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Folkestone Museum

4.5
·190 reviews·, United Kingdom

Discover Folkestone's rich past through engaging exhibits and interactive displays at this free, family-friendly museum.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more space

CrowdLow
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ギルドホールの中にあります

Folkestone Museum

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more space

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Folkestone's rich past through engaging exhibits and interactive displays at this free, family-friendly museum.

4.5
(190 reviews)

"A great museum, local history and some fun interactive bits for kids. Amazed it's not busier when I go."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Donate to Support

Entry is free, but donations are encouraged to help fund exhibits and free events. :heart:

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be exploring exhibits, so wear comfy shoes for a pleasant visit. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Interactive Drawers

Interactive Drawers

Various exhibits

Open drawers reveal hidden treasures, sparking curiosity and encouraging exploration for all ages.

Local History & Sea Exhibits

Local History & Sea Exhibits

Main exhibition halls

Discover Folkestone's past, from its maritime heritage to its wartime stories, brought to life through engaging displays.

Victorian Toy Workshop

Victorian Toy Workshop

Children's activity area

A hands-on experience where kids can create their own Victorian-era toys, fostering creativity and learning.

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Planning Your Visit

Free Entry, Big Impact

Folkestone Museum offers free admission, making it an accessible gem. Donations are highly recommended to support its upkeep and free events. It's a great option for a rainy day or a quick cultural stop.

Family Fun & Local Lore

Interactive displays and hands-on workshops, like making Victorian toys, make this museum engaging for children. Explore local history, wildlife, and archaeology in a fun, accessible way.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more space
Crowd
Low
When
Rainy afternoons
Why
Perfect indoor escape
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

England to France in just 30 minutes! Eurotunnel/Le Shuttle 🚝 #eurotunnel #leshuttle #eurotunnelfreight #eurotunnelfolkestone #eurotunnelcalais #eurostar #eurotunnelleshuttle #travelfrance #englandtofrance #valthorens #threevalleys #thethreevalleys #drivetofrance #3valleys #meribel #meribelmottaret #courchevel #courchevelmeribel2023 #courchevel1850 #courchevelairport #courchevel1650 #courchevel15...
@tr4velwithmel
526.6K likes • 8.8M views

🎯 Donate to Support

Entry is free, but donations are encouraged to help fund exhibits and free events. :heart:

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be exploring exhibits, so wear comfy shoes for a pleasant visit. :athletic_shoe:

A brilliant rainy day out at Folkestone Museum (@folkestone_museum) — and completely free! Just 10–15 minutes from the Lodge, it was the perfect family-friendly escape from the weather. The kids loved making Victorian toys in the hands-on workshop, and we all enjoyed learning about local history, wildlife, and archaeology through the interactive displays. A hidden gem — highly recommended for a we...
lodge_hythe
14 likes • 402 views
Incredible Coat of Hopes arrived at the Folkestone Museum. It will travel further to Kollectiv. It is such an incredible project and we are so so happy and privileged to be part of it
betoncollective
18 likes • 652 views

📱 Capture the Moments

Don't forget your phone for photos of the interactive displays and historical artifacts. :iphone:

⏳ Allow Extra Time

Interactive elements and potential workshops can make your visit longer than expected. :clock1:

Gift ideas for that end school holidays treat from Folkestone Museum!
folkestone_museum
15 likes • 210 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Donate to Support

Entry is free, but donations are encouraged to help fund exhibits and free events. :heart:

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be exploring exhibits, so wear comfy shoes for a pleasant visit. :athletic_shoe:

📱 Capture the Moments

Don't forget your phone for photos of the interactive displays and historical artifacts. :iphone:

⏳ Allow Extra Time

Interactive elements and potential workshops can make your visit longer than expected. :clock1:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(190 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Folkestone Museum for its engaging, free-to-enter experience that offers a fascinating insight into local history. The interactive elements, particularly the 'open drawers' and hands-on workshops, are a hit with families. While small, it's considered a valuable and well-maintained cultural stop.

"Great little museum. Free but I recommend giving a donation. My photos were from one small area."

Jenny Wilkinson

"This place is really informative. Loved the clothing section and the sea exhibits. The open note on the drawers was such a fun touch, it kept the kids curious and guessing what might be inside."

Oscar Rivera

"It is a very small museum that gives you a bit of an insight into what Folkestone as a town has been through in the past. The admission is free so it's especially worth visiting as you have nothing to lose and you might just learn something new ✨️"

Ucho Ucho

What People Like

Free admission
Interactive exhibits
Family-friendly activities

What People Dislike

Small size

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Folkestone Museum is centrally located in Folkestone. It's easily accessible by public transport, with local bus routes stopping nearby. If driving, check for local parking options, though walking is often recommended for exploring the town center. Reddit

Yes, Folkestone Museum is relatively close to the Eurotunnel terminal. It's a short drive, making it a convenient stop for those traveling to or from France. TikTok

There are several car parks in Folkestone town center, some of which are a short walk from the museum. It's advisable to check local parking apps or signage for the most up-to-date information on availability and costs.

