Taunton's 12th Century Castle is home to the Museum of Somerset.
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Museum of Somerset

4.7
·1k reviews·, United Kingdom

Discover Somerset's rich history through fascinating exhibits, including Roman coins and medieval treasures, all within historic Taunton Castle.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
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Taunton's 12th Century Castle is home to the Museum of Somerset.

Museum of Somerset

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Somerset's rich history through fascinating exhibits, including Roman coins and medieval treasures, all within historic Taunton Castle.

4.7
(1k reviews)

"A genuinely well thought-out, structured and filled museum with a great balance of information, story, activity and exhibits."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Free Entry, Donate Generously

Admission is free, but donations are highly encouraged to support this gem.

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be doing a lot of exploring, so wear comfy shoes to make the most of your visit.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Frome Hoard

The Frome Hoard

Making Somerset Gallery

Discover one of Britain's largest hoards of Roman coins, offering a glimpse into ancient currency and life.

TikTok
Cheddar Brooch

Cheddar Brooch

Making Somerset Gallery

Marvel at this thousand-year-old medieval treasure, a stunning piece of craftsmanship with a long history.

Instagram
Local Fossils and Artifacts

Local Fossils and Artifacts

Various Galleries

Explore fascinating fossils and artifacts that tell the story of Somerset's natural and human history.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Free Entry, Big Impact

The Museum of Somerset offers free admission, making it an accessible gem. While donations are welcomed, you can explore its rich history without an entry fee. Plan for at least a few hours to fully appreciate the diverse exhibits, from Roman coins to local fossils. Reddit

Taunton's Historical Heart

Located within Taunton Castle, the museum offers a deep dive into Somerset's past. It's a great spot for families, especially when special events like the Gruffalo trail are on. Instagram Consider visiting on a weekday to potentially avoid larger crowds. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low
When
During special events
Why
Engaging for families
Crowd
Medium
When
Wet weather days
Why
Perfect indoor escape
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

👻 TAUNTON: One of Somerset’s Most Haunted Towns 👻 From the ghost of the “Hanging Judge” Jeffreys to whispers of the Monmouth Rebellion… dark history lingers here. Join me as I step inside the real haunted locations linked to the Monmouth Rebellion - a dark chapter in Taunton's past www.extours.co.uk #HauntedBritain #Taunton #GhostStories #JudgeJeffreys #Somerset
@extours
639 likes • 7.6K views

🎯 Free Entry, Donate Generously

Admission is free, but donations are highly encouraged to support this gem. InstagramReddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be doing a lot of exploring, so wear comfy shoes to make the most of your visit. Reddit

Museum Of Somerset 🏰 - Taunton Today was one of those "what should I do with the kids?" Days. The museum of somerset currently has a gruffalo event on so off we went. FREE ENTRY We had such a great time and the kids enjoyed looking at all the different exhibitions. With different interactions and activities, it kept us all entertained. The kids loved taking part in the Gruffolo Bingo activity. A...
life_withthe_jewells
3 likes • 224 views
The Cheddar brooch goes on display at the Museum of Somerset! After laying hidden for many centuries, an exciting medieval treasure is going on display at the Museum of Somerset ... The ‘Cheddar Brooch’ will be on display in the museum’s ‘Making Somerset’ Gallery from Friday 20th October 2023. The brooch is over a thousand years old, dating from about 800 - 900 AD. A time considered to be a tur...
museumofsomerset
84 likes • 1.5K views

⏳ Allow Plenty of Time

Don't rush! You could easily spend 3+ hours here, especially if you get engrossed. Reddit

☕ Enjoy the Cafe

The museum has a nice cafe with indoor and outdoor seating for a break. Reddit

Day 3 @museumofsomerset and we loved all the wonderful work and even more fantastic people we met over these three days at the museum. Thank you each and every one of you who came, got messy, inventive, creative and had fun. We loved you all 🩷🤗 what an incredible work of art you created together! #somerset #museumworkshops #painting #foodsculpture #workshopsforchildren
inkjam20
65 likes • 761 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Entry, Donate Generously

