Winchcombe Museum: A Portal to Winchcombe’s Rich Heritage
Discover Winchcombe’s rich history and artisan pottery heritage at this intimate museum in the heart of the Cotswolds.
Winchcombe Museum, located on High Street in Cheltenham’s Winchcombe, offers a captivating journey through the town’s history from Neolithic times to the present. The museum showcases local archaeology, Roman artifacts, medieval abbey relics, and traditional crafts such as Winchcombe Pottery. Its intimate setting and diverse collections celebrate the cultural and social heritage of this ancient Cotswold town.
A brief summary to Winchcombe Museum
- High St, Cheltenham, Winchcombe, GL54 5LJ, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Budget
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit on a weekday or Saturday between 10:00 and 16:00 for full access to exhibits and the museum shop.
- Explore the pottery collection to appreciate Winchcombe’s long-standing artisan traditions.
- Check the museum’s website for special events and talks that offer deeper insights into local history.
- Combine your visit with a walk around Winchcombe’s historic town center to enhance your cultural experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
- Food Options
- Drink Options
Getting There
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Bus
Take a local bus service from Cheltenham town center to Winchcombe, which typically takes 30 to 40 minutes. Buses run several times daily but check schedules in advance as frequency varies. The bus stop is a short walk from the museum.
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Car
Driving from Cheltenham to Winchcombe takes about 20 minutes via the B4077. Parking is available near the town center but can be limited during weekends. Parking fees may apply.
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Walking
If staying in Winchcombe, the museum is easily accessible on foot via the town’s High Street. The terrain is flat and suitable for wheelchair users, with a walk duration depending on your accommodation location.
Winchcombe Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
Discover more about Winchcombe Museum
Exploring Winchcombe’s Historical Tapestry
Winchcombe Museum presents a detailed narrative of the town’s long and varied history. From the Neolithic burial site at Belas Knap to the Roman occupation and the medieval abbey, the museum’s exhibits trace the evolution of this ancient settlement. Artifacts unearthed locally provide insight into the daily lives and spiritual practices of past inhabitants, highlighting Winchcombe’s importance through the ages.Celebrating Local Craftsmanship and Traditions
A key feature of the museum is its focus on Winchcombe’s renowned pottery tradition. The collection includes artisan pots from Winchcombe Pottery and works by trained local potters, showcasing the skill and artistry that have defined the town’s crafts scene. Additionally, displays of corn dollies, clocks, and jugs crafted by local artisans enrich the visitor’s understanding of the town’s cultural fabric.Community and Cultural Engagement
Beyond its permanent collection, Winchcombe Museum serves as a cultural hub, hosting talks, exhibitions, and events that engage the local community and visitors alike. The museum shop, The Undercroft, offers unique souvenirs reflecting the town’s heritage. The museum’s active role in preserving and promoting Winchcombe’s history makes it a vital part of the town’s cultural landscape.Setting and Visitor Experience
Situated on the High Street, the museum’s location places visitors in the heart of Winchcombe’s charming town center. The intimate scale of the museum allows for a personal and immersive experience, inviting visitors to connect deeply with the exhibits. The atmosphere is one of quiet reflection and discovery, perfect for history enthusiasts and casual visitors.Seasonal Accessibility and Practicalities
The museum operates primarily from Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00 to 16:00, with limited winter hours on weekends only. This schedule reflects the museum’s community-focused nature and its reliance on local support. Visitors should check opening times ahead, especially in the off-season, to plan their visit accordingly.Preserving Winchcombe’s Legacy for Future Generations
Winchcombe Museum plays a crucial role in safeguarding the town’s heritage, ensuring that stories and artifacts from its rich past remain accessible. Its dedication to education and preservation fosters a deeper appreciation of Winchcombe’s unique identity within the Cotswolds and beyond.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Cotswold Journeys
5.1 km
Explore the enchanting Cotswolds on expertly crafted walking tours with seamless logistics and charming local stays.
World Walks (inc. Cotswold Journeys, British & Irish Walks)
5.2 km
Explore the captivating beauty of the Cotswolds with World Walks, your gateway to unforgettable guided walking tours across Britain and Ireland.
National Trust - Chedworth Roman Villa
15.2 km
Explore the remarkable Chedworth Roman Villa, a historic site showcasing the grandeur of Roman architecture and lifestyle in stunning Cotswold scenery.
Colesbourne Gardens
15.3 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Colesbourne Gardens, a serene escape in Cheltenham, perfect for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.
Odda's Chapel
15.7 km
Explore the historic Odda's Chapel in Deerhurst, a stunning example of Anglo-Saxon architecture and a serene retreat into England's past.
