Cromwell Museum
Explore the life of Oliver Cromwell in his former school. Discover 17th-century artifacts, engaging exhibits, and passionate staff.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal
Cromwell Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the life of Oliver Cromwell in his former school. Discover 17th-century artifacts, engaging exhibits, and passionate staff.
"Amazing place, for such a small museum there is so much to see and so much quality items!"
Chat with the Staff
Staff are incredibly knowledgeable and happy to share insights. Don't miss a conversation! :speech_balloon:
Support the Museum
Entry is free, but donations are highly appreciated and vital for preservation. :heart:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Oliver Cromwell's Schoolroom
Former Huntingdon Grammar School building
Walk the halls where Oliver Cromwell himself once studied, connecting with his early life.
Naseby Exhibit
Temporary exhibition space
Discover the pivotal Battle of Naseby through engaging videos and artifacts.
17th Century Fashion
Temporary exhibition space
Explore 'Stitching the Nation: Fashion in Times of Turmoil' for a unique historical perspective.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Donations Welcome
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Chat with the Staff
Staff are incredibly knowledgeable and happy to share insights. Don't miss a conversation! :speech_balloon:
Support the Museum
Entry is free, but donations are highly appreciated and vital for preservation. :heart:
British Empire or Cromwellian-related sites in England that I can visit?
Interactive Fun
Enjoy dressing up and interactive quizzes – great for all ages! :tada:
Temporary Exhibitions
Check out current temporary exhibits like 'Stitching the Nation' for unique historical fashion. :dress:
Tips
from all over the internet
Chat with the Staff
Staff are incredibly knowledgeable and happy to share insights. Don't miss a conversation! :speech_balloon:
Support the Museum
Entry is free, but donations are highly appreciated and vital for preservation. :heart:
Interactive Fun
Enjoy dressing up and interactive quizzes – great for all ages! :tada:
Temporary Exhibitions
Check out current temporary exhibits like 'Stitching the Nation' for unique historical fashion. :dress:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Cromwell Museum for its quality exhibits and the exceptional helpfulness and knowledge of its staff. Despite its smaller size, it's packed with historically significant items and offers engaging interactive elements. The free entry, coupled with a strong recommendation for donations, makes it a highly valued community resource.
"What a beautifully laid out and looked after museum for a conflict not spoken about enough.
My Wife and I attended this lovely building and I was taken aback by the quality of the exhibits and the kindness of the staff who were readily available to speak with us and show us around.
The equipment and literature available in the museum is excellent and kindly donated by the families of the conflict and I couldn't recommend this highly enough and hurry as they currently have a Naseby exhibit!
Thank you to the staff and recommendations on the books!"
Aaron Earle
"Amazing place, for such a small museum there is so much to see and so much quality items (in terms of historical significance). And the staff are absolutely brilliant - helpful, insightful, talkative and knowledgeable. Definitely worth to have conversation with them. And please, if possible, donate something."
Aleksandar Boshnakov
"Set in a very appropriate historical building that schooled Oliver Cromwell.
Quite a small museum, but it is packed with relevant artefacts.
I found the battle at Naseby video to be the most interesting exhibit. I did feel that more information, videos and commentary would have improved my visit.
Worth a look if in the town. Some books available to buy."
paul brown
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Cromwell Museum is located in Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire. If arriving by car, there are several car parks nearby. For public transport, Huntingdon train station is a short walk away. Bus services also serve the town center, making it accessible for visitors.
Yes, there are several public car parks within easy walking distance of the museum in Huntingdon town center. It's advisable to check local parking regulations and fees before your visit.
Absolutely! Huntingdon has a train station with services connecting to major cities, and numerous bus routes stop in the town center, making public transport a convenient option to reach the Cromwell Museum.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Cromwell Museum is free! However, donations are gratefully accepted to help maintain and preserve the collections. Many visitors find the experience well worth a contribution.
Opening hours can vary, so it's always best to check the official Cromwell Museum website before your visit. Generally, it's open on Tuesdays through Saturdays, with specific times for each day.
No, advance booking is typically not required for general admission to the Cromwell Museum as it is free to enter. However, for special events or group visits, it's recommended to contact the museum directly.
Yes, the Cromwell Museum often hosts temporary exhibitions. Currently, 'Stitching the Nation: Fashion in Times of Turmoil' is running until April 2026, showcasing historical fashion.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum features portraits, artifacts, and documents related to Oliver Cromwell and the 17th-century period. You can explore his early life, the English Civil War, and his impact on history.
Yes, the museum offers interactive elements like dressing up and quizzes, making it engaging for families. The staff are also very welcoming to younger visitors.
Indeed! The museum provides interactive quizzes and dressing-up opportunities, adding a fun and engaging dimension to the historical displays.
Many visitors find the Battle of Naseby video exhibit particularly compelling. The museum also boasts a collection of quality historical items and engaging displays about Cromwell's life and times.
Photography policies can vary. It's best to check with the museum staff upon arrival or look for signage regarding photography rules to ensure you comply.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Cromwell Museum itself does not typically have an on-site cafe. However, Huntingdon town center offers a variety of cafes, pubs, and restaurants just a short walk away.
You'll find numerous dining options in Huntingdon's town center, ranging from traditional pubs to modern eateries, all within easy reach of the museum.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography rules can change, so it's advisable to confirm with museum staff upon your visit. Some areas may permit non-flash photography, while others might restrict it.
The museum's historical building itself offers a charming backdrop. Inside, key artifacts and the temporary exhibition spaces often provide unique visual opportunities, provided photography is permitted.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid the busiest times. While there's no cafe on-site, the town center is packed with family-friendly eateries for a post-museum lunch. The museum's manageable size means little legs won't get too tired, and the engaging displays will keep their attention.
📚 History Enthusiasts
Don't miss the opportunity to engage with the knowledgeable and talkative staff, who can offer deep insights and answer your most detailed questions.
🚶 Day-Trippers
Allow about an hour to an hour and a half to fully appreciate the exhibits, including any temporary displays. The interactive elements offer a fun break, and the friendly staff are always on hand to enhance your visit. Grab lunch at one of the many cafes or pubs in the nearby town center before or after your museum exploration.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Oliver Cromwell: A Local Son
Visitors can explore artifacts and documents that shed light on Cromwell's upbringing and his early influences. This focus on his local roots helps to demystify his journey into politics and his eventual role as Lord Protector of the Commonwealth. It's a chance to see a different side of a figure often portrayed solely through his military and political actions.
This deep dive into Cromwell's personal history makes the museum a compelling visit for anyone interested in 17th-century English history. It’s not just about the grand events, but about the individual and his beginnings.
Engaging with History: Beyond the Exhibits
These hands-on activities are not just for children; they provide a playful way for adults to connect with the past. The museum's staff are also a significant part of the experience, described as brilliant, helpful, insightful, and talkative. Engaging with them can unlock deeper understanding and fascinating anecdotes about the exhibits and Cromwell's era.
This blend of interactive features and knowledgeable staff transforms a museum visit from a passive observation into an active exploration. It’s this community-focused approach that makes the Cromwell Museum a memorable and enriching destination.
Temporary Exhibitions: A Fresh Perspective
These exhibitions delve into specific themes or periods, offering a more focused look at aspects of 17th-century life or related historical events. For instance, the museum has previously featured exhibits on the Battle of Naseby, a pivotal moment in the English Civil War, which visitors found particularly interesting.
By rotating these special displays, the Cromwell Museum keeps its offerings vibrant and encourages repeat visits. It's a testament to their commitment to showcasing the breadth of history connected to Oliver Cromwell and his era, making each visit a potentially unique experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit