Museums in England, Scotland and Wales
by Ben Johnson
Welcome to our map of museums in Britain, ranging from internationally famous national museums such as the Natural History Museum, the National Museum Cardiff and the Imperial War Museum, to specialist and local interest museums, all colour coded for ease of searching.
The sheer diversity of museums in Britain is staggering: for example, you can learn all about the world of money, finance and economics at the Museum on the Mound, Edinburgh, or celebrate all things 20th century at Stella Mitchell’s National Museum of British Popular Culture at Craven Arms in Shropshire.
Transport museums include the fascinating STEAM, the Museum of the Great Western Railway at Swindon, a must for fans of the great steam engines of the past, as well as the Hovercraft Museum at Lee-on-the-Solent in Hampshire. Aviation museums include the Royal Air Force Museum at Cosford in Shropshire, home to more than 70 iconic, historic aircraft.
Your local county museum is a great place to discover the history of your area, from earliest man to the present day. Discover the lives and trades of local people in the past through all sorts of exhibits and displays, many of which are hands-on for children to enjoy.
Many museums also host regular living history events, bringing history to life; please visit the individual museums’ websites for details.
Pictured above: The British Museum, CC BY-SA 3.0 license. Author: David Iliff.
Featured: Corinium Museum, CirencesterType of Museum: General Museum Although the museum exhibits artefacts from the Neolithic to Victorian times, it is the collection of finds from the Roman town of Corinium Dobunnorum (modern day Cirencester) that it is most famous for. The museum’s fine collection of second to fourth century Roman finds include mosaic floors, tombstones, carvings and jewellery. Open daily Mon – Sat and Sunday afternoons, admission charges apply.
306th Bombardment Group Museum, ThurleighType of Museum: Military Museum Housed in one of the original WWII airfield buildings, the museum relates the history of the airfield as it was during the war years. Displaying a collection of artefacts from the Second World War, it is exhibited in such a way as to re-create the sights, sounds and atmosphere of those times. Open weekend and bank holidays Mar – Oct, admission charges apply.
Abbey House Museum, Kirkstall, LeedsType of Museum: Local Museum Set in the gatehouse of the ruined Kirkstall Abbey, the ground floor of the local history museum has been set out as an area of authentic Victorian streets, complete with a range of shops and services, including the original shop fittings. The upstairs galleries explore the history of the abbey and display a collection of 19th century toys, games and dolls. Open daily Tues – Sun, admission charges apply.
Abbey Pumping Station, LeicesterType of Museum: Industrial Museum Together with the adjacent National Space Centre, the two museums trace more than 200 years of science and technology, from the early day of steam to modern day space exploration. In addition, the Abbey tells the story of Leicester’s industrial, technological and scientific heritage. Open daily, with free admission.
Abbot Hall Art Gallery, KendalType of Museum: Art Gallery Located in historic Abbot Hall, the gallery exhibits one of the most important collections of George Romney’s paintings in Britain, as well as a significant display of watercolours, including J M W Turner’s masterpiece The Passage of Mount St. Gotthard and Windermere. The gallery is also the official home of The Arthur Ransome Society, with a display of some of his personal memorabilia exhibited. Open daily Mon – Sat, Sundays throughout July and Aug, admission charges apply.
Aberdeen Maritime MuseumType of Museum: Maritime Museum Located on historic Shiprow, in the heart of the city and close to the harbour, the museum tells the story of Aberdeen’s long association with the sea. The large collection of exhibits cover shipbuilding, fast sailing ships, fishing and the history of the port. Open daily all year round, except Mondays, free admission.
Abingdon County Hall MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Set in the former courtroom of the Berkshire Assizes, this local history museum re-opened in 2012 after an extensive restoration project. The museum’s permanent exhibitions include some of Abingdon’s most important and historically significant artefacts, including the 16th century Monk’s Map, a replica of the Anglo-Saxon Abingdon Sword, and one of the last MGB roadsters produced at the nearby MG factory. Open daily Tues – Sun, free admission.
Acton Scott Historic Working FarmType of Museum: Industrial Museum One of Britain’s leading working farm museums, Acton Scott Historic Working Farm specialises in practical demonstrations of historic farming using traditional skills and period horse-drawn machines. Experience life around the farm yard and in the cottage, ending each day with milking by hand. Open daily Sat – Wed, between end-March and end-Oct, admission charges apply.
Aldeburgh MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Set within the 16th century timber-framed Moot Hall, the museum tells the story of the sea-side town of Aldeburgh from the earliest settlers until the present day. Open afternoons Apr to Oct, admission charges apply.
Allerford MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Home to the West Somerset Rural Life Museum, Victorian Schoolroom and West Somerset Photographic Archive, Allerford Museum now contains several thousand artefacts and photographs mostly dating from the early 1800s to the late 1950s. The Victorian Schoolroom contains desks and other memorabilia from the period. Open daily from April to end October, closed on Saturdays and Mondays, admission charges apply.
Amberley Museum and Heritage CentreType of Museum: Local Museum Occupying a 36 acre site in the South Downs National Park, the museum celebrates the industrial heritage of South East England. Exhibits include a narrow-gauge railway and bus service (to explore the site), a Telecommunications Hall and Electricity Hall. The museum is also home to traditional craftsfolk. Open daily Wed – Sun, between March and Oct, admission charges apply.
American Museum in Britain, BathType of Museum: Genral Museum Set in 120 acre grounds and housed in historic Claverton Manor, the museum first opened its doors to the public in 1961. The only museum showcasing American decorative and folk art outside of the United States, it was founded to better promote Anglo-American understanding. Documenting the development of American decorative arts from the 1680s onwards, exhibits include an extensive collection of quilts, pieces of traditional Shaker furniture, Native American art and original maps of the New World. A series of period rooms lead the visitor from colonial times until the eve of the American Civil War. Open afternoons Tues to Sun, admission charges apply.
Amersham MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Housed in a 15th century half-timbered house, the museum tells the story of Amersham through collections of archaeological finds and artefacts from Roman times through to the present day. Open Wed, Thur, Sat & Sun afternoons between late spring to early autumn, admission charges apply.
Andover Museum and the Museum of the Iron Age, AndoverType of Museum: Local Museum Housed in an 18th century town house, the museum relates the story of the Andover from prehistoric times to the present day. The museum’s exhibits and collections relate to natural history, archaeological finds, local industry and Andover’s infamous workhouse. In the same building, the Museum of the Iron Age tells the story of the nearby Danebury hill fort. Open daily Tues – Sat, free admission.
Annan MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Exploring the history of the town and people of Annan from prehistoric times to the modern era, this family friendly museum houses a wide variety of exhibits from a 4000 year old Bronze Age burial urn to a 110 year old piece of chocolate. The museum also hosts special exhibitions and events throughout the season. Open Mon – Sat from April to end-Oct, free admission.
Anson Engine MuseumType of Museum: Industrial Museum Set on the site of the old Anson Colliery, this specialist museum houses a unique collection of over 250 gas and oil engines, including many maintained in running order. A steam section includes two Robey engines, and another display explores the development of the internal combustion engine. The museum opens to the public one weekend a month from Easter until end of October.
Arbeia Roman Fort and Museum, South ShieldsType of Museum: Local Museum Once a supply fort for Hadrian’s Wall, today Arbeias barracks and gatehouse have been reconstructed on their original foundations and a museum set up within to explain the history of the site. Open daily Mon – Sat and Sunday afternoons from April to end-Sept, free admission.
Army Medical Services MuseumType of Museum: Military Museum Home to the four collections of the Royal Army Medical Corps (RAMC), Royal Army Veterinary Corps (RAVC), Royal Army Dental Corps (RADC) and Queen Alexandra’s Royal Army Nursing Corps (QARANC), the museum relates the story of army medicine and healthcare, both human and animal, from the English Civil War to the present day. Open daily Mon – Thur, free admission.
Ashford MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Housed in a 17th century listed building, the museum features exhibits associated with Ashford town’s history. Set over two floors, it presents a variety of exhibits and artefacts from prehistoric times through to the first and second world wars, including a new railway room. Open 11-14.00, Tues to Sat, free admission.
Ashmolean Museum BroadwayType of Museum: General Museum Based at the 17th century Tudor House, the Ashmolean Broadway houses unique collections of furniture and paintings on loan from the Ashmolean Oxford. Displayed over three floors, exhibits include fine and decorative art from the 17th to the 21st centuries. Open daily Tues – Sun, admission charges apply.
Ashmolean Museum, OxfordType of Museum: General Museum The Ashmolean Museum is home to the Oxford University’s collection of art and archaeology. Founded in 1683 it is the first public museum in the UK and one of the oldest in the world. Highlights include mummies from Ancient Egypt; classical sculpture from Greece and Rome; paintings by masters of European art such as Raphael, Rembrandt van Rijn, William Turner, and Vincent Van Gogh; and the greatest collection of Chinese art in the western world. Entry to the museum is free.
Ashwell Village MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Set in a restored half-timbered Tudor building, the museum exhibits a comprehensive range of everyday artefacts concerned with village life and the surrounding countryside from the Stone Age to the present day. Open Sun and bank holiday afternoons, free admission.
Astley Hall Museum and Art Gallery, ChorleyType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery Set within a historic house in the grounds of Astley Park, this museum and art gallery houses a social history collection relating to the hall and the wider Chorley area in general. Other displays in the museum relate to local archaeology and the military history of the area, as well as exhibiting a significant collection of artwork, pottery and glassware. Open weekend afternoons and Mon – Wed afternoons during school holidays, free admission.
Atholl Country Life Museum, Blair AthollType of Museum: Local Museum Once the village school, this unique and lively museum provides an insight into country life and the social history of the Atholl people using a range of imaginative displays. Open daily from end May to end Sept, admission charges apply.
Avoncroft Museum of Historic Buildings, BromsgroveType of Museum: General Museum Opened in 1967, Avoncroft became England’s first open-air museum. The museum now houses a collection of 30 agricultural, domestic, industrial, and other types of historic buildings, which have been relocated and re-erected on the 19 acre site. Open daily Jul & Aug, Tue – Sun between Mar – Jun & Sep – Oct, Sat & Sun only Nov – Feb, admission charges apply.
Aylth MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum In an area rich in farming and agriculture, the museum exhibits a wealth of pictures and artefacts reflecting life as it was in and around the small Perthshire village of Alyth. Open p.m. Wed – Sun, early-May to late-Sept, free admission.
Baird Institute Museum and Art Gallery, Cumnock, AyrshireType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery First opened in 1891 to provide educational and leisure facilities for the good folk of Cumnock, the Baird relates the history of the town and Doon Valley area. In particular displays and artefacts tell the story of the religious struggles of the 17th century, the Ayrshire coal and Cumnock pottery industries. The Keir Hardie Room details the life and career of the founder of the Labour Party, who spent much of his adult life in the town. Open daily Thursday – Saturday, free admission.
Bakewell Old House MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Located behind Bakewell Church just a short walk from the town centre, Old House Museum is set within ten beamed rooms with wattle and daub partitions. With parts of the building dating from Tudor times, learn about Bakewell’s industrial history with the Arkwright family mill. Open daily from April to Oct, admission charges apply.
Banbury MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Set beside the Oxford Canal, the museum first opened its doors to the public in 2002 and tells the 400 year old history of the town. Displays explore Banbury as a Victorian market town, as well as the area’s involvement in the English Civil War. Open daily Mon – Sat, free admission.
Bank of England Museum, City of LondonType of Museum: General Museum The museum tells the story of the United Kingdom’s central bank, from its foundation in 1694 to the current role it plays in maintaining a healthy economy. Exhibits include photographs, paintings, coins, banknotes and a display of gold, from the days of the Roman Empire to a collection of more modern bullion bars. Modern technology is used to explain the Bank’s present day role. Open daily from Mon to Fri, free admission.
Bankfield Museum, HalifaxType of Museum: Local Museum Set within an imposing Victorian Mansion in the surroundings of Akroyd Park, the museum’s collections include a display of textiles from around the world and a toy gallery. Bankfield is also home to the Duke of Wellington’s Regiment Museum, complete with an original pair of Wellington’s boots! Open daily Tues – Sat, free admission.
Barley Hall, YorkType of Museum: Local Museum Once home to the Mayor of York, this stunning medieval building was only re-discovered in the 1980s behind the modern façade of a derelict office block. Now restored to its original 15th century splendour, visitors can experience life in Medieval England first hand. Open daily, admission charges apply.
Battle Museum of Local HistoryType of Museum: Local Museum Set within the pretty walled gardens of the Almonry, the museum exhibits many fascinating artifacts from the town’s past, including objects from prehistoric times to the world’s oldest effigy of Guy Fawkes. A special exhibition tells the story of England’s most famous battle, the Battle of Hastings, fought on the site of nearby Battle Abbey. Open Mon to Sat, free admission.
Beamish Museum, nr StanleyType of Museum: General Museum Presenting everyday life in urban and rural North East England during the days of the Industrial Revolution, this 300 acre living history museum utilises a considerable collection of buildings, vehicles, equipment, livestock and costumed interpreters to relate the history of the region. The museum includes a town, complete with Victorian era buildings, a railway station with rolling stock and signal box, a colliery village with an original coal mine, and a mid-nineteenth century farm complex, all connected by a trams and buses. Open daily during the summer season, closed Mondays and Fridays during the winter, admission charges apply.
Beaney House of Art and Knowledge, CanterburyType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery Set in the heart of the historic city, this art museum and library re-opened its doors to the public in 2012 after an extensive restoration project. Named after its benefactor, Dr James George Beaney, its collections range from ancient Egyptian artefacts to paintings by local artists. Open daily, free admission.
Beatles Story, LiverpoolType of Museum: General Museum Set on Liverpool’s Albert Dock, the museum tells the story of the 1960’s pop group. From the earliest days at the Casbah Coffee Club, the museum explores how the Fab Four were propelled to worldwide fame to become the greatest band of all time. Open daily, admission charges apply.
Bede’s World, JarrowType of Museum: General Museum A museum dedicated to the life and times of the Venerable Bede, an Anglo-Saxon monk and scholar who lived at the nearby St Pauls monastery. Best known as the author of The Ecclesiastical History of the English People, he recorded the beginnings of the English as a single nation. In addition to the main ‘Age of Bede’ exhibit, the museum also includes replica buildings, built with original materials, using skills that would have been present around 700AD. Open daily throughout the year, entrance charges apply.
Belford & District Hidden HistoryType of Museum: Local Museum The museum tells the story of Belford and its surrounding area, and on the lives of the men, women and children who lived there. Open daily, free admission.
Berwick Museum and Art Gallery, Berwick-upon-TweedType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery The museum tells the violent medieval story of this historic border town. Ever-changing displays of old masters are on display in the gallery, thanks to the collection donated to the town by Glasgow shipping millionaire Sir William Burrell. Open daily Mon – Fri from April to end-Sept, admission charges apply.
Bexhill Museum, Bexhill on SeaType of Museum: Local Museum Celebrating its centenary in 2014, the museum is exploring Bexhill’s contribution to the Great War. Other permanent collections within the museum examine the town’s role as the birth place of British motor racing and a costume collection dating from the 17th century. Open daily from Feb to Nov, admission charges apply.
Big Pit National Coal Museum, Blaenafon, TorfaenType of Museum: Industrial Museum A working coalmine for over 100 years, the Big Pit National Coal Museum first opened its doors to visitors in 1980. Dedicated to preserving the Welsh heritage of coal mining, the museum tells the story of the power source that fed the Industrial Revolution and the men that made it all possible. Travel 300 feet underground and experience what life was really like for the thousands of men who worked the coal face. Open daily all year round, free admission.
Birmingham Museum and Art GalleryType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery First opened in 1885, the museum features over forty galleries displaying archaeology finds and exploring local and social history. The museum also exhibits objects spanning seven centuries of European and world history, including the Greeks, Romans and ancient Egypt. The art gallery is famous for its collection of Pre-Raphaelite paintings. Open daily, free admission.
Black Country Living Museum, DudleyType of Museum: General Museum First opened in 1978, this large open-air museum consists of historic buildings relocated from their original sites from across the Black Country to portray life in the period from the 1830s to the 1950s. Set over 26 acres, the museum tells the story of the world’s first industrial landscape with historic shops, houses, library and fairground. The museum’s collection of vehicles includes trams, motor buses, trolley buses, cars, motor cycles as well as canal branch. Open daily Apr – end-Oct, Wed – Sun during winter, admission charges apply.
Black Watch Castle and Museum, PerthType of Museum: Military Museum Housed in historic Balhousie Castle, the Black Watch Museum brings this glorious regiment’s past vibrantly to life. The displays and exhibits detail the history of Scotland’s oldest Highland regiment. A family friendly museum, with trails, activities and other regular events for families. Open daily throughout the year, admission charges apply.
Blairs Museum, Blairs, Nr AberdeenType of Museum: General Museum Housed in a former seminary, Blairs offers an insight into Scotland’s long Catholic history. The museum is home to an extensive collection of religious artefacts and unique Jacobite memorabilia belonging to the Scottish Roman Catholic Church. Open weekends April to October, admission charges apply.
Blandford Fashion Museum, Blandford ForumType of Museum: General Museum Set in a well-proportioned Georgian house, the museum first opened its doors to the public in 1996 with the aim of displaying the connection between fashion and social history. The museum exhibits an extensive collection of day wear, evening wear and wedding dresses, dating from the early 18th century to the 1970s. Open daily Mon, Thurs, Fri and Sat, from Easter to November, admission charges apply.
Blandford Town Museum, Blandford ForumType of Museum: Local Museum Set in a former coach house, the museum holds a wealth of artefacts and archives relating to the town and surrounding area, dating from Prehistoric times to the present day. Open daily Mon – Sat, from April to end-Oct, free admission.
Bletchley Park, nr Milton KeynesType of Museum: Science Museum The birthplace of modern computing, the museum details the critical contribution that codebreaking and intelligence played in World War II. The main collection of galleries and exhibits are displayed within the wartime Codebreaking Huts, and include Hitler’s “Unbreakable” Cipher Machine and a fully-operational bombe, the electro-mechanical device developed by Turing and Welchman to crack the Enigma Codes. Housed on the same site are the National Radio Centre and the National Museum of Computing. Open daily, admission charges apply.
Bolton Museum and Art GalleryType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery Housed together with the town’s central library, this local history museum tells the story of Bolton and its people. In addition, its collections range from natural history, archaeology, Egyptology as well as one of the oldest public aquariums in Britain. The museum’s fine art collection comprises more than 3500 exhibits, mainly by British artists dating from the 18th century. Open daily, free admission.
Booth Museum of Natural History, Brighton and HoveType of Museum: Natural History Museum Founded in 1874 by naturalist Edward Booth, the museum was originally built to house his lifetime collection of stuffed British birds. Other natural history collections on display include butterflies, fossils, bones and skeletons. Open daily Mon – Sat and Sun afternoons, free admission.
Bowes Museum, nr Barnard CastleType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery This purpose designed art gallery first opened its doors to the public in 1892 and houses a nationally renowned collection. Named in honour of its founder John Bowes, it contains works by El Greco, Goya, Canaletto and Boucher, as well as exhibits of fine and decorative art. With collections displayed over three floors, the Fashion and Textiles Gallery is particularly innovative. Open daily, admission charges apply.
Bradford Industrial MuseumType of Museum: Industrial Museum Set within a small Victorian spinning mill, the museum displays a collection of textile machinery, steam engines, printing machinery and motor vehicles, reflecting Bradford’s industrial heritage. Explore the differences between the splendour of Moorside House, home to the mill manager, against the more austere surroundings of the mill-workers’ terraced houses. Open daily Tues – Sun, free admission.
Bridgwater Blake MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Set in a 16th century house in the heart of Bridgwater, the museum first opened its doors to the public in 1926. The building is reputed to be the birthplace of the ‘Father of the Royal Navy’ Admiral Robert Blake, Cromwell’s General-at-Sea, during the English Civil War. The local museum depicting the history of Bridgwater, it also relays the fascinating story of the founder of the modern navy. Open April to end October, Tuesday – Saturday, entry is free.
Bridport MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Set behind the façade of a fine 16th century building, the museum houses a collection of artefacts relating the town of Bridport and the surrounding area. The museum’s collection of archaeological finds includes some significant Roman military material from two local sites, whilst the Jurassic Coast Gallery contains examples of the fossils which can be found along the nearby stretch of coastline. Open daily Mon – Sat, from April to Oct, free admission.
Brighton Museum and Art GalleryType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery Set in the Royal Pavilion gardens, the museum explores Brighton’s rich and colourful history, including its royal connections. There are three galleries devoted to Fine Art and a significant collection of World Art. Other galleries explore fashion through the ages, pottery and celebrations from around the world, including puppets, masks, costumes and musical instruments. Open daily Tues – Sun, free admission.
Bristol Museum and Art GalleryType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery Housing internationally important collections of archaeology, geology and art, this impressive Venetian Gothic style building boasts 19 galleries over 3 floors. The art gallery contains works from all periods, including artwork by local lad Banksy. Open daily, free admission.
British Golf Museum, St Andrews, FifeType of Museum: Sport Museum Close to the world famous Old Course and directly opposite from the Royal and Ancient Clubhouse, this museum contains the finest collection of golfing memorabilia in Europe. With over 16,000 items gathered together, it tells the story of golf with exhibits dating from the 17th century through to the present day. Open daily all year round, admission charges apply.
British Museum, CamdenType of Museum: General Museum Housing one of the world’s greatest collections of historic treasures, the British Museum documents the story of human culture from its beginnings to the present. First opened to the public in 1759, its vast array of exhibits includes the Elgin Marbles, the Rossetta Stone, the Sutton Hoo treasure and the mummy of Cleopatra from Thebes. Open daily, free admission.
