Newquay Museum
Discover Newquay's rich past at this free community museum, featuring Cornish heritage, vintage cameras, and local art.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed browsing
Newquay Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed browsing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Newquay's rich past at this free community museum, featuring Cornish heritage, vintage cameras, and local art.
"A really nice, cosy little find. Quiet, quaint, interesting and quirky all at the same time."
🎯 Free Entry Gem
Enjoy this fascinating museum for free! A great way to learn about local history without spending a penny.
📸 Photography History
Don't miss the impressive collection of vintage cameras and old photographs.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cornish Heritage Exhibits
Dive into local history and cultural heritage with fascinating artifacts and displays.
Vintage Camera Collection
Discover a remarkable array of old cameras and photography equipment, a treat for enthusiasts.
Local Art Displays
Admire and purchase unique paintings by local artists showcased throughout the museum.
Quirky Antique & Charity Shop
Browse a treasure trove of unique items and vintage finds at reasonable prices.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Discover Newquay's Past
Accessibility & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Entry Gem
Enjoy this fascinating museum for free! A great way to learn about local history without spending a penny.
📸 Photography History
Don't miss the impressive collection of vintage cameras and old photographs.
☕ Cozy Coffee Stop
Relax with a coffee at the quaint on-site coffee shop.
🛍️ Unique Finds
Explore the antique/charity shop for quirky treasures and local art.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Entry Gem
Enjoy this fascinating museum for free! A great way to learn about local history without spending a penny.
📸 Photography History
Don't miss the impressive collection of vintage cameras and old photographs.
☕ Cozy Coffee Stop
Relax with a coffee at the quaint on-site coffee shop.
🛍️ Unique Finds
Explore the antique/charity shop for quirky treasures and local art.
🚶♀️ Shortcut to Trenance
If heading to Trenance Heritage Museum, ask about the shortcut through local streets.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Newquay Museum as a 'gem' for its free entry, fascinating exhibits on Cornish heritage, and unique vintage camera collection. The charming antique shop and local art displays are also highlights. Some note the museum's location on the first floor may limit accessibility.
"This is a really nice find, free to enter, there are some really interesting items found in the museum, its small, very interesting if you love cornwall and cornish things you'll love this place, it has a small quaint coffee shop, it is on the 1st floor so unfortunately not for those who can only access by wheel chair. It has a beautiful little antique come charity shop with many quirky items which are all good/reasonable value and they have a vast array of different local artists paintings displayed for sale around the building and on the walls. If you like photography or history and have a love of such things then this place is a gem of a find with various types of old cameras for sale and photos/postcards ect this place seems to have it all. A reall nice, cosy little find. The man who runs the place is called len and can be found there 3 times a week really nice man. Xx must visit spot, quiet, quaint, interesting and quirky all at the same time."
ELIZABETH COOEY
"Very interesting we all really enjoyed it"
Sonya Wilson
"Fantastic RAF museum with friendly and helpful volunteers."
Colin Flood
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Newquay Museum is located in the town center. While some visitors mention taking a shortcut through residential areas to reach other heritage sites, the museum itself is centrally located and accessible by foot from most parts of Newquay.
There are several public car parks in Newquay town center, which is where the museum is located. It's advisable to check local parking availability and charges beforehand.
Yes, if you are staying in or near Newquay town center, walking to the museum is very feasible and recommended to explore the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, Newquay Museum is free to enter, making it an accessible and popular spot for visitors interested in local history.
Opening hours can vary, especially seasonally. It's best to check their official website or social media pages for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
As entry is free, advance booking is typically not required. However, for special events or exhibitions, it's always a good idea to check if reservations are recommended.
The museum offers interesting exhibits that can engage children, especially those with a curiosity for history and vintage items. Special events like silent discos have also been held in conjunction with the museum.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore exhibits on local history, Cornish heritage, a vintage camera collection, and art by local artists. There's also a unique antique/charity shop.
The museum is located on the first floor, which may present accessibility challenges for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues.
While not a traditional gift shop, there is a charming antique and charity shop selling quirky items, vintage finds, and local art.
Photography policies can vary. It's generally advisable to ask staff or look for signage regarding photography rules within the museum to respect any restrictions.
This refers to exhibits and artifacts curated by the museum, often showcased during local events or anniversaries, such as the Great Western Hotel's 145th birthday. +2
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a small, quaint coffee shop on-site where you can enjoy refreshments.
The cafe typically offers coffee and light refreshments, providing a pleasant spot to relax after exploring the exhibits.
Being in the town center, Newquay Museum is surrounded by numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants offering a wide variety of dining options.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, the vintage camera collection and the displays of local art offer unique photographic subjects. The antique shop also provides interesting visual elements.
The museum features a variety of old cameras and photography-related items, appealing to photography enthusiasts and history lovers alike.
While you can photograph the art, it's always best to check with museum staff about their policy on photographing artwork, especially if you intend to share the images widely.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Cornish History
Beyond the general history, the museum often highlights specific aspects of Newquay's past. Exhibitions have celebrated significant local landmarks, such as the Great Western Hotel, marking its anniversaries with displays that delve into its architectural history and its role in the town's development.
For those with a keen interest in photography, Newquay Museum is a must-visit. It boasts an impressive collection of vintage cameras and related equipment, offering a visual journey through the evolution of photographic technology. Alongside the cameras, you'll find historical photographs and postcards that offer a glimpse into Newquay's past, making it a treasure trove for both history buffs and photography enthusiasts.
A Community Hub with Unique Finds
Adding to its unique charm is the antique and charity shop located within the museum. This shop is a treasure trove for those seeking quirky items, vintage finds, and affordable art. It provides an opportunity for visitors to take home a piece of Newquay's character, with proceeds often supporting the museum's operations. The shop also features a diverse display of paintings by local artists, offering a platform for regional talent and a chance for visitors to discover and purchase original artwork.
The museum's engagement extends to community events and workshops. For instance, filmmaking workshops have been hosted at the museum, fostering creative expression and collaboration among participants.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit