Dorchester Abbey Museum is a small, highly-regarded museum located in the Abbey Guest House in the beautiful village of Dorchester-on-Thames, Oxfordshire. It is normally open to the public from Easter to the end of September. The Museum reflects Dorchester’s 6000 years of human occupation through displays of local archaeological finds and social history, supported by a collection of artefacts, documents and photographs. Clearly presented displays introduce you to prehistoric stone tools, the Iron Age village and earthworks, the Roman fortified settlement at Dorchester, and the important monastic centre located here. The Abbey Cloister Gallery showcases a fine collection of medieval stonework from the Abbey itself. Moving to more recent times, the Museum includes a display of artefacts and photos from Dorchester’s part in Midsomer Murders and other popular TV series. We also have a successful gift shop with a range of books on local history and the Abbey, a wide selection of greeting cards, and small gifts for adults and children. Complete your afternoon with a visit to the famous Dorchester Abbey Tearoom, next door to the Museum, for a selection of home-made cakes and scones.
History & Anthropology Historic house Medieval art & Early Renaissance art Religion Religious building Archaeology Local
#172 Free museums in England #131 Archaeology museums in England #38 Local museums in England #61 Medieval art & Early Renaissance art museums in England #75 Religion museums in England #42 Religious buildings in England #170 Archaeology museums in United Kingdom #44 Local museums in United Kingdom #75 Medieval art & Early Renaissance art museums in United Kingdom #94 Religion museums in United Kingdom #51 Religious buildings in United Kingdom #77 Local museums in Europe
Monday | Closed |
Tuesday | Closed |
Wednesday | 14:00 – 17:00 |
Thursday | 14:00 – 17:00 |
Friday | Closed |
Saturday | 14:00 – 17:00 |
Sunday | 14:00 – 17:00 |
Open Easter to end of September
Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holiday Mondays
For extra Christmas shopping openings (October to December) see Facebook postings
Abbey Guest House High Street Dorchester-on-Thames, Wallingford
Dorchester Abbey Museum has 1 rating.
Dorchester Abbey Museum, located in the picturesque town of Dorchester-on-Thames near Wallingford, England, offers visitors a glimpse into the rich history of the area. The museum is housed within the grounds of the impressive Dorchester Abbey, which adds to its historical ambiance.
The museum showcases a collection of artifacts that span various periods, from prehistoric times to more recent local history. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring Roman and Saxon artifacts, medieval religious items, and displays about the abbey's own history. The museum's compact size allows for an intimate and focused experience, making it manageable to explore in a relatively short time.
Many visitors appreciate the well-curated displays and informative signage, which help to contextualize the exhibits. The volunteer staff are often praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm, enhancing the visitor experience with their insights into local history.
However, some visitors note that the museum is relatively small and may not offer enough content for those seeking a more extensive museum experience. Additionally, as it is run by volunteers, opening hours can be limited, which some find inconvenient.
Overall, the Dorchester Abbey Museum provides an informative and pleasant experience for those interested in local history and archaeology. Its connection to the abbey and its historical setting add value to the visit, making it a worthwhile stop for history enthusiasts and those exploring the area.
This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.
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