British Schools Museum, HitchinType of Museum: General Museum Based in an original Edwardian and Victorian School, this educational museum includes a monitorial schoolroom based on the theories of Joseph Lancaster, the ‘Poor Child’s Friend’. Dating from the early 1800s, Lancaster’s ideas for educating the children of the working poor of Hertfordshire included a system whereby a large number of younger scholars could be taught by older scholars, under the supervision of the master. Open on Tuesdays, am on Saturdays and pm Sundays, admission charges apply.
Brixham Heritage MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Housed in the Old Police Station, the museum is dedicated to preserving the history and heritage of the town and its people. Set over two floors, much of the lower gallery features exhibits reflecting Brixham’s maritime heritage and the building’s former function as a police station. The first floor gallery displays finds from the museum’s archaeological team, spanning prehistoric times to World War II. Open daily Tues – Sat during the summer months, Tues – Sat morning in the winter, admission charges apply.
Bronte Pasonage Museum, HaworthType of Museum: General Museum Former home of the Bronte family, the parsonage museum contains the world’s most comprehensive collection of manuscripts, letters, early editions of the novels and poetry of this famous literary family. Explore the rooms were the Bronte’s spent most of their lives and wrote their famous novels. Open daily, admission charges apply.
Brooklands Museum, WeybridgeType of Museum: Transport Museum Located on the world’s first purpose-built motor racing circuit, Brooklands was the birthplace of British motorsport and aviation. The museum’s motoring and aviation exhibits range from racing cars, motorcycles and bicycles to a unique collection of British-built aircraft, including a World War II Wellington Bomber, Vickers Viscount, Vanguard, VC10, BAC One-Eleven and Concorde. Brooklands is also home to the new London Bus Museum, with a display of more than 30 historic buses dating back to the 1870s. Open daily, admission charges apply.
Buckingham Old Gaol MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Set within the heart of Buckingham, this purpose-built former prison now a museum, relates the story of this historic market town. The original cells form part of the museum exhibits as does the prisoners’ exercise yard, other zones include Romans, Anglo Saxons, Tudors, Victorians and Edwardians through to WWII. Open daily Mon – Sat, admission charges apply.
Buckinghamshire County Museum, AylesburyType of Museum: County Museum Set within three historic buildings, the museum exhibits artefacts relating to the history of Buckinghamshire with displays of costume agriculture and industry. The museum also houses a significant collection of historic photographs, British Studio Ceramics, as well as fine displays of painting, prints and drawings. To the rear of the building, is the Roald Dahl Children’s Gallery, were workshop sessions can be booked in advance. Open daily Tues – Sat, free admission.
Buckler’s HardType of Museum: Maritime Museum Located in the heart of the New Forest, the museum presents the history of this 18th century shipbuilding village, where warships for Nelson’s Navy were once built. A 30 minute cruise reveals the history of the Beaulieu River, one of the few privately owned rivers in the world. Open daily, admission charges apply.
Burnham-on-Crouch and District MuseumType of Museum: General Museum Located in a former boat-builder’s premises, the museum exhibits a collection of material relating to agriculture, fishing, oyster fishery and farming. It also explores local industries, including boat building and iron working, as well as the social history of the region. Open afternoons on Wed, Sat and Sun from Easter to end Nov, daily during the school summer holidays, admission charges apply.
Burton Art Gallery and Museum, BidefordType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery Set in Bideford’s Victoria Park, the building houses three exhibition areas including a permanent ceramics display and museum, as well as a collection of highly significant paintings, many of which are directly related to the local area. Open daily, free admission.
Bury Art MuseumType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery Although originally opened in 1907, the museum received a total refurbishment in 2005 to provide a brand new-look facility including a museum, art gallery and library all housed in one building. As well as telling the story of the town and its people, the museum houses the Wrigley Collection. Collected by the Victorian paper manufacturer Thomas Wrigley, the displays include works by Constable, Landseer and Turner. Open daily Tues – Sat.
Bushey Museum and Art GalleryType of Museum: Local Museum The museum details the story of the village of Bushey and its unique artistic history, through a collection of works and items relating to Sir Hubert von Herkomer RA. Also on show is the Lucy Kemp-Welch Memorial Trust Collection. The social history of the village is explored through displays and aretfacts, including locally made products and historic maps. Open Thurs to Sun, 11 – 16.00, free admission.
Bute Museum, Rothesay, Isle of ButeType of Museum: Local Museum An independently run museum detailing the natural and historical heritage of the Isle of Bute. Exhibits and artefacts detail aspects of Bute’s history from Mesolithic and Neolithic times, through to the closing years of the 20th century. The Natural History Gallery explores the geology, plants, animals and birdlife of the island. Open daily April – Oct, admission charges apply. Closed Dec and Jan.
Cadbury World, BirminghamType of Museum: General Museum Opened in 1990 on Cadbury’s Bourneville manufacturing site, the museum explores the history of chocolate. Through its 14 zones, the museum tells the story of chocolate and the Cadbury business utilising various inn votive methods including animatronics, videos, cinema, interactive displays and demonstrations. Open daily between Feb and Nov, with limited opening times in Dec, admission charges apply.
Cambridge Museum of TechnologyType of Museum: Industrial Museum Just a mile from the city centre, this industrial museum is housed in the original sewage pumping station for Cambridge. Displaying the station’s original pumping equipment, collections in the museum include artefacts from local industries W.G. Pye and Cambridge Instrument Company. Other exhibits include a working steam winch hauling a narrow gauge incline railway and a print room with a large collection of old printing equipment. Admission charges apply.
Canterbury Heritage MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Set in the 12th century Poor Priests’ Hospital, the museum tells the story of Canterbury from pre-Roman times to the present day. Arranged in chronological order, the exhibits explore the city’s history from prehistoric times through to the days of the World War II Blitz. The museum also displays the 9th century Saxon Canterbury Cross and houses a gallery dedicated to Rupert the Bear, whose creator Mary Tourtel was born in the city. Open daily Wed – Sun, admission charges apply.
Cardiff Story MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Housed in the iconic Old Library, the Cardiff Story relates the history of the city through a collection of over 3,000 objects and artefacts. It tells the story of how Cardiff was transformed from a small market town to one of the world’s largest ports in the 1900s, through to today’s cosmopolitan capital city. Open daily throughout the year, free admission.
Carmarthen Museum, Abergwili, CarmarthenshireType of Museum: County Museum Housed in a former priest’s college dating from around 1290, the museum tells the history of the county through a rich collection of artefacts, paintings, furniture and costume. Once the palace of the Bishops of St David’s, it was from here that the New Testament was first translated into the Welsh language in 1567. Ideal for picnics, the museum’s park enjoys spectacular views across the Tywi Valley. Open daily from Tues to Sat all year round, free admission.
Castle House Museum, DunoonType of Museum: Local Museum Opened in 1998, the museum is housed in an historic building opposite Dunoon Pier. Through exhibits, models and other artefacts it tells the story of Dunoon from the Neolithic period to the present day. Open daily from Easter to October, admission charges apply.
Catalyst Science Discovery Centre, WidnesType of Museum: Industrial Museum The world’s first museum dedicated to the chemical industry is set on Spike Island on the north bank of the River Mersey. Through a variety of exhibits and interactive displays, Catalyst tells the story of the historical development of the chemical manufacturing industry in the north west of England. Exploring how the products of chemistry are used in everyday life, it seeks to make science exciting and accessible. Open daily Tues – Sun, admission charges apply.
Cater Museum, BillericayType of Museum: Local Museum Tracing the recent history of Billericay, the museum is set over three floors and houses a mid-Victorian parlour, bedroom and kitchen. The top floor Billericay at War room displays artefacts from World War II. Open afternoons Mon – Sat, free admission.
Ceredigion Museum, AberystwythType of Museum: County Museum Seeking to provide an understanding of the history and culture of the county of Ceredigion, the museum presents a lively programme of temporary exhibitions and events, alongside the more permanent displays. Housed in The Coliseum a restored Edwardian theatre, there are fine collections of Welsh furniture, costume and many artefacts connected with the regions farming and agricultural heritage. Open Monday to Saturday throughout the year, free admission.
Charlestown Shipwreck and Heritage Centre, nr St AustellType of Museum: Maritime Museum Housing artefacts from more than 150 shipwrecks, the centre boasts the largest private collection of its type on public display in Europe. With exhibits dating back to 1715, it displays a wide range of maritime history including a large collection of underwater diving equipment. Open daily Mar – Oct, admission charges apply.
Chatham Historic DockyardType of Museum: Maritime Museum Located on the site of the Royal Navy dockyard at Chatham in Medway, the museum comprises several major features including three historic warships. Another display tells the story of the dockyard, home to the Royal Navy for several hundred years. The Lifeboat Museum houses 17 historic vessels and explores the history of the RNLI. Open daily, admission charges apply.
Chelmsford MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Set in Oaklands Park, the museum houses both the Chelmsford Museum and the Essex Regimental Museum. A local history museum, Chelmsford Museum records the history of city from pre-Roman times to the present day, including its industrial past. The regimental museum portrays the proud story of the foot soldiers of the Essex Regiment and the mounted troops of the Essex Yeomanry. Open daily Mon – Thurs and Sat, Sun afternoons, free admission.
Chepstow Museum, MonmouthshireType of Museum: Local Museum Set opposite from Chepstow Castle, the museum displays the rich and varied past of this ancient town, from a trading port in the medieval era through to more recent times, as a centre for poets and painters. Artefacts and exhibits explore Chepstow’s wine trade and shipbuilding industry, the museum also includes a fine collection of 18th and 19th century paintings and prints. Open daily all year round, free admission.
Cheshire Military MuseumType of Museum: Military Museum Set in a former training block of Chester Castle, the museum tells the story of the regiments of Cheshire from 1685 to the present day. This 300 year history is told through art, artefacts and memorabilia including displays of uniforms, medals and weapons. Open daily, admission charges apply.
Chiltern Open Air Museum, Chalfont St GilesType of Museum: Others Chiltern Open Air Museum was founded in 1976 with the aim of rescuing threatened buildings from the local area. More than thirty historic buildings have now been saved and rebuilt at the site, including a traditional working farm. Other buildings include an Iron Age roundhouse, a working forge, public convenience, toll house and a WWII nissen hut. Open daily from April to end-Oct, admission charges apply.
Chippenham Museum and Heritage CentreType of Museum: Local Museum Located in Grade II Georgian building the museum sits at the top of Market Place in the centre of town. Entry to the museum is free.
Cider Museum, HerefordType of Museum: Industrial Museum Set in a former cider making factory to the west of the city, the museum explains how apples are milled, pressed and fermented to produce cider. The museum’s collections include cider mills and presses, paintings, old photographs and films. Open daily Mon – Sat, admission charges apply.
City Museum, WinchesterType of Museum: Local Museum Through its three galleries the museum relates the story of ancient Winchester’s past, from its days as a prehistoric trading centre through its emergence as the principal city in the Anglo- Norman kingdom, following its decline in the Middle Ages and on to more modern days. Open daily Mon – Sat and Sunday afternoons, free admission.
Clearwell Caves, The Royal Forest of Dean’s Iron Mining MuseumType of Museum: Industrial Museum Mined for iron ore for centuries, nine underground chambers reveal the history of some of Britain’s most complex and oldest mine workings. With geological and mining displays, this working mining museum explores how iron ore from the caves have been used to make tools, weapons and machinery. Open daily from mid Feb to end Oct, admission charges apply.
Cliffe Castle Museum, KeighleyType of Museum: Local Museum Housed within a grand Victorian mansion, this newly reopened museum features a series of galleries exploring various aspects of local history. Once home to the local Victorian millionaire and textile manufacturer, Henry Isaac Butterfield, period themed rooms display how the family would have entertained their more important guests. Open daily Tues – Sun, free admission.
Cobbaton Combat Museum, ChittlehamptonType of Museum: Military Museum Packed into two hangar-like Romney buildings, this military museum exhibits a range of vehicles and equipment, primarily from World War II. With over 60 vehicles and artillery pieces on display, the museum’s other collections include military radios and more than 200 deactivated small arms. Open daily from Easter through the summer months, admission charges apply.
Combined Military Services Museum, MaldonType of Museum: Military Museum Exhibiting artefacts from Britain’s proud military history, collections show the everyday combat equipment and weaponry used by the combined armed forces of the Army, Navy, Royal Air Force and Special Forces. The museum displays only genuine period items and seeks to reveal the lifestyle and burden of the average trooper. The collections date from the English Civil War, through to today’s high-tech, modern soldier. Open daily Wed – Sun, admission charges apply.
Compton Verney House, Compton VerneyType of Museum: Art Gallery Set in an 18th century country mansion, the gallery’s collections include examples of Neapolitan art and northern European medieval art, as well as works by Joshua Reynolds. Other exhibits include Chinese bronzes, British folk art and a display of 20th century textiles. Open daily Tues – Sun, admission charges apply.
Congleton MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Located on the town’s market square, the museum tells the history of Congleton from prehistory, through the English Civil War to the Second World War. The museum also explores how the industrial revolution impacted both the town and local area. Open afternoons Tues – Sun, free admission.
Corinium Museum, CirencesterType of Museum: General Museum Although the museum exhibits artefacts from the Neolithic to Victorian times, it is the collection of finds from the Roman town of Corinium Dobunnorum (modern day Cirencester) that it is most famous for. The museum’s fine collection of second to fourth century Roman finds include mosaic floors, tombstones, carvings and jewellery. Open daily Mon – Sat and Sunday afternoons, admission charges apply.
Cotswold Motoring Museum, Bourton on the WaterType of Museum: Transport Museum Set in the picturesque Cotswolds village of Bourton on the Water, the museum displays a fine collection of vintage cars, classic cars, motorcycles, caravans and other motoring memorabilia from the 20th century. Open daily from mid-Feb to Nov, admission charges apply.
Court BarnType of Museum: Local Museum Telling the story of the history of the Arts & Crafts movement in Chipping Campden and the surrounding area from the beginning of the twentieth century to the present day. Open daily Tues – Sun, admission charges apply.
Coventry Transport MuseumType of Museum: Transport Museum Located in the UK’s Mo-town, this museum houses a vast collection of British-made road transport vehicles including more than 100 bicycles, 200 motorcycles and 200 cars and lorries. The museum displays many Coventry built cars such as those from the Humber, Jaguar, Standard and Triumph marques, an Alvis tank, Massey Ferguson tractors, as well as many of the famous motorcycle manufacturers including Triumph, Francis-Barnett and Rudge-Whitworth. Open daily, free admission.
Coventry Watch Museum ProjectType of Museum: Local Museum A centre of watchmaking since the late 1700s, the Coventry Watch Museum Project tells the history of this precision industry and relates it to the industrial development of the city as a centre for motor car, motor cycle and aircraft production. Open on Tuesdays and Saturday.
Creswell CragsType of Museum: Local Museum Located on the Derbyshire / Nottinghamshire border at the east end of a limestone gorge honeycombed with caves is the museum and education centre that tell the story of life during the last Ice Age. Stone tools and the remains of animals found in the caves reveal one of the most northerly places on earth where our early ancestors once called home. Open daily Feb – Sept, weekends only Nov – Jan, admission charges apply for the exhibition and cave tours.
Crich Tramway Village and National Tramway Museum, nr MatlockType of Museum: Transport Museum The National Tramway Museum is housed within the Crich Tramway Village, a recreated Victorian era village complete with pub, tearooms, traditional sweetshop, printing works, as well as the tram stops and workshops. Many of the museum’s trams run through this village setting. The Museum’s comprehensive collections of over 70 trams and tramway history collections are world renowned. Open daily from April to Sept, admission charges apply.
Cricklade MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum A small museum housing a substantial number of artefacts associated with the Cricklade district, including a database of local history research resources. Limited weekend opening times.
Cromer MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum The museum displays a permanent exhibition of a Victorian fisherman’s cottage. Other exhibits tell the story of Cromer’s history as a Victorian seaside resort, including the scandal of mixed bathing and the daring rescues of the Cromer lifeboatmen. Open daily Mon – Fri, as well as Sat & Sun afternoons between Apr and Oct, admission charges apply.
Cumberland House – The Natural History Museum, SouthseaType of Museum: Natural History Museum This natural history museum tells the story of the diverse range of wild life that occupy the riverbanks, marshes, woods and countryside of Portsmouth. The geology exhibits explore specimens from more ancient times and the butterfly house is filled with living insects and plants. Open daily Tues – Sun, free admission.
Cutty Sark, GreenwichType of Museum: Maritime Museum Reopened in 2012 after suffering extensive fire damage in 2007, the Cutty Sark was one of the last and fastest tea clippers to be built, as sail eventually gave way to steam. Now preserved as a museum ship, explore the rich history of this, the world’s most famous clipper. Walk the decks, investigate the cargo hold and even venture underneath to fully appreciate the elegant lines that made this Clyde built sailing ship the fastest of her day. Open daily, admission charges apply.
Dalbeattie MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Opened in 1993, the museum relates the story of Dalbeatties past through displays of memorabilia, artefacts and pictures. Military and World War II items on display include a rare small gramophone disguised as a camera used by the Red Cross, and a reconstructed army bunker. An exhibition of railway items and photographs present the history of the local line sometimes referred to as ‘The Paddy Line’ that ran between Dumfries to Stranraer, one of the main links to Northern Ireland via the ferry. Open daily Mon – Sat from April to Oct, Sun afternoons during summer months, free admission.
Dartford Borough MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Opened in 1921, the museum’s collections relate to the archaeology, history, geology and natural history of the Dartford area. Occupying the same building as Dartford Library at the entrance to Central Park, the museum presents the chronological story of the borough as revealed by archaeology, with additional social history artefacts for more recent times. Open Saturdays and Mon, Tues, Thurs and Fri afternoons, free admission.
Dartmouth MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Set in a 17th century merchant’s house, the museum chronicles the history of the port of Dartmouth and its people. Through a comprehensive collection of artefacts, models, paintings and photographs, it traces the maritime, social and economic history of the town. The museum also houses a significant collection of scientific instruments and specimens collected by the self-taught local scientist, William Cumming Henley. Open daily Tues – Sat, Sun and Mon afternoons during the summer months, afternoons only in winter, admission charges apply.
D-Day Museum, SouthseaType of Museum: Military Museum Opened in 1984, the museum tells the story of Operation Overlord and the D-Day landings of 6th June 1944, through original footage and archive film. The turning point of the World War II, the operation involved landing 160,000 troops along a 50-mile stretch of the Normandy coast to establish a beachhead in France. Open daily, admission charges apply.
de Havilland Aircraft Heritage Centre, London ColneyType of Museum: Aviation Museum Formerly known as the Mosquito Aircraft Museum, the museum’s collection is based around the prototype shops of the de Havilland Mosquito, the world’s third jet aircraft. The museum houses a fine collection of more than 20 historic aircraft, as well as a number of piston, gas turbine and rocket engines. Open daily Tues, Thurs, Sat and Sun from March to October, admission charges apply.
Denny Abbey Farmland MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum The museum explores the rural life of Cambridgeshire’s farming past, with farmworker’s cottage village shop and workshops. Discover the stories of the monks, nuns and knights who once lived in Denny Abbey. Open p.m. Mon to Fri & daily Sat and Sun, from March to end-Oct, admission charges apply.
Derby Museum and Art GalleryType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery Founded in 1879, Derby Museum and Art Gallery houses an impressive collection of paintings by Joseph Wright, the celebrated 18th century artist from Derby. Further collections include archaeology, geology, military, natural history and a large display of porcelain from Derby and the surrounding area. Open daily Tues – Sun, free admission.
Dick Institute, Kilmarnock, AyrshireType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery The largest museum and gallery in Ayrshire, the Dick features displays of local and industrial history, fine art and natural sciences. The museum relates stories of the social history of the area, with displays and collections from natural history sciences through to archaeology exhibits. Open daily Tues – Sat, free admission.
Dingwall Museum, Ross-shireType of Museum: Local Museum Housed in an impressive building once home to the Dingwall Town Council, the museum explores the history of the region through the presentation of many local artefacts and tales of human exploits. Special exhibitions include an early 20th century kitchen, a local smiddy and a Military Room celebrating Highland heroes. Open daily from mid-May to end Sept, free admission.
Dinosaur Isle, SandownType of Museum: Natural History Museum Opened in 2001, this purpose built interactive museum displays over 1000 fossils ranging from 126 million years ago to the more recent cold climates of the Ice-Ages. The museum’s collections were started by members of the Isle of Wight Philosophical Society around 200 years ago, and have been added to over the intervening years. Open daily, admission charges apply.
Dinosaur Museum, DorchesterType of Museum: Natural History Museum Set close to the Jurassic Coast, the museum is the only one of its kind in Britain dedicated solely to the world of dinosaurs. Amongst the museum’s most impressive exhibits are the life-size dinosaur reconstructions that include two examples of T rex and a Stegosaurus with its ridge plated back, whilst outside a Triceratops dominates the courtyard. Open daily all year round, admission charges apply.
Discovery Museum, Newcastle upon TyneType of Museum: General Museum One of the largest museums in the north east of England, Discovery is both a science and local history museum, as well as housing the regimental museums for 15th/19th The King’s Royal Hussars and Northumberland Hussars. The museum’s local history exhibits include a 34 metre long ship, built to test the concept of steam turbine powered vessels and the prototype light bulbs invented by local lad Joseph Swan. Open daily, free admission.
DLI Museum and Durham Art GalleryType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery Set in open parkland to the north of the city, the museum relates the proud 200 year old history of the Durham Light Infantry – County Durham’s own regiment. One of the most famous county regiments in the British Army, explore the collections of uniforms, weapons and kit, and listen to horror stories of war. Upstairs is the county’s largest modern and contemporary art gallery. Open daily, admission charges apply.