Admission is free, but donations are highly encouraged to support this gem. InstagramReddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be doing a lot of exploring, so wear comfy shoes to make the most of your visit. Reddit

⏳ Allow Plenty of Time

Don't rush! You could easily spend 3+ hours here, especially if you get engrossed. Reddit

☕ Enjoy the Cafe

The museum has a nice cafe with indoor and outdoor seating for a break. Reddit

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Fun Guaranteed

Look out for family-friendly events like the Gruffalo trail. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Museum of Somerset for its excellent free entry, making it a highly accessible attraction. The exhibits are described as interesting, professional, and informative, covering a wide range of local history from Roman coins to fossils. Many highlight it as a hidden gem and a great way to spend a few hours, especially on a rainy day.

"A good museum in the castle. Plenty of exhibits. Well designed galleries and a friendly face on arrival. Nice cafe with tables in & out. One of the best attractions in Taunton, and: it's free! ( Donations welcomed )"

Ted Dexter

"We went into the museum simply to get out of the rain and ended up staying about three hours. The displays were extremely interesting and very professional and informative in presentation. Entrance price was by donation. I would highly recommend this hidden gem if you are in the Taunton area."

Jodi Knight

"A wonderful museum with its own history. Nice staff. Entrance is free, but you can donate from £5. You can also drink coffee and have a snack on the museum grounds."

Olha Apostolova

What People Like

Free admission
Engaging exhibits
Family-friendly activities

What People Dislike

Can get busy during events

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Museum of Somerset is located within Taunton Castle. It's easily accessible by public transport, with Taunton train station a short walk away. If driving, there are several car parks near the museum. Reddit

Yes, there are several public car parks within walking distance of Taunton Castle and the museum. Check local signage for availability and charges. Reddit

Taunton has a bus station with services connecting to various parts of Somerset. The museum is a short walk from the town centre bus stops. Reddit

The museum is generally accessible, with lifts and ramps available. It's always a good idea to contact them directly if you have specific accessibility needs. Reddit

The nearest train station is Taunton, which is a short and pleasant walk to the museum. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the Museum of Somerset is free! While donations are gratefully accepted and help support the museum's work, there's no mandatory charge. InstagramReddit

No, you do not need to book tickets in advance as entry is free. However, for special events, it's advisable to check their website for booking requirements. Instagram

Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Museum of Somerset website for the most up-to-date information before your visit. Reddit

Absolutely! Donations are very welcome and essential for the museum's upkeep and exhibitions. You can donate on-site. Reddit

As the museum is free to enter, there are no specific discounts. However, donations are welcomed at any amount. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The museum showcases a wide range of exhibits covering Somerset's history, from prehistoric times and Roman occupation (including the Frome Hoard) to medieval treasures like the Cheddar Brooch, and local natural history. TikTokInstagramReddit

Yes, it's very family-friendly! They often have interactive displays and special events, like the Gruffalo trail, that engage younger visitors. Instagram

Most visitors find that 2-3 hours is a good amount of time to explore the exhibits thoroughly. Some stay longer if they're particularly interested. Reddit

Yes, the museum aims to be engaging with a good balance of information, story, activity, and exhibits, making it enjoyable for all ages. Reddit

Photography for personal use is generally permitted, but it's always best to check for any specific restrictions on certain exhibits or areas. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the museum has a nice cafe where you can enjoy coffee and snacks. They offer tables both inside and outside. Reddit

While there's a cafe, it's generally best to consume your own food in designated areas or outside the museum to keep the exhibits pristine. Reddit

The cafe typically offers light refreshments like coffee, tea, and snacks. It's a good spot for a brief rest during your visit. Reddit

Taunton town centre, a short walk away, has numerous restaurants, cafes, and pubs offering a variety of dining options. Reddit

The cafe is accessible to museum visitors. You don't need to pay admission to use the cafe, but you will need to purchase food and drinks. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Generally, yes, photography for personal use is allowed. However, always look for signage indicating any restrictions on specific displays or artifacts. Instagram

