Museum of Gloucester: A Journey Through Roman Origins and Artistic Heritage
Explore Gloucester’s rich Roman heritage, Victorian charm, and vibrant community spirit at the Museum of Gloucester.
Located in the heart of Gloucester, the Museum of Gloucester offers a rich exploration of the city's history from its Roman roots through the Dark Ages and Medieval period. Housed in a fine Victorian building, it features significant art collections and interactive exhibits including a Roman kitchen playhouse and part of the original Roman wall. The museum also includes a café and gift shop, making it a welcoming cultural hub for families and history enthusiasts alike.
A brief summary to Museum Of Gloucester
- Brunswick Rd, Gloucester, Gloucester, GL1 1HP, GB
- +441452396131
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 11 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Book your tickets in advance online or by phone to secure entry and avoid disappointment, especially during peak seasons.
- Take time to explore the interactive Roman kitchen playhouse and medieval street for a hands-on historical experience.
- Visit the café for a relaxing break with tea, coffee, and cakes, and browse the gift shop for unique local souvenirs.
- Check the museum’s website for special exhibitions and events, including family-friendly trails and seasonal workshops.
- Use the museum’s accessibility features such as wheelchair ramps and disabled toilets to ensure a comfortable visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Several local bus routes serve Gloucester city centre, with stops within 500 meters of the museum. Buses run frequently, typically every 10 to 20 minutes, with single fares around £2.50. Check local timetables for service hours and accessibility options.
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Train
Gloucester Railway Station is approximately 1.5 km from the museum. A taxi or local bus can cover this distance in about 5 to 10 minutes. Taxi fares usually range from £6 to £10, while buses cost about £2.50 per trip.
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Car
Driving to the museum is convenient with several public car parks nearby. Expect to pay around £5 to £10 for parking depending on duration. Note that parking availability can be limited during peak times and weekends.
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Walking
If staying in Gloucester city centre, walking to the museum is easy and takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes over flat, accessible terrain. The route is suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
Museum Of Gloucester 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 Museum Of Gloucester
Tracing Gloucester’s Ancient Beginnings
The Museum of Gloucester is a gateway to the city’s fascinating past, particularly its origins as the Roman settlement of Glevum. Visitors can explore extensive archaeological collections that include the world-famous Birdlip Mirror, Roman tombstones, and the Gloucester Tables Set, the oldest complete backgammon set in the world. The museum’s layout allows you to walk through history, featuring remnants of the original Roman wall embedded within the building itself, offering a tangible connection to Gloucester’s ancient foundations.Victorian Architecture Meets Interactive Exhibits
Set within a handsome Victorian-era structure, the museum blends historical architecture with engaging, modern displays. The ground floor hosts interactive experiences such as a Roman kitchen playhouse and a recreated medieval street, designed to immerse visitors in daily life of past eras. These hands-on exhibits make the museum particularly appealing for families, providing educational fun that brings history to life through sensory engagement and play.A Rich Artistic Legacy
Beyond archaeology, the museum holds an impressive collection of fine art, featuring works by notable British painters like Richard Wilson, Thomas Gainsborough, John Atkinson Grimshaw, and Thomas Dibdin. This artistic heritage complements the historical narrative, highlighting Gloucester’s cultural evolution and the broader artistic movements that have influenced the region.Community Engagement and Ever-Changing Exhibitions
The Museum of Gloucester is not just a static repository but a vibrant cultural centre with rotating exhibitions and community projects. Recent initiatives include a communal artwork inviting public participation and a year-long archaeological project showcasing live discoveries. Seasonal workshops, family trails, and special events such as ghost tours and creative sessions enrich the visitor experience, fostering a strong connection between the museum and the local community.Visitor Amenities and Accessibility
Visitors can enjoy a self-service café offering tea, coffee, cakes, and light snacks, alongside a gift shop stocked with historical and locally made products. The museum is fully accessible, with wheelchair access, disabled toilets, guide dog accommodation, and parking for disabled visitors. These facilities ensure a comfortable and inclusive visit for all guests.Planning Your Visit
Open Tuesday to Saturday from 10am to 5pm and Sundays from 11am to 4pm during peak season, the Museum of Gloucester offers flexible visiting hours with quieter off-peak periods ideal for a more intimate experience. Admission is free, supported by donations, and booking tickets in advance is recommended to avoid disappointment. The museum’s central location on Brunswick Road places it within easy reach of Gloucester’s city centre attractions.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Eastgate viewing chamber
0.1 km
Discover Gloucester’s ancient Roman and medieval city defenses through a unique underground viewing chamber beneath Eastgate Street.
Visit Cotswolds Online
6.7 km
Explore the enchanting Cotswolds, where rolling hills, historic villages, and breathtaking landscapes await every traveler seeking an unforgettable adventure.