Dock Museum, Barrow-in-FurnessType of Museum: Maritime Museum Built in an historic graving dock, the museum’s exhibits relate largely to the history of the town, with much emphasis placed on the influence of the shipbuilding and steel industries. Housed in a former dry dock, over three floors the museum displays models of the many warships, civilian ships, submarines and armaments built in the Vickers (now BAE) shipyard of Barrow. The museum also displays collections relating to prehistory, natural history, domestic furnishings and toys. Open daily Wed – Sun, free admission.
Dorset County Museum, DorchesterType of Museum: County Museum Founded in 1846, the museum through its substantial collection of artefacts associated with archaeology, geology and natural history, tell the story of the county of Dorset. The museum’s vast social history exhibits contains more than 10,000 objects relating to trade, transport, schooling, domestic life, crafts, industry and agriculture in the county. Open daily Mon – Sat all year round, admission charges apply.
Dover MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Although founded in 1836, the museum only re-opened in its current home in 1991 after suffering shelling from France during the Second World War. Now rehoused in a new three-storey building behind its original Victorian façade, it tells the story of the development of the town and port with original artefacts, graphics and models, including the Dover Bronze Age Boat. Open daily during summer months, Mon- Sat in winter, admission charges apply.
Dover Transport MuseumType of Museum: Transport Museum Dover Transport Museum is the culmination of the dreams of a number of old vehicle enthusiasts in the East Kent area. Run totally by volunteers, we hope to show people something of the transport delights of the East Kent area and further afield. Our model railway has to be seen to be believed and who can remember the hovercraft that used to convey travellers across the Channel? No idea, well we have one of the propellers on show plus shops crammed full of items that will surely get the grey cells going again. Interested please come and see us, we will be truly delighted to have your company. Open daily Wed, Sat and Sun between Apr to end Oct, Sundays only during winter, admission charges apply.
Dovery Manor MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Housed in an historic manor house dating from 1450, the museum exhibits a locally based collection of artefacts, displays, books, photographs and pictures. A small on-site garden grows plants for their medicinal and culinary uses. Open daily from Easter until 30 September, closed on Sundays, free entry.
Dulwich Picture GalleryType of Museum: Art Gallery Dulwich Picture Gallery exhibits a collection of over 600 paintings, rich in European masterpieces by the likes of Canaletto, Gainsborough, Rembrandt and Rubens. Open daily Tues – Sun, admission charges apply.
Dumfries and Galloway Aviation MuseumType of Museum: Aviation Museum Based around the restored control tower of a former WWII airfield, the museums aircraft collection includes two English Electric Canberra’s, a Gloster Meteor and a Hawker Siddeley Buccaneer. Other displays include a collection of aero engines, artefacts and memorabilia honouring airborne forces. Open Wed, Sat and Sun, from April to Oct, admission charges apply.
Dumfries MuseumType of Museum: County Museum Set in an 18th century windmill, the top floor of which houses the Camera Obscura, the museum offers a journey of discovery through the region’s history from its earliest inhabitants to the stone carvings of Scotland’s first Christians. Installed in 1836, the Camera Obscura is the oldest working instrument of its kind in the world and offers panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside. Open daily from Apr – Sept, Tues to Sat from Oct – Mar, free admission.
Dundee Museum of TransportType of Museum: Transport Museum Housed in a renovated industrial warehouse at Market Mews, the museum features a wide variety of vehicles including a 1950s city bus, a steam-roller and a horse-drawn ambulance. Open daily Tues – Sun in summer, Wed, Sat and Sun in winter, admission charges apply.
Dunkerswell Heritage CentreType of Museum: Military Museum Based at Dunkerswell Airfield in the beautiful Blackdown Hills, this small museum is a wonderful place to spend an hour or two.The only US naval air base in Europe, Dunkerswell played an important part in the Battle of the Atlantic. The story of the airfield, its construction and role in the local area is well told and the volunteer guides are very welcoming and informative. There are many photographs of the base and the part it played during the war, including photos of U-boats being attacked and sunk. There is a cafe/restaurant just next to the museum. Free entry. Open Thursday to Sunday 11am to 4pm, 30th March to 28th October. Upottery Airfield Heritage Centre is just 4 miles away.
East Anglian Transport Museum, LowestoftType of Museum: Transport Museum This open air working transport museum features a significant collection of public transport vehicles, including buses, trams, trolleybuses and a narrow gauge railway. Exploring the development of mechanical transport over the best last 100 years, visitors can ride several of the restored vehicles through recreated street scenes of bygone days. Open Thurs and Sun afternoons between Apr to Oct, also Tues, Wed and Sat afternoons during the summer holidays, admission charges apply.
East Grinstead MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum This purpose-built museum tells the story of the historic market town of East Grinstead and its people through a range of displays, hands-on experiences, interactive and audio/visual presentations. Open daily Wed – Sat and Sun afternoons.
Elstree and Borehamwood Museum, BorehamwoodType of Museum: Local Museum First opened in 2000, this independent local history museum presents artefacts and photographs detailing the history of the local area. One permanent exhibition reveals almost 100 years of film and television activity in the local Elstree and Borehamwood Studios. Open afternoons Tues to Thurs, and Saturdays 10-15.00, free admission.
Ely MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Housed in the Bishop’s Gaol in the centre of historical Ely, the museum tells the story of the Isle of Ely and the Fens from prehistory to the present day. Displays include the original prison cells, Roman remains and archive film of the Fens including punt guns and eel catching. Open daily Mon – Sat and Sunday afternoons, closed on Tuesdays during the winter months, admission charges apply.
Enfield MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum The permanent ‘Enfield Life’ exhibition features artefacts used or manufactured in the borough from ancient times to the present day. A collection of around 15,000 items are used to explore the local, social and political history of Enfield. Open daily Mon – Sat and Sun until 13.00, free admission. ADVERTISEMENT
Epping Forest District MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Housed in listed Tudor building, this newly redeveloped museum tells the story of the Epping Forest district through its collections and displays. The six galleries now exhibit over 50,000 objects of archaeology and art, as well as documents and photographs of social history. Open daily Mon, Tues Wed, Fri & Sat, free admission.
Eureka! The National Children’s Museum, HalifaxType of Museum: General Museum Opened in 1992, the museum is modelled on the North American concept of a children’s museum, in that it encourages young children to learn about themselves and the world around them through play and discovery. Through a variety of interactive, hands-on exhibits, it aims to inspire children aged between 0 and 10 years. Open daily Tues – Sun, admission charges apply.
Explosion – Museum of Naval Firepower, GosportType of Museum: Military Museum Set in the Royal Navy’s former armaments depot of Priddy’s Hard, the museum traces the story of naval firepower from gunpowder and cannon to the latest anti-ship missiles. The displays also explore the history of the site itself, from its original use as a powder magazine in 1771, to the story of how 2,500 women worked in the buildings during World War II. Open daily between Apr to Oct and weekends during winter, admission charges apply.
Eyam MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Opened in 1994 in a former Methodist Chapel, the museum’s galleries present the history of Eyam from prehistoric times, including its most famous story as a 17th century plague village. Other displays record the growth and subsequent decline of local industries. Open daily Tues – Sun from April to Sept admission charges apply.
Eyemouth MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Set in the Auld Kirk building in the centre of town, the museum tells the story of the towns fishing and social history. The museum displays a unique tapestry commemorating the Great East Coast Fishing Disaster of 1881, when the local community lost 189 of its sons at sea. Open daily from April to Oct, admission charges apply.
Fairlynch MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Housed in typical ‘marine cottage orne’, this picturesque thatched museum tells the local history of Budleigh Salterton and the Lower Otter Valley. Notable for its collection of period costumes and lace, the archaeology section includes artefacts from the Bronze Age as well as items from local Roman sites. Open daily Tues – Sun, between Easter and Oct, free admission.
Falmouth Art GalleryType of Museum: Art Gallery Housing one of the leading art collections in England’s southwest, the gallery features masterpieces by Gainsborough, Munnings, Tuke and Napier, alongside work by more contemporary artists. The gallery’s most famous painting is The Lady of Shalott by John William Waterhouse, it also houses an important print collection and exhibits The Surrealists in Cornwall Collection. Open daily Mon – Sat, free admission.
Felixstowe MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Set at Landguard Point next to Felixstowe dock viewing area, the museum features 14 exhibition areas exploring the military, maritime and social history of the town. Built in 1878, the history of the museum building as a former marine mine factory is detailed. Open Sun afternoons between Easter and Oct, also Wed afternoons through the summer holidays, admission charges apply.
Firing Line, Cardiff Castle MuseumType of Museum: Military Museum Opened in 2010, the museum is housed within the Interpretation Centre at Cardiff Castle and is dedicated to the history of the 1st The Queens Dragoon Guards and The Royal Welsh. Commemorating more than 300 years of distinguished service, it spans the Battle of Waterloo in 1815, through the defence of Rorke’s Drift against the Zulus in 1879 and on to more recent times in Iraq and Afghanistan. Open daily throughout the year, admission charges are included in the entry ticket to the castle.
Fitzwilliam Museum, CambridgeType of Museum: General Museum Founded in 1816 with the bequest of Viscount FitzWilliam, the museum is located in central Cambridge. The art and antiquities museum of the University of Cambridge, its five major collections include the Ancient World, Applied Arts, Coins and Medals, Manuscripts and Books, and Paintings, Drawings and Prints. The museum’s extensive collection of paintings include works by Rubens, Van Dyck, Canaletto, Hogarth, Gainsborough, Constable, Monet, Turner, Renoir and Picasso, to name but a few. Open daily Tues – Sun, free admission.
Fleet Air Arm Museum, YeoviltonType of Museum: Aviation Museum Boasting Europe’s largest naval aviation collection, the Fleet Arms Museum represents the flying arm of the Roval Navy. Comprising four large halls, the museum tells the story of naval aviation from the first manned kites to the awesome air power of the 21st century. Open all year round, Wed to Sun during winter, daily during summer months. Entry charges apply.
Fleetwood MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Set within Fleetwood’s former Customs House overlooking Morecambe Bay, the museum relates the local and maritime history of the town. Planned as a seaside town in the Victorian era, the museum explores Fleetwood’s heyday as a holiday resort and its industrial past. Open daily Tue – Sat, admission charges apply.
Forge Mill Needle Museum, RedditchType of Museum: Industrial Museum Once at the very centre of the world’s needle industry, the museum explores how needles were manufactured at the mill during Victorian times. The museum also details how these needles were used in the textile industry and for fishing. Open daily Apr to Sept, Tues – Fri and Sun afternoons through Feb, Mar Oct and Nov, closed Dec & Jan, admission charges apply.
Framework Knitters’ Museum, RuddingtonType of Museum: Industrial Museum This industrial museum explores a part of East Midlands history that impacted the whole country. Learn about the harsh lives of the framework knitters, the Luddites, the development of lace and the modern knitwear industry. Open daily Wed to Sat from April to Dec, Sunday afternoons from April to Sept, admission charges apply.
Fraserborough Heritage Centre, AberdeenshireType of Museum: Local Museum Housed in a former barrel store, the museum records the rich history of this small fishing town, which grew to become Scotland’s premier herring port. Explore the bustling quayside in the age of sail and discover the historical, social and economic development of the town. Open daily, April to end-October, admission charges apply.
Fusiliers Museum of Northumberland, Alnwick CastleType of Museum: Military Museum Set in the Abbot’s Tower of Alnwick Castle, the museum tells the proud story of one of the oldest infantry regiments in the British Army, the Fusiliers, and their unbroken record of service from 1674 to the present day. Open daily from July to end-Oct, entry to the museum is included in the admission price to the castle.
Gairloch Heritage Museum, Ross-shireType of Museum: Local Museum Through a wealth of exhibits and interactive displays, the museum explores the culture, heritage and customs of the north west Highlands, showing how local people lived and worked in Gairloch through the ages, from the Bronze Age, through crofting, the Jacobites, and traditional industries such as fishing to the present day. Open daily from April to end Oct, admission charges apply.
Galleries of Justice Museum, NottinghamType of Museum: General Museum Set in Nottingham’s old courthouse and gaol, this museum of crime and punishment features several informative exhibitions and tours with costumed actors. The museum also houses HM Prison Service Collection. Open daily, admission charges apply.
Gallery OldhamType of Museum: Art Gallery Set in the Cultural Quarter of central Oldham, with no permanent displays of its own, this public art gallery features an ever changing exhibitions programme over its four galleries. Exhibitions tend to combine touring displays with work from the gallery’s own collection of art, natural and social history. Open daily Mon – Sat, free admission.
Gatwick Aviation Museum, CharlwoodType of Museum: Aviation Museum Set on the fringes of London’s Gatwick Airport, this aviation museum is home to a unique collection of British built aircraft. Collected from the decades when British aircraft designers produced the most technically advanced aircraft in the world, it features classic examples from the likes of Avro, Blackburn, de Havilland, English Electric, Gloster, Hawker and Westland. Open Saturdays from Apr to end-Oct, admission charges apply.
Gillingham MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Opening its doors to the public for the first time in 1996, the museum presents the history of the town of Gillingham and surrounding area from prehistoric times. Set out in chronological order, there are displays concerning the Iron Age, Roman, Saxon and Norman era’s, through to the present day. The geological section provides an insight as to how the brick making industry exploited the local clay deposits for more than 150 years. Open daily Tues, Thurs, Fri, Sat and Mon mornings all year round, free admission.
Gladstone Pottery Museum, LongtonType of Museum: Industrial Museum Dating from the 1780s, this former pottery factory is typical of the hundreds that once dominated the skyline of North Staffordshire, supplying the world with its bone china tableware. Now the last complete Victorian pottery factory in the country, the museum explores the history and working conditions endured by the men, women and children who powered this once great industry. Open daily Tue – Sat, admission charges apply.
Gloucester City Museum and Art GalleryType of Museum: County Museum Set in a listed Victorian building, this is the main museum in the City of Gloucester. Housing a significant collection of artefacts and paintings, the museum’s displays include archaeology, dinosaurs, furniture, local history, medieval, natural history, Roman, fine and decorative art items. Works by Turner and Gainsborough are displayed in the Art Gallery. Open daily Tues – Sat, admission charges apply.
Gloucester Folk MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Set in two of the oldest buildings in the city, the museum relates the social history of Gloucestershire through exhibits of local craft, costume and industries, with displays relating to domestic and school life over the last several centuries. Open daily Tues – Sat, admission charges apply.
Glynn Vivian Art GalleryType of Museum: Art Gallery Re-opening to the public in October 2016, this newly developed public art gallery now offers even more gallery and social spaces. Housed in a fine historic building, it displays a broad spectrum of visual art including works by Old Masters and an internationally important collection of ceramics.
Godalming MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Step through the narrow blue entrance into the local history museum, art gallery, library and coffee shop. Open daily Tues – Sat, free admission.
Gordon Highlanders Museum, AberdeenType of Museum: Military Museum Active between 1794 and 1994, the museum celebrates the distinguished history of the Gordon Highlanders. Exhibits include uniforms, weapons and other regimental treasures, as well as a collection of 12 Victoria Crosses from the 19 awarded to the regiment during its active service. Open daily, early February to end-November, admission charges apply.
Gordon Russell Design MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Located in his original workshop, the museum celebrates the life and work of the furniture designer Gordon Russell and his sixty years association with Broadway. Its unique collection of furniture embraces a range of styles spanning from the Arts and Crafts to 30s streamline. Open daily Tues – Sun, admission charges apply.
Grampian Transport Museum, Alford, AberdeenshireType of Museum: Transport Museum Featuring a range of transport exhibits from the 1800s, to some of the fastest cars ever produced. Climb aboard many of the vehicles to explore the history of travel and transport in the north east of Scotland. Open daily, April to end-October, admission charges apply.
Grantham MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Located on St Peter’s Hill, the museum relates the history of the town and surrounding parishes. Displaying treasures from Anglo-Saxon Grantham to those of the town’s most famous daughter, the museum houses pieces donated by Baroness Thatcher. Open daily Thurs – Sat, free admission.
Great Dunmow MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Set in a 16th century timber framed maltings, the museum tells the story of the social history and economic development of Dunmow, from the ancient Flitch Trials to its World War II airfield. Open weekends and Bank Holidays, admission charges apply.
Great North Museum: HancockType of Museum: General Museum Located on the campus of Newcastle University, the museum reopened its doors to the public in 2009 after undergoing an extensive refurbishment programme. The museum now includes new displays on topics such ancient Egypt, ancient Greece, geology, natural history, prehistory, world cultures, the Romans and Hadrian’s Wall. Open daily, free admission.
Gressenhall Farm and WorkhouseType of Museum: General Museum Although re-opened as the Museum of Norfolk Life in 1976, the workhouse first opened its doors to the poor of the parish in 1776. As well as the historic workhouse, the 50-acre site is also home to a museum of life on the land and a traditional farm complete with rare breed animals. Open daily, admission charges apply.
Grosvenor Museum, ChesterType of Museum: General Museum Opened in 1886, the museum includes archaeological finds from the Roman period as well as collections of paintings, silver and musical instruments. Exhibiting displays of Roman life and times in Chester, it also explores the important role the city played in the history of English silver. Open daily Mon – Sat and Sunday afternoons, free admission.
Guildford MuseumType of Museum: County Museum Forming part of the 17th century gatehouse to Guildford Castle, the museum houses the largest collection of archaeology, local history and needlework in Surrey. The archaeological finds trace life in the county from prehistoric times, whilst the local history gallery explores Guildford’s industries and its people. Open daily Mon – Sat, free admission.
Gwynedd Museum and Art Gallery, BangorType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery Preserving the history and culture of Gwynedd and its people, this is the regions only general museum. Collections include furniture, textiles and archaeological finds, showing how the inhabitants of the area lived and worked. Open daily throughout the year (closed Sundays, Mondays and Bank Holidays), free admission.
Hallaton Museum, nr. Market HarboroughType of Museum: Local Museum Located in the Tin Tab in Churchgate, the museum presents a window into the world of village life including the story of Hallaton Bottle Kicking. The social history of the village is revealed through a unique collection of artefact, curio’s and photographs. Open Sat, Sun and Bank Holiday afternoons from May to end-Sept, free entry.
Halliwell’s House Museum, SelkirkType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery Set in the atmospheric narrow cobbled lane known as Halliwell’s Close, the museum tells the 400 year old story of the close, including the many different businesses that have occupied the buildings during that time. Over the century’s weavers, fleshers, ironmongers, shoemakers, tailors and bakers are just a few who have traded their wares from the close. The museum also relays the wider story of the historic burgh of Selkirk. Open daily from April to end-Oct, free admission.
Harborough Museum, Market Harborough LE16 7LTType of Museum: Local Museum Recently redeveloped, Harborough Museum now shares the first floor of the Symington Building with the town’s central library. In addition to celebrating Market Harborough’s history as a centre of trade and industry, the museum also exhibits a nationally important display of Iron Age and Roman finds. Open daily from Tues to Sun, Wed pm only, free admission.
Harris Museum and Art Gallery, PrestonType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery Named in honour of its local benefactor Edmund Harris, the museum houses important collections on archaeology and local history. The museum’s fine art collection includes more than 800 oil paintings; it also displays significant decorative art exhibits of British ceramics and glass. Open daily Mon – Sat, free admission.
Haslemere Educational MuseumType of Museum: General Museum Set in extensive grounds, the museum displays a wide range of exhibits related to natural history, geology and human history across thre large permanent galleries. Originally founded in 1888 by the famous Quaker surgeon Sir Jonathan Hutchinson, Haslemere Museum was one of the very first museums to encourage a ‘hands-on’ approach to the artefacts on display by children. Open daily Tue – Sat, free admission.
Hastings Fisherman’s MuseumType of Museum: Maritime Museum Set within a former chapel known locally as The Fisherman’s Church, the museum explores the fishing industry and maritime history of Hastings. Featuring one of the last of the luggers (sailing fishing boats), the museum also displays models, photos, paintings, rigging and a variety of other fishing related artefacts. Open daily, free admission.
Hastings Museum and Art GalleryType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery Telling the story of Hastings and its people, as well as the darker tales of smuggling along the Sussex coast, the museum also displays dinosaur remains from more than 110 million years ago. The John Logie Baird Collection exhibits pieces relating to the early days of television history. Open daily Tue – Sat and Sun afternoons, free admission.
Hawick Museum and Scott Art GalleryType of Museum: Local Museum Housed in a historic 18th century mansion house within a beautiful Victorian park, the museum tells the story of the town of Hawick and its people. The Jimmie Guthrie and Steve Hislop Rooms showcase the lives and achievements of the town’s two tragic motorcycle champions. In addition, there are an old schoolroom, nature displays and archaeological finds to explore. Open daily through the summer months and afternoons through the winter, except Saturday’s, free admission.
Haworth Art Gallery, AccringtonType of Museum: Art Gallery Set in the home of the former local mill owner William Haworth, the gallery houses the largest public collection of Tiffany glass in Europe. Gifted to the town by local lad made good, Joseph Biggs had worked for the American Tiffany company for 40 years prior to sending his collection home in 1933. Displayed over four rooms, the gallery also exhibits a collection of 19th century oil painting and watercolours. Open afternoon Wed – Sun.
Head of Steam – Darlington Railway MuseumType of Museum: Transport Museum Located on the original route of the world’s first steam powered passenger railway, the Head of Steam Museum exhibits artefacts and collections relating to the development and operation of railways in North East England. The museum has a number of locomotives on display, including Locomotive No. 1. Built by George Stephenson, Locomotive No. 1 hauled the first passenger train along the Stockton and Darlington Railway on 27th September 1825. Open daily Tues – Sun during the summer months and Wed – Sun in winter, admission charges apply.
Helicopter Museum, Weston-super-MareType of Museum: Aviation Museum The Helicopter Museum celebrates its 25th Anniversary in 2014. It’s collection, which is the largest of its kind in the World includes a Russian Gunship, two aircraft of the Queens Royal Flight, the Vietnam Veterans and a 37 seat transport helicopter! Events, Open Cockpit Days and Air Experience Flights take place throughout the year. Open Wednesday to Sunday all year. Shop, Cafe, Film Theatre and large free car park on site. Admission charges apply.
