Wilderspin National School Museum and its collection

Wilderspin National School is an important schools surviving in England. Built in 1844, this Grade II Listed Building is unique because of its association with the educational pioneer, Samuel Wilderspin, the self-styled founder of the Infant School System. The Museum presents a vivid picture of school life and teaching from 1844 to the present day. The school has many exhibits including a unique Wilderspin playground and classroom and a Victorian schoolroom.

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Wilderspin National School Museum
Queen Street

Visitor information Wilderspin National School Museum

Opening hours

Monday Closed
Tuesday Closed
Wednesday Closed
Thursday
11:00 – 15:00
Friday
11:00 – 15:00
Saturday
11:00 – 15:00
Sunday
11:00 – 15:00

Admission

Family£10.00
Normal rate£3.00

Facilities

Wheelchair accessible
Museum shop

Location & Map

Queen Street, Barton-upon-Humber

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Exhibitions

No exhibitions in Wilderspin National School Museum have been found.

Wilderspin National School Museum Reviews

Wilderspin National School Museum has 2 ratings.

  • Apollo's Insights AI-Generated

    The Wilderspin National School Museum in Barton-upon-Humber offers visitors an insightful look into the history of education in England. Located in a restored 19th-century schoolhouse, the museum showcases the innovative teaching methods of Samuel Wilderspin, a pioneer in early childhood education.

    Visitors appreciate the well-preserved classrooms that provide an authentic glimpse into Victorian-era schooling. The museum's interactive exhibits allow guests to experience what it was like to be a student during that time, complete with slate boards and old-fashioned desks. Many reviewers highlight the knowledgeable and passionate volunteers who bring the history to life through their engaging tours and explanations.

    The museum also receives praise for its focus on the development of education for young children, which many find both informative and thought-provoking. The outdoor area, including a recreated playground with period-appropriate equipment, adds another dimension to the experience.

    However, some visitors note that the museum is relatively small and can be explored thoroughly in a short amount of time. A few reviewers mention that some areas of the museum could benefit from updated displays or more interactive elements to engage younger visitors.

    Despite these minor drawbacks, the majority of visitors find the Wilderspin National School Museum to be an educational and enjoyable experience, particularly for those interested in the history of education or Victorian-era social history.

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  • L
    Lynne • 25 Jan 2025

    I visited the museum today for an organised tour. The volunteers were dressed in period costume and gave us such a wonderful insight into what school would have been all those years ago. Fortunately in our group was a little girl with her mum and so she was able to demonstrate in a lot of ways what it would have been like. However, us “oldies” got the chance to have a go as well. This was a very enjoyable morning, rounded off with a welcome cup of coffee and a scone and the chance to handle and guess the use of some of the items that would have been used to educate the children. I would thoroughly recommend this experience, either on your own or as a family. The volunteers worked so hard to bring it to life. Thank you to you all.

    Visited on 25 Jan 2025

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