Cornwall Museum and Art Gallery
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Royal Cornwall Museum

4.5
·718 reviews·, United Kingdom

Discover Cornwall's rich history, global connections, stunning minerals, and diverse art in a beautiful historic building.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
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Cornwall Museum and Art Gallery

Royal Cornwall Museum

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Cornwall's rich history, global connections, stunning minerals, and diverse art in a beautiful historic building.

4.5
(718 reviews)

"A gem in Truro, offering something for everyone with engaging exhibits and friendly staff."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Family Fun Guaranteed

Kids often get in free! Plenty of engaging exhibits, including an Egyptian area and playing spaces. :child:

☕ Cafe & Shop Delights

Enjoy a coffee break at the museum's cafe and browse the shop for unique souvenirs. :coffee:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Rashleigh Mineral Gallery

Rashleigh Mineral Gallery

Royal Cornwall Museum

Explore a stunning redesign of minerals from around the globe, offering an immersive experience.

Cornish History & Wildlife

Cornish History & Wildlife

Royal Cornwall Museum

Discover exhibits detailing Cornwall's rich past, from local traditions to its global connections.

Art & Automata Collections

Art & Automata Collections

Royal Cornwall Museum

Admire diverse artworks, including paintings and fascinating mechanical automata.

Egyptian Collection

Egyptian Collection

Royal Cornwall Museum

A surprising and engaging Egyptian area that delights younger visitors.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience

Consider visiting on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds. The museum can get busy, especially during school holidays. Check their website for special events or exhibitions that might impact your visit.

Making the Most of Your Admission

Admission fees are reasonable, with children often getting in free. Plan for at least an hour to explore the diverse collections, from local history to global minerals. The cafe and shop are also worth a look.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons during term time
Why
Quieter atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
School holiday weekdays
Why
Kid-friendly activities
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

When I found out that located in Cornwall was a little museum entirely dedicated to one of my biggest passions I couldn’t skip visiting. For £7 entry this is such a gem 💗 in the UK we are very limited when it comes to anything regarding witchcraft and paganism - this museum is so deeply rooted within the community and has such an interesting history I would 100% recommend to go and have a nosey. ...
@fifiunfolded
3.7K likes • 18.3K views

🎯 Family Fun Guaranteed

Kids often get in free! Plenty of engaging exhibits, including an Egyptian area and playing spaces. :child: InstagramReddit

☕ Cafe & Shop Delights

Enjoy a coffee break at the museum's cafe and browse the shop for unique souvenirs. :coffee: Reddit

Truro's Royal Cornwall Museum #royalcornwallmuseum #truromuseum #visittruro #visitcornwall #cornwall #cornwallfamilylife #daysoutwithkids #rainydayouting #rainydayideasforkids #musuem
cornwallfamilylife
13 likes • 143 views
We're sharing little previews of the films we did for Cornwall Museum & Art Gallery's recent transformation, and this one is all about Cornwall’s place in history — but on a global scale. From pasties, pottery and cousin jacks, Cornwall is easier to spot in the wider world than you might think. ‘Cornwall: A Connected Place’ highlights Cornwall’s global impact, both in the past and present; from ...
lightboxfilmco
15 likes • 280 views

🏛️ Accessible Building

The museum building is lovely and quite accessible for all visitors. :wheelchair: Reddit

🖼️ Diverse Art Exhibits

See a range of art, from historical paintings to contemporary pieces and automata. :art: Instagram+1

First Royal Visit Since Reopening Cornwall Museum and Art Gallery in Truro welcomed a special guest on Friday 11th July, as HRH The Duke of Gloucester became the first member of the Royal Family to visit since the museum reopened in March. Read more on CornishStuff.com #cornishstuff #cornwall
cornishstuffmedia
4 likes • 580 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Family Fun Guaranteed

Kids often get in free! Plenty of engaging exhibits, including an Egyptian area and playing spaces. :child: InstagramReddit

