About The Authors

19th July 2024 12:26 - Culture and Heritage

YouGov survey reveals that the majority of UK adults consider museums important to the nation’s culture: A YouGov survey revealed that nearly 9 out of 10 UK adults (89%) consider museums to be very or fairly important to the country's culture, while only 7% believe they are not important.

YouGov conducted the survey for Art Fund and the National Museum Directors’ Council, who commissioned the project. Over 2,000 UK adults participated, providing insights on topics such as museum funding, the key roles of museums, their local museums, visiting frequency, and the significance of having museums in the UK.

Additional findings indicated that over three-quarters (76%) of UK adults believe a local museum enhances their area. Furthermore, respondents stated that museums are most important for ‘educational purposes’ (62%), ‘preserving the past’ (59%), and ‘connecting with local history’ (56%).

Regarding museum funding, 47% stated that UK museums should be primarily or entirely funded by the government, while a small minority (3%) felt they should be entirely supported by private investment, visitor income, or other sources. Additionally, 74% believed that local government should cover at least half of the funding for local museums.

Feelings About Potential Closure:

Survey respondents were also asked about their feelings if their local museum were to close. In response, 54% would feel disappointed, 41% would feel sad, 19% would be angry, and 16% said they would feel frustrated – highlighting the importance of museums to the UK public once more.

Other Culture and Heritage Research Findings

Other Latest Market Research Insights