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Lowestoft Museum: A Gateway to Local Heritage in Historic Broad House

Explore Lowestoft’s rich heritage in a charming 17th-century house filled with porcelain, fossils, maritime history, and immersive local exhibits.

4.6

Lowestoft Museum, housed in the Grade II listed Broad House dating from 1685, is nestled in Nicholas Everitt Park, Oulton Broad. This volunteer-run museum showcases a rich array of exhibits including 18th-century Lowestoft porcelain, fossils, archaeological finds, maritime history, and local cultural heritage. Open from April to October, it offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the area's past with free entry and a welcoming atmosphere.

A brief summary to Lowestoft Museum

  • Nicholas Everitt Park, Broad House, Lowestoft, NR33 9JR, GB
  • +441502511457
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 2 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Local tips

  • Visit between April and October when the museum is open daily in the afternoons, with longer hours on Thursdays.
  • Explore the museum’s renowned collection of 18th-century Lowestoft porcelain and local archaeological finds.
  • Take time to enjoy the surrounding Nicholas Everitt Park, which offers public restrooms and scenic walking paths.
  • The museum is staffed by friendly volunteers who can provide insights and answer questions about the exhibits.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    Take local bus services to Oulton Broad North or South stops, located about 1.5 km from the museum. From there, a flat 20-minute walk through Nicholas Everitt Park leads to the museum entrance. Bus fares range from £2 to £4 depending on the route.

  • Car

    Driving to Lowestoft Museum is straightforward with parking available in Nicholas Everitt Park nearby. Travel times vary but expect about 10-20 minutes from central Lowestoft. Parking is free but limited, so early arrival is recommended.

  • Train and Walk

    From Lowestoft railway station, a 3 km walk or a short taxi ride (approximately 10 minutes, £5-£8) will bring you to Nicholas Everitt Park. The walk is mostly flat and suitable for most visitors.

Lowestoft Museum location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Lowestoft Museum

Historic Setting Within Broad House

Lowestoft Museum is located inside Broad House, a distinguished Grade II listed building constructed in 1685. Situated within the picturesque Nicholas Everitt Park at Oulton Broad, the museum benefits from a serene parkland setting that complements its historical significance. The building itself embodies centuries of local architectural heritage, providing an atmospheric backdrop for the museum’s collections.

Extensive Collections Reflecting Local History

The museum’s exhibits span a broad spectrum of Lowestoft’s history and culture. It is particularly renowned for its important collection of 18th-century Lowestoft porcelain, a prized local craft. Visitors can explore displays featuring fossils and artefacts related to early human history, including items linked to the Pakefield Man dating back some 700,000 years. Archaeological finds from Roman and Anglo-Saxon sites in the region are also showcased, offering insights into the area’s ancient past.

Maritime and Industrial Heritage

Lowestoft’s maritime legacy is well represented with exhibits dedicated to HMS Lowestoft and HMS Mantis, as well as the town’s role as a historic fishing port. Displays trace the evolution of local industries and highlight notable figures associated with Lowestoft, such as composer Benjamin Britten and writer George Borrow. These collections illustrate the economic and cultural development of the town through the centuries.

Immersive Period Rooms and Community Stories

The museum features evocative period rooms, including a Victorian domestic setting and a traditional cobbler’s shop, which bring local history to life. Additional displays include a doctor’s surgery, a St John’s Ambulance exhibit, and a collection of old toys. These immersive environments provide a tangible connection to the daily lives of Lowestoft’s past residents.

Volunteer-Run and Community Focused

Operated entirely by dedicated local volunteers, Lowestoft Museum is a community-driven institution. It relies on donations and volunteer support, emphasizing local engagement and education. The museum also offers resources for schools and can accommodate group visits by special arrangement, fostering a deeper appreciation of the region’s heritage.

Visitor Experience and Practical Information

Open from April through October, the museum welcomes visitors every afternoon, typically between 1pm and 4pm, with extended hours on Thursdays. Entry is free, encouraging accessibility for all. While there are no toilet facilities inside the museum, public restrooms are conveniently located nearby within Nicholas Everitt Park. The peaceful park setting, combined with the museum’s rich collections, makes it an ideal destination for history enthusiasts and families alike.

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