☕ Cafe & Shop Delights

Enjoy a coffee break at the museum's cafe and browse the shop for unique souvenirs. :coffee: Reddit

🏛️ Accessible Building

The museum building is lovely and quite accessible for all visitors. :wheelchair: Reddit

🖼️ Diverse Art Exhibits

See a range of art, from historical paintings to contemporary pieces and automata. :art: Instagram+1

💎 Mineral Marvels

Don't miss the recently redesigned Rashleigh Mineral Gallery for a truly immersive experience. :gem: Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(718 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Royal Cornwall Museum for its diverse collections, friendly and knowledgeable staff, and beautiful historic building. Many highlight the value for money, especially with free entry for children, and the engaging exhibits that appeal to all ages, from the impressive mineral gallery to the surprising Egyptian section. The cafe and shop also receive positive mentions.

"I haven't been here since I was a kid when my mum used to take me and my brother every Friday after school to see the mummy! Absolutely fabulous building and is immaculate, the 80's exhibition brought back so much nostalgia 🥰 The staff were all amazing and we had a Learning Assistant come and talk to us about the paintings we were looking at, he was so knowledgeable and a credit to the team. Will definitely go back again and not leave it so long! Well worth a visit ."

Tamsin

"Superb museum, well worth a visit. Situated in the heart of town, has all the history of Cornwall, art, playing spaces for kids. Variety for everyone. Building itself is worth seeing from the inside. Highly recommend"

Mantas

"This was our first visit, and we really enjoyed it! It’s a small but interesting museum in the heart of Truro. It took about an hour to walk through, and there was plenty to see. I really liked the old furniture and antiques. The museum is great for all ages, with something for everyone to enjoy."

Kamagra UK24

What People Like

Diverse and engaging exhibits
Friendly and knowledgeable staff
Beautiful historic building

What People Dislike

Can be busy during peak times

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Royal Cornwall Museum is located in the heart of Truro, making it easily accessible by public transport. Truro train station is a short walk away, and several bus routes stop nearby. If driving, there are car parks in Truro, though they can be busy. InstagramReddit

While there isn't dedicated museum parking, several public car parks are available in Truro city centre, within walking distance of the museum. Be prepared for potential charges and busy periods, especially on weekends. Reddit

Yes, the museum building is described as quite accessible, making it suitable for wheelchair users and those with mobility concerns. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, so it's always best to check the official Royal Cornwall Museum website before your visit. They are generally open on weekdays and Saturdays. TikTok

Absolutely! The Royal Cornwall Museum is a perfect indoor activity for a rainy day in Cornwall, offering hours of exploration and discovery. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission fees are generally affordable, with adults typically paying around £7.50. Children often get free entry, making it a great value for families. Check their website for the most current pricing. Reddit

Yes, children often receive free admission to the Royal Cornwall Museum, making it an attractive and budget-friendly option for family outings. Reddit

While not always necessary due to reasonable pricing, checking the museum's website for advance booking options or special event tickets is recommended, especially during peak seasons. Reddit

Information on specific discounts isn't widely publicized, but it's always worth inquiring at the ticket desk or checking their website for any potential concessions or special offers. Reddit

Most visitors find that an hour is sufficient to walk through and see the main exhibits. However, you could easily spend longer if you delve deeper into the collections or enjoy the cafe. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The museum boasts a diverse range of exhibits, including the globally renowned Rashleigh Mineral Gallery, displays on Cornish wildlife and history, art collections, and even an Egyptian area. InstagramReddit

Yes, it's highly recommended for families! Children often enjoy the Egyptian section, playing spaces, and the interactive elements. Many reviewers mention their children loved exploring the artifacts. InstagramReddit

The Egyptian collection is a surprising highlight for many visitors, particularly children, who find the artifacts and displays fascinating. Reddit

While specific interactive exhibits aren't always detailed, the museum aims to be engaging for all ages, with elements that encourage exploration and learning. Instagram