Helmshore Mills Textile Museum, Helmshore RossendaleType of Museum: Industrial Museum Set beside the River Ogden in the Rossendale Valley are two of the historic Lancashire textile mills that powered the Industrial Revolution. Now a working museum equipped with original machinery, together they tell the story of how the mills were used to process the raw wool and cotton, transforming it into yarn ready to be woven into the cloth that clothed the world. Open afternoons from Apr to end-Oct, admission charges apply.
Helston MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Founded in 1949, the museum is housed in Helston’s historic Market House and Drill Hall. The museum’s collections tell the story of the social and industrial history of the Lizard Peninsula, from mining, fishing and farming, through to home life from the 18th century to the present day. Open daily Mon – Sat, free admission.
Herbert Art Gallery and Museum, CoventryType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery Named after local industrialist Sir Albert Herbert, the museum’s impressive collections range from the natural history of the surrounding area to the large industrial machinery that dominated this once great manufacturing centre. The museum also features a notable collection of costumes dating from the 1800s. Its gallery spaces include sculpture and paintings by major artists, such as LS Lowry, Stanley Spencer, David Bomberg and Paul Nash. Open daily Mon – Sat and Sun afternoons, free admission.
Hereford Museum and Art GalleryType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery Set in a Victorian gothic building, the museum houses archaeological and natural history exhibits, as well as a diverse collection of art associated with the county of Herefordshire. The gallery’s collection includes around 3,500 works of art, dating from the 17th century to the present day. Open daily Wed – Sat, free admission.
Heritage Motor Centre, GaydonType of Museum: Transport Museum Located next to the current Jaguar Land Rover Engineering Centre, the museum houses a unique collection of vehicles. Dedicated to preserving Britain’s motoring heritage, the museum displays models from all of the companies that have contributed to the nation’s motor manufacturing history, including the first Mini produced. Open daily, admission charges apply.
Hertford MuseumType of Museum: General Museum Originally opened in 1903, the museum tells the story of the county town and surrounding parishes of Hertfordshire. Set within a 17th century Jacobean town house, the museum’s collections cover local, military, natural, and social history, as well as displaying archaeology finds from the area. Open daily Tues – Sat, free admission.
Hexham Old GaolType of Museum: Local Museum Set in England’s first recorded purpose-built prison, built in 1333 the museum explores the history of the gaol and the inmates it housed, including the notorious Border Reivers. Open daily Tues – Sat from April to end-Sept, admission charges apply.
Higgins Art Gallery and Museum, BedfordType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery Set in the Castle Quarter of the town, the Higgins Art Gallery and Museum recently reopened after an extensive refurbishment. The principal art gallery and museum in the county, it is named in honour of one of town’s major benefactors, the philanthropic brewer, Cecil Higgins. Originally founded to house his collection of ceramics, glass and objets d’art, it now exhibits an impressive collection of prints, including some of the finest British artists as well as internationally renowned figures such as Picasso. Open daily Tues – Sat and Sunday afternoons, free admission.
Highlanders’ Museum, InvernessType of Museum: Military Museum Housed within Fort George, a working army barracks on the outskirts of Inverness, the museum explores the history of the famous Highland Regiments from the Battle of Culloden through to the present day. Occupying three floors of the former Lieutenant Governors quarters, it is boasts 20,000 artefacts, the largest collection of military memorabilia outside of London. Open daily throughout the year.
Historylinks Museum, DornochType of Museum: Local Museum Dedicated to the history and archaeology of Dornoch, from the violent days of the early Picts and Vikings though to the feuding clans, and on to the shameful burning of Scotland’s last condemned witch. Open daily throughout the summer months, admission charges apply.
Horsham Museum and Art GalleryType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery Founded in 1893, the museum tells the story of Horsham and its people through the extensive number of artefacts in its collection displayed throughout its 26 galleries. The museum also houses a significant collection of memorabilia relating to the locally born poet Percy Shelley. Open daily Mon – Sat, free admission.
Hove Museum and Art GalleryType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery Opened in 1927, the museum displays a unique collection of toys as well as early cinema paraphernalia. Other exhibits include contemporary craft and a fine arts collection. Open daily Mon, Tue, Thurs, Fri, Sat and Sun afternoons, free admission.
Hovercraft Museum, Lee-on-the-SolentType of Museum: Transport Museum Boasting a collection of more than sixty hovercrafts housed within several hangars, the museum occupies the former HMS Daedalus (Fleet Air Arm) site. The museum’s collection includes the world’s first working hovercraft model built by Christopher Cockerell in 1955, and two of the world’s largest civil hovercraft, the SR.N5 craft. Open Saturdays and Wednesdays, admission charges apply.
Hunterian Museum and Art Gallery, GlasgowType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery Founded in 1807, The Hunterian is the oldest museum in Scotland and includes The Hunterian Art Gallery, The Anatomy Museum, Mackintosh House and The Zoology Museum, all located in various buildings on the main campus of the University of Glasgow. Built upon the bequest of Dr William Hunter, the collections include scientific instruments used by Lord Kelvin, Joseph Lister and James Watt, as well as finds of Roman artefacts from the Antonine Wall. Open daily all year round except Monday’s, free admission.
Ilfracombe MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Set in the former laundry of the grand Ilfracombe Hotel, , the museum exhibits a collection of eclectic finds, including a shrunken head and a display of pickled bats. More routine collections relate to Ilfracombe’s maritime history, a display of military uniforms and exotic butterflies. Open daily between Easter and end-Oct, admission charges apply.
Imperial War Museum North, Trafford ParkType of Museum: Military Museum Set overlooking the Manchester Ship Canal in Trafford Park, the IWM North is one of five branches of the Imperial War Museum and the only one located in the north of England. Opened in 2002, the museum explores the impact of modern conflicts and the ‘wartime experience’, from the First World War to the present day. Open daily, free admission.
Imperial War Museum, DuxfordType of Museum: Military Museum Set on a former First and Second World War airfield, IWM Duxford is home to some of the most iconic aircraft in the world including the legendary Spitfire, Lancaster and Concorde. With over 200 aircraft on display as well as tanks, military vehicles and boats, the museum tells the story of British and Commonwealth aviation. The largest aviation museum in Britain, the site is also accommodates several British Army regimental museums, including the Parachute Regiment and the Royal Anglian Regiment. Open daily, admission charges apply.
Imperial War Museum, SouthwarkType of Museum: Military Museum Opening its doors again in July 2014 to mark the Centenary of the First World War, the newly transformed IWM London will feature ground-breaking galleries telling the many stories of the men and women who lived and served on the home front and on the fighting fronts during the Great War. The museum’s other permanent exhibitions will also reopen, including the Lord Ashcroft Gallery featuring the world’s largest collection of Victoria Crosses and the Holocaust Exhibition.
International Slavery Museum, LiverpoolType of Museum: General Museum Set on Liverpool’s Albert Dock in the same building as the Merseyside Maritme Museum, the museum relates the history of slavery. Displays explore the transatlantic slave trade, the legacies of slavery and current human rights issues. Open daily, free admission.
Inveraray Jail, ArgyllType of Museum: General Museum Portraying life in a 19th century prison, Inveraray Jail is a living museum complete with costumed characters re-enacting the roles. Browse the exhibition of prison artefacts, watch actual courtroom trials, talk to the prisoners and even sample the punishments, before making good your escape. Open daily all year round, admission charges apply.
Inverness Museum and Art GalleryType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery First opened in 1826, the museum explores the people, environment and traditions of the Highlands through a wealth of artefacts and exciting exhibitions. From the geology and natural history of the region, to its more recent history, including Jacobite memorabilia, Inverness silverware, authentic Highland weapons and bagpipes. Open daily all year round, closed Sundays and Mondays during summer months and Sunday to Wednesday during the winter. Free admission.
Ipswich MuseumType of Museum: County Museum Telling the history of Ipswich and the wider county of Suffolk, the museum also houses a significant natural history collection including exotic foreign animals. The Ogilvie British Bird Gallery is considered to be one of the most complete in the country, whilst the Suffolk Wildlife Gallery is home to a life-sized model of the woolly mammoth. Open daily Tues – Sat, free admission.
Ironbridge Gorge MuseumsType of Museum: Industrial Museum Widely regarded as the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution, there are ten museums spread along the valley of the River Severn at Ironbridge. Collectively known as the Ironbridge Gorge Museums they include Blists Hill Victorian Town, Broseley Pipeworks, Coalbrookdale Museum of Iron, Coalport China Museum, Coalport Tar Tunnel, Darby Houses, Enginuity, Iron Bridge and Tollhouse, Jackfield Tile Museum and the Museum of the Gorge. Open daily throughout the year, entrance charges apply.
Isle of Wight Bus and Coach Museum, Newport QuayType of Museum: Transport Museum Set in a former grain warehouse on Newport Quay, the museum houses a collection of road vehicles dating back to the 1910s, many of which have previously operated on the island. Open regularly from Easter – end Oct, admission charges apply.
Jane Austen’s House MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum The museum tells the story of Jane Austen and her family. Exhibits include family portraits and memorabilia, original manuscripts and first editions novels. Open daily, admission charges apply. Closed Jan and Feb 2017.
Jedburgh Castle Jail and MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Constructed in 1823, Jedburgh Castle Jail and Museum gives an insight as to what life was like in a 1820s prison. One of the finest remaining Howard reform prisons in Scotland, visitors can walk through the original cell blocks of this Georgian jail. The main building houses a collection of artefacts, prints and paintings which tell the story of Jedburgh, through the traditions, industries and important individuals of this historic Scottish town. Open daily from April to Oct, free admission.
Jewish Museum London, CamdenType of Museum: General Museum Founded in 1932, the museum houses an internationally noted collection of Jewish ceremonial art. In addition to exploring Jewish culture, heritage and identity, it also places the Jewish story into the wider context of British history. Open daily from Sun to Fri, admission charges apply.
John Paul Jones Cottage Museum, Nr KirkbeanType of Museum: Maritime Museum Exploring the life of “The Father of the American Navy”, the museum is housed in a traditional Scottish cottage, the birthplace of John Paul Jones in 1747. Furnished in the style of the 1700s, there is an authentically reconstructed cabin of the ship he commanded when he confronted HMS Serapis off Flamborough Head, Yorkshire in 1779. Open Tues – Sun from April to end-Sept, daily in July and Aug, admission charges apply.
Jorvik DIG, YorkType of Museum: Local Museum Based on major excavations undertaken by the York Archaeologist Trust, unearth Roman, Viking, Medieval and Victorian artefacts similar to those found by the Trust’s archaeologists during their digs in four replica excavation pits. Grab a trowel for yourself and dig up the clues that reveal how folk lived in these times. Open daily, admission charges apply.
Jorvik Viking Centre, YorkType of Museum: General Museum This joint museum and visitor attraction first opened its door to the public in 1984. Based upon archaeological finds uncovered from site on which it stands, visitors can journey through a reconstruction of the streets of the Viking city of Jorvik as it would have appeared nearly 1,000 years ago. The museum itself displays many of the finds from the site and explores what life was like 10th century Viking York. Open daily, admission charges apply.
Judges Lodging, Presteigne, PowysType of Museum: Local Museum Housed in a former court room dating from 1829, this recently restored building now tells the story of the people who lived and worked in the Lodgings, from the elegant judge’s apartments to the dingy gas lit world of the servant’s quarters. Presentations include audiotours of actual trials from bygone days in the court house, whilst the basement houses the dark and damp prisoner’s cells. Open Monday to Saturday throughout the year, free admission.
Keep Military Museum, DorchesterType of Museum: Military Museum Located to the west of Dorchester town centre in the former gatehouse to the County Armoury, the museum is the official home to the collections of The Devonshire Regiment, The Dorset Regiment, The Devonshire and Dorset Regiment, The Dorset Yeomanry, The Queen’s Own Dorset Yeomanry, The Dorset Militia, The Royal Devon Yeomanry and 94 Field Regiment RA. The weapons, uniforms, medals and stories of the soldiers and their families are revealed over the museums three floors. Open daily Mon – Sat during the summer months and Tues – Fri in winter, admission charges apply.
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, GlasgowType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery Originally opened in 1901 as the Palace of Fine Arts, this recently refurbished building is one of Scotland’s most popular free-to-enter visitor attractions. Now boasting over 8,000 exhibits on display, it also houses one of Europe’s finest civic art collections. The wide ranging collections explore natural history, arms and armour and of course art, from a variety of different art movements, including Salvador Dali’s ‘Christ of St John of the Cross’. Open daily all year round, free admission.
Kendal MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Founded in 1796, the museum includes collections of local archaeology, history and geology. The World Wildlife Gallery provides an introduction to a variety of animals, birds and insects collected from around the world. Open daily Tues to Sat, free admission.
Kent Battle of Britain MuseumType of Museum: Military Museum Located on the former RAF Station Hawkinge, this independent museum is dedicated to all pilots shot down during WW2. The museum displays the largest collection of Battle of Britain artefacts in the country and includes many personal stories, as well as wreckage from over 600 crashed aircraft. Open daily Tue – Sun from Mar to Oct, admission charges apply.
Killhope, Lead Mining MuseumType of Museum: Industrial Museum Set on the site of the former Park Level Mine, Killhope is a fully restored 19th century Victorian lead mine. Featuring a large working waterwheel and other associated machinery, the museum explores the life and work of the lead mining families of the region. Open daily from Apr to end-Oct, admission charges apply.
Kilmartin MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Set in the heart of prehistoric Kilmartin Glen, the museum excavates and displays the artefacts that it finds. Many such finds are of international significance, including rare jet necklaces and some of the earliest beaker pots in Britain. Other items include a 2000 year old sword, found point down in a bog on the nearby Isle of Shuna. Open daily from March to Christmas, admission charges apply.
Kington MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Opened in 1986, the museum is housed within the former stables of the now demolished King’s Head Inn. The museum tells the history of Kington town and its surrounding area through artefacts collected from local residents. Open daily Tues – Sat between Apr to Sept, free admission.
Kinross (Marshall) MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Located in the Loch Leven Community Campus at the north end of Kinross, the museum exhibits a wealth of pictures and artefacts reflecting life as it was in and around the county town. In particular, the town’s close association with the textile industry is explored. Open daily Tues – Sat, free admission.
Kirkcaldy GalleriesType of Museum: Local Museum On the ground floor of Kirkcaldy Galleries, the museum tells the story of the town and its surrounding area, and on the lives of the men, women and children who lived there. Open daily, free admission.
Lakeland Motor Museum, Backbarrow, UlverstonType of Museum: Transport Museum The Lakeland Motor Museum houses a collection of classic cars, motorcycles, bicycles and other transport related memorabilia. Boasting a collection of some 30,000 exhibits, all housed in a purpose built, state-of-the-art building. Open daily, entrance charges apply.
Lancaster City MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Set in the elegant surroundings of the former town hall, the museum also houses the museum of Lancaster’s King’s Own Royal Regiment from its formation in 1680. The City Museum’s collections trace the history of Lancaster from Roman times. Open daily Mon – Sat, free admission.
Leeds Art GalleryType of Museum: Art Gallery First opened in 1888, the museum’s houses a significant collection of 19th and 20th century British Art. Set in the heart of Leeds, the museum also displays impressive collections of prints, watercolours, paintings, sculptures, photography, and contemporary art, from well know local and international artists. Open daily, free admission.
Leeds City MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Founded in 1819, the museum’s considerable and diverse collections are displayed over four floors and several galleries. One collection explores the local history of Leeds and its people, whilst another considers the cultures of the world’s five continents. Life on Earth details the planet’s natural history, and yet another presents civilisations from the ancient world. Open daily Tues – Sun, free admission.
Leeds Industrial Museum at Armley Mills Museum, Armley, LeedsType of Museum: Industrial Museum Set in what was once the world’s largest woollen mill, the museum tells the industrial history of Leeds through collections of textile machinery, railway equipment and other engineering artefacts that helped to power the Industrial Revolution. Located on the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, the nearby Botany Bay Yard is so named as it was the first place in England where wool from Australia was landed for processing. Open daily Tues – Sun, admission charges apply.
Leominster MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Through its collection of artefacts, photographs and documents, the museum tells the story of Leominster and its people from prehistoric times through to the present day. It also houses a collection of paintings and drawings by the famous local Victorian artist John Scarlett Davis. Open daily Mon – Sat from Apr to Sept, free admission.
Lion Salt WorksType of Museum: Industrial Museum Housed in a restored open-pan salt making site in the village of Marston, this newly opened museum details how the salt works operated and the impact of salt on mid-Cheshire’s people, economy and landscape. Open daily Tues to Sun, admission charges apply.
Llangollen Museum, DenbighshireType of Museum: Local Museum With a collection of more than 5,000 artefacts, photographs and documents, the museum features displays concerning the history of this area in the borderlands of Wales. From the Stone Age, through the Romans, Normans and on to more recent times, discover more out about the people, places, stories, myths and legends of Llangollen and the surrounding region. Open daily throughout the year, free admission.
London Canal Museum, IslingtonType of Museum: Transport Museum Housed in a Victorian ice warehouse, the museum tells the story of the English canal system and the folk that plied their trade along these waterways. Other exhibits and displays consider the art, craft and engineering of London’s canals, whilst the buildings use to house ice imported from Norway is explained. Open daily except Mondays, admission charges apply.
London Fire Brigade Museum, SouthwarkType of Museum: Local Museum The museum tells the story of firefighting from the days of the Great Fire of London in 1666 to the present day, including the essential role that the fire service’s ‘heroes with grimy faces’ played during World War II. Housed in the original Southwark fire station, it is home to a unique collection of historical fire engines and other equipment. Visits to the museum are by guided tour only and must be booked in advance, admission charges apply. Telephone 020 8555 1200 ext 39894.
London Transport Museum, WestminsterType of Museum: Transport Museum Housed in a Victorian iron and glass building once part of the Covent Garden Flower Market, the London Transport (LT) Museum tells the story of the transport heritage of the nation’s capital city. The museums large collection of exhibits and displays includes more than 80 road and rail vehicles, as well as photographs, posters, signs, tickets, maps and uniforms. Open daily, admission charges apply.
Lostwithiel MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Housed in a listed Georgian building, the museum tells the story of Lostwithiel from its founding in the 12th century by a Norman Lord to its growth to become the county town of Cornwall. Displays explain how the town grew rich through the export of tin. Open daily Mon – Fri, from early-Apr to end-Sept, free admission.
Low Parks Museum, Hamilton, South LanarkshireType of Museum: Local Museum Housed in two historic buildings, both originally associated with the Dukes of Hamilton, the museum traces the local history of South Lanarkshire, with displays relating to Hamilton Palace, demolished in 1927. Other collections and exhibits detail the working life of the area, including agriculture, weaving, and coalmining; and also the history of the local regiment, the Cameronians (Scottish Rifles). Open daily all year round.
Lowewood MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Housed in an imposing Georgian building, the museum tells the story of the historic town of Hoddesdon and the borough of Broxbourne from prehistoric times to the present day. Collections include displays of geology, archaeology, social history, costume, photography and art. Open daily Wed – Sat, free admission.
Lowewood Museum, HoddesdonType of Museum: Local Museum Set in a grand Georgian building in the historic town of Hoddesdon, the museum tells the history of the borough of Broxbourne. Open daily Wed to Sat, free admission.
Lutterworth MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Located in the OneStop Shop just a short walk from the heart of Lutterworth, the museum tells the story of the town and the surrounding villages. In particular it displays a very large collection of Frank Whittle memorabilia, inventor of the modern jet engine. Open Tues to Sat from 10 – 13.00, free entry.
Lynn Museum, Kings LynnType of Museum: Local Museum Originally founded in 1844, the museum relates the history of West Norfolk. Highlights of the museum include a life size replica of the Bronze Age timber circle known as ‘Seahenge’ and a hoard of Iceni gold coins hidden in a cow bone for nearly 2000 years. Open daily Tues – Sat, admission charges apply.
Macclesfield Silk MuseumsType of Museum: Industrial Museum The four separate sites that constitute the Macclesfield Silk Museums include the Silk Museum, Old Sunday School, West Park Museum and Paradise Mill. Between them they tell the history of Macclesfield’s Silk Industry, from cocoon to the journey along the Silk Road and on to the growth of the town’s Silk Mills. In Paradise Mill, step back into 1930s industrial Macclesfield and discover what it was like to work in the Silk Industry with 26 restored Jacquard Looms. Open daily Mon – Sat, admission charges apply.
Maidstone Museum and Art GalleryType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery A treasure chest of over 600,000 fascinating artefacts and specimens. Our outstanding collections, housed in an Elizabethan manor house in the centre of Kent’s country town, are amongst the best in the South-East. The Museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions, and has a lively programme of events for all ages. Admission free, temporary exhibitions may have an entry fee.
Malvern MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Set in the heart of the town, the museum tells the story of Malvern and its people over five exhibition rooms. Downstairs the museum explores how Celtic tribes existed on the surrounding windy hills before the Romans invaded and occupied the area. The upstairs rooms consider how Malvern was transformed from a tiny hamlet to a popular Victorian holiday destination. Open daily from Easter to end-Oct, admission charges apply.
Manchester Art GalleryType of Museum: Art Gallery Featuring a significant collection of the English School, with works by Gainsborough and the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, the gallery occupies three historic buildings set close to the city centre. Over three floors and 21 rooms, its historic galleries also display international masterpieces from the 17th and 18th centuries. As well as paintings, the museum exhibits collections of furniture, glass and silverware. Open daily, free admission.
