The centre was founded by Stephen and James Smith, two brothers who were inspired to open the facility after visiting Yad Vashem in 1991.
It is the only museum in the UK specifically dedicated to the Holocaust.
The centre houses the 'Journey' exhibition, which is specifically designed for children aged 9 to 12 to learn about the Holocaust through a narrative-led approach.
The site features a permanent 'Garden of Remembrance' that includes thousands of individual stones placed by visitors in memory of victims.
The centre operates an extensive 'Survivor Speakers' programme, archiving digital testimonies to ensure survivors' voices remain accessible after they pass away.
It is located in a rural setting, intentionally chosen to provide a sanctuary-like atmosphere away from urban noise.
The centre hosts a dedicated collection of Holocaust-related literature, archives, and educational resources used by researchers across the UK.
The National Holocaust Centre and Museum is the only dedicated Holocaust memorial and education center in the United Kingdom. It is situated in the rural village of Laxton, Nottinghamshire, and features both permanent exhibitions and extensive memorial gardens. The center utilizes interactive testimonies from Holocaust survivors to preserve primary historical accounts for future generations. Visitors explore the history of the Holocaust through the lens of Nazi Germany's rise to power and the subsequent persecution of European Jews. The site includes a specific exhibition dedicated to children, designed to teach younger generations about the consequences of hatred and prejudice. The gardens are integrated into the site to provide a space for quiet reflection and remembrance. It serves as a national hub for research, teacher training, and academic study regarding genocide studies. The museum was founded by the Smith family following a visit to Yad Vashem in Israel.
The memorial gardens, which offer a peaceful and landscaped environment for photography.
Check the website for pre-booking requirements, as specific workshops or guided sessions often require prior arrangement.
Allow extra time to walk through the memorial gardens, as they are a significant part of the experience.
Prepare for outdoor walking, as the gardens are substantial and require comfortable footwear.
Attempting to rush the visit; the content is emotionally heavy and requires time to process.
Typically closed on Saturdays; always verify operating days on their website before travelling due to potential fluctuations in school booking schedules.
Maintain a respectful and quiet demeanor appropriate for a site of genocide remembrance.