Jet Age Museum
15.8 km
Discover the rich history of British aviation at the Jet Age Museum, where technology meets nostalgia in a captivating experience.
National Trust - Dover's Hill
15.8 km
Discover the breathtaking views and diverse wildlife at Dover's Hill, a hidden gem in the heart of the Cotswolds, perfect for hiking and exploration.
Church of St Peter and St Paul, Northleach
16.2 km
The 'Cathedral of the Cotswolds'—a 15th-century masterpiece built by wool merchants at the height of medieval prosperity.
The Model Village
16.3 km
Experience the enchanting world of The Model Village, a miniature gem in Bourton-on-the-Water, capturing the essence of Cotswold charm.
Chipping Campden
16.4 km
Discover the enchanting beauty of Chipping Campden, a historic market town in the Cotswolds, with stunning architecture and scenic landscapes.
Greystones Farm Nature Reserve
16.5 km
Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Greystones Farm Nature Reserve in the Cotswolds, a perfect getaway for nature lovers and families.
The Dragonfly Maze
16.5 km
Explore the whimsical pathways of The Dragonfly Maze in Bourton-on-the-Water, a serene adventure for nature lovers and families alike.
St Edward's Church
16.7 km
Explore St Edward's Church in Stow-on-the-Wold, a historic gem steeped in rich heritage and stunning architecture, perfect for culture enthusiasts.
West Banqueting House
16.9 km
Experience the grandeur of Jacobean England in West Banqueting House, a beautifully preserved historic retreat in the heart of Chipping Campden.
Old Campden House
16.9 km
Explore the evocative ruins and Jacobean heritage of Old Campden House, a grand 17th-century mansion touched by history and time.
Unmissable attractions to see
Sudeley Castle
0.9 km
Explore a Tudor castle with royal tombs, award-winning gardens, and family adventures nestled in the scenic Cotswolds.
Sudeley Castle Gardens
0.9 km
A Tudor jewel with 1,000 years of history, ten award-winning gardens, and royal connections in the Cotswolds.
Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway
1.4 km
Step aboard vintage steam trains through the scenic Cotswolds on a 28-mile heritage railway journey filled with history, charm, and community spirit.
Belas Knap Long Barrow
2.9 km
Discover the ancient mysteries of Belas Knap Long Barrow, a Neolithic treasure in the stunning Cotswolds, perfect for history lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Hailes Abbey
3.0 km
Explore the tranquil ruins of 13th-century Hailes Abbey, a captivating Cistercian site steeped in medieval history and set in peaceful Cotswold countryside.
Hailes Church
3.1 km
Discover the serene beauty and historical significance of Hailes Church in Cheltenham, a true gem nestled in the picturesque Cotswolds.
Cleeve Hill
4.7 km
Discover the highest peak of the Cotswolds with breathtaking views, rich nature, and invigorating walking trails at Cleeve Hill.
Stanway House
5.4 km
Discover the timeless charm of Stanway House, a Jacobean manor with Britain’s tallest gravity-fed fountain and enchanting historic gardens.
Explore Gloucestershire
7.2 km
Your friendly gateway to Gloucester’s rich history, events, and travel services, located inside the Museum of Gloucester.
Shenberrow Hill
7.4 km
Discover Shenberrow Hill’s tranquil landscapes and charming village atmosphere on the scenic edge of the Cotswolds.
Whittington Court
7.8 km
Discover the charm of Whittington Court, a beautifully preserved Tudor manor nestled in the tranquil Cotswold countryside near Cheltenham.
Pittville Park
8.6 km
Cheltenham’s largest ornamental park blending Victorian heritage, lakes, sports, and family fun in a lush, historic setting.
Snowshill
8.9 km
Discover Snowshill, a charming Cotswold village where historic manor, vibrant gardens, and lavender fields create a serene and captivating escape.
National Trust - Snowshill Manor and Garden
9.0 km
Discover the enchanting 16th-century manor and whimsical Arts and Crafts garden of Charles Wade’s eclectic collection in the heart of the Cotswolds.
Cotswold Farm Park
9.1 km
Meet rare British farm breeds and experience authentic countryside learning in the heart of the Cotswolds.
Essential places to dine
5 North St
0.0 km
An intimate French dining experience in Winchcombe, blending innovative cuisine with cozy charm and unpretentious service.
The Halfway at Kineton
7.3 km
A charming 17th-century Cotswold pub blending rustic ambiance with refined seasonal British cuisine and warm hospitality.
The Coconut Tree Cheltenham
9.4 km
Experience vibrant Sri Lankan street food and island cocktails in a cozy, lively Cheltenham venue with authentic flavours and warm hospitality.