It's usually best to avoid flash photography as it can damage delicate artifacts over time. Check for specific guidelines at the museum. Instagram

The Cheddar Brooch and the Frome Hoard are visually striking. The well-designed galleries themselves also make for good photos. TikTokInstagram

The 'Making Somerset' gallery, where the Cheddar Brooch and Frome Hoard are displayed, offers excellent opportunities. The castle architecture itself is also a great subject. TikTokInstagram

Short videos for personal social media are usually fine, but avoid disruptive filming. For professional or commercial filming, you'll likely need to seek permission. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Museum of Somerset is a top choice for families, especially since entry is free! InstagramReddit Look out for their special events, like the popular Gruffalo trail, which are designed to keep children entertained and engaged. The museum offers a great mix of interactive displays and fascinating exhibits that can spark curiosity in young minds. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as there's plenty to explore! Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

This museum is a dream for budget-conscious travelers, as admission is completely free! InstagramReddit While donations are encouraged and appreciated, you can enjoy hours of exploration without spending a penny. The cafe offers a chance for an affordable snack or coffee, but you can also pack your own to save even more. It's a fantastic way to experience local culture and history without breaking the bank. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs

For those passionate about history, the Museum of Somerset is a must-visit. You'll be captivated by the Frome Hoard of Roman coins and the intricate Cheddar Brooch. TikTokInstagram The museum provides a comprehensive overview of Somerset's past, from Roman and medieval eras to its natural history, with detailed exhibits and well-researched information. Reddit The setting within Taunton Castle adds an extra layer of historical immersion. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Somerset's Rich History

The Museum of Somerset is a treasure trove for anyone interested in the county's past. Its location within Taunton Castle adds another layer of historical significance. The museum excels at presenting a broad sweep of Somerset's story, from its ancient roots to more recent times. Reddit

Key exhibits include the Frome Hoard, a remarkable collection of Roman coins discovered nearby, offering a tangible link to Roman Britain. Another highlight is the Cheddar Brooch, a beautifully crafted medieval artifact that speaks volumes about the artistry of the era. Beyond these star pieces, the museum features extensive displays on local natural history, including fascinating fossils found in the region, and exhibits detailing the Monmouth Rebellion and its impact on Taunton. TikTokInstagram

What makes the museum particularly engaging is its approach to storytelling. It balances informative displays with interactive elements and activities, ensuring that visitors of all ages can connect with the history. The well-designed galleries create a pleasant and immersive experience, making it easy to spend several hours delving into the county's heritage. Reddit

Family Adventures at the Museum

The Museum of Somerset is a fantastic destination for families looking for an engaging and educational outing. With free entry, it's an accessible option for a day out, and the museum actively caters to younger visitors. Instagram

Special events are a regular feature, often designed to capture children's imaginations. For instance, the Gruffalo event has been a hit, providing a fun, themed activity that complements the museum's broader offerings. These events, combined with interactive displays throughout the galleries, ensure that children remain entertained and curious. Instagram

Beyond specific events, the museum's general exhibits are presented in a way that appeals to families. The balance of information, story, and activity means kids can learn without feeling overwhelmed. It's a great place to spark an interest in history and local heritage, making it a worthwhile visit for any family in the Somerset area. Reddit

The Significance of Taunton Castle

The Museum of Somerset is housed within the historic Taunton Castle, a site with a long and varied past. Originally a Norman motte-and-bailey castle, it has evolved over centuries, serving various roles from a royal residence to a military stronghold and even a prison. TikTok

Exploring the museum means you're also stepping through the history of the castle itself. The architecture and remnants of the castle provide a unique backdrop to the museum's collections. The dark history associated with Taunton, including links to figures like Judge Jeffreys and events like the Monmouth Rebellion, adds a compelling narrative that the museum often touches upon. TikTok

Being within the castle grounds offers a dual experience: you can immerse yourself in the county's history through the museum's exhibits while also appreciating the historical significance of the building that houses them. It's a prime example of how a location can enhance the visitor experience. Reddit

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