Cater Museum: A Charming Window into Billericay's Past
Discover Billericay’s heritage at the quaint Cater Museum, where local history comes alive in a charming High Street setting.
The Cater Museum, nestled in the heart of Billericay's High Street, offers visitors an intimate glimpse into the local history through its eclectic collection of artifacts and exhibits. Housed in a historic building with a lovely garden, this small museum invites exploration of Billericay’s cultural heritage, making it a delightful stop for history enthusiasts and families alike. Its limited opening hours emphasize a quiet, reflective experience in a quaint setting.
A brief summary to Cater Museum
- 74 High St, Billericay, CM12 9BS, GB
- +441277622023
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Budget
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Tuesday 1 pm-5 pm
- Wednesday 1 pm-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit on Tuesday or Wednesday afternoons between 1 pm and 5 pm when the museum is open.
- Check for any special events or temporary closures before planning your visit.
- Take time to explore the museum’s garden for a peaceful break after viewing the exhibits.
- Engage with the friendly staff or volunteers to learn more about Billericay’s local stories.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Local bus services connect Billericay town centre with nearby areas, with stops within a 10-minute walk of the museum. Typical travel times from Brentwood or Basildon are 15 to 30 minutes. Tickets cost approximately £2 to £5 depending on distance. Service frequency varies, so check schedules in advance.
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Train
Billericay railway station is about a 20-minute walk from the museum. Trains from London Liverpool Street take roughly 35 to 45 minutes. From the station, taxis are available for a short 5-minute ride to the museum. Train fares range from £8 to £15 one-way.
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Car
Driving to the museum is convenient with parking options nearby, including public car parks within a 5-minute walk. Parking fees typically range from £1 to £3 per hour. Note that the High Street may have limited parking and pedestrianized sections during busy periods.
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Walking
If staying locally, the museum is easily accessible on foot from Billericay town centre. The walk involves flat, paved streets suitable for all ages and mobility levels, taking about 5 to 10 minutes depending on your starting point.
Cater Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Cater Museum
Historic Roots and Local Legacy
The Cater Museum is housed in a historic building located at 74 High Street, Billericay. It serves as a custodian of the town’s rich heritage, preserving artifacts and stories that span centuries. The museum is named after the Cater family, notable local figures whose legacy is intertwined with Billericay’s development. Visitors can explore exhibits that highlight the town’s evolution from a rural community to a vibrant market town, showcasing everyday objects, photographs, and documents that bring its history to life.An Intimate and Eclectic Collection
Despite its modest size, the museum boasts a broad range of exhibits. These include archaeological finds, domestic items, and memorabilia that reflect the social and economic history of the area. The collection is thoughtfully curated to engage visitors of all ages, with particular appeal to families and children who can enjoy interactive and imaginative displays. The museum’s garden adds a tranquil outdoor space that complements the indoor exhibits, offering a peaceful retreat in the town centre.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
The Cater Museum’s atmosphere is one of quiet charm and discovery. Its limited opening hours—primarily Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons—ensure a peaceful visit without crowds. The staff and volunteers are known for their welcoming and knowledgeable approach, often sharing stories and insights that enrich the visitor experience. The museum’s setting on the High Street makes it easily accessible, yet it retains a boutique, tucked-away feel that invites leisurely exploration.Community Engagement and Events
Beyond its permanent displays, the Cater Museum actively engages with the local community through events and educational programs. These initiatives often focus on local history, crafts, and seasonal celebrations, fostering a strong connection between the museum and Billericay residents. The museum also encourages volunteering, which helps sustain its operations and expand its opening times during busier seasons.Preservation and Sustainability Efforts
As a locally managed heritage site, the Cater Museum emphasizes sustainable practices in preserving its collection and maintaining the building and garden. Efforts include careful conservation of artifacts and environmentally conscious management of its grounds. The museum’s role as a protected cultural space highlights its importance not only as a tourist attraction but also as a guardian of Billericay’s identity and history.Planning Your Visit
Visitors should note the museum’s opening hours are limited to Tuesday and Wednesday from 1 pm to 5 pm, with closures on other days and certain holidays. This schedule encourages planning ahead to make the most of the visit. The museum is ideal for a short cultural stop during a day exploring Billericay’s historic town centre, offering a rewarding glimpse into the area’s past in a friendly, intimate setting.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Laindon War Memorial
5.7 km
A solemn tribute in Basildon honoring Laindon's wartime heroes, blending history with community remembrance.
Great Baddow Chain Home Radar Tower
10.7 km
The only complete Chain Home radar tower in the UK, a towering symbol of WWII air defence and Cold War innovation in Great Baddow.
Falklands Island Monument
17.6 km
A solemn tribute in Grays honoring merchant seafarers who sacrificed their lives in the 1982 Falklands War.