Manchester MuseumType of Museum: County Museum First opened to the public in 1888, the museum’s collections include works of archaeology, anthropology and natural history. Home to one of the most significant collections of ancient Egyptian artefacts in the Britain, it also houses galleries that explore the ancient civilizations of Greece and Rome. Exhibits from the natural world include a collection of dinosaurs fossils, with live reptiles and amphibians left to roam in the Vivarium. Open daily, free admission.
Mansfield MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum This local history museum explores the social and industrial heritage of the district through a range of artefacts and photographs. The Art and Exhibition Galleries house a collection of 18th century porcelain and watercolours showing Victorian Mansfield. Open daily Mon – Sat, free admission.
Mappa Mundi and Chained Library, Hereford CathedralType of Museum: General Museum Housed in Hereford Cathedral, the Mappa Mundi shows how 13th century scholars viewed the world, combining spiritual as well as geographical terms. Dating from around 1300, the map is drawn on a single sheet of vellum (calf skin). The Cathedral’s Chained Library is the largest in Europe to survive with all its chains, rods and locks intact. Open daily Mon – Sat, admission charges apply.
Margate MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Set just a short walk from the sea front in the second oldest building in Margate, the museum tells the story of the town and its people. Displays also explore the buildings former use as the town’s police station and magistrates’ court, including the original Victorian cells. Open daily Wed, Sat and Sun between May to Sept, Sat and Sun only in winter, admission charges apply.
Market Hall Museum, WarwickType of Museum: Local Museum Set in the 17th century Market Hall, the museum includes displays on the geology, natural history and early history of Warwickshire. Notable exhibits include the stuffed Warwickshire Bear, replicating the county’s heraldic sign, and the Sheldon Tapestry, a 16th century map of the county. Open daily Tues – Sat and Sundays during summer, free admission.
Marlipins MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Housed in one of the oldest Norman buildings in Sussex, the museum relates the the story of Shoreham’s maritime and local history from prehistoric to medieval times. Open Tue to Sat, May to Oct, admission charges apply.
Meigle Sculptured Stone MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Dating from the late 700s to late 900s, the museum displays a set of 26 carved stones, the remaining legacy of the Picts’ power centre at Meigle. Open daily, Apr to Sept, admission charges apply.
Mere MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Founded in 1970, preserving the history of Mere with a collection of more than 7,000 items. Open most days, not Sundays.
Merseyside Maritime Museum, LiverpoolType of Museum: Maritime Museum Set on Liverpool’s Albert Dock in the same building as the International Slavery Museum, the museum explores the international significance of the port as the gateway to the world, including its role in emigration, the merchant navy and the transatlantic slave trade. The museum of the UK Border Agency, ‘Seized!’ is housed in the building’s basement. Open daily, free admission.
Mevagissey MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Housed in an 18th century building originally used to construct vessels for smuggling, the museum relates the history of the boatyard through the original tools and equipment left behind when the last boat builder retired. The wider picture of life in and around Mevagissey is told through a broad collection of artefacts, displays and exhibits, including a cider press and a recreated Cornish kitchen. Open daily from Easter to Oct, free admission.
Midland Air Museum, BagintonType of Museum: Aviation Museum Located on the fringe of Coventry Airport, the museum features an impressive collection of aircraft as well as the Frank Whittle Jet Heritage Centre. With more than 30 aircraft on display including an Avro Vulcan and two English Electric Lightnings, the museum details the story of the local aviation pioneer and inventor of the jet engine, Frank Whittle. Open daily, admission charges apply.
Mildenhall MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum The museum tells the story of Mildenhall, its treasures and people through displays in newly developed galleries. From pre-history to the Lakenheath Warrior, discover the mystery of the Mildenhall Treasure; and find out about the key role Mildenhall’s air base played in WWII. Open Mar to mid-Dec, p.m. only Tues, Wed, Thur & Sat, a.m. and p.m. Fri, free admission.
Milestones Museum, BasingstokeType of Museum: General Museum Recreating a network of cobbled streets from turn of the century Hampshire, this living history museum features original buildings from the era, as well as a 1930s town with shops. Complete with costumed characters helping to recreate the age, the museum also houses a collection of beautifully restored vintage road and rail vehicles. Open daily Tues – Sun, admission charges apply.
Mill Green Mill and MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Enjoying an attractive riverside setting, Mill Green Museum is a restored 18th century working flour mill powered by water to produce flour and demonstrate historic milling practices. The range of historic buildings also house a changing programme based on local art and history. Open daily Tues to Thurs, Sun and Bank Holidays afternoons, admission charges apply.
Milton Keynes MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Housed in a former Victorian model farmstead, this interactive museum includes an old school room, air raid bunker and a working GPO telephone exchange. Open daily Wed – Sun summer, weekends only Nov – end-Mar, admission charges apply.
Moffat MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Originally housed in an old bakehouse, the recently expanded museum relates the history of the town and its people. It provides a fascinating insight into Moffat’s history; from early Roman times, the Border Reivers, the Convenanters, the discovery of the Well and to Moffat’s success as a Spa town. Open daily Mon to Sat (closed Wed), from Apr – Sept open Sun pm, free admission.
Moyses Hall MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Set in an impressive medieval building in the heart of Bury St Edmunds, Moyse’s Hall Museum houses collections relating to local and social history. From Afghanistan to the Normandy beaches, the battles, traditions and stories of the Suffolks are revealed in the Suffolk Regiment Gallery. Open daily Mon to Sat, and Sun p.m., admission charges apply.
Mull Museum, TobermoryType of Museum: Local Museum A small museum detailing the history of the Isle of Mull and its people. From the early days of duns and brochs, through to the age of warring clans and on to more recent times. Exhibits of crofting, farming, fishing and everyday objects trace what life was like in Mull through the ages. Open from Easter – end Oct, Mon to Fri daily, free admission.
Museum in the Park, StroudType of Museum: Local Museum Set in the grounds of Stratford Park in the market town of Stroud, this museum of local history and culture is housed in a listed 17th century wool merchant’s mansion house. Displaying over 4,000 artefacts, the museum’s collections represent all aspects of human and geological life in the Stroud District, including patent drawings as well as actual examples of the world’s first lawnmower. Open daily Tues – Sun, free admission.
Museum of AbernethyType of Museum: Local Museum Opened in 2000, the museum is housed within 18th century farm buildings and includes artefacts and information relating to the ancient Pictish capital of Abernethy. There is a core exhibition relating to the historic Pictish Round Tower and more recently, when Abernethy was home to many Polish troops in WWII. Open from early May to end Sept, Wed – Sun pm, admission is free.
Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, CambridgeType of Museum: General Museum Founded in 1884, the MAA houses the University of Cambridge’s collection of local antiquities, together with archaeological artefacts from around the world and throughout human history. The museum is organised in five key collection areas, including archaeological, anthropological, photographic, modern and contemporary art, and archival material. Open daily Tues – Sat and Sunday afternoons, free admission.
Museum of Army Flying, StockbridgeType of Museum: Military Museum Set beside the Army Air Corps’ working airfield at Middle Wallop, the museum tells the story of flying in the British Arms. From the early days of the Army Balloon section, through the founding of the Royal Flying Corps, the museum brings the story up to date with establishment of the Army Air Corps in 1957. The museum houses a fine collection of fixed wing and rotary aircraft, as well as multiple flight simulators. Open daily, admission charges apply.
Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon, BarnstapleType of Museum: Local Museum Telling the story of the natural and human history of Barnstaple and North Devon, the museum also houses the regimental collection of the Royal Devon Yeomanry. Open daily Mon – Sat, free admission.
Museum of CambridgeType of Museum: Local Museum The Museum of Cambridge, housed in a 17th century timber frame building which was formerly the White Horse Inn, holds a wonderful and varied collection displaying a wealth of Cambridge tradition and history. By exploring the nine room settings including the Bar, the Guest Room and the Childhood Room, visitors can discover an array of intriguing objects, as well as some familiar household favourites! Open Tues-Sat 10.30am-5pm and Sun 2-5pm. Closed Mondays. Adults £3.50, concessions £2.00, children £1.00 (one child free with each paying adult).
Museum of CarpetType of Museum: Industrial Museum Once the major employer in Kidderminster, the museum exhibits a unique collection of equipment and artefacts associated with the manufacture of carpets and similar textiles’. Samples of rugs and carpets are used to illustrate different fibres and dyes, and the changing styles of design. Open Tues to Sat & Bank Holidays, admission charges apply.
Museum of CroydonType of Museum: Local Museum Housed inside the Croydon Clocktower arts facility, this newly refurbished interactive museum explores the history of Croydon through its collections of art and social history objects. The Riesco Gallery exhibits a collection of Chinese pottery and ceramics. Open daily Tues – Sat, free admission.
Museum of East Anglian Life, StowmarketType of Museum: Local Museum Telling the agricultural history of East Anglia, this living history museum is set on 75 acres of prime Suffolk countryside, originally part of the Abbot’s Hall estate. Many of the museum buildings have been relocated from other parts of the county in order to preserve them, including the 18th century watermill. Open daily, admission charges apply.
Museum of EdinburghType of Museum: General Museum Located on the Royal Mile, the museum’s vast collections illustrate the development of the city from prehistoric times to the present day. Highlights include the National Covenant, James Craig’s plans for Edinburgh’s New Town, and the collar and bowl of Greyfriars Bobby, the famous little Skye terrier whose devotion touched the heart of the nation. Open daily all year round, free admission.
Museum of Lancashire, PrestonType of Museum: County Museum Set in the former Quarter Sessions House (courthouse) on the outskirts of Preston city centre, the museum tells the 2000 year old story of Lancashire’s history and heritage. The county’s archaeological collections include 4,000 year old Stone Age axes, Roman artefacts and early industrial items. Other collections include Lancashire at Play, at Work, at War, a People Gallery and Law and Order. Open daily Tue – Sun, free admission.
Museum of Lincolnshire Life, LincolnType of Museum: Local Museum Set in the former barracks of the Royal North Lincoln Militia, the museum explores the culture of Lincolnshire and its people through exhibits and displays reflecting commercial, domestic, agricultural, industrial and community life. The museum also houses one of the first World War I tanks, built by the local firm of William Foster & Co., as well as a collection of early farm machinery built by other Lincolnshire companies. Open daily from April to Sept, Mon – Sat from Oct to Mar, free admission.
Museum of LiverpoolType of Museum: County Museum Set on Mann Island at Liverpool’s Pier Head, this new purpose-built museum tells the story of the city and its people. Located over four large galleries, the museum’s displays explore the following themes; The Great Port, Global City, People’s Republic, and Wondrous Place. Open daily, free admission.
Museum of London, City of LondonType of Museum: Local Museum Overlooking the old Roman city wall, the museum records the history of London from prehistoric to more modern times. Opened in 1976, its galleries gradually reveal the story of the nation’s capital from its earliest days to its development as a city by the Romans, moving through medieval times and on to the Great Fire of London. More recently, it relays the horrors of the days and nights endured by Londoners in the blanket bombings of World War II. And even more recently, the role that London fashion played in shaping the swinging 60s through to the present day. Open daily with free admission.
Museum of OxfordType of Museum: Local Museum Set in the city’s Town Hall, the museum tells the history of the Oxford and its colleges through displays of original artefacts, from prehistoric times onwards. Open daily Mon – Sat, free admission.
Museum of Richmond, Richmond-upon-ThamesType of Museum: Local Museum The Museum celebrates the rich heritage of Richmond, Ham, Petersham and Kew and, through the exhibition and education programmes, all other areas of the borough. Admission is free and the colourful displays span from mediaeval times to the present day. The museum is close to the River Thames and to Richmond Green on the second floor of the Old Town Hall.
Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI), ManchesterType of Museum: Science Museum Set on the site of the world’s first railway station, the museum explores the historic development of engineering, technology and industry, with particular focus on Manchester’s contribution to these fields. The museum’s extensive collections are themed in terms of transport, power, sanitation, textiles, communications and computing, from complete aircraft and locomotives to the world’s first stored-program computer. Open daily, free admission.
Museum of Somerset, TauntonType of Museum: County Museum Based at Taunton Castle in the centre of town, the museum also houses the Somerset Military Museum. In addition to displaying objects from the museum’s permanent galleries, including geology, archaeology, medieval and ethnography, there are regularly changing temporary exhibitions and activities. Open Tuesday to Saturday, admission is free.
Museum of St AlbansType of Museum: County Museum Originally opened in 1898 as the Hertfordshire County Museum, the museum presents the history of St Albans from the end of the Roman era to the present day. One gallery is dedicated to the story of Alban, Britain’s first Christian martyr, and the abbey that was founded to his memory. Other displays explore how St Albans grew from a small quiet little market town into a bustling commuter city. Open daily Mon – Sat and Sunday afternoons, free admission.
Museum of the Broads, StalhamType of Museum: Local Museum Set in the picturesque location of Stalham Staithe, this waterside museum tells the history of Broadland life and explores how people’s working lives have helped shape the landscape. River trips on a Victorian steam launch are available at extra costs. Open daily from April to end Sept, admission charges apply.
Museum of the History of Science, OxfordType of Museum: Science Museum Set in the world’s oldest surviving purpose-built museum building, the Old Ashmolean, the Museum of the History of Science displays a unique collection of early scientific instruments. A department of the University of Oxford, its extensive collections range from medieval times through to the early 20th century and includes navigational, mathematical and optical instruments. Open afternoons Tues – Sunday, free admission.
Museum of Transport, Greater Manchester, Cheetham HillType of Museum: Transport Museum Located approximately 2 miles north of the city centre, the museum holds one of the largest collections of public transport road vehicles in the country. Exploring the history and heritage of Greater Manchester’s local passenger transport system, the museum is home to around 100 buses. Open daily on Wed, Sat and Sun, admission charges apply.
Museum on the Mound, EdinburghType of Museum: General Museum Only opened in 2006 in the former Bank of Scotland headquarters building, the museum presents a unique insight into the world of money, finance and economics. Hands on exhibits reveal how art and design, crime, security, technology and trade all play their part in the story of money. Open daily all year round, free admission.
Nantwich MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Telling the story of Nantwich through the ages, the museum is housed in the town’s former Victorian Jubilee library. Displays include Roman salt making, the English Civil War – Battle of Nantwich, the town’s shoe and clothing industries. Open daily Tues to Sat, free admission.
Narberth Museum, PembrokeshireType of Museum: Local Museum Located in a former bonded store, the new Narberth Museum tells the long history of the town through the use of artefacts, scale models, interpretive panels and interactive activities. Open throughout the year, admission charges apply.
National Civil War Centre & Newark MuseumType of Museum: Military Museum This brand new museum is dedicated to telling the story of Britain’s deadliest conflict, The English Civil War (1642-1646). Set on the Great North Road at a safe crossing point over the River Trent, the strategic importance of Newark is explored. Open daily, admission charges apply.
National Coal Mining Museum for England, Overton, nr WakefieldType of Museum: Industrial Museum Set on the site of one of the oldest working mines in Britain, the museum traces the significance of the coal mining industry to the nation’s history. Based at the Caphouse Colliery in Overton, much of the original machinery and engineering remains in place to fully appreciate. Travel 140 metres underground and retrace the footsteps of the thousands of miners who descended into the cramped, dark and cold pit. Open daily, free admission.
National Fishing Heritage Centre, GrimsbyType of Museum: Maritime Museum Set on the town’s Alexandra Dock, the museum provides an insight into Grimsby’s maritime history. Portraying the 1950s heyday of the distant waters fishing fleet, it explores what life was like for the trawlermen and their families. Open daily Tue – Sun, admission charges apply.
National Football Museum, ManchesterType of Museum: Sport Museum Located in the Urbis building in Manchester city centre, the world’s biggest soccer museum is set over four floors and houses a significant collection of association football memorabilia, including the first ever rule book from 1863. Exploring football’s past and present with a collection of over 140,000 items; the museum seeks to explain why football has become known as ‘the people’s game’. Open daily, free admission.
National Heritage Centre for Horseracing & Sporting ArtType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery Scheduled to open in Autumn 2016, the museum tells the story of horseracing and the science behind the development of the thoroughbred horse. The gallery will exhibit examples of sport related art, sourced from a variety of fine collections.
National Maritime Museum Cornwall, FalmouthType of Museum: Maritime Museum Set on the Falmouth’s harbourside, the museum presents the story of the sea and boats over several major galleries. In addition to exhibiting the National Small Boat Collection (under 33-foot), the museum devotes three galleries to the maritime history of Cornwall, detailing topics such as fishing, trading, boatbuilding, wrecks and emigration. The pontoon directly in front of the museum building allows a changing display of boats on the water. Open daily, admission charges apply.
National Maritime Museum, GreenwichType of Museum: Maritime Museum The largest museum of its type in the world, the National Maritime Museum tells the stories of discovery and adventure of this proud seafaring nation. Through its vast collection of original artefacts and modern state-of-the-art technology, it relates tales of epic exploration, fierce battles, pioneering trade, using ancient charts to ships’ biscuits and even Nelson’s uniform from the Battle of Trafalgar. Open daily, free admission.
National Mining Museum, Newtongrange, MidlothianType of Museum: Industrial Museum With over 60,000 artefacts including the Scotland’s largest winding engine, the museum traces the significance of the coal mining industry to the nation’s history. Based at the Lady Victoria Colliery, much of the original machinery and engineering remains in place to fully appreciate. Retrace the footsteps of the thousands of miners who descended into the cramped, dark and cold pit. Open daily all year round, admission charges apply.
National Motor Musem, BeaulieuType of Museum: Transport Museum See the National Motor Museum’s stunning collection of over 250 vehicles, the World of Top Gear exhibition with genuine vehicles from the BBC show, 13th century Beaulieu Abbey, Palace House and the picturesque grounds and gardens, plus enjoy unlimited rides on the high level Monorail. Open daily throughout the year, entrance charges apply.
National Motorcycle Museum, BickenhillType of Museum: Transport Museum Opened in 1984, the museum houses the world’s largest collection of British-built motorcycles including examples of the more famous marques such as BSA, Norton and Triumph, to the lesser known makers including Montgomery and New Imperial. Open daily, admission charges apply.
National Museum CardiffType of Museum: General Museum Officially opened in 1927, the museum houses Wales’s national collections of archaeology, botany, fine and applied art, geology and zoology. The museum tells the story of the evolution of Wales from the early Neanderthals to the present day, whilst the art collection is one of the finest to be found in Europe. Open daily throughout the year, free admission.
National Museum of Brisih Popular CultureType of Museum: General Museum Also known as Stella Mitchell’s ‘Land of Lost Content’, the museum houses a private collection of 20th century memorabilia, bristling with the nostalgia of yesteryear’s schooldays, holidays, film, TV, radio, food and drink. Celebrating over 100 years of British ingenuity, quirkiness, style and technology. Open daily (except Wednesdays), admission charges apply. Closed December and January.
National Museum of Flight, East Fortune Airfield, East LothianType of Museum: Aviation Museum Home to no less than 43 aircraft, this historic First and Second World War airfield features stars of the skies such as a Tiger Moth, Spitfire, Comet, Sea Hawk and Concorde. In and around four hangars, visitors can trace the story of aviation and take part in more than 25 activities where they can feel the force of lift and discover what aircraft are made from. Or, perhaps, test your own skills in a flight simulator. Open daily all summer and weekends during winter months, admission charges apply.
National Museum of Rural Life, East KilbrideType of Museum: General Museum Set just 13 miles from Glasgow’s city centre, the National Museum of Rural Life, which opened in 2001, features a purpose-built museum, historic farmhouse and 1950s working farm. The museum tells the story of how the last 300 years of farming have transformed the Scottish countryside, whilst Wester Kittochside farm provides an insight as to what farm life was really like around 60 years ago. Open daily all year round, admission charges apply.
National Museum of Scotland, EdinburghType of Museum: General Museum One of the top 10 visitor attractions in the UK, this recently redeveloped museum houses an extensive collection of over 20,000 artefacts. These vast collections not only relate the detailed history of Scotland, but also explore the diversity of the natural world, world cultures, art and design, as well as science and technology. Open daily all year round, free admission.
National Portrait Gallery, WestminsterType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery Displaying paintings, sketches and caricatures of almost everybody from ancient royals to modern celebrities, the gallery exhibits a vast collection of almost 200,000 portraits arranged in chronological order. Founded in 1856, the collection includes portraits of famous British men and women from across the spectrum, including artists, musicians, philanthropists, politicians, scientists and writers, as well as sporting and military heroes. Open daily with free admission.
National Railway Museum ShildonType of Museum: Transport Museum Part of the National Railway Museum, Shildon tells the 300 year old history of the railways through its vast collection of exhibits. Sited at the home of world’s first passenger railway, the museum is now home to more than 70 locomotives and rolling stock from the national collection. From the viewing gallery of the conservation workshop, visitors can see the work carried out restoring some of the exhibits. Open daily, free admission.
National Railway Museum, YorkType of Museum: Transport Museum Set on the site of the former York North locomotive depot, the museum houses the national collection of historically significant railway vehicles, including a collection of more than 100 locomotives and almost 300 examples of rolling stock. Displayed over a 20 acre site, it details the 300 years of railway history. Open daily, free admission.
National Roman Legion Museum, Caerleon, NewportType of Museum: General Museum Guarding the western extremities of their empire, the Romans built one of only three permanent legionary fortresses in Britain at Caerleon. The National Roman Legion Museum lies inside what remains of the fortress known to the Romans as Isca Augusta of Legio II Augusta, and displays many of the archaeological finds that have been recovered from the site. Step outside and discover the most complete amphitheatre in Britain and the remains of the Roman Legionary barracks. Open daily all year round, including Sunday afternoons, free admission.
National Slate Museum, Llanberis, GwyneddType of Museum: Industrial Museum Housed in the massive 19th century workshops of the Dinorwig Slate Quarry, the museum tells the story of the Welsh slate industry that roofed the Industrial Revolution. Set on the dramatically beautiful shores of Llyn Padarn, the innovative displays include Victorian era slateworkers cottages and the largest working waterwheel in the UK. Talks and demonstrations, including slate-splitting, provide an insight into the lives of the thousands of men that worked the Welsh quarries. Open daily throughout the year (closed Saturdays from Nov to Easter), free admission.
