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Black and White House Museum, Hereford

Step into 17th-century Hereford at the Black and White House Museum, a beautifully preserved timber-framed Jacobean home with rich history and engaging exhibits.

4.5

The Black and White House Museum in Hereford is a beautifully preserved 17th-century timber-framed building dating back to 1621. Originally a butcher’s home and shop, it now serves as a museum showcasing Jacobean life with an internationally important collection of English oak furniture, rare wall paintings, and interactive exhibits. Open Tuesday to Saturday 10am–5pm and Sundays 11am–4pm, it offers a fascinating glimpse into Hereford’s history and culture.

A brief summary to Black and White House Museum

  • High Town, Hereford, Hereford, HR1 2AA, GB
  • +441432260694
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Local tips

  • Visit on a weekday morning to enjoy a quieter experience and better access to interactive exhibits.
  • Take advantage of the virtual tour on the ground floor if stairs are a challenge.
  • Look out for special events and performances that bring the museum’s history to life.
  • Explore nearby attractions like Hereford Cathedral and the Hereford Museum and Art Gallery for a full cultural day.
  • Check the museum’s website or contact them for the latest information on opening hours and ticket offers.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    Local bus services run regularly to Hereford city centre, stopping within a short walk of the museum. Travel times vary depending on your starting point, typically 15 to 40 minutes from nearby towns. Tickets cost around £2 to £5, with concessions available. Note that service frequency may reduce on Sundays.

  • Car

    Driving to the museum is convenient with several public car parks nearby. Parking fees range from £1.50 to £3.50 per hour depending on location and time of day. Be aware that city centre parking can be busy during peak hours and weekends.

  • Walking

    If you are already in Hereford city centre, the museum is easily accessible on foot via paved streets. Walking times from central landmarks such as Hereford Cathedral are about 10 to 15 minutes on mostly flat terrain, suitable for all fitness levels.

Black and White House Museum location weather suitability

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  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Black and White House Museum

A Living Testament to Jacobean Hereford

Nestled in the heart of Hereford’s High Town, the Black and White House Museum stands as a striking example of Jacobean timber-framed architecture, built in 1621. This Grade I listed building began its life as a butcher’s home and shop, witnessing centuries of Hereford’s evolving urban landscape. The structure’s iconic black and white timber framing is not only visually captivating but also a rare surviving artifact from the early 17th century, offering visitors a tangible connection to England’s past.

Immersive Historical Interiors and Collections

Inside, the museum is furnished in authentic period style, featuring an internationally important collection of English oak furniture. Visitors can explore rooms adorned with rare wall paintings, a four-poster bed, and even baby-walkers, each piece telling stories of domestic life in Jacobean times. The upper floors provide a richly detailed glimpse into 17th-century living, while the ground floor offers a fully accessible virtual tour, tactile images, and Braille materials to accommodate all visitors.

Engaging Experiences for All Ages

The museum offers hands-on activities designed especially for children, including replica clothing and puzzles that bring history to life in an interactive way. Educational and engaging, it invites visitors to step back in time and experience the daily rhythms of a bygone era. Special events and performances occasionally add to the museum’s vibrant cultural offerings, deepening the connection to Hereford’s heritage.

Conservation and Preservation Efforts

Recent specialist conservation work on the exterior was completed ahead of schedule, ensuring the building’s historic fabric remains intact for future generations. This careful restoration preserves the museum’s unique character while allowing visitors to enjoy the building in its full glory. The museum has remained open throughout these works, demonstrating a commitment to accessibility and public engagement.

Location and Visitor Amenities

Situated centrally, the museum is surrounded by public amenities including nearby car parks and public toilets, enhancing visitor convenience. The location within Hereford’s historic core makes it an ideal starting point for exploring other local attractions such as Hereford Cathedral and the Hereford Museum and Art Gallery. The museum’s gift shop offers unique souvenirs reflecting the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Opening Hours and Admission

The Black and White House Museum welcomes visitors Tuesday through Saturday from 10am to 5pm and Sundays from 11am to 4pm, with Mondays closed. Admission is modest, with adults paying a small fee to access the period rooms, while children and students enter free. Special offers, such as combined tickets with guidebooks, provide excellent value for those wishing to deepen their understanding of the site.

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