Prittlewell royal Anglo-Saxon burial
21.6 km
Explore the earliest princely Anglo-Saxon burial in England, revealing a royal Christian tomb rich with ancient treasures and history.
Southend Pier and Railway
23.0 km
Discover the iconic Southend Pier and Railway, a historic landmark offering breathtaking views, delightful train rides, and family-friendly activities.
Southend-on-Sea Seafront
23.3 km
Discover the magic of Southend-on-Sea Seafront, where tradition meets seaside fun, perfect for family outings and creating lasting memories.
Southchurch Hall
23.7 km
Explore the historical elegance and serene gardens of Southchurch Hall, a captivating museum in Southend-on-Sea that reveals the region's rich heritage.
Sealife Adventure
23.7 km
Explore the captivating marine life at Sealife Adventure, Southend-on-Sea's premier aquarium, featuring over 40 exhibits and interactive experiences.
Southend Pier
24.3 km
Experience Southend Pier: The longest pleasure pier in the world, offering breathtaking views, family-friendly attractions, and vibrant seaside culture.
Southchurch Park
24.3 km
Discover the tranquility and beauty of Southchurch Park, a serene escape in Southend-on-Sea perfect for relaxation, picnics, and nature walks.
The Gibberd Garden
26.1 km
Discover The Gibberd Garden in Harlow, a beautiful park blending art and nature for a serene retreat and memorable experiences.
St Mary Magdalene Church, Cobham
26.2 km
Explore the historic St Mary Magdalene Church in Cobham, a serene landmark with stunning architecture and a rich cultural heritage.
Six Poor Traveller House
27.0 km
Discover Rochester’s Tudor charity house that sheltered six poor travellers nightly, inspiring Dickens and preserving centuries of social history.
Cressing Temple Barns
27.2 km
Explore the rich heritage and stunning beauty of Cressing Temple Barns, one of the UK's oldest historical landmarks in Essex.
Talliston House & Gardens
28.0 km
Explore the enchanting Talliston House & Gardens, where art, history, and nature meet in a picturesque setting perfect for all travelers.
Unmissable attractions to see
Norsey Wood Local Nature Reserve
2.0 km
Explore the tranquil trails and vibrant wildlife of Norsey Wood, a scenic local nature reserve in Billericay perfect for family walks and seasonal beauty.
Barleylands Farm Park
3.3 km
Discover hands-on farm fun, seasonal events, and family adventures at Barleylands Farm Park and Village in Essex.
Ingatestone Hall
4.5 km
Explore the intimate grandeur and Tudor heritage of Ingatestone Hall, set within serene gardens in the heart of Essex countryside.
Noak Bridge Nature Reserve
4.8 km
Discover peaceful trails, diverse wildlife, and community spirit at Basildon’s welcoming Noak Bridge Nature Reserve.
Mountnessing Windmill
5.5 km
Historic 1807 post mill in Essex, fully restored and working, offering heritage milling and scenic village charm.
Thorndon Country Park South
6.3 km
Rolling parkland with sweeping views, perfect for picnics, dog walking, and fishing at Old Hall Pond in Brentwood, Essex.
Langdon Nature Discovery Park
7.2 km
Explore Essex’s largest inland nature reserve with diverse wildlife, scenic trails, and a welcoming Nature Discovery Centre.
Thorndon Country Park
7.3 km
Explore 500+ acres of ancient woodlands, scenic parkland, and the original Gruffalo Trail in Essex’s historic Thorndon Country Park.
Barnards Miniature Railway
7.8 km
A charming 7¼ inch gauge miniature railway on a working farm near Brentwood, perfect for families and rail enthusiasts on select days from spring to winter.
Hopefield Animal Sanctuary
8.1 km
Essex sanctuary rescuing 700+ animals with ethical encounters and countryside peace.
Wickford Memorial Park
8.1 km
A sprawling 110-acre park in Wickford blending nature, sports, and memorial gardens for all ages and interests.
Langdon Hills Country Park
8.8 km
Expansive woodlands and panoramic views await at Langdon Hills Country Park, a serene outdoor retreat near Stanford-le-Hope.
Hylands House
9.7 km
Historic Grade II* listed mansion and expansive parkland offering luxurious weddings, elegant events, and stunning Essex countryside views.
Warley Place Nature Reserve
9.7 km
Explore the historic gardens and vibrant wildlife of Warley Place Nature Reserve, a tranquil 25-acre sanctuary near Brentwood, Essex.
Hylands Park
10.4 km
Explore 574 acres of historic parkland and a stunning neo-classical mansion in Chelmsford's cherished Hylands Park.