National Space Centre, LeicesterType of Museum: Science Museum Dedicated to space exploration and science, the National Space Centre includes rockets, satellites and many other space related artefacts. Opened in 2001, the centre also includes the Sir Patrick Moore Planetarium experience. Restricted opening hours and entrance charges apply, closed on Mondays.
National War Museum, Edinburgh CastleType of Museum: Military Museum Follow the story of Scotland’s military history within the stunning setting of Edinburgh Castle. Through a vast collection of military artefacts and personal accounts, discover the stories of Scottish military life from the weapons to the reality of war. Trace the developments in warfare as swords were replaced in the 18th century by guns and discover how weapons evolved through advances in technology. Open daily all year round, admission to the museum is included in entry to Edinburgh Castle.
National Waterfront Museum, SwanseaType of Museum: Industrial Museum Set in Swansea’s Maritime Quarter, the museum relates the huge contribution of industry and innovation in Wales to Britain’s Industrial Revolution. Combining modern interactive technology with traditional displays, it explores the nation’s vast industrial and maritime heritage. Opened in 2005, the museum elegantly marries the old and the new, with the original listed waterfront warehouse linked to a new, ultra-modern slate and glass building. Open daily all year round, free admission.
National Waterways Museum, Ellesmere PortType of Museum: Transport Museum Set on the banks of the River Mersey and Manchester Ship Canal, the museum contains the largest collection of canal boats in the world. Designed by the famous Scottish civil engineer, Thomas Telford, it occupies the 7 acre site of the former canal port and consists of a system of locks, docks and warehouses that house the museum’s displays. Open daily, admission charges apply.
National Wool Museum, nr Newcastle Emlyn, CarmarthenshireType of Museum: Industrial Museum Housed in the historic Cambrian Woollen Mills, the museum relates the story of arguably the most important of Wales’s industries. Located in the beautiful Teifi valley, once the centre of the thriving woollen industry, follow the process from fleece to fabric and discover how blankets, shawls, shirts, socks and stockings were made. Open daily from April to Sept, Tues-Sat between Oct and March, free admission..
Natural History Museum of TringType of Museum: Natural History Museum Once the private museum of Lionel Walter, 2nd Baron Rothschild, over its six galleries the museum exhibits one of the finest collections of stuffed birds, mammal, reptiles and insects in the country. Open daily Mon – Sat and Sunday afternoons, free admission.
Natural History Museum, Kensington and ChelseaType of Museum: Natural History Museum With a collection of more than 70 million specimens from across the natural world, the Natural History Museum remains a world-renowned research centre. The ornate architecture of the museum building has earned it the title a cathedral of nature, with five main collections covering the fields of botany, entomology, mineralogy, palaeontology and zoology. Most famous perhaps for its displays of dinosaur skeletons, it is also home to the 1,000s of specimens collected by the celebrated naturalist, Charles Darwin, during his five year voyage on HMS Beagle. Open daily with free admission.
New Walk Museum and Art Gallery, LeicesterType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery Leicester’s original museum features a wide ranging collection spanning the natural and cultural world including Ancient Egypt, Dinosaurs, Wild Space and World Art galleries. The museum offers a range of events and temporary exhibitions. Open daily, free admission.
Newark Air MuseumType of Museum: Aviation Museum Set on the Winthorpe Showground a former World War II RAF training base, the museum is dedicated to the preservation of the country’s aviation heritage. On display are a diverse collection of aircraft and cockpit sections, as well as a fine selection of aero engines. Open daily, admission charges apply.
Newarke Houses Museum, LeicesterType of Museum: Local Museum Occupying two historic houses, the museum relays the story of the city and the people of Leicester. The buildings also incorporate the Museum of the Royal Leicestershire Regiment, including a recreation of a World War I trench. Open daily, free admission.
Newcastle Museum and Art Gallery, Newcastle-under-LymeType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery Set in Brampton Park just a short walk from the town centre, the museum tells the 2000 year history of the Borough through a range of artefacts and displays. The Victorian Street scene depicts life in the town from that era. Open daily Mon – Sat and Sun afternoons, free admission.
North Devon Maritime Museum, AppledoreType of Museum: Maritime Museum Set in the pretty village and sea port of Appledore, the museum reflects the maritime heritage of the area. Housed in an impressive Georgian building, over seven exhibition rooms it displays collections relating to the WWII beach landing experiments, sail and steam vessels, and shipwrecks. Open daily from April to end-Oct, admission charges apply.
Northampton Museum and Art GalleryType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery With exhibits from ancient Egypt to the present day, the museum boasts the largest collection of footwear in the world. Over two galleries the museum explores the history of shoemaking and how fashions in footwear have changed over the centuries. The museum also houses a collection of oriental ceramics and Italian art. Open daily Tues – Sat and Sunday afternoons, free admission.
Norton Priory Museum, RuncornType of Museum: Local Museum Set on the site of one of the most important monastic remains in Cheshire, the museum relays the priory’s story from its foundation in 1134 through to its dissolution and later, as a manor house. The museum exhibits the stone carvings, grave markers and other artefacts excavated from the site. Open daily throughout the year, entrance charges apply.
Nottingham Castle MuseumType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery Set in a 17th century mansion on the site of the former medieval castle, the building houses the city’s main museum and art gallery, as well as the regimental museum of the Sherwood Foresters. The museum relates the history and archaeology of Nottingham, whilst the galleries exhibit the city’s fine and decorative art collections. Open daily mid-Feb to Oct, Wed – Sun during winter, admission charges apply.
Nottingham ContemporaryType of Museum: Art Gallery Opened in 2009, this contemporary art gallery features a number of major international exhibitions a year over its four galleries. It also houses an auditorium, education space and a study centre. Open daily Tues – Sun, free admission.
Nottingham Industrial MuseumType of Museum: Industrial Museum Housed in the 17th century stable block of Wollaton Hall, the museum exhibits an impressive collection of working steam and diesel engines, as well as textile and transport exhibits, reflecting local industries such as mining, railways, bicycles, motorcycles, pharmaceuticals, tobacco and printing. Open Sat, Sun & Bank Holidays, admission charges apply.
Novium Museum, ChichesterType of Museum: General Museum In the heart of the city centre, a bell’s ring from Chichester Cathedral, you can follow historical footprints through the Chichester District. Our collection spans 500,000 years of human history with a rich seam of archaeology – including the remains of a Roman Bathhouse on site. We have three floors of interactive exhibitions, activities and events for children and adults. Open daily between Apr and Oct, Tues – Sat during winter, admission charges apply.
Nuneaton Museum and Art GalleryType of Museum: Local Museum Located in the grounds of Riversley Park, this local history museum features three galleries. One of the galleries exhibits a fine art collection, whilst another is dedicated to the local author George Eliot. Open daily Tues – Sat and Sunday afternoons.
Old House, HerefordType of Museum: Local Museum Set in a 17th century timber-framed house in the centre of Hereford, the museum portrays daily life in Jacobean times. Furnished in the style of the era, exhibits include wall-paintings, four-poster bed and a baby-walker. Open daily Tue – Thurs and Sat.
Oxford University Museum of Natural HistoryType of Museum: Natural History Museum Set in a neo-Gothic style listed building, the museum houses the University of Oxford’s natural history collection. The museum’s collections are presented over the following four subject areas; Entomology, Geology, Mineralogy and Zoology. Open daily, free admission.
Padstow MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Located on the first floor of the Padstow Institute just 20 metres from the harbourside, the museum displays unique collection of artefacts, providing an insight into the history of the port from the 1800s to the present day. Open daily Mon – Sat, between Easter and Oct, free admission.
Peak District Lead Mining Museum, MatlockType of Museum: Industrial Museum Housing thousands of artefacts, tools and equipment, the museum tells the story of the Derbyshire lead mining industry and the many families that eked out a living employed in this gruelling work. Across the road from the museum is Temple Mine, a working 1920s lead and fluorspar mine, where guided tours provide an authentic insight into life underground. Open daily during the summer months, Wed – Sun in winter, admission charges apply.
People’s History Museum, SpinningfieldsType of Museum: General Museum Set within a former water pumping station that served the world’s first industrial city, the museum relates the history of democracy in Britain and explores the lives of ordinary people at work, rest and play since the time of the Peterloo Massacre of 1819 to the present day. The museum’s exhibits include documents and other items collected from the Labour Party, the Department for Works and Pensions and the co-operative movement. Open daily, free admission.
Perrys Cider Museum, Dowlish WakeType of Museum: Local Museum See how Somerset cider is made the traditional way, by visiting the nearby orchards, pressing rooms and rural life museum. Enjoy the atmosphere of a real working cider mills, housed in the original 16th century thatched cider barn. Open daily all year, Sunday mornings only.
Perth Museum and Art GalleryType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery One of the oldest museums in Britain, it houses an impressive collection of more than half a million objects that reflect the history of the Perth and Kinross area. From Pictish stone sculptures, prehistoric flints, Bronze Age metalwork, through to a fibre glass replica of the largest rod and line salmon ever caught in Scotland in 1922 by Miss Georgina Ballantine. Open daily throughout the year.
Peterborough Museum and Art GalleryType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery Set in an historic mansion house dating from 1816, the museum houses a significant collection of over 200,000 artefacts, including local archaeological finds and examples from the Roman pottery industry. The daily life of Peterborough’s people is presented through the Social History section. The collection of marine fossils from the Jurassic period is particularly worthy of note. Open daily Tues – Sun, free admission.
Pewsey Heritage CentreType of Museum: Local Museum Located in the former foundry of the agricultural engineering works of Whatley and Hiscock, the museum records the social, farming and industrial history of Pewsey Vale. The heavy machinery manufactured by the company takes pride of place within Heritage Centre. Open most days other than Sundays, free admission.
Plymouth City Museum and Art GalleryType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery (currently closed for refurbishment) Built in an Edwardian Baroque style, the museum’s interior was renovated after being gutted in The Blitz and now houses significant collections of fine and decorative arts, natural and human history. Local finds from prehistoric, Bronze and Iron Age times are displayed alongside artefacts from the Middle East and Ancient Egypt. The Art Gallery includes sizable collections of paintings, watercolours, drawings, prints and sculptures, including works by local lad made good, Sir Joshua Reynolds. Currently closed for a major refurbishment and due re-open in spring 2020.
Poole MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Set within a 19th century quayside warehouse, over its four floors the museum reveals the story of this ancient port through its comprehensive collection of maritime archaeology and Poole Pottery. The museums other displays and exhibits include fine art, local trade and industry, as well as social history. Open daily Mon – Sat during the summer months and Tues – Sat in winter, also Sunday afternoons all year round, free admission.
Portland Museum, WakehamType of Museum: Local Museum Set within two 17th-century thatched stone cottages in the ancient hamlet of Wakeham, through its collection of artefacts the museum tells the story of the local Portland Stone industry, the areas maritime past and its people. Over the centuries the Island of Portland has hosted foreign invaders, pirates, military garrisons, convicts, sailors, itinerate workers and artists. Open daily during the summer months only, admission charges apply.
Portsmoth Historic DockyardType of Museum: Maritime Museum Set within the site of HM Naval Base, Portsmouth Historic Dockyard plays host to several significant attractions relating to the naval history of Britain, including the Mary Rose Museum, HMS Victory, HMS Warrior and the National Museum of the Royal Navy. The site also houses Action Stations, a centre featuring a wide range of interactive displays relating to today’s modern high-tech Royal Navy. Open daily, admission charges apply.
Portsmouth City MuseumType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery Resembling a fairy-tale castle, the museum is housed in a former army barracks set within formal south facing gardens. Telling the story of Portsmouth’s rich history, the museum explores how the city and the life of its people has changed over the centuries. The Fine and Decorative Art Gallery features collections covering a wide range of material from the 17th century to the present day. Open daily Tues – Sun, free admission.
Potteries Museum and Art Gallery, Hanley, Stoke-on-TrentType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery Displaying one of finest collections of Staffordshire ceramics in the world, the museum’s galleries also display costume, local history, archaeology and natural history exhibits. A Submarine Spitfire designed by local lad R J Mitchell takes pride of place as do pieces from the Anglo-Saxon Staffordshire Hoard. Open daily Mon – Sat and Sun afternoons, free admission.
Purton MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Located above the library in Purton High Street, the museum was started in 1990 and houses a collection of artefacts representing 2,000 years of the village’s history. From the nearby Ringsbury Iron Age Hillfort, through Roman and Saxon finds and on to more modern times. Open Wednesday afternoons and Saturday mornings, admission is free.
Quarry Bank Mill, StyalType of Museum: Industrial Museum Built in 1788, Quarry Bank Mill is one of the best preserved textile mills of the Industrial Revolution. Powered by Europe’s most powerful working waterwheel, it now operates as a museum dedicated to the cotton industry. The inspiration for the 2013 television series The Mill, it explores the development of the cotton industry from medieval times through to the 19th century, complete with the deafening noise from the clattering heritage machinery and steam engines. Open daily during the summer months, Wed – Sun in winter, admission charges apply.
Quay Arts Centre, NewportType of Museum: Art Gallery Set in a former 19th century brewery warehouse, the leading art gallery on the Isle of Wight comprises three gallery spaces and a 134 capacity theatre. Home to a regularly changing programme of Visual Arts, the Quay also operates an artist workshop. Open daily, admission charges may apply.
Queen’s House, GreenwichType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery This stunning former royal palace was completed around 1635 for Henrietta Maria, queen of King Charles I. The museum relates the history behind England’s first truly classical building and tells the story of the royalty that occupied it. The Queen’s House is also home to some of the nation’s finest artworks, including paintings by Gainsborough, Hogarth, Reynolds and Hodges. Open daily with free admission.
Reading MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Housed behind the historic fa̤ade of Reading Town Hall, the museum first opened its doors to the public in 1883. From its origins as a 6th century Saxon settlement to the history of the biscuit-making industry that was once formed the mainstay of the Reading economy, the galleries tell the story of the town and its related industries. One gallery exhibits archaeological finds from nearby Calleva Atrebatum, Silchester Roman Town. Open daily Tues РSun, free admission.
REME Museum of Technology, Arborfield GarrisonType of Museum: Military Museum The museum of the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, the corps of the British Army responsible for the maintenance and servicing of electrical and mechanical equipment. Exhibiting an assortment of technological artefacts associated with the work of the REME, including a large collection of military vehicles, uniforms and weapons. Open daily Sun – Fri, admission charges apply.
Rifles Berkshire and Wiltshire Museum, SalisburyType of Museum: Military Museum Opened in 1981, The Wardrobe is the home of the Infantry Regiments of Berkshire and Wiltshire in Salisbury. The museum currently holds over 34,000 items, including photographs, archive documents, medals, items of uniform, swords, rifles, pistols, anti-tank weapons, flags and other battlefield souvenirs. Closed during the winter months and on Sundays, restricted opening hours and admission charges apply.
River and Rowing Museum, Henley-on-ThamesType of Museum: Sport Museum Set on the banks of the River Thames, the museums three galleries are dedicated to the international sport of rowing, the river itself and the local history of Henley on Thames. Open daily, admission charges apply.
Roman Museum, CanterburyType of Museum: General Museum Renovated in 2013, the museum is built on the remains of an original Roman town house complete with mosaics and under-floor central heating. Exhibiting significant excavated finds from Roman Canterbury, it explores how the town was built with displays of rare tools, glass and a hoard of hidden treasure. Open daily Mon – Sun, admission charges apply.
Royal Air Force Museum, BarnetType of Museum: Aviation Museum Located on the former Hendon Aerodrome the ‘Cradle of Aviation in the UK’, the museum tells the story of flight in general and the Royal Air Force in particular. Also known as the RAF Museum, it houses an impressive collection of over 100 aircraft in five major buildings and hangars, including the Battle of Britain Hall, Milestones of Flight, Bomber Hall, Historic Hangars and the Grahame-White Factory. A second collection of exhibits is housed the Royal Air Force Museum Cosford in Shropshire. Open daily with free admission.
Royal Air Force Museum, CosfordType of Museum: Aviation Museum Boasting one of the largest aviation collections in the UK, there are more than 70 historic aircraft exhibited in three wartime hangars and within the National Cold War Exhibition. Iconic aircraft on display include the world’s oldest Spitfire and all three of Britain’s V Bombers: the Vulcan, Victor and Valiant. Open daily all year round with free admission.
Royal Albert Memorial Museum and Art Gallery, ExeterType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery Set in a Gothic Revival building, the museum re-opened its doors to the public in 2011 after an extensive four-year redevelopment. Housing one of the most significant and diverse collections in the south west of England, the museum’s new displays and galleries include objects and artefacts from the following curatorial areas: antiquities, ethnography, natural history, decorative and fine arts. City centre location, busy programme of exhibitions and free entry. Open daily Tuesday to Sunday, closed Mondays and Bank Holidays.
Royal Armouries Museum, LeedsType of Museum: Military Museum Together with the Tower of London and Fort Nelson in Hampshire, this purpose built museum displays the National Collection of Arms and Armour. Consisting of around 70,000 examples of arms, armour and artillery, the collection includes royal armours from the Tudor and Stuart kings, as well as exceptional exhibits of oriental arms and armour. The collection is now housed in three separate locations, with the artillery pieces displayed at Fort Nelson in Hampshire, the London exhibits relate directly to the Tower. Open daily, free admission.
Royal Armouries, Tower of LondonType of Museum: Military Museum Located in the White Tower, the central keep of the Tower of London, the Royal Armouries is the oldest museum in the UK and one of the oldest in the world. Originally used to manufacture arms and armour for the kings of England, it has been open to the public since the days of Charles II. Consisting of around 70,000 examples of arms, armour and artillery, the collection includes royal armours from the Tudor and Stuart kings. The collection is now housed in three separate locations, with the artillery pieces displayed at Fort Nelson in Hampshire and the Royal Armouries Museum in Leeds opening in 1996. The remaining part of the collection on display in London relates directly to the Tower. Open daily, admission charges are included in entry charges to the Tower of London.
Royal College of Physicians, CamdenType of Museum: General Museum Housed within the Royal College of Physicians building in Regent’s Park, the museum’s collection relates to the history of the college and the wider history of the medical profession. The museum’s collections include medical instruments, decorative silver, anatomical tables, apothecary jars, as well as more than 250 portraits of former presidents and other physicians associated with the college from its foundation in 1518. Open daily Monday to Friday, free admission.
Royal Cornwall Museum, TruroType of Museum: County Museum The Royal Cornwall Museum is the oldest museum in Cornwall. Dedicated to preserving Cornish culture, it also exhibits collections relating to Egyptology, fine art and world cultures, as well as displays of classical Greek and Roman artefacts. In addition, the museum contains a fine collection of minerals, decorative arts and old master drawings. Open daily Mon – Sat, admission charges apply.
Royal Navy Submarine Museum, GosportType of Museum: Maritime Museum Tracing the international history of submarines in general and the Submarine Service in particular, the museum is sited at HMS Dolphin, the home of the Royal Navy Submarine Service until 1999. The museum houses the Royal Navy’s first submarine Holland 1 and HMS Alliance, a full sized hunter-killer class, as well as a selection of other craft and associated weaponry. Open daily from Apr to Oct, Wed – Sun during the winter, admission charges apply.
Royal Observatory, Greenwich ParkType of Museum: Science Museum Commissioned in 1675 by King Charles II, the Royal Observatory is the home of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and of course the location of the world’s prime meridian. Set on a hill in Greenwich Park with views over the River Thames, it also houses London’s only planetarium and the UK’s largest refracting telescope, completed in 1893 and measuring in at 28-inches. Open daily, there is free entry to the Astronomy Centre, however entrance charges apply to Flamsteed House and the Meridian Courtyard.
Rugby Art Gallery and MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Located close to the town centre, this purpose built museum tells the local history of the town and its people. The museum also hosts a collection of Roman finds, excavated from the nearby Roman town of Tripontium ‘Three Rivers’. Open daily Tues – Sat, free admission.
Rural Life CentreType of Museum: Industrial Museum The largest countryside museum in the south of England, the Rural Life Centre extends over ten acres of field, woodland and barns. Exhibits include a large collection of implements and devices, representing over 150 years of farming. Open daily Wed to Sun, admission charges apply.
Rutland County Museum, OakhamType of Museum: County Museum Set in the old riding school of the Rutland Fencible Cavalry regiment, the museum houses a collection of artefacts relating to the history of England’s smallest county, including exhibits of archaeology, agriculture, social and rural life. Open daily on Mon, Wed, Sat and Sun, free admission.
Saffron Walden MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum First opened in 1835, the museum’s substantial collections range from local archaeology to world cultures. Other displays include Ancient Egypt, Animals and Plants, Ceramics and Glass, Costumes and Textiles, and Earth Beneath our Feet. Open daily Tues – Sat and Sunday afternoons.
Salford Museum and Art GalleryType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery Opened in 1850, the museum tells the story of Salford and its people. Themed to reflect the buildings exterior, the Picture Gallery displays paintings and decorative arts from Victorian times, whilst the recreated Victorian Street presents typical shops from the era. Open daily Tues – Sun, free admission.
Salisbury and South Wiltshire Museum, SalisburyType of Museum: Local Museum Housed in the historic King’s House and facing Salisbury Cathedral, the museum has one of the finest collections relating to Stonehenge and a renowned display of local archaeology. Other notable exhibits include prehistory, Romans, Saxons and a history of Old Sarum. Open daily during the summer months, Mon – Sat from Oct to May, admission charges apply.
