Situated beneath the Tor on the edge of Glastonbury, the Somerset Rural Life Museum is family-friendly with something for everyone, telling of the town’s rich rural and social history. Explore rural life from the 1800s onwards and discover the county’s heritage including its landscape, food and farming, working life and rural crafts. The farmhouse and cowsheds are home to galleries and exhibition spaces, including permanent and temporary displays.As well as the indoor galleries, the museum site has plenty of outdoor space to explore, including the beautiful fourteenth-century Abbey Barn in the museum courtyard.
History & Anthropology Local Children Historic house Agriculture Animals Photography
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Monday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Tuesday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Wednesday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Thursday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Friday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Saturday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Sunday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Tuesday to Saturday (1 Nov to Easter)
Tuesday to Sunday (Easter to 31 Oct)
Open bank holiday Mondays
Somerset Rural Life Museum, Glastonbury
22 Jun 2019 – 9 Nov 2019
16 Mar 2019 – 29 Jun 2019
8 Jan 2019 – 1 Jun 2019
8 Sept 2018 – 1 Dec 2018
16 Dec 2017 – 2 Jun 2018
3 Jun 2017 – 3 Dec 2017
21 Nov 2020
Somerset Rural Life Museum has 1 rating.
The Somerset Rural Life Museum in Glastonbury, England, offers visitors an insightful look into the agricultural and social history of Somerset. Located in a restored 14th-century barn, the museum provides a comprehensive overview of rural life from the 1800s onwards.
Visitors often appreciate the well-preserved exhibits and artifacts that showcase farming techniques, traditional crafts, and daily life in rural Somerset. The museum's layout is generally praised for its logical flow and informative displays. Many reviewers highlight the recreated farmhouse kitchen and the collection of vintage farm machinery as particularly interesting features.
The museum also receives positive feedback for its interactive elements, which allow visitors to engage more deeply with the exhibits. Children especially enjoy the hands-on activities and dressing up opportunities, making it a good choice for families.
The outdoor areas, including the orchard and herb garden, add to the overall experience and provide a pleasant space for visitors to explore. The on-site café is generally well-regarded, offering a selection of locally sourced refreshments.
Some visitors note that while the museum is relatively small, it compensates with the quality and depth of its exhibits. A few reviewers mention that some areas could benefit from updated signage or more detailed explanations.
The staff and volunteers at the museum are frequently commended for their knowledge and friendliness, enhancing the overall visitor experience. The museum's efforts to host temporary exhibitions and events throughout the year are also appreciated by many visitors.
While most find the admission price reasonable, a small number of visitors feel it's slightly high for the size of the museum. However, the majority agree that the Somerset Rural Life Museum provides a valuable and educational experience, offering a window into the region's rich agricultural heritage.
This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.
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