Essential places to dine
Dukes Head Billericay
1.9 km
A charming gastropub in Billericay blending traditional British fare with a warm, inviting atmosphere and scenic outdoor spaces.
The Magic Mushroom
3.3 km
A stylish fine dining experience blending British and Mediterranean flavors in a charming converted barn on Billericay’s outskirts.
Hoop at Stock
4.8 km
Historic 15th-century gastropub in Stock village serving award-winning modern British cuisine in a cozy, traditional setting.
Bartellas Restaurant
7.6 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean cuisine in a warm, inviting setting nestled in the Essex countryside near Ingatestone.
Aspera
11.3 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors with fresh, locally sourced ingredients in a stylish and welcoming setting in Benfleet.
Alec's Restaurant
11.5 km
Alec's Restaurant in Brentwood offers exquisite seafood and fine dining in a beautifully restored historic setting with impeccable service.
Russells Restaurant
11.7 km
Historic vaulted barn setting meets refined French and English fine dining with seasonal dishes and exceptional service in Great Baddow.
Vita Bella
11.7 km
Authentic Italian cuisine with fresh local ingredients in a charming village setting near Chelmsford.
The New London
12.0 km
Upscale Chelmsford restaurant offering scratch-made dishes, attentive service, and a cozy contemporary lounge atmosphere.
Acanteen
12.5 km
Chelmsford’s all-day bar, restaurant and live music venue – brunch, pizza, cocktails and events in a buzzing city-centre setting.
Fête at Grays Brewery Yard
12.6 km
Eclectic global flavours and vibrant cocktails in a quirky, welcoming eatery at Chelmsford’s lively Brewery Yard.
Cosy Club
12.6 km
Experience timeless art deco charm and inclusive British dining at Cosy Club Chelmsford, open all day for every occasion.
Bill's Chelmsford Restaurant
12.7 km
A vibrant British restaurant in Chelmsford’s town centre, serving all-day meals, seasonal specials, and welcoming guests with a lively atmosphere.
Samphire Restaurant @ The County Hotel
12.9 km
Award-winning British cuisine with fresh, local ingredients in a stylish, family-friendly Chelmsford setting.
La Quinta Restaurant & Venue Hire - Benfleet Essex
14.7 km
Experience superb dining, lively entertainment, and warm hospitality at La Quinta, Benfleet’s premier restaurant and event venue.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Baytree Shopping Centre
8.0 km
A practical and accessible shopping centre at the heart of Brentwood, offering everyday essentials and local services.
Minnie's Boutique
8.1 km
Discover unique styles and personalized service at Minnie's Boutique, a charming ladies' clothing shop in Brentwood, perfect for every fashion enthusiast.
French Quarter
8.1 km
Discover unique gifts and artisan homewares in Brentwood’s welcoming French Quarter boutique.
Riverside Retail Park
13.3 km
A convenient and lively retail hub in Chelmsford offering diverse stores, eateries, and accessible parking on Victoria Road.
The Factory Shops
13.7 km
Discover unbeatable bargains and a diverse range of discounted goods at The Factory Shops, Rayleigh’s favorite value retail destination.
Gifts for All Home Decor
15.4 km
Discover unique, stylish home decor and gifts at Gifts for All Home Decor, Hadleigh’s charming boutique with quality and affordability.
La Luna Boutique
18.3 km
Discover unique bohemian fashion with a vintage rock ’n’ roll edge at La Luna Boutique in Leigh-on-Sea.
Store Thirty3
18.8 km
A charming gift shop on Elm Road offering unique local treasures in the heart of Leigh-on-Sea’s vibrant coastal town.
Latham Street
18.8 km
Discover sustainable vintage fashion reimagined with style and care at Latham Street in the heart of Leigh-on-Sea.
A Touch Too Wild
19.2 km
Elegant bespoke ladies' couture and formal wear boutique in the charming seaside town of Leigh-on-Sea.
Argosy Toys & Gifts
20.7 km
Discover a treasure trove of toys and gifts at Argosy Toys, a cherished independent shop in Westcliff-on-Sea since 1947.
The Happy Sole
20.8 km
Discover the charm of Westcliff-on-Sea at The Happy Sole, your go-to shop for unique gifts and local treasures.
Eliza Boutique
21.3 km
Discover timeless style and personalized service at Eliza Boutique, Westcliff-on-Sea’s independent ladies’ fashion destination.
The Emporium Maldon
21.6 km
A beloved family-run gift and garden shop in Maldon’s historic High Street, renowned for variety, community spirit, and local charm.
ideal gift shop
22.2 km
Discover unique and thoughtful gifts in the heart of Westcliff-on-Sea’s welcoming Ideal Gift Shop on London Road.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Harry's Bar
0.2 km
A stylish and welcoming bar and restaurant in Billericay’s heart, perfect for relaxed dining and vibrant socializing.