Sanquhar Tolbooth MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Housed in a restored 18th century tolbooth that once served as a gaol and courthouse, the museum tells the story of the people of Upper Nithsdale, including the lives of the miners of Sanquhar and Kirkconnel. It also explores Sanquhar’s noted history as the centre of the knitwear industry in southern Scotland. Open daily Tues – Sat, Sun 14-16.00, from April to Sept, free admission.
Savings Banks Museum, Ruthwell, DumfriesType of Museum: General Museum Relating the story of the savings bank movement, the museum explains how the local minister, Rev Henry Duncan came to open the world’s first savings bank, paying interest on to his working class parishioners. Through exhibits and collections, it details how this community self-help project spread nationally and subsequently worldwide. The museum is housed in the very room where Reverend Duncan first opened for business on 10 May 1810. Open daily Tues to Sat from Apr – Sept, Thurs to Sat from Oct – Mar, free admission.
Scalloway Museum, Shetland IslandsType of Museum: Local Museum Owned and run by the Shetland Bus Friendship Society (SBFS), the museum tells the heroic story of those who served and died in Shetland Bus operations during World War II. The Shetland Bus was the name given to the secret undercover operations between occupied Norway during the war. Open Monday to Sunday, from May to mid Oct.
Science Museum, Kensington and ChelseaType of Museum: Science Museum Founded in 1857 with surplus items left over from the Great Exhibition, the Science Museum’s current collection of over 300,000 artefacts includes such famous exhibits as Stephenson’s Rocket and Puffing Billy, the oldest surviving steam locomotive. More recent additions include the first jet engine and a reconstruction of the DNA model built by Crick and Watson in 1953. Open daily with free admission.
Scott Polar Research InstituteType of Museum: General Museum Part of the University of Cambridge and just 10 minutes’ walk from the city centre, the museum tells the story of both the history and contemporary significance of the Arctic and Antarctic and their surrounding seas. Open daily Tues to Sat, free admission.
Scottish Fisheries Museum, Anstruther, FifeType of Museum: Industrial Museum Set on the harbour front in a collection of historic building in the beautiful port of Anstruther, this award-winning museum records the history of the Scottish commercial fishing industry. It reveals the story of how, through a constant process of innovation, the Scottish fisheries changed the lives of so many Scots. Open daily all year round, admission charges apply.
Scottish Football Museum, Hampden, GlasgowType of Museum: Sport Museum Located in Hampden Park, Glasgow, the world’s first international association football museum houses more than 2,000 items of memorabilia, including objects from the first official international soccer match of 1872. It also offers visitors an expansive and informative tour of Hampden Park, similar to that experienced by players on match day. Open daily all year round, admission charges apply.
Scottish Maritime Museum, Irvine, AyrshireType of Museum: Maritme Museum Housed in the historic Linthouse Building on Irvine’s harbourside, the museum’s collection includes shipbuilding machinery and machine tools, as well as a variety of small boats, canoes and lifeboats. Outside the museum’s collection of floating vessels, including Spartan, Scotland’s last Scottish-built puffer, a harbour tug and a steam yacht dating from 1898. Open daily from March – late Dec, admission charges apply.
SeaCity Museum, SouthamptonType of Museum: Local Museum Opened in 2012 to mark the centenary of RMS Titanic’s departure from the city, the museum houses a permanent exhibition dedicated to its sailing and another gallery explores Southampton’s wider role as the gateway to the world. Based in the heart of the city, it tells the story of Southampton’s maritime history and its people. Open daily, admission charges apply.
Seaford MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Set in Martello Tower no 74 on Seaford’s seafront, the museum displays artefacts and archives relating to the local history of the area from pre-historic times to the present day. Open Sundays and Wed, Sat afternoons during the summer, Sundays only during winter, admission charges apply.
Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences, CambridgeType of Museum: Science Museum With a collection of over 1.5 million rocks, minerals and fossils, spanning the 550 million years of Earth’s history, the Sedgwick Museum is the geology museum of the University of Cambridge. Open daily Mon – Sat, free admission.
Senhouse Roman Museum, MaryportType of Museum: Local Museum Set on cliffs overlooking the Solway Firth, the museum sits adjacent to a Roman fort and civil settlement, and exhibits the extensive finds excavated from the site. The museum displays a large collection of Roman military altar stones with inscriptions and some unique examples of Romano-British religious sculpture. An observation tower allows visitors to appreciate the full extent of the site, alternatively use the ‘Satellite’ option to view this interactive map. Open daily from Jun to Oct, Fri – Sun during the winter months, admission charges apply.
Sherborne MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Set within the gatehouse of the former monastery, the museum’s collections and exhibits relate to the social, historical and industrial life of this small market town. Of particular interest are the museum’s exhibits of fossils, silk and gloving displays, and large collection of watercolours by the botanical artist Diana Ruth Wilson. Open daily Tues – Sat from Easter to mid-Dec, Tues and Thurs mornings during winter, admission charges apply.
Shrewsbury Museum and Art GalleryType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery Set in a recently restored Victorian Music Hall and 13th century mansion, this newly opened museum and art gallery now features five galleries dedicated to Shrewsbury and Shropshire’s history and a Special Exhibition Gallery for touring exhibitions. The museum exhibits some of the nation’s most treasured Roman artefacts, whilst artwork dedicated to to the work of scientist Charles Darwin is also on display. Open daily, admission charges apply.
Shuttleworth Collection, Old Warden airfieldType of Museum: Transport Museum Originally founded in 1928 by the pioneering aviator Richard Ormonde Shuttleworth, this aeronautical and automotive museum is located on the Old Warden Airfield. Housing an impressive collection of well-preserved aircraft and vintage cars, the museum’s emphasis is to restore as many aircraft as possible back to flying condition. Its success in doing so is demonstrated several times each year through air shows and flying displays. Open daily, admission charges apply.
Silk Mill, DerbyType of Museum: Industrial Museum Standing on the site of the world’s first factory, the museum is housed in a historic former silk mill. Currently undergoing a community rebuilding project, whereby members of the public are helping to design and build new displays based upon the STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) concept. Open daily Fri – Sun and Thursdays 3 – 9pm, free admission.
Sir Richard Arkwright’s Masson Mills, Matlock BathType of Museum: Industrial Museum Dating from 1783, this water-powered mill set on the west bank of the River Derwent is the finest surviving and best preserved example of an Arkwright cotton mill. This working textile museum houses a collection of historic machinery producing yarn and cloth, illustrating Arkwright’s legacy of over 200 years of industrial history. Experience the sights, smells, sounds and atmosphere of a working 18th century cotton mill. Open daily from Jan to Nov, admission charges apply.
Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum, GloucesterType of Museum: Military Museum Located in the historic dock area in the city of Gloucester, the museum relates the proud history of the county’s two famous regiments, The Gloucestershire Regiment (The Glorious Glosters) and The Royal Gloucestershire Hussars. Collected over 300 years, the regimental exhibits on display reflect many of the campaigns that have influenced the course of British history, including battles in the American Revolutionary War, the defeat of Napoleon, the defence of Dunkirk and fighting the spread of communism in Korea. Due to reopen in April 2014, admission charges apply.
Solent Sky Museum, SouthamptonType of Museum: Aviation Museum Exploring the history of aviation in the Southampton area, the museum pays particular attention to the Submarine aircraft company. Based in the city, the company manufactured a range of world beating aircraft, including its most famous product, R J Mitchell’s Submarine Spitfire. The museum houses a collection of 18 aircraft, including the Sandringham Flying Boat which operated from the Solent. Open daily Mon – Sat and Sunday afternoons, admission charges apply.
Solway Aviation Museum, CarlisleType of Museum: Aviation Museum The only aviation museum in Cumbria, is home to a unique collection of aircraft, aviation related items and displays representing this nation’s dominance in aircraft design and innovation at the start of the jet age. It’s run by a dedicated team of volunteers and the current collection of aircraft includes a Gloster Meteor, De Havilland Vampire, English Electric Canberra, Avro Vulcan (cockpit open to visitors), English Electric Lightning, Jet Provost, Sea Prince and an S55 Helicopter. The museum also contains exhibits relating to Wartime Cumberland and the men and women of the RAF who served in WWII. Open Fri – Sun and Bank Holiday Mondays from 4th Apr to Oct end. Admission charges apply, Family tickets and concessions.
Somerset and Dorset Railway Trust, WashfordType of Museum: Transport Museum The museum at Washford exhibits relics from the former Somerset & Dorset Joint Railway which ran from Bath to Bournemouth, before it finally closed in 1966. Exhibits include station nameboards, lamps, tools, signalling equipment, tickets, rolling stock and steam locomotives. Open from March to October, admission charges apply.
South Molton MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Set on the town square, the museum is located on the ground floor of the impressive 18th century Guildhall. Chronicling the story of the life and times of this historic market town and surrounding area, the museum’s exhibits and displays include local archaeological finds, agricultural implements, domestic items, textiles, documents, maps and toys. Open daily Mon and Tues, mornings Thurs and Sat, free admission.
South Shields Museum & Art GalleryType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery Housed in an historic building in the town centre, the museum explores the story of South Tyneside through displays and interactive exhibits. With the regions proud history of mining and shipbuilding represented, the museum also houses the council art collection. Open Mon to Sat, free admission.
Southampton City Art GalleryType of Museum: Art Gallery Housed within the 1930s Civic Centre, the gallery houses a significant collection of more than 3,000 works spanning several hundred year of European art history from the Renaissance to the present day. Highlights of the collection include Post-Impressionism (including the Camden Town Group), Surrealism and contemporary art from the mid-1970s, as well as a 14th century altarpiece by Allegretto Nuzi. Open daily Mon – Sat, free admission.
Southend Central MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Set in a listed Edwardian building formerly the town’s public library, the museum relates the story of the natural and human history of south east Essex. Housing collections of local archaeology and natural history, other displays within the museum reflect the story of Southend’s growth as a major seaside destination and home to the iconic EKCO radio. Open daily Tues – Sat and Sunday, free admission.
Spitfire and Hurrican Memorial Museum, ManstonType of Museum: Aviation Museum Located at the historic Battle of Britain airfield in Manston, the museum houses the iconic RAF fighter planes of the Second World War, including the Supermarine Spitfire and the Hawker Hurricane, as well as many other exhibits from the war years. Open daily, free admission.
St Fagans National History Museum, nr CardiffType of Museum: General Museum One of the finest open-air museums in Europe, St Fagans records the lifestyle, culture and architecture of the Welsh people. Comprising of more than 40 buildings recovered from all over Wales, they include a chapel, village schoolhouse, tollbooth, pigsty and tannery. Traditional crafts are represented in the form of a working blacksmith forge, a pottery, weaver and clog maker, as well as two water powered mills. Open daily throughout the year, free admission.
St John’s House MuseumType of Museum: General Museum As well as housing a social history collection reflecting the lives of local Warwickshire folk, this elegant Jacobean mansion is also host to the Royal Warwickshire Regiment of Fusiliers Museum. Galleries include a Victorian kitchen and schoolroom, whilst outside there is a pretty formal garden. Open daily throughout the summer, Tue – Sat in winter, free admission.
St Neots MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Housed in the towns Victorian Police Station and law courts, the museum relates the story of this busy market town and its people from prehistoric times to the present day. Open daily Tues – Sat, admission charges apply.
St Vigeans Stones and MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Collected from around the village, the museum displays a set of 38 carved stones, the remaining legacy of where a Pictish church or monastery may have once stood. Open by appointment only, admission charges apply.
St. Albans South Signal BoxType of Museum: Transport Museum Built in 1892 by the Midland Railway, the St. Albans South Signal Box is now run by volunteers seeking to restore and preserve this piece of railway architectural heritage. One of only a few boxes on a mainline railway that’s open to the public, signalling demonstrations take place on the operating floor. Many signalling items and other railway-related exhibits are on display both inside and in the garden. Open on selected afternoon’s only, free admission.
STEAM – Museum of the Great Western Railway, SwindonType of Museum: Transport Museum Set on the site of the old Great Western’s Swindon Works in a restored railway building, the museum houses an impressive collection of locomotives and rolling stock. Opened in 2000, it tells the story of Isambard Kindom Brunel’s Great Western Railway and highlights the social impact that this new industry had on the ‘railway town’ of Swindon. With many hands-on exhibits and interactive displays, there are also reconstructions of areas of work, including the offices, workshops, signal box and foundry. Open daily, admission charges apply.
Sunderland Museum and Winter GardensType of Museum: Local Museum The first municipally funded museum to be opened in the country outside of London, the museum now houses the largest collection of Sunderland lustreware pottery in the world. Other collections explore the industrial and social history of the region including shipbuilding, coal mining and more recently car manufacturing. The Winter Gardens exhibits an extensive botanical collection of plants and trees, displayed in naturalistic settings all under a 30 metre dome. Open daily Mon – Sat and Sunday afternoons, free admission.
Swanage MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum The museum tells the story of the town of Swanage and its people, from Purbeck’s very early settlers, through the Roman period to the 120 Viking long ships lost off its coast in 877. The museum’s other exhibits relate to the Stone Trade, the principle industry of the area, and to the transformation of the town into a flourishing seaside resort in the Victorian era. Open daily from Easter to end-Oct, admission charges apply.
Swansea MuseumType of Museum: General Museum Completed in 1841, Swansea is the oldest museum in Wales. Over six galleries the museum displays a wide variety of artefacts and memorabilia, from ancient Egypt to the tug boat Canning. Other exhibits tell the story of Swansea’s contribution to the Industrial Revolution. Open daily, Tues – Sun, free admission.
Tate Britain, WestminsterType of Museum: Art Gallery Housing the national collection of historical and contemporary British art from the 1500s to the present day, Tate Britain recently reopened its doors after two years of renovation work. Originally opened in 1897, it exhibits a substantial collection of the works of J M W Turner, John Constable and William Blake. More contemporary artists include the likes of Tracey Emin, John Latham and Douglas Gordon. Open daily with free admission.
Tate LiverpoolType of Museum: Art Gallery Housed in a former warehouse within the Albert Dock, the museum displays work from the Tate Collection, the national collection of British art from the year 1500 onwards. The museum also exhibits an international collection of modern and contemporary art. Open daily, free admission.
Tate Modern, SouthwarkType of Museum: Art Gallery Opened in 2000, Tate Modern is the most-visited modern art gallery in the world. The gallery contains Britain’s national collection of international modern and contemporary art dating from 1900 until the present. Housed in the former Bankside Power Station, the main collections are currently displayed in 4 wings of the building. Open daily with free admission.
Tenby Museum and Art Gallery, PembrokeshireType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery Founded in 1878, Tenby is the oldest independent museum in Wales. Dedicated to preserving and promoting the history of the town, the museum has a fine collection of local geology, biology, archaeological finds and maritime artefacts, as well as two art galleries. Open daily through the summer months, Tue – Sat during the winter, admission charges apply.
Tewkesbury MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Located in a 17th century half-timbered building, the museum tells the story of the social history and heritage of the ancient town of Tewksbury. The museum’s exhibits and displays include early Roman finds, the Roses €¦Battle of Tewkesbury, the local Mop Fair and the regions industries. Open Tues – Fri and Sat afternoons from April to Dec, Sat afternoon only Jan to Mar, free admission.
Thackray Museum, LeedsType of Museum: General Museum Housed within a former workhouse built to accommodate the city’s paupers, the museum tells the story of medicine from ancient times to the present. From the Hippocratic Oath first taken by the doctors in ancient Greece, the museum allows visitors to walk through the rat and flea infested slum streets of Victorian Leeds and explore the ailments and treatments of its inhabitants. Open daily, admission charges apply.
The British LibraryType of Museum: General Museum The national library of the United Kingdom. With over 170 million items to browse, including books, drawings, journals, magazines, manuscripts, maps, newspapers, patents, play-scripts, prints, stamps, videos, sound and music recordings, the British Library is the largest library in the world. Open daily, free admission.
The Centre for Computing History, CambridgeType of Museum: Science Museum Opened in 2013, the Centre for Computing History details the developments in computer technology over the past 50 years, exploring the social and cultural impact of the computing revolution. By blending history with science and education, it seeks to make the development of computing relevant and fun. Open daily from Wed to Sun, admission charges apply.
The Collection, LincolnType of Museum: County Museum The combination of a new purpose-built museum and the nearby Usher Gallery, The Collection is the county museum and art gallery for Lincolnshire. From the Stone Age to the Roman Ninth Legion, through Anglo-Savon and Viking Lincoln, the museum tells the story of the county through a range of artefacts, displays, reconstructions and hands-on activities. The Usher Gallery exhibits a diverse collection of fine and decorative arts, including works by the likes of Turner and Lowry. Open daily, free admission.
The Cricklade MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum The museum holds a diverse range of items from Cricklade and the surrounding villages. The artefacts range from bones of the Woolly Mammoth to the Romans and Saxons. Displays of glove making and Cricklade Pottery. Large collection of local photographs and local maps. Open Sat a.m. from mid-Jan to end-Nov, and Sat and Sun p.m. during July and Aug, admission charges apply.
The Cromwell MuseumType of Museum: General Museum Housed in his former school, the museum tells the story of Cromwell’s early years through to his rise to fame as Lord Protector of England, Scotland and Ireland following the English Civil War. The collection displays several hundred Cromwellian related items, including portraits, clothing, miniatures, arms and armour, historical documents, and one of his death masks. Open daily Tue – Sun throughout the summer, p.m. only in winter, admission charges apply.
The Devil’s Porridge Museum, EastriggsType of Museum: Military Museum On the site of the former HM Factory Gretna, this new state-of-the-art museum relates the story of one of the most remarkable factories in the world. Built soon after the start World War One in the middle of the Scottish border countryside, the factory stretched for nine miles and employed 30,000 munitions girls to produce 1,100 tons of cordite per week. Then a new type of munitions propellant, RDB Cordite provided the ammunition for the troops fighting on the front line. Open daily from Mar to end-Nov, closed Tues and Wed during winter months, admission charges apply.
The Fergusson GalleryType of Museum: Art Gallery The Fergusson Gallery in Perth holds the largest collection of the eminent Scottish Colourist, John Duncan Fergusson’s (1874-1961), work in existence. Open daily Tues – Sat, Sun p.m. during summer, free admission.
The Green Howards MuseumType of Museum: Military Museum Redeveloped in 2014, the museum relays the 300 year old story of this illustrious regiment though a unique collection of military artefacts and exhibits. Open Mon to Sun, admission charges apply.
The Guards Museum in London, Wellington BarracksType of Museum: Military Museum The Guards Museum in London contains information and artefacts relating to the five regiments of Foot Guards namely Grenadier, Coldstream, Scots, Irish and Welsh Guards. Part of Her Majesty’s Household Division they enjoy the privilege of guarding The Sovereign and the Royal Palaces.Open daily, admission charges apply.
The LightboxType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery The interactive museum is home to Woking’s Story, which explores the history of the town. The three galleries host a range of regularly changing exhibitions. Open daily Tue to Sun, free admission.
The Lowry, Salford QuaysType of Museum: Art Gallery Set on Pier 8 at Salford Quays, this gallery and theatre complex first opened its doors to the public in 2000. Named after the early 20th century painter L S Lowry, the gallery space displays around 200 of his works in oil, pastel and watercolours, alongside other contemporary exhibitions. Open daily, free admission.
The McManusType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery Within 8 galleries set over 2 floors, exhibits relating to the life of early man in the area, stunning paintings and decorative art through to artefacts from industries past and present, the City’s collections give an insight into Dundee and its people. Open daily Mon – Sat and Sun p.m., free admission.
The Museum of English Rural LifeType of Museum: Industrial Museum Reopening to the public on 19th October 2016, through 9 new galleries the museum will exhibit a collection of objects related to farming and the traditional processing of food. Open daily Tue – Fri, free admission.
The Museum of Lead Mining, WanlockheadType of Museum: Industrial Museum Explore the underground workings of a real 18th century lead mine set deep into the hillside in the picturesque village of Wanlockhead, the highest village in Scotland. Visit the miners’ cottages and see how the miners and their families really lived, prior to discovering the second oldest subscription library in Europe. Open daily from April to end-Sept, admission charges apply.
The Oxfordshire Museum, WoodstockType of Museum: County Museum Set in a period 18th century house in the heart of Woodstock, permanent galleries relate the history of Oxfordshire. From the Dinosaur Gallery to the Roman Gallery, Victorian Oxfordshire includes more than 100 artefacts from the county collection. Open daily Tues to Sat and Sun afternoons, free admission.
The Queen’s Royal Lancers and Nottinghamshire Yeomanry MuseumType of Museum: Military Museum The UK’s newest cavalry museum displays the historic collections of The Queen’s Royal Lancers, the Sherwood Rangers Yeomanry and the South Nottinghamshire Hussars. Explore the history of the British cavalry, from the days of the horseback charge, through the great tank battles of the Second World War, to present-day operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Open daily Wed to Sun, between 1 Mar – 30 Nov, free admission.
The Royal West of England Academy (RWA)Type of Museum: Art Gallery Set in an imposing listed building, the RWA is England’s only regional Royal Academy of Art and Bristol’s finest art gallery. Exhibiting the best of historic and contemporary British art, including works by Turner, Constable and Nash. Open Tues to Sun, admission charges apply.
The Scottish Crannog CentreType of Museum: General Museum Complete with a reconstruction of an ancient loch dwelling, the Scottish Crannog Centre provides a glimpse into life in the early Iron Age. Access to the Crannog roundhouse is via an authentic round log walkway on stilts above Loch Tay. The museum houses some of the original early Iron Age artefacts discovered at ‘Oakbank Crannog’. Opening times can be found on the Scottish Crannog Centre website.
The Stewartry Museum, KirkcudbrightType of Museum: Local History Exploring the human and natural history of the Stewartry (the eastern half of the Galloway region), the museum first opened its doors to the public in 1893. Notable social history collections and displays covering the 18th and 19th centuries. Open daily all year Mon – Sat, Sun 14-17.00, free admission.
