Opened to the general public as the 'Museum of South Yorkshire Life' in 1967, Cusworth Hall Museum came under the authority of Doncaster Metroplitan Borough Council in 1974 following a restructure of local government. A grade 1 listed building, the house, in the Palladian style, was designed by local architect William Platt. At a later date two new wings designed by James Paine were added, housing a library and chapel. The house is set in extensive parkland which was originally laid out to the designs of Richard Woods. The displays in the house are themed, using objects, text panels and paintings to tell the story of life in Doncaster from the 18th century to the present day. Themes covered by the displays include Sport, Childhood and Religion. Other features of the house include the Italianate chapel, where recent refurbishment as revealed stunning ceiling paintings, and below stairs, the Great Kitchen, Bake House and Laundry.