The Old Bell Museum, Montgomery: A Journey Through Welsh Heritage
Step into a 16th-century half-timbered building and explore Montgomery’s rich Welsh heritage through eleven immersive museum rooms.
The Old Bell Museum in Montgomery, Wales, is housed in a charming 16th-century half-timbered building that once served as a butcher's shop, pub, and temperance hotel. This volunteer-run museum offers visitors a rich exploration of local history through eleven themed rooms filled with artefacts, manuscripts, and photographs that reveal the town’s past, including models of the nearby Montgomery Castle. Open seasonally from April to September, it provides a unique glimpse into the cultural heritage of this historic Welsh market town.
A brief summary to The Old Bell Museum
- 7 Arthur St, Montgomery, SY15 6RA, GB
- +447811259181
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Budget
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Wednesday 1:30 pm-4 pm
- Thursday 11 am-4 pm
- Friday 1:30 pm-4 pm
- Saturday 11 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit between April and September for regular opening hours; outside these times, contact the curator for group visits or special arrangements.
- Bring cash for admission, as the museum currently accepts only cash payments.
- Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore all eleven rooms and exhibits.
- Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Montgomery Castle ruins for a fuller historical experience.
- Check local bus schedules from Welshpool, Newtown, or Shrewsbury for convenient public transport options to Montgomery.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Regular bus services run from Welshpool, Newtown, and Shrewsbury to Montgomery town centre, with stops near the main square about 50 meters from the museum. Journey times range from 40 to 70 minutes depending on origin. Tickets cost approximately £5–£10 one way.
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Car
Driving to the museum is straightforward with on-street parking available in Montgomery town centre and a small car park near the recycling centre on the road to Bishops Castle. Parking is free or low cost, but spaces can be limited during peak season.
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Walking
The museum is located about 50 meters from Montgomery’s main town square on Arthur Street, accessible via paved, flat streets suitable for most visitors. Walking from the town centre takes under 5 minutes.
The Old Bell Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about The Old Bell Museum
A Historic Building at the Heart of Montgomery
The Old Bell Museum is located in a striking half-timbered building dating back to the 16th century, situated on Arthur Street in Montgomery’s medieval core. Originally a butcher’s shop, the building later became a bustling inn known as the Old Bell Hotel and even operated as a temperance hotel, serving no alcoholic beverages. Its timber-framed architecture is a vivid reminder of the town’s Tudor-era past, making the building itself a key exhibit. The museum’s preservation and presentation of this historic structure provide a tangible connection to centuries of local life.Exploring Local Life Through Eleven Themed Rooms
Inside, the museum is divided into eleven rooms, each dedicated to different aspects of Montgomery’s history and culture. Exhibits include everyday objects, photographs, manuscripts, and detailed models, including a notable display of Montgomery Castle as it once stood before its demolition in 1649. These rooms collectively tell stories of the town’s social, economic, and military past, offering insights into how people lived, worked, and traveled in this border region of Wales.Montgomery Castle and Regional Significance
Nearby Montgomery Castle, perched on a steep crag overlooking the town, was a strategic stronghold built in the early 13th century by order of King Henry III. Though the castle was destroyed after the English Civil War, the museum houses models and exhibits that illustrate its historical importance. The Old Bell Museum helps visitors understand the turbulent history of the Welsh-English borderlands and the role Montgomery played in regional conflicts and governance.Volunteer Stewardship and Community Engagement
Operated by the Montgomery Civic Society, the museum is staffed by dedicated volunteers passionate about preserving local heritage. Their stewardship ensures the museum maintains high standards, recognized by its Accredited Museum status awarded by the Museums, Libraries and Archives Council of Wales. The volunteers also provide personal insights and stories, enriching the visitor experience with local knowledge and hospitality.Seasonal Access and Visitor Information
The museum is open seasonally from early April to late September, with visiting hours typically on Wednesdays and Fridays from 1:30 pm to 4 pm, and Thursdays and Saturdays from 11 am to 4 pm. Admission is modest, with adults paying a small fee and children admitted at a reduced rate, while local schoolchildren and society members enjoy free entry. The museum is located near Montgomery’s main town square, with parking and bus services accessible nearby, making it easy to include in a day exploring this historic Welsh market town.A Window into Welsh Borderland Heritage
The Old Bell Museum offers a unique, intimate experience of Welsh history through its well-preserved building and carefully curated collections. It stands as a cultural beacon in Montgomery, inviting visitors to step back in time and discover the rich tapestry of stories that have shaped this border town. Whether interested in architecture, local history, or the broader narrative of Wales, the museum provides an engaging and educational visit.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ffridd Faldwyn, Montgomery
0.8 km
Explore the vast Iron Age hillfort of Ffridd Faldwyn, commanding the Severn Valley with ancient earthworks and panoramic Welsh landscapes.