The Stirling SmithType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery Set beneath Stirling Castle, in the King’s Park, the ancient hunting grounds of Scottish monarchs, the museum and art gallery is Stirling’s home of social history and the arts, as well as the world’s oldest football and curling stone. Open daily Tues – Sat, Sun p.m., free admission.
The Village Church FarmType of Museum: Industrial Museum Set in the heart of the town, Village Church Farm is Lincolnshire’s only open air farming museum. Exploring agricultural life in days gone by, the 18th century farmhouse is the second oldest building in Skegness. Open Tues to Sun, free admission.
The Wilson, CheltenhamType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery Recently refurbished and extended, The Wilson reopened its doors to the public in 2013. One of the new gallery spaces has been dedicated to the museums renowned Art and Crafts collection, other displays explore archaeology, Africa to Asia, fine furniture, local history and Cheltenham’s own Antarctic explorer, Edward Wilson. Open daily, free admission.
The Wordsworth TrustType of Museum: Local Museum Set in the first family home of Britain’s greatest poet, explore the traditional Lakeland cottage of William Wordsworth and discover what life was like at the turn of the 19th century. Open daily, admission charges apply.
Thinktank, BirminghamType of Museum: Science Museum Opened in 2001, this museum of science and technology displays its impressive collections and hands-on exhibits over four floors, and includes a purpose-built digital planetarium. Open daily, admission charges apply.
Thornbury and District MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Run by volunteers, the museum tells the story of the historic borough and town of Thornbury and the parishes of the Lower Severn Vale. Featuring an exhibition from the Thornbury Roman Coin Hoard, the museum explores the local history of the town and villages and the lives of their occupants. Open Tues – Fri afternoons and Saturdays, free admission.
Time and Tide Museum, Great YarmouthType of Museum: Maritme Museum The third largest museum in Norfolk is set in a recently renovated Victorian herring curing works and explores the rich maritime and fishing history of Yarmouth. The museum features a recreated street scene from the early 1900s and a view of Yarmouth quayside from the 1950s. Open daily Mon – Fri, admission charges apply.
Time Machine Museum, BromyardType of Museum: General Museum This museum of science fiction houses collections associated with Dr Who, Star Wars, Red Dwarf and Gerry Anderson including costumes, props, droids, puppets and a full size TARDIS! Open daily Wed – Sun between Apr to Sept, weekends only in winter, admission charges apply.
Timespan Museum & Arts CentreType of Museum: Local Museum Telling the story of the Scottish highlands, this local history museum and arts centre covers aspects such as the area’s archaeology, the Highland Clearances, the Strath Kildonan Gold Rush and the once important sea fishing industry. Open daily Mar to Oct, weekends and Tues p.m. in winter, free admission.
Tiverton Museum of Mid Devon LifeType of Museum: Local Museum Founded in 1960, the museum traces the history of Mid Devon through exhibits and artefacts relating to the economic and social life of the area. The museum’s displays include the history of agriculture, the local lace making industry and everyday home life. Pride of place however, goes to the Great Western Railway steam locomotive known locally as the ‘Tiwy Bumper’, which features in the gallery related to road and rail transport in the county. Open daily Mon – Fri and Sat mornings from Feb to end-Dec, admission charges apply.
Torquay MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Founded in the mid-1800s, the museum originally housed the collection of the Torquay Natural History Society. Now ranked as one of the finest museums in the south west, it exhibits artefacts from the Torbay area and around the world. Displaying a fine collection of prehistoric finds from nearby Kent’s Cavern, the Agatha Christie gallery, tells the real-life story behind the world-famous crime writer, who was born in Torquay. Open daily Mon – Thurs, admission charges apply.
Towcester MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Set on the old Roman road of Watling Street, the museum tells the story of Towcester over the centuries. From military highway, international border and major coaching route, through to the everyday experiences of people who lived in the town. Open daily Tues – Sat, admission charges apply.
Trenchard Museum, RAF HaltonType of Museum: Aviation Museum Named in honour of Lord Trenchard, the father of the Royal Air Force, the museum exhibits artefacts relating to the history of the Aircraft Apprentice training scheme based at Royal Air Force Halton. With two complete aircraft, engines and weapons on display, it is dedicated to preserving the early history of the Royal Air Force. Open every Tues and by arrangement.
Tring Local History MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum This local history museum relates all aspects of life in and around the small market town of Tring. Set at the junction of two ancient trading routes beneath the Chiltern Hills, its people have carried on a rural way of life which has changed little over the centuries. Open Fridays and Saturdays, free admission.
Trowbridge MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum This award-winning history museum includes the county’s only specialist textile museum. Highlighting Trowbridge’s nationally important collection of items relating to the woollen cloth industry, it includes one of only five Spinning Jennies in the world. This machine represents one of the most significant developments of the Industrial Revolution. Closed on Sundays and Mondays, admission is free.
Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery, CarlisleType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery Set in a converted Jacobean mansion, the museum houses archaeological finds from Hadrian’s Wall and the two Roman forts based in Carlisle, alongside items on loan from the British Museum. A new permanent gallery explores the war zone that was home to the Border Reivers for more than 300 years. The museum also exhibits large displays of botanical, geological and zoological artefacts, as well as fine and decorative arts collections. Open daily, free admission.
Tunbridge Wells Museum and Art GalleryType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery Founded in 1885, the museum houses collections of local archaeological finds, coins, costumes and toys, as well as a large display of natural history specimens. The museum also features the largest collection of Tunbridge Ware in the world and exhibits a fine display of Victorian oil paintings. Open daily, free admission.
Tweedale Museum and Gallery, PeeblesType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery Located within the Chambers Institution, a building gifted to the people of Peebles in 1859 by William Chambers, one of the founders of the Chambers Harrap publishing house, is a museum, library and art gallery. The museum and gallery features displays of contemporary art and local history, as well as hosting a lively programme of exhibitions throughout the year. Open daily Monday to Friday and Saturday mornings, free admission.
Upottery Airfield Heritage Centre, SmeatharpeType of Museum: Military Museum Step inside the WW2 Nissen Hut at Upottery Airfield Heritage Centre and you are transported back to World War Two and the D-Day landings. An informative and humbling video introduces you to the story of D-Day and uses film shot at the time to set the scene.The museum documents the major role the airfield played on the night of the 5th June 1944 and on D-Day itself.This was the airfield from which Easy Company (Band of Brothers) departed and there are lots of documents, letters and photographs related to them on display. Enthusiastic and very knowledgeable volunteer guides are on hand to help with any questions. Uniforms, weapons and artefacts are on display as well as models and dioramas. Free entry. Open Thursday to Sunday and Bank Holidays from Good Friday to the last Sunday in November, 11am to 4pm.
Usk Rural Life Museum, Usk, MonmouthshireType of Museum: General Museum Set close the centre of Usk in a 16th century malt barn, the museum traces the story of rural life in Monmouthshire from the 1850s through a unique collection of over 5,000 artefacts. From small handtools through to large agricultural machinery and vintage tractors, other displays include a Victorian cottage, forge, cobbler and hardware shop. Open Apr to end-Oct, Tues – Sat, free admission.
Verdant WorksType of Museum: Industrial Museum Scotland’s Jute Museum @ Verdant Works tells the tale of jute through the life and work of old Dundee, from the rise of the industry to its eventual decline. The orgininal restored machinery transports you back over 100 years when jute was king. Open daily in summer, Wed to Sun in winter, admission charges apply.
Verulamium Museum, St AlbansType of Museum: General Museum Considered as one of the finest Roman history museums in the country, Verulamium sits on the site of one of the major cities in Roman Britain, the remains of which can be seen in the surrounding parkland. The museum was established following excavations carried out by the famous field archaeologist Mortimer Wheeler and now exhibits some of the finest Roman mosaics and wall plasters to be found outside the Mediterranean. Other artefacts on display include pottery, jewellery, tools, coins and a coffin complete with a male skeleton from the Roman period. Open daily Mon – Sat and Sunday afternoons, admission charges apply.
Victoria and Albert Museum, Kensington, Central LondonType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery Founded in 1852, the V&A is the largest museum of decorative arts and design in the world. With more than 4½ million works exhibited over 145 galleries, its collection spans 5,000 years of art, from all corners of the globe. In particular, the museum’s collection of ceramics, costumes, furniture, glass, ironwork, jewellery, sculpture, silver and textiles are among the most comprehensive in the world. Open daily with free admission.
Victoria Gallery and Museum, LiverpoolType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery Set in a ‘redbrick’ Victorian building, the museum houses the University of Liverpool’s art and museum collections. The second floor art gallery exhibits works by the likes of Turner, Epstein, Freud and Frink, whilst the upper floor displays collections on such diverse subjects as archaeology, dentistry, engineering, medicine, oceanography and zoology. Open daily Tues – Sat, free admission.
Walker Art Gallery, LiverpoolType of Museum: Art Gallery Named after its founder Sir Andrew Barclay Walker, a wealthy brewer and former mayor of Liverpool, the gallery first opened its doors to the public in 1877 and now houses one of the largest art collections in the country. From Rossetti to Hockney, the museum displays a diverse range of paintings, sculpture and decorative art from as far back as the 13th century to more modern times. Open daily, free admission.
Walsall MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Located in the centre of Walsall, the museum is home to a wide-ranging collection of exhibits exploring Walsall’s history, its proud industrial heritage, and the lives of its people. The museum also features a large display of costume and textiles, including a unique collection of working-class clothing from the 1920s to the 1960s. Open daily Tue – Sat, free admission.
Wardown Park Museum, LutonType of Museum: Local Museum Housed in a large Victorian mansion set within a landscaped park, the museum is located around 1½ miles north from the centre of Luton. Focussing on traditional Bedfordshire crafts and industry, it exhibits extensive collections of women’s hats as well as locally produced lace work. Other galleries explore the stories of the people of Luton, local archaeology and natural history. The long and illustrious history of the local regiment is relayed in the Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment Gallery. Open daily Tues – Sat and Sunday afternoons, free admission.
Wareham Town MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Set in the centre of Wareham next to the town hall, the museum tells the story of the town and its people, from its very early settlers to the present day. The museum also features a special section dedicated to T. E. Lawrence, Lawrence of Arabia, who lived and died at nearby Clouds Hill, in May 1935. Open daily Mon – Sat from Easter through the summer months, free admission.
Warrington Museum and Art GalleryType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery Originally opened in 1848, Warrington Museum and Art Gallery is one of the oldest municipal museums in the UK. With a collection of more than 200,000 artefacts, ranging from archaeology, ethnology, local and social history, natural science and numismatics, its fine art collection totals around 1,000 paintings. Open daily Mon – Sat, admission charges apply.
Watchet Boat MuseumType of Museum: Maritime Museum Occupying a former railway goods shed dating from the 1860s, the museum now houses a variety of different types of flatner boats, plus nets and other associated artefacts. Including displays of maps, knotwork and other fun activities specially designed for children. Open daily from Easter to end September, admission is free.
Watchet MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Located where the Esplanade meets Market Street and occupying the ground floor of the town’s former Market House, constructed in 1820, is Watchet Market House Museum. Besides a fine collection of local artefacts, fossils and marine paintings there is an exhibition to celebrate West Somerset’s Industrial heritage from the Victorian era when the West Somerset Mineral Railway carried iron ore from the Brendon Hills to Watchet for shipment to the steel making furnaces of South Wales. Open from the end of March until the end of October 1030-1630 hrs with free entry.
Waterworks Museum, HerefordType of Museum: Industrial Museum Set in a Victorian water pumping station which had served Hereford for more than 100 years, the museum traces the history of drinking water from prehistoric times up to the present day. Home to the oldest working triple-expansion steam engine in the UK, the museum houses a significant collection of pumping engines. Open every Tuesday, admission charges apply.
Watford MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Set in the former Benskins Brewery Mansion, the museum tells the story of Watford past and present. The museums galleries include displays of local history, industry and Watford FC, as well as exhibiting collections of fine art and sculpture. Open daily Thurs – Sat, free admission.
Weald and Downland Open Air Museum, SingletonType of Museum: General Museum Located on a 50 acre site, this open air museum comprises nearly 50 historic buildings set within landscaped gardens, complete with farm animals, walks and a lake. Comprising farmsteads, shops, barns, school, watermill and a smithy, the buildings, dating from the thirteenth to nineteenth centuries, have all been rebuilt to their original form. Along with the buildings, there are several other ‘hands-on’ activities and demonstrations. Open daily between Apr to end-Oct, Wed, Sat and Sun only during winter, admission charges apply.
Weaver Hall Museum, NorthwichType of Museum: Local Museum Set in the former Northwich Union workhouse, the museum houses a large collection of artefacts covering archaeology, architecture, exploring the industries and social history of West Cheshire from prehistory to the present day. Set in an area renowned for one industry in particular, it relates the story of salt extraction and processing from Roman times. Other displays trace the history of the workhouse itself, and the paupers who were consigned to a life there. Open daily Tues – Fri, Sat and Sun afternoons, admission charges apply.
Web Ellis Rugby Football Museum, RugbyType of Museum: Sport Museum Located opposite from Rugby School, the museum is housed in the building where the Gilbert family made the world’s first rugby balls in 1842. Named after William Webb Ellis, who is credited with inventing the game, the museum exhibits a rich collection of international rugby memorabilia and tells the story of the game. Open daily Tues – Sat, free admission.
Wellcome Collection, CamdenType of Museum: General Museum Recently refurbished, the museum explores the interlinking themes of medicine, art and life, from ancient time to the present day through an unusual collection of medical artefacts and original artworks. The museum is named after the enthusiastic traveller and pharmaceutical entrepreneur, Sir Henry Wellcombe, who had gathered an extensive collection of books, paintings and objects, on the theme of the historical development of medicine. Open daily Tuesday to Sunday, free admission.
Wellingborough MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Set within the historic Dulley’s Baths building, the museum’s collection spans over two million years of local history relating to Wellingborough and the surrounding area. The museum’s two galleries display artefacts from prehistory to 1930s, and from 1930s to the present day. Open daily Mon – Sat, free admission.
Wesley’s Chapel, Museum of Methodism, IslingtonType of Museum: General Museum Recently refurbished, the museum tells the story of Methodism’s influence on Britain and its spread throughout the world. Tracing the history of Methodism from John Wesley’s conversion, through to his organisational system of societies, to the faith’s ultimate separation from the Church of England. Interactive technology is used to convey John Wesley’s sermons and Charles Wesley’s hymns. Open daily Monday to Saturday, free admission.
West Stow Anglo-Saxon VillageType of Museum: General Museum Combining the archaeology with living history, this reconstructed Anglo-Saxon Village is set within the 125 acres of West Stow Country Park. Based on an important archaeological site from the era, the museum has extensive indoor galleries. Open daily, admission charges apply.
Westonzoyland PumpingType of Museum: Industrial Museum Housed in Somerset’s earliest steam-powered water pumping and land drainage station, the museum exhibits the largest collection of stationary steam engines and pumps in the south of England. Open every Sunday afternoon, admission charges apply.
Weymouth MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Housed on the second floor of the historic Brewers Quay, the museum tells the story of Weymouth and Melcombe Regis from prehistoric times to the twentieth century. Displayed over two galleries, collections include art and ceramics, local industry, maritime items and local history artefacts. Open daily Wed – Sat, admission charges apply.
Wheatley Hill Heritage CentreType of Museum: Local Museum Housed in the original Chapel of Rest for the village, the heritage centre displays a permanent exhibition of an early 1900s East Durham colliery home. Other exhibits relate to the story of the village to the present day. Open daily Tues and Thurs & Sat afternoons between late spring to early autumn, admission charges apply.
Whipple Museum of the History of Science, CambridgeType of Museum: Science Museum With a collection of scientific instruments and models, dating from the medieval period to the present day, the museum forms part of the Department of History and Science at the University of Cambridge. Relating to the history of science, its collections include instruments of astronomy, drawing, navigation, surveying and mathematics. Open daily Mon – Fri, admission charges apply.
Whitchurch Heritage CentreType of Museum: Local Museum Exploring the history of this Shropshire market town, the museum contains a range of artefacts dating from the Roman occupation up until modern times. The town’s association with the manufacture of Tower Clocks is the subject of one exhibition hall. Open daily Tues, Thurs & Fri, free admission.
Wigston Frameworkers Knitters MuseumType of Museum: Industrial Museum The museum recreates a knitting workshop from the early 1900s, featuring original knitting frames and other associated equipment that were used in the mass production of stockings and gloves. Explaining the industrial and social history associated with Hand-Frame knitting invented by William Lee in 1589. Open Sunday afternoons, other times by appointment.
Wiltshire and Swindon History CentreType of Museum: Local Museum Preserving the archives of Wiltshire, the History Centre combines the archaeology, buildings record, conservation, and museum advisory services together with the county local studies library. For professional advice and guidance on other heritage issues, your passport to the past. Closed on Sundays and Mondays, admission is free.
Wiltshire Museum, DevizesType of Museum: County Museum Tracing 5,000 years of Wiltshire’s history from the Neolithic, Bronze Age, Iron Age, Roman, Saxon, and Medieval, through to more modern times. The collections include important finds associated with the World Heritage Sites of Avebury and Stonehenge. Open throughout the year, admission charges apply.
Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum, WimbledonType of Museum: Sport Museum Opened in 2007 inside the grounds of the All England Lawn Tennis Club, Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum is the largest tennis museum in the world. With exhibits and artefacts dating back to the 1500s, the museum houses memorabilia from many famous players from the Victorian era right up to the present day. Guided tours are available around the grounds of the club, including access to the players’ restaurant and Centre Court. Open daily, admission charges apply.
Winchester’s Military Museums, WinchesterType of Museum: Military Museum Housed within the listed Peninsula Barracks close the city centre, Winchester’s Military Museums comprise a complex of five museums that are situated within metres of each other which are operated independently. The five museums are Horsepower, the Regimental Museum of The King’s Royal Hussars, The Royal Hampshire Regiment, The Royal Green Jackets (Rifles) Museum, The Gurkha Museum and The Guardroom Museum, the Museum of the Adjutant General’s Corps. Most museums are open daily Tues – Sat and Sunday afternoons, free admission applies only to the Royal Hampshire and Guardroom museums.
Worcester City Art Gallery and MuseumType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery Set in a Victorian building in the heart of the city, the museum explores the industrial history of Worcester; exhibits include local geology, natural history, together with a 19th – 20th century art collection. The Worcestershire Soldier features collections, uniforms and medals from the Worcestershire Regiment and Worcestershire Yeomanry Cavalry. Open daily Mon – Sat, free admission.
Worcestershire County Museum at Hartlebury CastleType of Museum: County Museum Set in north wing of Hartlebury Castle, home to the Bishops of Worcester for over 1,000 years, the museum explores the story of Worcestershire’s past. The museum’s galleries include displays relating to social history, archaeology, travel and transport, toys and an important collection of colourful Gypsy caravans. Open daily Tues – Sun, admission charges apply.
Workhouse, SouthwellType of Museum: General Museum Perhaps the best preserved workhouse in England, this austere building dates from 1824. Following the adoption of the New Poor Law Act of 1834, it served as the prototype for hundreds of similar workhouses that were built up and down the country as a place of last resort for the poor and needy. Now a National Trust museum, it tells the story of the Victorian poor who sought refuge at The Workhouse, including the segregated work yards, day rooms and dormitories. Restricted opening hours and entrance charges apply.
World Museum, LiverpoolType of Museum: General Museum Housing one of the nation’s most extensive collections, the museum’s displays include archaeology, ethnology and the natural and physical sciences. The free planetarium explores various aspects of space science, including the Solar System and space exploration. The Aquarium features a variety of creatures from the deep, whilst the Bug House displays a selection of specimens from the museum’s vast collection alongside real live creepy crawlies. Open daily, free admission.
World of Glass, St HelensType of Museum: Local Museum Reflecting the social and industrial heritage of St Helens, the museum tells the story of the town and its close association with the Pilkington Brothers glass works. Explore the history over the two galleries, before trying your hand at some live glassblowing. Open daily Mon – Sat, admission charges apply.
World Rugby Museum, TwickenhamType of Museum: Sport Museum Opened in 1996, the World Rugby Museum houses the finest collection of rugby memorabilia in the world and tells the story of the history of the sport from its origins to the present day. Set in the East Stand of Twickenham Stadium, it aims to promote the game of rugby football by inspiring, educating; and entertaining visitors. Open daily, admission charges apply.
Worthing Museum and Art GalleryType of Museum: Museum and Art Gallery Set in the heart of the town, the museum houses one of the largest costume and textile collections in the country. The largest museum in West Sussex, its fine art and decorative art collections span several centuries and represent many styles. Open Tues – Sat, free admission.
Wrexham County Borough MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Housed in one of Wrexham’s iconic buildings, the museum details the eventful history of the region that spans the northern boundary of the Welsh and English border. With exhibitions and artefacts from prehistory to the present day, it tells the story of the borough and its inhabitants. Open throughout the year (closed Sundays and Bank Holidays), free admission.
Wycombe Museum, High WycombeType of Museum: Local Museum Surrounded by Victorian gardens, the museum exhibits collections relating to the social history of the town and wider Buckinghamshire area, including the local furniture industry. Open daily Mon to Sat and Sunday afternoons, free admission.
York Castle MuseumType of Museum: Local Museum Set in former prison buildings erected on the site of the original Norman York Castle, the museum explores the lives of the inmates in this 18th century Debtors Prison. Other exhibits include a recreated Victorian Street and a collection of children’s toys. Open daily, admission charges apply.
Yorkshire Museum, YorkType of Museum: County Museum Reopened in 2010 following a major refurbishment, the museum houses four nationally important collections of archaeology, astronomy, biology and geology; it is also home to the Cawood Viking sword. Other notable exhibits include the 8th century Anglo-Saxon Coppergate Helmet and gilded silver Ormside Bowl. Open daily, admission charges apply. |
Missed a Museum?
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