The Oxfordshire Museum in Historic Fletcher's House, Woodstock
Discover Oxfordshire’s rich heritage from dinosaurs to Victorians in the historic Fletcher’s House with engaging exhibits and tranquil gardens.
Nestled in the heart of Woodstock, The Oxfordshire Museum occupies the grand 18th-century Fletcher's House, offering a rich journey through Oxfordshire's history from the Jurassic era to Victorian times. Visitors explore diverse galleries featuring dinosaurs, Anglo-Saxons, Romans, and local countryside heritage. The museum’s tranquil walled garden, café, and gift shop enhance the experience, making it a cultural gem with free entry and engaging exhibits for all ages.
A brief summary to The Oxfordshire Museum
- Fletcher's House, Park St, Woodstock, OX20 1SN, GB
- +441865897519
- 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 2 pm-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekdays for a quieter experience and enjoy the peaceful walled garden and café.
- Allow 1 to 2 hours to explore the diverse galleries and seasonal exhibitions fully.
- Check the museum’s website for special workshops and family-friendly events.
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Blenheim Palace and the Soldiers of Oxfordshire Museum.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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By Car
Drive via the A44 from Oxford or Evesham to Woodstock. Free public parking is available at Hensington Road, with limited pay-and-display spaces near the museum. Travel time is approximately 25-35 minutes from Oxford city centre. Parking can be limited during peak tourist seasons.
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By Bus
Take bus routes S3 or S7 from Oxford city centre directly to Woodstock, with a journey time of about 45-55 minutes. The S7 also serves Witney and stops near Long Hanborough train station. Buses run regularly but check schedules for weekend and holiday variations. The bus stop is within walking distance of the museum.
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By Train and Bus
Travel by train to Hanborough station from Oxford (around 15 minutes), then take a local bus or taxi to Woodstock, which is about 5 km away. This combined journey takes roughly 45-60 minutes. Train and bus services may have limited frequency on Sundays and public holidays.
The Oxfordshire Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Oxfordshire Museum
Historic Setting in Fletcher's House
The Oxfordshire Museum is housed in Fletcher's House, a distinguished 18th-century building located on Park Street in Woodstock. This historic structure stands on a site with a long lineage, with records showing a house and forge here since 1279 and the Fletcher family residing from 1468. The building itself is an architectural treasure that anchors the museum’s rich narrative, blending heritage with contemporary museum design awarded for its thoughtful layout and engaging exhibits.Exploring Oxfordshire’s Story
Inside, the museum unfolds Oxfordshire’s story across multiple eras. Visitors can journey from the Jurassic period with life-sized dinosaur models and rare Jurassic plants, through Roman and Anglo-Saxon times, to the Victorian age. Dedicated galleries highlight the county’s woodland heritage, countryside evolution, and the local town of Woodstock. Exhibits include fascinating artefacts, interactive displays, and thematic collections such as traditional smocks, offering a vivid insight into the lives and culture of Oxfordshire’s people through the centuries.The Garden and Café Experience
Beyond the galleries, the museum features a serene walled garden that changes with the seasons, offering a peaceful retreat in the town centre. The garden includes a Dinosaur Garden with Jurassic planting, including the rare Wollemi Pine and a life-sized Megalosaurus sculpture. Visitors can relax in the Garden Café, which serves hot and cold drinks, light lunches, and locally produced treats. The café’s outdoor decking and shaded spots provide ideal places for picnics or a restful pause during exploration.Community Engagement and Special Exhibitions
The museum hosts a varied programme of exhibitions and workshops throughout the year, often spotlighting local craftsmen and new talents. It offers interactive sessions for children and families, making it a lively cultural hub. The Gift Shop complements the experience with educational toys, books, handmade jewellery, and souvenirs, supporting the museum’s ongoing work. Free admission encourages frequent visits and community participation.Accessibility and Visitor Facilities
While housed in a historic building, the museum strives to be welcoming to all visitors. Accessibility information and a detailed floor plan are available to help plan visits, though some limitations exist due to the age of the structure. Facilities include restrooms, seating areas, a café, and a gift shop. The museum is closed on Mondays but open Tuesday through Saturday from 10am to 5pm, and Sundays from 2pm to 5pm, with last admission at 4:45pm.Woodstock’s Cultural Context
Situated in Woodstock, a town steeped in history and close to Blenheim Palace, the museum offers a gateway to understanding Oxfordshire’s broader heritage. Woodstock itself boasts medieval origins, royal connections, and a vibrant market history. The museum complements visits to nearby attractions such as the Soldiers of Oxfordshire Museum and Swalcliffe Barn, enriching the cultural landscape of the region.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Cultural Heritage
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
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
