History and heritage in Barnet
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Barnet Museum, High Barnet
Barnet Museum is a key part of the borough’s cultural heritage, showcasing its rich history through a diverse collection of artifacts and exhibitions. From medieval battles to local artistic traditions, the museum highlights Barnet’s evolving identity and creative legacy. Learn more at www.barnetmuseum.co.uk.
Royal Air Force Museum
Established in 1972, the Royal Air Force (RAF) Museum in Colindale is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and families alike.
With free entry and daily hours, it’s a perfect outing, rain or shine.
The museum proudly holds around 1.3 million objects in trust for the UK public, showcasing the RAF's significant impact on world events, society, and technology. From fascinating exhibitions to interactive displays, visitors can explore how the RAF has shaped our lives and contributed to our collective history.
Barnet Legends public art trail
Experience Barnet’s history through exploring the Barnet Legends public art trail, featuring 21 commemorative ceramic artworks honouring influential and iconic figures who have influenced our borough, like George Michael and Amy Winehouse.
Use Barnet Legends digital map to embark on this artistic journey and learn about their impactful contributions
A spotlight on the Barnet Legends public art trail video coming soon
Edgware Centenary Arts Programme
We worked with UP Projects to curate a programme of artist-led activities to celebrate 100 years of Station Road in Edgware in 2023/24. This programme explored the role creative practice can play in bringing communities together and activating the High Street.
UP Projects Edgware Centenary Celebration, 23 November
Associated commissions and events included:
Stop and Smell the Flowers, mural by Holly Graham
The mural is a call to action addressing the climate emergency through the lens of access to clean air and green space, aligning with Barnet Council’s wider initiatives to become net zero carbon by 2042. The work was inspired by a participatory process involving 75 local young people in a series of artist-led workshops in 2023.
Care & Magic by Ruth Beale
Care & Magic by Ruth Beale, engaged with the staff and visitors to Edgware Library. From September to November 2023, the artist carried out acts of ‘magic’ at the library, a programme of performances and workshops aimed at new and existing audiences. This was followed by a series of ‘care’ interventions, including a new rug for the children’s library and a new vinyl artwork for the exterior of the building informed by the conversations that took place through the events held.
Burble by Emma Smith
Burble by Emma Smith, a performance inspired by the social spaces and sounds of Station Road in Edgware, North London. Local community groups, organisations, residents and businesses took part in recording sessions to explore the musicality of every-day speech that occurs along the street, resulting in a final composition performed in seven languages.
Explore Barnet’s local history
Barnet Libraries’ Local Studies and Archives service holds a rich collection of historical documents, photographs, maps and newspapers relating to the borough’s past. Whether you’re tracing family history, researching a building or exploring local heritage, there’s a wealth of material to discover. Find out more Local studies and archives.
You can also explore Barnet’s local history through our collection of videos available on the Barnet Local Studies YouTube channel. With 12 videos, including the highly recommended “100 Years of Colindale,” delve into the borough’s rich past from the comfort of your home.