Buckland Manor
9.4 km
Elegant historic manor hotel with fine dining and tranquil gardens in the heart of the Cotswolds’ charming Broadway village.
Cosy Club
9.6 km
Eclectic British dining and lively social vibes await you daily in Cheltenham’s vibrant Brewery Quarter.
Petit Coco Bistro
9.6 km
Charming French bistro in Cheltenham offering authentic classics, cozy farmhouse decor, and a warm, intimate dining experience.
Purslane Restaurant
9.7 km
Discover Purslane, Cheltenham’s intimate modern British restaurant celebrating sustainable seafood and seasonal local produce with inventive flair.
Prithvi
9.8 km
Experience innovative Indian fine dining in Cheltenham with exquisite flavors, elegant ambiance, and impeccable service at Prithvi.
Lumiere
9.8 km
Michelin-starred Lumière in Cheltenham offers innovative British fine dining with seasonal, home-grown ingredients in an elegant, intimate setting.
MUSE Brasserie
9.8 km
Creative fusion of French and Indian cuisine in stylish Cheltenham setting, offering innovative dishes and warm, attentive service.
The Ivy Montpellier Brasserie Cheltenham
10.4 km
Elegant dining in Cheltenham’s historic Montpellier Rotunda, blending modern British cuisine with iconic Ivy style and grand architectural charm.
Le Champignon Sauvage
10.5 km
A serene Michelin-starred haven in Cheltenham offering inventive Anglo-French cuisine with exceptional service and a celebrated wine list.
Russell’s of Broadway
11.5 km
Elegant boutique hotel and acclaimed restaurant blending historic charm with refined British cuisine in the heart of Broadway, Cotswolds.
The Shed
13.4 km
A relaxed Cotswold bar and restaurant with roaring fires, local food, and a convivial atmosphere, perfect for drinks, light meals, and easygoing evenings.
The Back Garden
13.5 km
Elegant garden-inspired dining at Dormy House, blending Cotswold produce with Mediterranean flair in a sunlit, serene setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Just Incase Gifts
0.1 km
Discover unique, quality gifts and local crafts at this warm, family-run shop in the heart of Winchcombe’s charming Cotswold village.
Vinegar Hill
10.0 km
Discover Cheltenham’s family-run boutique blending stylish homewares, fashion, and unique gifts in a warm, inviting setting since 1997.
Great British Boutique
10.6 km
Discover unique gifts and quirky homeware in Cheltenham’s welcoming Great British Boutique, where friendly service meets charming finds.
Willow Hilson Vintage
10.7 km
Authentic vintage fashion from the 1920s to 1960s in a charming Cheltenham boutique with artistic flair and photography studio.
Emporium
10.7 km
Discover unique gifts and a warm welcome at Emporium, Cheltenham’s charming family-run gift shop on Bath Road.
The Malt House Emporium
11.4 km
Discover unique antiques, vintage treasures, and a cozy café experience at The Malt House Emporium near Tewkesbury.
Wild at Heart
11.4 km
Discover unique contemporary jewellery and gifts from local artisans at Wild at Heart, Broadway’s family-run boutique with a personal touch.
Betty & Violet
11.4 km
Vintage treasures and handmade goods celebrating independent makers in the heart of the Cotswolds.
The Man Cave Broadway
11.5 km
Eclectic collectibles and gifts in a historic Cotswolds village setting.
Cotswolds Distillery Shop
11.6 km
Discover the heart of Cotswolds spirits craftsmanship at the Broadway shop, home to award-winning whiskies and gins.
Whatever The Weather
11.6 km
Discover unique gifts and charming curiosities in a historic thatched cottage at the heart of Broadway’s picturesque High Street.
Cotswold Trading - Broadway
11.6 km
A stylish homewares and gift shop in the heart of Broadway, offering curated kitchenware, décor, and presents with a distinctly British flair.
Cotswold Picture Shop
15.7 km
Discover authentic Cotswold art and unique gifts in a charming Bourton-on-the-Water boutique open daily until midnight.
Cotswold China & Cookware
16.0 km
Discover exquisite British chinaware and cookware in a charming boutique nestled in the heart of Bourton-on-the-Water.
The Cotswold Shop
16.1 km
Charming boutique offering handcrafted gifts and traditional sweets in one of Bourton-on-the-Water’s oldest buildings.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Lion Inn
0.1 km
Historic 15th-century coaching inn in Winchcombe offering cozy rooms, hearty British fare, and a warm, inviting atmosphere in the heart of the Cotswolds.
The Royal Oak, Prestbury
7.2 km
Historic 16th-century pub in Prestbury offering traditional Cotswold charm, seasonal British fare, award-winning ales, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Hollow Bottom
7.4 km
A historic Cotswold pub blending hearty local fare, warm hospitality, and scenic countryside charm in the heart of Guiting Power.
Snowshill Arms
8.9 km
Authentic Cotswold pub offering hearty fare, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere in the picturesque village of Snowshill.
The Cotswold Inn, Cheltenham.
9.4 km
A lively Cheltenham pub blending traditional charm with vibrant live music and a welcoming local atmosphere.
Copa of Cheltenham
9.6 km
Lively pub and restaurant on Regent Street offering great drinks, tasty pub food, and a welcoming atmosphere with live sports and a beer garden.
The Retreat
10.4 km
A charming Cheltenham wine bar blending historic ambiance with locally sourced cuisine and a relaxed, inviting atmosphere.
The Gloucester Old Spot
12.9 km
A quintessential English pub in Cheltenham offering hearty modern British fare, rare breed pork specialties, and a warm, inviting atmosphere year-round.
The House in The Tree
13.1 km
A charming and historic English pub in Cheltenham, serving hearty homemade meals in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere with rustic character.
Experimental Cocktail Club Cotswolds
15.0 km
Sophisticated cocktails and vibrant DJ nights in the heart of the Cotswolds at Cowley Manor’s stylish Experimental Cocktail Club.
The Green Dragon Inn Pub & Shop
15.2 km
A historic 17th-century Cotswold inn blending rustic charm, fine dining, and countryside comfort in tranquil Cockleford near Cheltenham.
The Coach & Horses
15.3 km
A cosy, traditional Cotswold pub in Longborough serving hearty fare, local ales, and welcoming guests with charming B&B rooms.
Kingsbridge
16.2 km
A classic riverside pub in Bourton-on-the-Water offering hearty British fare, cask ales, and warm hospitality in a scenic Cotswold village setting.
The Bakers Arms
16.2 km
A timeless Cotswold pub offering hearty fare and warm hospitality in the heart of Broad Campden’s historic village.
Eight Bells Inn
16.8 km
Historic 14th-century inn with cozy rooms, classic pub fare, and a warm, dog-friendly atmosphere in the heart of Chipping Campden.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
2 PIGS
9.6 km
A lively Cheltenham nightclub with dual rooms spinning rock, punk, indie, and classic hits, known for affordable drinks and an alternative vibe.
Coco
9.7 km
Cheltenham’s underground hotspot for vibrant nightlife, top DJs, and creative cocktails in a lively basement setting.
The 21 Club
9.8 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife at The 21 Club, where music, dancing, and great drinks create unforgettable nights.
Popworld - Cheltenham
9.9 km
Cheltenham’s lively late-night hotspot where cheesy pop tunes and creative cocktails fuel unforgettable party nights.
MooMoo Clubrooms Cheltenham
9.9 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic music, VIP vibes, and late-night energy at MooMoo Clubrooms.
Home and Botanic Nightclub
10.0 km
Historic charm meets vibrant nightlife at Cheltenham’s Home and Botanic, a multi-room club offering cocktails, live piano, DJs, and unforgettable nights.
Thirteen Degrees
10.0 km
Cheltenham’s late-night hotspot for dancing, cocktails, and private events in a central urban setting.
Under the Prom
10.0 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife with premium drinks, three unique bars, and VIP service at Under The Prom nightclub.
ATIK Gloucester
21.5 km
Gloucester’s largest nightclub, ATIK pulses with vibrant music, student nights, and an energetic party atmosphere until the early hours.
Bar Fever Gloucester
21.5 km
Experience Gloucester’s vibrant nightlife at Bar Fever, a trendy nightclub with dynamic music, stylish interiors, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Jax Nightclub Gloucester
21.7 km
Energetic nightclub in Gloucester offering diverse music, two dance floors, and a welcoming atmosphere for late-night fun.
ReVA Nightclub
26.4 km
Cirencester’s largest nightclub offering electrifying music, stylish cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere for unforgettable nights.
Trio Nightclub
29.1 km
Experience Stroud’s vibrant nightlife at Trio Nightclub, where music, dancing, and energetic vibes light up weekend nights.
The Stratford Upon Avon Bridge Club
31.2 km
Explore the vibrant community of The Stratford Upon Avon Bridge Club, where bridge enthusiasts gather for games, camaraderie, and local culture in a picturesque setting.
Sin
31.6 km
Experience Worcester’s vibrant nightlife at Sin, a lively nightclub known for energetic music, salsa nights, and a bustling dance floor in the city centre.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Cultural Heritage
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
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
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
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