Monitorial Schoolroom
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British Schools Museum Hitchin

4.7
·182 reviews·, United Kingdom

Explore Britain's educational past in the world's only Monitorial Schoolroom and immersive Victorian classrooms.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends

Museum is open, lively atmosphere

CrowdMedium
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Monitorial Schoolroom

British Schools Museum Hitchin

Best Time

Weekends

Museum is open, lively atmosphere

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Britain's educational past in the world's only Monitorial Schoolroom and immersive Victorian classrooms.

4.7
(182 reviews)

"Absolutely brilliant! Lots to do for all ages and a fabulous cafe with good food at great prices."

Vertical photo
TIP

⏳ Allow ample time

You could easily spend 2.5 hours here, or even longer if you get absorbed in the displays and activities!

☕ Enjoy the cafe

The cafe offers good food at great prices, perfect for refueling after exploring.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Monitorial Schoolroom

The Monitorial Schoolroom

Main School Building

Step into the world's only remaining Monitorial Schoolroom, a truly unique historical artifact.

Victorian Classroom Immersion

Victorian Classroom Immersion

Victorian Classrooms

Experience a Victorian lesson, write with chalk and slates, and learn about the 3Rs firsthand.

Headmaster's House

Headmaster's House

Adjacent House

Explore the Headmaster's House to understand domestic life and the realities of Victorian family living.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Special Events

The British Schools Museum in Hitchin hosts fantastic events like 'Victorians Live!' and craft fairs. Booking in advance is often recommended, especially for school holiday activities, to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. Check their website for the latest schedule.

Embrace the Victorian Experience

Many visitors highlight the immersive Victorian schoolroom experience. If you're visiting with children, consider booking a 'Victorians Live!' day for an engaging, hands-on lesson. It's a unique way to bring history to life and understand past educational methods.

Best Times

When
Weekends
Why
Museum is open, lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
During 'Victorians Live!' days
Why
Immersive historical experience
Crowd
High
When
Weekday mornings (for school groups)
Why
Less crowded for general visitors
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

British Schools Museum is open 🏫 Friday - Sunday 10am to 4pm (last entry at 3pm) Come and see the only remaining Monitorial Schoolroom in the world ✨ #hitchin #ourhitchin #hitchintown #letchworth #stevenage #biggleswade #hertfordshire #hitchinmums #hertsparents #hertfordshiremums #hertsmums #josephlancaster #schoolroom
britishschoolsmuseum
26 likes • 2K views

⏳ Allow ample time

You could easily spend 2.5 hours here, or even longer if you get absorbed in the displays and activities! Reddit

☕ Enjoy the cafe

The cafe offers good food at great prices, perfect for refueling after exploring. Reddit

We are finalists again this year!! How amazing is that! Thank you to everyone that nominated us. The British schools museum is also a finalist! Vote for us in our categories to win this year’s award. Go get into Mums guide to Hitchin website and find us in the most family friendly Cafe/Restaurant category ☺️. Don’t forget to vote for the museum too! @britishschoolsmuseum @mumsguidetohitchin #hitch...
cafe_the_schools_museum
5 likes • 260 views
🎥 Throwback to Victorian times! 🕰️✏️ Our Year 1 children had an unforgettable visit to the British Schools Museum in Hitchin, where they discovered what it was like to attend school during Victorian times! 🏫👒📚 They sat in old-fashioned classrooms, used chalk and slates, and even experienced wearing the dreaded dunce hat! 😳🎩 They learned all about the strict behaviour management techniques used b...
dehavnurseryandprimaryschool
28 likes • 878 views

✍️ Try the handwriting

Practice your handwriting with ink and a fountain pen for an authentic Victorian experience. Reddit

🎭 Engage with guides

Volunteer guides are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate, making tours fascinating. Reddit

🎅Here's a sneek peak into the journey you'll be taking around British Schools Museum, becoming a part of Charles Dickens' classic story, in our immersive performances of A Christmas Carol in Hitchin. This historic Victorian venue will hold many magical (and ghostly) surprises along the way!🎅 OVO's beloved A Christmas Carol is in its fourth year of Hertfordshire performances, bringing its festive...
ovotheatre
119 likes • 5.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

⏳ Allow ample time

You could easily spend 2.5 hours here, or even longer if you get absorbed in the displays and activities! Reddit

☕ Enjoy the cafe

The cafe offers good food at great prices, perfect for refueling after exploring. Reddit

✍️ Try the handwriting

Practice your handwriting with ink and a fountain pen for an authentic Victorian experience. Reddit

🎭 Engage with guides

Volunteer guides are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate, making tours fascinating. Reddit

👗 Dress up fun

Don't be afraid to try on historical costumes – it's fun for all ages! Reddit

📅 Check event schedule

Look out for special events like craft fairs and Halloween crafts for extra fun! Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.7
(182 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the British Schools Museum Hitchin for its unique historical exhibits, particularly the world's only remaining Monitorial Schoolroom and immersive Victorian classrooms. The knowledgeable and friendly volunteer guides, along with the engaging hands-on activities, make it a memorable experience for all ages. The affordable and good-quality cafe is also a significant plus.

"We went there for the Halloween crafts session with my daughter, and it was such a lovely experience! We could choose any pumpkin we wanted, and everything we needed for the crafts was provided. The place was very clean and well-organised, and my daughter had a great time. All the ladies there were very friendly and helpful, which made the experience even nicer. We’ll definitely join their future events too!"

Negar Azimi

"Biased as I'm a new volunteer, but the Victorian lessons they hold for schools are brilliant. Such good fun. Likely best for older primary school children or early secondary, but could be fun for GCSE English or History students too.

Would have loved to have experienced this as a child. A lovely concept and museum. Worth experiencing."

Sea

"Absolutely brilliant. The talk about the Headmasters house was detailed and engaging (our 4 year old loved the story about how to bathe as a family!) . Lots to do for all ages and a fabulous cafe with good food for all at great prices. We fed 6 adults and two children for lunch and had all the drinks we wanted for £62! Looks like they do great educational stuff for school age kids too. We will return and tell others! Go there it’s great and staff super friendly!"

Georgina Hall

What People Like

Unique historical exhibits
Immersive Victorian experience
Knowledgeable guides

What People Dislike

Limited parking nearby

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The British Schools Museum is located in Hitchin, Hertfordshire. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. For public transport, Hitchin train station is a short walk away, and local bus services also serve the town center. TikTok

While there isn't dedicated parking directly at the museum, there are several public car parks within a short walking distance in Hitchin town center. Reddit

Yes, Hitchin is well-served by public transport. The museum is a walkable distance from Hitchin train station and various bus routes stop in the town center. TikTok

Many visitors find traveling by train to Hitchin station convenient, as it's a direct route for many and the museum is a short walk from there. Driving is also an option with nearby parking. Reddit

The museum is housed in historic buildings, so accessibility can be a consideration. It's advisable to contact the museum directly to inquire about specific accessibility arrangements for the different areas. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The museum is typically open Friday to Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm, with the last entry at 3 pm. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most up-to-date opening times, especially around holidays. TikTok

Admission prices can vary, but the museum offers great value. Some reviews mention paying a penny for a day's schooling in the Victorian classroom, but for general entry, check their website for current ticket prices. InstagramReddit

While not always mandatory for general visits, booking in advance is highly recommended for special events like 'Victorians Live!' or craft fairs to guarantee your spot. Instagram+1

Information on discounts for specific groups like children, seniors, or families is usually available on the museum's official website. School group bookings often have specific rates. Reddit

The last entry to the museum is typically at 3 pm, allowing visitors an hour to explore before closing at 4 pm. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore the unique Monitorial Schoolroom, experience Victorian classrooms with hands-on activities like writing with ink, visit the Headmaster's House, and enjoy interactive displays covering different eras of education. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! Children love the immersive Victorian school lessons, dressing up, and hands-on activities. Special events like 'Victorians Live!' are particularly engaging for younger visitors. InstagramReddit+1

Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but it's always best to check for any specific restrictions within certain exhibits or during special events. Reddit

Yes, volunteer guides offer fantastic tours, sharing detailed and engaging insights into the museum's history and exhibits. Their passion makes the experience memorable. InstagramReddit

The museum primarily focuses on the history of British education, with a strong emphasis on the Victorian era, including its unique Monitorial Schoolroom and classrooms. It also touches upon earlier and later periods of schooling. InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the museum has a cafe that is highly praised for its good food and reasonable prices. It's a great spot to relax and enjoy refreshments. InstagramReddit

The cafe offers a range of consumables, including meals and drinks, suitable for both adults and children. Reviews highlight it as a family-friendly option. InstagramReddit

While specific policies can vary, it's generally best to consume your own food in designated picnic areas if available, or to utilize the museum's cafe for your meals. Reddit