Gloucestershire Historic Churches Trust
6.7 km
Explore the rich ecclesiastical heritage of Gloucestershire through its historic churches, showcasing stunning architecture and engaging community initiatives.
The Bee Shelter, Hartpury
7.4 km
Discover Hartpury’s unique 19th-century Bee Shelter, a stunning stone monument celebrating Gloucestershire’s rich beekeeping heritage and Victorian craftsmanship.
Haresfield Topograph
10.0 km
A three-dimensional map landmark on the Cotswold escarpment with panoramic views toward Wales.
Sim's Clock
13.4 km
Historic Sim's Clock stands as a timeless symbol in Stroud’s vibrant George Street, blending heritage with community spirit.
May Hill
14.0 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of May Hill, a mountain peak in Longhope offering stunning views, hiking trails, and a serene escape into nature.
The Garden at Miserden
14.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of The Garden at Miserden, a stunning oasis in the Cotswolds perfect for nature lovers and relaxation seekers.
Walk The Cotswolds
14.3 km
Explore the Cotswolds' breathtaking landscapes and charming villages with Walk The Cotswolds, your gateway to England's picturesque countryside adventures.
Visit The Cotswolds
14.3 km
Discover the charm of the Cotswolds, a stunning region filled with picturesque villages, breathtaking landscapes, and rich history.
Tewkesbury Abbey
15.2 km
Explore Tewkesbury Abbey, a stunning medieval masterpiece rich in history and breathtaking architecture, nestled in the heart of Tewkesbury.
World Walks (inc. Cotswold Journeys, British & Irish Walks)
16.5 km
Explore the captivating beauty of the Cotswolds with World Walks, your gateway to unforgettable guided walking tours across Britain and Ireland.
Cotswold Journeys
16.6 km
Explore the enchanting Cotswolds on expertly crafted walking tours with seamless logistics and charming local stays.
Woodchester Mansion Trust
17.1 km
Explore the intriguing Woodchester Mansion, a historical gem showcasing Victorian architecture and enchanting landscapes in the heart of Gloucestershire.
Nympsfield Long Barrow
17.5 km
Explore Nympsfield Long Barrow: A serene Neolithic burial site in the Cotswolds, rich in history and surrounded by stunning landscapes.
Unmissable attractions to see
Eastgate Shopping Centre
0.1 km
A vibrant indoor shopping and community hub in Gloucester’s city centre, blending unique shops, local market charm, and welcoming amenities.
Greyfriars
0.1 km
Explore Greyfriars in Gloucester, a historical landmark that showcases stunning architecture and rich heritage, perfect for all history lovers.
Robert Raikes's House
0.2 km
Step into history at Robert Raikes's House, a beautifully restored 16th-century merchant’s home turned charming pub in the heart of Gloucester.
Blackfriars Priory
0.3 km
Explore one of England’s finest medieval Dominican priories, blending rich history, stunning timber architecture, and vibrant modern events in Gloucester.
Gloucester Antiques Centre
0.3 km
Explore three floors of antiques and collectibles in Gloucester’s historic Old Judges House, featuring over 40 specialist dealers and a vast range of treasures.
Cathedral Quarter Gloucester
0.4 km
Explore Gloucester’s historic Cathedral Quarter, where ancient streets meet vibrant culture and timeless heritage.
Gloucestershire Arts & Crafts Centre
0.4 km
Discover handmade treasures and creative workshops in the heart of Gloucester, where local artists showcase their craft in a welcoming city-centre space.
Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum
0.4 km
Explore over 300 years of Gloucestershire military heritage through immersive exhibits and personal stories at Gloucester’s historic Docks museum.
The House Of The Tailor Of Gloucester
0.4 km
Step into Beatrix Potter’s enchanting world at the House of The Tailor of Gloucester, where story and history come alive in a charming museum and shop.
Gloucester Docks
0.4 km
Explore Gloucester Docks, a vibrant Victorian waterfront blending rich maritime history, museums, shopping, dining, and scenic canal views.
Gloucester Cathedral
0.4 km
Explore Gloucester Cathedral’s 1,300 years of history, stunning architecture, royal tombs, and iconic cloisters in the heart of Gloucester.
Folk of Gloucester
0.6 km
Step into Gloucester’s living history at The Folk, a vibrant Tudor museum and community hub celebrating local heritage and culture.
National Waterways Museum Gloucester
0.6 km
Explore 200 years of Britain's waterways heritage with historic vessels, hands-on exhibits, and canal cruises at Gloucester Docks.
Gloucestershire Revealed
0.7 km
Discover Gloucestershire’s rich heritage through archives, exhibitions, and family history at the Gloucestershire Heritage Hub in Gloucester.