Radnorshire Wildlife Trust
39.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Wales at Radnorshire Wildlife Trust, a paradise for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.
Monkey Puzzle Trees
39.9 km
Striking evergreen Monkey Puzzle Trees on historic Hergest Ridge, a peaceful highlight along Offa’s Dyke Path near Kington.
Wenlock Priory
40.3 km
Experience the rich history and serene beauty of Wenlock Priory, a remarkable heritage site in Much Wenlock that enchants every visitor.
Chirk Aqueduct
41.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and engineering marvel of Chirk Aqueduct, a historical landmark bridging England and Wales amidst stunning landscapes.
National Trust - Chirk Castle
41.9 km
Explore the enchanting Chirk Castle, a historic gem in Wales, surrounded by beautiful gardens and rich heritage.
Buildwas Abbey
42.7 km
Visit Buildwas Abbey, a stunning historical landmark in Telford, where medieval architecture meets serene natural landscapes.
Moreton Corbet Castle
43.0 km
Medieval fortress meets Renaissance ambition in these free, atmospheric Shropshire ruins.
The Elan Valley
43.4 km
Explore the Elan Valley, a historic landmark in Wales, where natural beauty meets rich cultural heritage amidst stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures.
National Trust - Berrington Hall
43.6 km
Explore the timeless beauty of Berrington Hall, a Georgian manor house with stunning gardens, rich history, and captivating architecture in the heart of England.
Colwyn Castle
44.0 km
Discover the enchanting Colwyn Castle in Llandrindod Wells, a historical marvel set against stunning Welsh landscapes, perfect for history and nature lovers.
Plas Newydd Historic House & Gardens Llangollen
45.2 km
Discover the charm of Plas Newydd Historic House & Gardens in Llangollen, an enchanting blend of history, stunning gardens, and delightful café experiences.
Radnorshire Fine Arts Ltd
45.3 km
Discover Radnorshire Fine Arts Ltd, an inspiring art gallery in Cregrina, showcasing local and international artworks amidst stunning Welsh scenery.
Tŷ Mawr Country Park
45.3 km
Explore Tŷ Mawr Country Park, a tranquil escape in Wrexham, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Iron Bridge Tollhouse
45.4 km
Walk the world's first cast-iron bridge, a 1779 engineering triumph and symbol of the Industrial Revolution.
Unmissable attractions to see
Montgomery Fish Bar
0.1 km
Savor fresh, classic British fish and chips in the heart of historic Montgomery, Wales, at this friendly and beloved local takeaway.
The Crown
0.2 km
Montgomery’s last traditional pub, The Crown offers real ales, a sunny beer garden, and a warm, no-frills village atmosphere.
Montgomery War Memorial
0.3 km
Discover the Montgomery War Memorial, where history, sacrifice, and serene beauty converge in a tribute to those who served.
Montgomery Castle
0.3 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Montgomery Castle, a medieval stronghold with panoramic views and centuries of Welsh-English history.
Montgomery Town Walls
0.5 km
Explore the medieval Montgomery Town Walls, a stone sentinel of Welsh-English border history and heritage.