The cafe aims to cater to various dietary needs, and it's recommended to check their current menu or inquire with staff upon arrival for specific vegetarian or vegan options. Reddit

Reviewers consistently mention that the cafe is reasonably priced, with one group of six adults and two children enjoying lunch and drinks for £62. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography for personal use is generally allowed within the British Schools Museum. However, always be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage regarding photography in certain areas. Reddit

The Victorian classrooms, with their slates and chalkboards, offer a unique backdrop. The Headmaster's House also provides interesting photographic opportunities showcasing historical domestic life. InstagramReddit

While personal photography is usually fine, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect artifacts. It's best to check with museum staff if you're unsure. Reddit

Tripod usage might be restricted to avoid obstructing pathways or other visitors. It's advisable to inquire with the museum staff beforehand if you plan to use a tripod. Reddit

Visitors often capture the immersive historical settings, the unique schoolroom environments, and the details of Victorian life. It's a great place for historical reenactment photography too. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The British Schools Museum is a fantastic destination for families. The Victorian classroom experience is a huge hit, allowing kids to actively participate in historical lessons, write with chalk, and even try on period costumes.Instagram+1 Special events like 'Victorians Live!' days are highly recommended for an even more immersive and fun-filled outing.

Don't miss the chance to explore the Headmaster's House for a broader understanding of Victorian family life. The on-site cafe is also a big plus, offering reasonably priced food in a family-friendly atmosphere, making it easy to spend a good portion of the day here without breaking the bank. Reddit

📚 History Enthusiasts & Educators

For those with a passion for history, the museum offers a unique window into the evolution of British education. The Monitorial Schoolroom is a globally significant artifact, providing a rare opportunity to see a preserved example of this influential teaching method.TikTok The detailed exhibits and knowledgeable volunteer guides offer deep insights into the social and educational history of the period.Reddit

Educators will find the museum particularly valuable for its immersive learning opportunities. The 'Victorians Live!' days and the hands-on activities in the Victorian classrooms offer practical ways to engage students with historical concepts, making it an excellent resource for school trips or personal enrichment. InstagramReddit

🛍️ Craft Fair Visitors

The British Schools Museum regularly hosts craft fairs, showcasing local artisans and designers.Instagram+1 These events are a wonderful opportunity to discover unique handmade items, from jewelry to home decor, and support independent businesses. It's a great way to combine a cultural visit with some enjoyable shopping.

These fairs are typically held on Saturdays and offer free entry, making them an accessible and pleasant way to spend a weekend morning. Visitors can browse the stalls, enjoy refreshments from the cafe, and soak in the historic atmosphere of the museum. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Unique Monitorial Schoolroom

The British Schools Museum in Hitchin is home to the only remaining Monitorial Schoolroom in the world.TikTok This revolutionary system, pioneered by Joseph Lancaster, allowed one teacher to instruct a large number of students by using older, more advanced students (monitors) to teach smaller groups. This method was crucial for providing education to a wider population in the 19th century.

Visiting this room offers a tangible connection to a pivotal moment in educational history. You can see the layout designed for mass instruction and imagine the bustling atmosphere of a school operating under this unique pedagogical model. It's a truly remarkable piece of preserved history that sets the museum apart. Reddit

Immersive Victorian Education

A major draw for visitors, especially families, is the opportunity to experience a Victorian school lesson.Instagram Children can pay a penny for their day's schooling, sit at traditional desks, and use slates and chalk to practice their handwriting and the '3Rs' (Reading, Writing, Arithmetic). This hands-on approach brings the past to life in a way that textbooks cannot.

Beyond the lessons, interactive elements like dressing up in Victorian attire and trying out historical chores and hobbies make the experience even more engaging.Instagram The museum also offers special 'Victorians Live!' days, where actors further enhance the immersive atmosphere, making it an unforgettable educational adventure for all ages. InstagramReddit

Beyond the Classroom: Headmaster's House & Cafe

The museum extends beyond the schoolrooms to include the Headmaster's House, offering a glimpse into the domestic life of the era.Reddit This provides context on how educators lived and the challenges they faced, including insights into family life and household routines. It’s a fascinating contrast to the public school environment.

Adding to the visitor experience is the on-site cafe, which has received high praise for its quality and affordability.Reddit It’s a welcoming space to relax, enjoy refreshments, and discuss the historical discoveries made during the visit. The cafe's reasonable prices make it an accessible option for families and individuals alike. Instagram

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