Absolutely! Folkestone Museum is situated in the heart of the town, making it easily walkable from most central locations, including the Creative Quarter and the Harbour Arm. Reddit

The museum has made efforts to be accessible. It's recommended to contact them directly for specific details regarding ramps, lifts, and accessible restroom facilities.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission to Folkestone Museum is free! However, donations are gratefully accepted to help support the museum's operations and free events. Instagram

No, you typically do not need to book tickets in advance for general admission as it's free. However, for special events or workshops, it's always best to check their website or social media for booking requirements. Instagram

Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Folkestone Museum website or their social media pages for the most current information before your visit. Instagram

Yes, Folkestone Museum frequently hosts free events, workshops, and activities, especially for families. Keep an eye on their social media for announcements. Instagram

Yes, donations are very welcome and help the museum continue its work. There are usually donation boxes available, or you can inquire at the front desk.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore exhibits on local history, maritime heritage, wildlife, archaeology, and even temporary art installations. The interactive drawers are a popular feature. Instagram+1

Yes, it's very family-friendly! Interactive displays, hands-on workshops like making Victorian toys, and engaging exhibits keep children entertained and learning. Instagram

Definitely! The museum features several interactive elements, including the popular 'open drawers' that encourage visitors to guess what's inside, making it fun for all ages. Reddit

Generally, photography for personal use is allowed, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions on certain exhibits or temporary displays. Instagram

A typical visit can range from 1 to 2 hours, depending on your interest level and whether you participate in any workshops or special activities. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The museum itself does not typically have a cafe. However, it's located in the town center with numerous cafes, restaurants, and pubs nearby. Reddit

The area around the museum, including the Creative Quarter and Harbour Arm, offers a wide variety of dining options, from casual cafes to more formal restaurants. Reddit

Yes, Folkestone has many family-friendly eateries. The Harbour Arm, in particular, has several food stalls and restaurants that cater to all tastes. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The interactive displays, unique artifacts, and any temporary art installations offer great photo opportunities. The 'open drawers' are particularly photogenic. Instagram

It's generally best to avoid flash photography in museums to protect the artifacts. Always check for specific signage or ask a member of staff if unsure. Instagram

The 'Coat of Hopes' project has been featured, and temporary art installations often provide unique visual backdrops. Keep an eye on their social media for current highlights. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Folkestone Museum is a top choice for families, offering free entry and engaging activities. The interactive displays, especially the 'open drawers,' are a hit with children, sparking curiosity and encouraging exploration. Don't miss the hands-on workshops, like making Victorian toys, which provide a fun and educational experience. Instagram

Plan for at least 1-2 hours to fully enjoy the exhibits. The museum's central location also makes it easy to combine with a visit to the Harbour Arm or other family attractions in Folkestone, making for a full day of fun. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

As a free-entry museum, Folkestone Museum is a budget traveler's dream. You can immerse yourself in local history and culture without spending a penny on admission. Donations are encouraged, but not mandatory, making it an excellent way to experience a local attraction affordably. Instagram

Combine your visit with exploring the town's free attractions like the Harbour Arm or the Creative Quarter. Many cafes and eateries in the vicinity offer affordable options for lunch or snacks, keeping your overall travel costs down. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Folkestone's Past

Folkestone Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the town's rich history. Exhibits cover a range of topics, from its maritime significance and coastal defenses to its wildlife and archaeological finds. Visitors can delve into the stories of the people who shaped Folkestone, gaining a deeper appreciation for its heritage. The museum is praised for its informative displays that are both educational and engaging. Instagram

One of the unique aspects highlighted by visitors is the use of interactive elements, such as the 'open drawers' that encourage curiosity and discovery. This approach makes learning about local history a fun and memorable experience, especially for younger visitors. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, often featuring local artists or specific historical themes, adding variety to repeat visits. Reddit

Beyond the permanent collections, the museum plays a role in community projects. For instance, it has hosted elements of art projects like the 'Coat of Hopes,' showcasing its connection to contemporary culture and its role as a community hub. This blend of historical preservation and engagement with current artistic endeavors makes Folkestone Museum a dynamic cultural space. Instagram

A Family-Friendly Day Out

Folkestone Museum is a fantastic destination for families, offering a blend of education and entertainment that appeals to children. The free admission is a significant draw for families looking for affordable outings. The museum actively caters to younger visitors with hands-on activities, such as the popular Victorian toy-making workshops, which provide a creative and tactile learning experience. Instagram

The interactive nature of the exhibits, particularly the 'open drawers' that invite guessing and discovery, keeps children engaged and curious. This playful approach to learning about local history, wildlife, and archaeology ensures that even the youngest visitors remain captivated. The museum's layout is generally easy to navigate, making it suitable for strollers and for children who may have shorter attention spans. Reddit

Beyond the museum itself, its central location means it can be easily combined with other family-friendly activities in Folkestone, such as exploring the Harbour Arm or enjoying the town's parks. The museum's commitment to free events further enhances its appeal as a go-to spot for families seeking enriching and enjoyable experiences without a hefty price tag. Instagram

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