Ffridd Faldwyn Iron Age Hillfort
0.7 km
Explore Ffridd Faldwyn, a vast Iron Age hillfort in Powys, Wales, where ancient earthworks reveal millennia of prehistoric life atop a commanding hill.
Hen Domen Mound & Bailey Castle
1.7 km
Explore the ancient timber motte and bailey castle mound that marked Norman power on the Welsh borderlands.
The Nags Head Inn
3.8 km
Historic Grade II listed inn offering five-star comfort, award-winning dining, and scenic Mid Wales charm in Garthmyl.
The Naissance Experience at Glansevern Hall Gardens
4.4 km
Explore over 25 acres of tranquil, naturalistic gardens and historic charm along the River Severn at The Naissance Experience, Glansevern Hall Gardens.
Red House Nature Reserve
5.2 km
A peaceful wildlife haven along the Montgomery Canal, perfect for nature lovers and birdwatchers year-round.
Andrew Logan Museum of Sculpture
5.5 km
A sparkling, interactive museum in Berriew showcasing the flamboyant sculptures and creative genius of Andrew Logan.
Castell Dolforwyn
7.1 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Castell Dolforwyn, a bold 13th-century Welsh castle perched above the Severn Valley, symbolizing native defiance and stunning views.
Roundton Hill National Nature Reserve
7.3 km
Explore ancient volcanic landscapes and rare habitats at Roundton Hill, a vibrant nature reserve rich in history, wildlife, and panoramic views.
Llyn Coed y Dinas Nature Reserve
8.7 km
An accessible 8-hectare nature reserve near Welshpool offering rich birdlife, tranquil lakeside views, and family-friendly facilities.
Charlies Stores Coed-Y-Dinas
9.1 km
A vast family-run garden centre and country store in Welshpool offering quality products, dining, and family-friendly amenities all under one roof.
Essential places to dine
The Dragon Hotel
0.1 km
Historic charm meets local hospitality in Montgomery’s vibrant Market Square at The Dragon Hotel.
The Checkers (restaurant)
0.1 km
A Michelin-starred restaurant in Montgomery blending local Welsh ingredients with refined modern cuisine in a cozy, historic setting.
Upper Rectory Restaurant & Shepherds Hut Accommodation
5.5 km
A charming family-run restaurant in Berriew offering seasonal garden-to-table dining and unique shepherds hut accommodation in a historic Welsh countryside setting.
Mellington Hall Country House Hotel
5.8 km
Historic country house hotel offering cozy rooms, excellent food, and stunning rural views near Montgomery in the heart of Welsh countryside.
The Horseshoes Inn
6.2 km
Traditional Welsh pub in Berriew offering cozy dining, a beer garden, and holiday apartments in a charming rural setting.
The Abermule Inn
6.3 km
A family-run village pub and restaurant along the River Severn, offering award-winning homemade dishes and a welcoming atmosphere in Mid Wales.
Corn Store
11.0 km
Welshpool’s beloved Cornstore offers world cuisine in a warm, inviting atmosphere with generous portions perfect for couples and families.
Waggon and Horses
11.8 km
A friendly Newtown pub with a cosy beer garden, diverse menu, and welcoming atmosphere for families, dog owners, and locals alike.
The Granary
12.3 km
Contemporary dining with local flavors and lively entertainment in the heart of Newtown, Powys.
hummingbird lounge
12.4 km
Experience authentic Caribbean cuisine with vibrant flavors and welcoming vibes at Newtown’s beloved Hummingbird Lounge.
The Green Dragon Inn & Kitchen
12.7 km
A charming Welsh country pub and campsite blending rustic antiques, hearty food, and welcoming hospitality in tranquil Buttington.
Fabrizio’s
14.9 km
Authentic Italian dining with warm hospitality in the tranquil Welsh village of Buttington near Welshpool.
HOGS INN The Breidden
17.9 km
Cozy Welsh pub-restaurant offering hearty local fare, warm hospitality, and lively evenings in scenic Middletown near Welshpool.
The Yockleton Arms
20.2 km
A cosy, welcoming English pub near Shrewsbury, famed for its delicious Sunday roasts and friendly community atmosphere.
Jo’s at The Lion
21.2 km
A cozy café within the Lion Hotel serving delicious, accommodating meals in the heart of Llandinam, Wales.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Window Dressers
0.0 km
Bespoke curtain makers in historic Montgomery offering personalized window dressings that blend tradition with style and function.
Made In Monty
0.0 km
Discover authentic Welsh crafts and unique gifts in the heart of historic Montgomery at Made In Monty.
Bunners - R H Bunner & Son Ltd
0.0 km
Discover Bunners, Montgomery’s historic hardware emporium since 1892, offering an unmatched variety of tools, garden machinery, and more under one roof.
P & S Gift Ideas
0.4 km
Explore P & S Gift Ideas, a charming gift shop in Montgomery offering unique souvenirs and local crafts that capture the essence of this beautiful town.
Always & Forever Personalised Gifts
0.5 km
Crafting timeless personalized gifts in Montgomery that celebrate your most cherished moments with exquisite detail and heartfelt meaning.
The Old Station
10.7 km
Historic charm meets cozy café and stylish shopping in Welshpool’s beloved Old Station on Severn Road.
Cosmic Collectables
11.0 km
Discover rare collectible card games and accessories at Cosmic Collectables, Welshpool’s vibrant hub for gamers and collectors.
Charlies Stores
11.0 km
A comprehensive homewares and DIY store in Newtown offering tools, garden supplies, and workwear with friendly service and extended hours.
Gifts of Wales Ltd
11.0 km
Discover authentic Welsh gifts and handcrafted treasures at Gifts of Wales Ltd, a charming shop in the heart of Welshpool.
Celtic Company - Gift, Card & Jewellery Shop
11.0 km
Discover unique Welsh gifts, heartfelt cards, and artisan jewellery at The Celtic Company, Welshpool’s award-winning boutique since 1999.
The Owl & Broomstick
11.1 km
Discover whimsical handmade jewellery and unique gifts at The Owl & Broomstick, Welshpool’s quirky boutique in Puzzle Square.
The little welsh gift shop
11.4 km
Discover personalized Welsh gifts and authentic engraved slate treasures in the heart of Mid Wales at The Little Welsh Gift Shop.
Famous Shop
12.2 km
Explore the charm of Newtown at Famous Shop, where local crafts and unique gifts await every visitor.
No1 High Street
12.3 km
Discover unique local treasures and handcrafted gifts in the heart of Newtown at No1 High Street, a charming and welcoming gift shop.
Empires & Eagles Vintage Collectables & Curiosities
12.6 km
Explore a treasure trove of antiques, unique collectibles, and vintage finds at Empires & Eagles in Bishops Castle, a must-visit for every treasure seeker.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Upper House Inn
2.8 km
A welcoming rural pub in Llandyssil offering classic Welsh hospitality, great value drinks, and hearty local fare in a cozy countryside setting.
The Lion Hotel
5.6 km
Experience historic Welsh charm and warm hospitality in the heart of Berriew at The Lion Hotel, a cozy 400-year-old inn with modern comforts.
The Sarn
5.9 km
A renovated rural pub in Newtown offering hearty food, friendly service, and a cozy atmosphere with a charming beer garden.
Miners Arms
7.1 km
Rustic country pub on the Welsh-Shropshire border offering authentic ales, hearty fare, and a warm, tranquil atmosphere in the Shropshire Hills.
The Kerry Lamb
9.8 km
A cozy pub in Kerry, Powys, serving fresh homemade British classics with a warm, welcoming atmosphere and great value.
Bull & Heifer
10.0 km
Cozy country pub in Bettws Cedewain serving classic British dishes with warm hospitality and rustic charm.