St Oswald's Priory
0.7 km
Explore Gloucester’s oldest surviving Saxon monument, where royal history and medieval ruins tell tales of faith and power.
Essential places to dine
Tiger's Eye Restaurant
0.2 km
Historic Gloucester’s Tiger's Eye offers interactive Pan-Asian fusion dining with hot rock grilling and a vibrant cocktail bar atmosphere.
The March Hare
0.2 km
A cozy tearoom in Gloucester’s historic Oxbode offering fresh local fare and friendly service from morning to afternoon.
Topoly's
0.2 km
Authentic family-run Italian dining in the heart of Gloucester, serving fresh homemade dishes since 1990 in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Aroma
0.3 km
Authentic Indian and Bangladeshi flavors served with impeccable hospitality in the heart of Gloucester’s historic Southgate Street.
Sebz
0.4 km
Authentic Mediterranean tapas and vibrant wine bar in Gloucester’s historic Northgate Street, blending fresh flavors with a lively atmosphere.
Comfy Pew Cafe Bistro
0.4 km
Cozy, friendly café in Gloucester offering delicious breakfast and lunch with gluten-free and vegan options near the cathedral.
The Tall Ship
0.4 km
Historic Grade II listed pub in Gloucester Docks offering excellent British food, great beer, live music, and a lively social atmosphere.
Bangkok Canteen Gloucester
0.5 km
Gloucester’s premier gluten-free Thai restaurant blending authentic flavors with sustainable, locally sourced ingredients in a cozy city-center setting.
Settebello Trattoria
0.5 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors with panoramic dockside views at Gloucester’s beloved Settebello Trattoria.
Greek on the Docks
0.5 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine and vibrant Mediterranean flavors with stunning waterfront views in the heart of Gloucester Docks.
The Barge
0.5 km
A cozy family-run spot in Gloucester Docks serving hearty English classics with a welcoming bring-your-own-drinks policy.
Bill's Gloucester Quays Restaurant
0.6 km
A relaxed, modern British restaurant at Gloucester Quays, perfect for a post-shopping meal or casual catch-up with friends and family.
Nepalese Chef
0.6 km
Experience authentic Nepalese and Asian fusion cuisine with a welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu in the heart of Gloucester.
Côte Gloucester
0.6 km
Modern French brasserie offering refined cuisine and warm service in Gloucester Quays, now closed but fondly remembered.
The Lock Keepers
2.1 km
A serene riverside restaurant and hotel near Gloucester, offering seasonal dishes, warm service, and cozy accommodation in a charming setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
King's Walk
0.1 km
Gloucester’s central shopping destination featuring popular high street brands and convenient dining in a lively city centre setting.
Pilgrims Gloucester
0.4 km
Discover unique gifts and a cosy, atmospheric shopping experience in the heart of historic Gloucester.
L&S Lifestyle
0.4 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish finds in a cozy boutique setting at L&S Lifestyle, Gloucester’s charming gift shop on College Street.
Upstairs Downstairs
0.6 km
Discover Gloucester’s charming antique shop with unique collectibles and a cozy tearoom serving homemade treats.
Chez Rose
0.6 km
Discover unique gifts and shabby chic treasures in a warm, welcoming boutique nestled in Gloucester’s historic Westgate Street.
Gift Company
0.7 km
Discover unique gifts and charming homeware at The Gift Company, nestled in the vibrant Gloucester Quays outlet by the historic docks.
Gloucester Quays
0.7 km
Discover designer bargains and festive charm at Gloucester Quays, a lively waterfront outlet set within historic docks.
Westgate Retail Park
0.9 km
Convenient shopping with free parking and a variety of homeware stores in the heart of Gloucester’s Westgate Street.
Cotswold Creates
5.5 km
Discover unique artisan gifts and handcrafted treasures that capture the heart of the Cotswolds in Gloucester’s welcoming Cotswold Creates.
Willow Hilson Vintage
11.3 km
Authentic vintage fashion from the 1920s to 1960s in a charming Cheltenham boutique with artistic flair and photography studio.
Great British Boutique
11.6 km
Discover unique gifts and quirky homeware in Cheltenham’s welcoming Great British Boutique, where friendly service meets charming finds.
Emporium
11.6 km
Discover unique gifts and a warm welcome at Emporium, Cheltenham’s charming family-run gift shop on Bath Road.
Vinegar Hill
12.0 km
Discover Cheltenham’s family-run boutique blending stylish homewares, fashion, and unique gifts in a warm, inviting setting since 1997.
Adana Collective Antiques
12.4 km
Discover timeless treasures and beautiful antiques at Adana Collective, a curated gem in Stroud’s vibrant Salmon Springs Trading Estate.
Moonflower Too
13.3 km
A vibrant gift shop in Stroud’s historic High Street, blending unique homewares with local charm and ethical brands.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Café René
0.2 km
A lively Gloucester pub and restaurant blending historic charm, award-winning food, and vibrant live music in the city centre.
