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Wiltshire Museum, Devizes

Discover 500,000 years of Wiltshire’s history through award-winning galleries and stunning Bronze Age treasures in the heart of Devizes.

4.7

The Wiltshire Museum in Devizes offers a captivating journey through 500,000 years of local history, featuring award-winning galleries with high-quality graphics and reconstructions. Highlights include spectacular Bronze Age gold treasures from the time of Stonehenge, interactive exhibits for families, and extensive collections spanning prehistoric to Saxon eras. Housed in a historic town centre building, it is a cultural hub showcasing Wiltshire’s rich archaeological and natural heritage.

A brief summary to Wiltshire Museum

  • 41 Long St, Devizes, SN10 1NS, GB
  • +441380727369
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 2 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-4 pm
  • Friday 10 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Allow 1 to 2 hours to explore the museum thoroughly, especially if interested in archaeology.
  • Children enjoy interactive exhibits like building Stonehenge models and trying on Bronze Age clothing.
  • Check seasonal opening hours as the museum is closed on Sundays and Mondays in winter.
  • Admission is approximately £7.50 for adults, with concessions and free entry for children.
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Getting There

  • Train and Bus

    From London Paddington, take a direct train to Swindon (about 1 hour 15 minutes), then catch a local bus to Devizes town centre (approximately 40 minutes). The museum is a short walk from the bus stop. Bus services run regularly but check schedules in advance.

  • Car

    Driving from Swindon to Devizes takes about 30 minutes via the A361. Parking is available near the museum but can be limited during peak times. Parking fees apply, typically around £2-£4 for a few hours.

  • Local Bus

    Regular local buses connect Devizes with nearby towns such as Marlborough and Chippenham. The museum is within walking distance from the main bus stops in Devizes. Bus fares typically range from £2 to £5 depending on distance.

Wiltshire Museum location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Wiltshire Museum

A Window into Prehistoric Wiltshire

The Wiltshire Museum presents a sweeping narrative of the county’s history stretching back half a million years. Its acclaimed galleries bring to life the prehistoric period with exceptional artifacts, including unique gold and amber objects dating over 4,000 years to the Bronze Age. These treasures, some worn by people who worshipped within the Stonehenge stone circle, offer a rare glimpse into ancient spiritual and cultural practices. The museum’s displays combine cutting-edge reconstructions and high-quality graphics to immerse visitors in Wiltshire’s distant past.

Exploring Later Historical Periods

Beyond prehistory, the museum traces the region’s evolution through the Iron Age, Roman occupation, and Saxon era. The Saxon Gallery, for example, details the making of the Kingdom of Wessex, providing insights into early medieval life. Additionally, the museum tells the story of Devizes itself and its surrounding area, enriching visitors’ understanding of local heritage. This chronological approach allows visitors to appreciate the continuity and change in Wiltshire’s human story.

Interactive Experiences for All Ages

The Wiltshire Museum is designed to engage visitors of all ages, especially families. Children can follow gallery trails featuring characters like Archie and Ollie, build models of Stonehenge, examine archaeological evidence under microscopes, and try on Bronze Age clothing. These hands-on activities complement the exhibits and make the learning experience both fun and educational, fostering a deeper connection to the past.

Community and Cultural Significance

Run by the Wiltshire Archaeological and Natural History Society, the museum is an independent charity dedicated to preserving and sharing the county’s nationally important collections. It serves as a cultural hub in Devizes, hosting a range of events such as guided heritage walks, craft workshops, and talks that celebrate local folklore and history. The museum’s role extends beyond static displays, actively engaging the community and visitors in Wiltshire’s rich cultural tapestry.

Visitor Amenities and Accessibility

Located at 41 Long Street in the heart of Devizes, the museum offers convenient facilities including on-site parking, restrooms, and accessibility features such as ramps and provisions for visually impaired visitors. Guide dogs are permitted, and the museum provides sound effects and large-print guides to enhance the experience for all. Open Tuesday to Saturday, it welcomes visitors year-round with seasonal opening hours.

Noteworthy Exhibitions and Events

Current and upcoming exhibitions include 'Un/Common People', exploring folk culture in Wessex, and 'Downland: art and the archaeological imagination in Wiltshire', featuring new works by contemporary artists. Regular events such as family art sessions, guided tours, and workshops enrich the visitor experience. These dynamic offerings ensure that the museum remains a vibrant center for heritage and creativity.

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