Garstang Museum is a place to discover, explore and connect with the past. From world-class collections to cutting-edge research, it brings ancient histories to life - inviting students, researchers and visitors alike to uncover new stories and see the ancient world in fresh ways.