Rise Up
Resistance, Revolution, Abolition
21 February 2025 - 1 June 2025
Pay what you wish
Our exhibitions and displays remain free but you can now choose to make a donation.
Book now Plan your visitDiscover the multifaceted history of the fight to end transatlantic slavery through the stories of the people, communities and anti-slavery movements who campaigned for abolition in the face of oppression and opposition.
Bringing together historic artworks and objects in conversation with works by contemporary artists, Rise Up explores the battle to abolish the British slave trade and end enslavement between 1750 and 1850, as well as the aftermath, its legacies and the ongoing struggle for equality and social justice today.
Focusing on the individuals whose contributions were vital to the British abolition story, our latest exhibition shines a light on the often-forgotten Black Georgians and Victorians, and commemorates the resistance leaders and revolutionaries across the Caribbean, Europe and the Americas; from Jamaican freedom fighter, Nanny of the Maroons to Nigerian-born, British-based writer and abolitionist Olaudah Equiano.
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FAQS
Booking is required for our exhibitions. Book your tickets in advance to guarantee entry at your preferred time. Walk-up tickets are available for dates that are fully-booked online, but you may need to wait during busy times. We are no longer ticketing for general admission, you're welcome to just turn up.
Yes. Tickets for our exhibitions remain free but you now have the option to pay what you wish when booking. Save time on arrival and pre-book your ticket for our exhibitions now.
For groups larger than 10, please contact our events team at events@fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk.
About your visit
I'm a Friend or Marlay Group member, do I still need to book a ticket?
No. If you're a Friend of the Fitzwilliam or a member of The Marlay Group, you don't need to book a ticket, simply bring along your card on the day and scan it to enter the exhibition.
Can I change the date of my booked ticket?
If you're not longer able to make the date and time you booked, please contact us by email: tickets@museums.cam.ac.uk
How do I book a school visit?
For school bookings, please contact our learning team: education@fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk
How do I enter the Museum?
You can enter the Museum via the Founder’s Entrance (step access) or the Courtyard Entrance (step-free access) where you will be greeted by a member of our welcome team.
Where can I book an exhibition ticket on the day?
Walk-up tickets can be booked at the Courtyard Entrance (step-free access) on arrival. You may need to wait during busy times. Please note that our waiting area is outside. We recommend booking your tickets in advance.
Where can I find information about accessibility?
We provide full details on our accessibility and facilities. If you have any special access requirements, please contact us: fitzmuseum-access@cam.ac.uk or 01223 332900 and we'll be happy to help.
Is photography allowed?
You may take photographs in the Museum’s other galleries for non-commercial, personal use only. Full details of our photography and filming policy are available.
Will you be giving out maps?
While general Museum maps are available at both entrances, we don’t have maps specific to ‘Rise Up’. The exhibition is located in Gallery 11: The Arts of the 20th Century, Gallery 12: The Adeane and Gallery 13: Mellon Gallery Exhibitions.
What events are taking place?
We have a range of exhibition-related talks and events taking place at the Museum, you can view our what’s on programme.
I'm a member of the press, where can I find more information about exhibitions?
If you have a media enquiry about exhibitions, or want to request images and footage for use in the press, please contact our press team at press@fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk.
Pay what you wish
Do I need to make a donation to view the exhibition?
No, entry to the Museum and our displays remains free.
Can I donate through the ‘Pay What You Wish’ scheme online?
Yes, you can donate online when you book your ticket. At the checkout, simply enter the amount you wish to pay or choose from our selection of suggested donations.
Can I donate in-person?
Yes, there are multiple cash and contactless donation points throughout the Museum including at the exhibition exit point.
Why do you have a ‘Pay What You Wish’ scheme?
We introduced the scheme because your donations are more important than ever.
Income generation through donations is vital for the delivery of all areas of our work but without your help, we can no longer continue to plan, research and produce award-winning exhibitions of this scale and importance.
What is my donation helping to fund?
Your donation will be used to help fund all areas of our work including the conservation and care of our collection, the delivery of our award-winning exhibitions, our research, learning, community and events programmes, as well as the maintenance of our Grade I listed building.
Is the Fitzwilliam Museum a registered charity?
We operate as an Institution within the University of Cambridge, which is an exempt charity in the UK, subject to regulation by the Office for Students (OfS) under the Charities Act 2011.
What is the lowest amount I can donate?
You can choose to donate as little or as much as you wish.
What do I receive for making a donation?
Your donation is a gift for charity. In return, we hope you enjoy the research, education, conservation, acquisitions, exhibitions and collections that have been made possible through your act of generosity.