Raven Inn
11.1 km
Welshpool’s welcoming pub with quality food, a lively bar, and a friendly atmosphere in the heart of Raven Square.
The Railway Tavern
12.1 km
A cozy, welcoming pub in Newtown with great ales, roaring fires, and a lively community spirit all year round.
The Sportsman
12.3 km
A lively and welcoming Newtown pub serving quality drinks and hearty fare in a friendly, dog-friendly setting with a charming beer garden.
Buck Inn
12.4 km
Historic 17th-century pub in Newtown with lively karaoke, real ales, and a warm, inclusive atmosphere for all.
The Three Tuns Inn
12.6 km
Step into centuries of history at The Three Tuns Inn, Bishops Castle’s cozy pub offering local cuisine and exceptional ales in a warm, historic setting.
Gwernydd Arms
14.4 km
A welcoming traditional pub in New Mills, offering hearty meals, local ales, and a tranquil patio in the heart of Powys countryside.
The Kings Head
15.1 km
A traditional Welsh pub in Guilsfield offering hearty meals, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating.
The Red Lion
15.3 km
A beloved traditional Welsh pub in Llanfair Caereinion, offering local ales, hearty meals, and a charming beer garden for a relaxed and authentic experience.
The Radnorshire Arms
17.0 km
Historic 17th-century Welsh pub offering hearty meals, local ales, and warm hospitality in the tranquil Teme Valley near Knighton.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Monty Club
12.3 km
A welcoming social and sports club in Newtown with ample space for pool, snooker, darts, and vibrant community events.
Caersws Village Club
19.5 km
A vibrant village club in Caersws offering lively events, warm community spirit, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of rural Wales.
Basement Sessions
29.1 km
Dive into the lively nightlife of Llanidloes at Basement Sessions, where eclectic music and vibrant energy create memorable experiences.
Boutique - Shrewsbury
31.2 km
A vibrant 90s-inspired nightclub in Shrewsbury offering lively nights, stylish booths, and a nostalgic yet modern clubbing experience.
Havana Republic
31.8 km
Experience the vibrant Latin-inspired nightlife of Havana Republic, Shrewsbury’s hotspot for cocktails, music, and late-night fun.
The Buttermarket
31.8 km
Shrewsbury’s iconic Grade II listed venue, The Buttermarket, offers vibrant live music, club nights, and diverse entertainment across three dynamic floors.
757 Night Club & Laluna events venue
45.4 km
A vibrant nightclub and events venue in Wellington, Telford, blending modern style with lively weekend entertainment.
We Love Oldskool Nights
48.1 km
Experience the vibrant energy of classic 90s and 2000s R’n’B and hip-hop at We Love Oldskool Nights, the ultimate dance club for nostalgic partygoers.
Jac’s Mansion
48.7 km
Experience welcoming, vibrant LGBTQ+ nightlife at Jac’s Mansion, Builth Wells’ iconic gay nightclub with a lively, inclusive atmosphere.
The Magnet Club
55.2 km
Wrexham’s independent venue since 1984, The Magnet Club blends live music, sports, and social games in a welcoming, refurbished space on King Street.
Mainstreet Nightclub
56.9 km
Experience Newport’s vibrant nightlife at Mainstreet Nightclub, where music, dancing, and a lively crowd create unforgettable late-night memories.
Dj Tony B Disco Karaoke & video Roadshow
61.5 km
Dive into a night of music and fun at Dj Tony B Disco Karaoke & Video Roadshow, where every guest gets to shine on stage!
Trilogy Hereford
63.3 km
Experience Hereford’s vibrant nightlife at Trilogy, a dynamic nightclub pulsing with music and energy until the early morning hours.
The Club Barmouth
63.9 km
Experience vibrant Saturday nights at The Club Barmouth, where stylish vibes meet lively music by the scenic Welsh coast.
Yokoswnb
65.5 km
A vibrant, budget-friendly nightclub and bar in Aberystwyth, popular with students for its lively atmosphere and central location.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
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
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
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
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