The Turks Head Inn
0.3 km
A welcoming traditional pub in Gloucester’s heart, famed for its excellent cask ales and friendly local atmosphere.
Elbien Soe Bar
0.3 km
Discover Gloucester’s vibrant grill and bar scene at Elbien Soe Bar, where flavorful dishes meet a lively, welcoming atmosphere 24/7.
The Drunken Duck
0.3 km
A vibrant Gloucester pub blending unique space, exceptional beers, and a welcoming atmosphere for all to enjoy.
Our House Bar
0.3 km
A vibrant cocktail and wine bar in Gloucester Docks offering curated drinks and a welcoming atmosphere for memorable nights out.
The Abbey
0.4 km
A vibrant Gloucester bar famed for its bottomless brunch, friendly service, and lively social atmosphere in the city centre.
The Sword Inn Gloucester
0.4 km
Historic Gloucester pub blending tradition, community spirit, and lively sports in a welcoming city centre setting.
The Fountain Inn
0.4 km
Charming Grade II listed pub in Gloucester’s city centre offering real ales, hearty British fare, and a cozy historic atmosphere with garden and function rooms.
Devoted Deluxe - Mobile Bar Hire
0.5 km
Elegant mobile bar hire in Gloucester delivering bespoke cocktails and personalized service for every special occasion.
One Eyed Jacks
0.6 km
A vibrant traditional pub in Gloucester blending classic charm with lively entertainment and friendly atmosphere.
TANK
0.6 km
Discover Gloucester’s premier craft beer bar with a lively atmosphere, local brews, stonebaked pizzas, and a welcoming beer garden in the historic docks.
The Pelican Inn (Wye Valley)
0.6 km
Historic Gloucester pub famed for award-winning real ales, lively events, and a warm, authentic British atmosphere.
Brewhouse & Kitchen - Gloucester Quays
0.7 km
A vibrant gastropub and microbrewery at Gloucester Quays offering craft beers, hearty meals, and waterfront views in a lively, modern setting.
Deans Walk Inn
0.7 km
Experience Gloucester’s warmest welcome with local ales, hearty meals, and a lively atmosphere at Deans Walk Inn.
The Heritage
0.8 km
A welcoming Gloucester bar blending rugby spirit with cozy charm and a diverse drink selection for locals and fans alike.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Jax Nightclub Gloucester
0.0 km
Energetic nightclub in Gloucester offering diverse music, two dance floors, and a welcoming atmosphere for late-night fun.
Bar Fever Gloucester
0.2 km
Experience Gloucester’s vibrant nightlife at Bar Fever, a trendy nightclub with dynamic music, stylish interiors, and a welcoming atmosphere.
ATIK Gloucester
0.4 km
Gloucester’s largest nightclub, ATIK pulses with vibrant music, student nights, and an energetic party atmosphere until the early hours.
Under the Prom
12.0 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife with premium drinks, three unique bars, and VIP service at Under The Prom nightclub.
Thirteen Degrees
12.0 km
Cheltenham’s late-night hotspot for dancing, cocktails, and private events in a central urban setting.
Home and Botanic Nightclub
12.0 km
Historic charm meets vibrant nightlife at Cheltenham’s Home and Botanic, a multi-room club offering cocktails, live piano, DJs, and unforgettable nights.
Popworld - Cheltenham
12.1 km
Cheltenham’s lively late-night hotspot where cheesy pop tunes and creative cocktails fuel unforgettable party nights.
MooMoo Clubrooms Cheltenham
12.1 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic music, VIP vibes, and late-night energy at MooMoo Clubrooms.
The 21 Club
12.2 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife at The 21 Club, where music, dancing, and great drinks create unforgettable nights.
Coco
12.3 km
Cheltenham’s underground hotspot for vibrant nightlife, top DJs, and creative cocktails in a lively basement setting.
2 PIGS
12.3 km
A lively Cheltenham nightclub with dual rooms spinning rock, punk, indie, and classic hits, known for affordable drinks and an alternative vibe.
Trio Nightclub
13.4 km
Experience Stroud’s vibrant nightlife at Trio Nightclub, where music, dancing, and energetic vibes light up weekend nights.
Capones
21.5 km
Historic nightclub in Dursley with legendary ties to Al Capone, offering vibrant weekend nightlife and pulsating music.
ReVA Nightclub
25.1 km
Cirencester’s largest nightclub offering electrifying music, stylish cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere for unforgettable nights.
The Club, Monmouth
32.7 km
Discover the heart of Monmouth's pub culture at The Club, where great food, drinks, and sports come together for an unforgettable experience.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Family Friendly
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Family Fun
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