Cristi's Bar
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and expertly crafted cocktails in Billericay’s vibrant and stylish Cristi's Bar.
The Bear Inn - Stock
4.6 km
A warm, traditional gastropub in Stock offering hearty British fare, a large beer garden, and a welcoming village atmosphere.
The Prim and Proper Cocktail Bar
5.4 km
Basildon’s premier mobile cocktail bar delivering expert mixology and stylish service to your private events and celebrations.
George And Dragon Mount Nessin
5.5 km
A charming British gastropub in Mountnessing blending rustic tradition with modern dining and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Merchant Brentwood
8.2 km
A vibrant pub on Brentwood High Street serving artisan comfort food, lively sports, and spirited social gatherings from day to night.
The Leather Bottle Blackmore
10.2 km
A charming gastropub in Blackmore blending quirky decor, seasonal British cuisine, and a welcoming village atmosphere all year round.
Fox & Hounds
10.7 km
A welcoming Chelmsford pub offering hearty British classics, lively sports viewing, and a warm, friendly atmosphere for all visitors.
The Fox and Goose
11.2 km
A modern gastropub in Chelmsford blending traditional charm with seasonal British cuisine and inviting garden dining.
The Orange Tree
12.0 km
A lively gastro pub in Chelmsford offering excellent ales, hearty meals, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The Woolpack
12.2 km
A vibrant Victorian pub in Chelmsford blending traditional charm with lively events, great ales, and hearty American-British fare.
Be At One - Chelmsford
12.4 km
Discover over 100 cocktails and vibrant nightlife at Be At One Chelmsford, featuring rooftop terrace and unbeatable happy hour deals.
The Bootmaker
12.4 km
Historic Chelmsford pub and cocktail bar blending tradition with modern social dining and handcrafted drinks.
Slug & Lettuce - Chelmsford
12.6 km
A vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Chelmsford offering creative drinks, stylish interiors, and a lively social atmosphere from brunch to late night.
Boom Battle Bar Chelmsford
12.7 km
Chelmsford’s premier games bar blending axe throwing, shuffleboard, street food, and cocktails for unforgettable nights out.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Loft Basildon
6.8 km
Experience Basildon’s vibrant dance scene with energetic music nights, friendly staff, and a lively atmosphere at The Loft Basildon.
Club Tantalize
12.4 km
Chelmsford’s largest and most luxurious lapdancing club offering stylish nightlife with live pole shows and private VIP experiences.
Bar & Beyond Chelmsford
12.4 km
A large, lively nightclub in Chelmsford known for affordable drinks, vibrant atmosphere, and a mix of praise and controversy around its staff and music.
Popworld - Chelmsford
12.6 km
Experience Chelmsford’s ultimate pop-themed nightclub with vibrant music, creative cocktails, and unforgettable themed parties.
The Lounge Jazz Club
19.6 km
Experience intimate jazz and soul performances in a cozy, elegant venue near Southend Airport with fine drinks and a lively atmosphere.
The Moonraker Club
21.1 km
A vibrant, intimate nightclub in Westcliff-on-Sea with top DJs, a powerful sound system, and a lively social scene for unforgettable nights out.
MooMoo Clubrooms Southend
22.3 km
Experience Southend’s vibrant nightlife with diverse music rooms, top DJs, and a lively atmosphere at MooMoo Clubrooms.
Epping Roof Garden & Nightclub
22.7 km
A stylish rooftop nightclub in Epping blending lively nightlife with blooming garden charm and sophisticated cocktails.
Just Vibez
22.7 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and non-stop dancing at Just Vibez, Southend-on-Sea’s energetic nightclub hotspot.
Foundation
22.7 km
Vibrant nightclub and bar in Southend-on-Sea offering lively music, crafted cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere for memorable nights out.
Sunrooms2
22.8 km
Experience Southend-on-Sea’s dynamic nightlife at Sunrooms², where live music and DJ-driven parties keep the energy alive until the early hours.
MYST Club
23.1 km
Experience the vibrant pulse of Southend-on-Sea’s nightlife at MYST Club, where music, dancing, and social energy converge.
Air & Breathe Nightclub
24.4 km
Vibrant dual-zone nightclub in Dartford blending youthful energy with plush exclusivity for over 25s.
Faces NightClub
24.7 km
A stylish, vibrant nightclub in Gants Hill with immersive sound, dynamic visuals, and a versatile space for unforgettable nights and events.
CQ LOUNGE
29.6 km
South London's Afrobeats epicenter: dance, shisha, cocktails, and culture until 5am in Woolwich's vibrant CQ Lounge.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Unique
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Protected Area
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