The museum is housed in a beautiful and historic building, which is considered an attraction in itself. Its architecture adds to the overall visitor experience. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the Royal Cornwall Museum has a cafe where you can relax and enjoy a coffee or refreshments. It's a convenient spot to take a break during your visit. Reddit

The cafe typically offers a selection of drinks, snacks, and light meals. It's a good place to grab a coffee and a bite to eat. Reddit

Being in the heart of Truro, there are numerous restaurants, cafes, and pubs within easy walking distance of the museum, offering a wide variety of culinary choices. Reddit

Generally, museums prefer visitors to consume food and drinks in designated cafe areas to protect the exhibits. It's best to check the museum's specific policy. Reddit

The cafe is a welcoming space for all visitors, including families. It provides a relaxed environment to refuel after exploring the museum's collections. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography for personal use is generally permitted inside the Royal Cornwall Museum, but it's always wise to check for any specific restrictions on certain exhibits or areas. Instagram

Tripods and professional photography equipment may be restricted to avoid disruption and potential damage to exhibits. It's best to inquire at the information desk. Instagram

The Rashleigh Mineral Gallery offers stunning visual opportunities, as do the art collections and the historic building itself. Look for interesting textures and light. Instagram+1

The museum occasionally hosts art exhibitions that may include photography. Keep an eye on their events calendar for any photography-focused displays. Instagram

Sharing your photos on social media is usually encouraged! Tagging the museum can help promote their collections and exhibitions. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Royal Cornwall Museum is a fantastic destination for families. Many reviewers highlight that children often get free admission, making it a budget-friendly outing. The museum offers engaging exhibits that capture children's imaginations, particularly the Egyptian area, which is a consistent hit. Reddit There are also playing spaces designed for younger visitors, ensuring they have an enjoyable and interactive experience. Instagram The museum's accessible nature also means it's comfortable for families with strollers or young children. Reddit

💎 Mineral Enthusiasts

For those fascinated by geology, the newly redesigned Rashleigh Mineral Gallery is a major draw. This section has been praised for its immersive atmosphere and the stunning display of minerals from across the globe. Instagram The £476,000 revamp has created a truly special experience, showcasing the beauty and diversity of geological specimens in a sympathetic and engaging way. Instagram It's an opportunity to see a world-class collection right in the heart of Cornwall.

🎨 Art Lovers

Art enthusiasts will find plenty to appreciate at the Royal Cornwall Museum. The museum houses a diverse art collection, including historical paintings and contemporary works. Instagram They have also featured exhibitions of automata, showcasing mechanical sculptures that blend art and engineering. Instagram Keep an eye on their exhibition schedule for special art-focused events and displays that might pique your interest.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Cornwall's Global Connections

The Royal Cornwall Museum showcases Cornwall's significant role on a global scale, moving beyond local narratives. Through exhibits like 'Cornwall: A Connected Place,' the museum highlights how Cornish industries, culture, and people have influenced and interacted with the wider world. This perspective is crucial for understanding Cornwall's historical impact and its place in international trade and migration. Instagram

These connections are often illustrated through artifacts and stories that trace the journeys of Cornish miners, artisans, and emigrants. The museum aims to demonstrate that Cornwall's history is not isolated but deeply intertwined with global events and movements, offering a richer and more nuanced understanding of the region's heritage. Instagram

Visitors can expect to see how elements like pasties, pottery, and the legacy of 'Cousin Jacks' (Cornish emigrants) have left their mark far beyond the county's borders. This approach makes the museum a dynamic space for learning about both local and international history. Instagram

The Marvels of the Rashleigh Mineral Gallery

A significant recent development at the Royal Cornwall Museum is the £476,000 revamp of the Rashleigh Mineral Gallery. This reimagined space offers an immersive and transportive experience, celebrating Cornwall's rich geological heritage and its global mineral connections. The redesign, developed in partnership with Wignall and Moore Design Agency, has been praised for its sympathetic approach, retaining the essence of the collection while enhancing its presentation. Instagram

The gallery houses an impressive array of minerals from around the world, showcasing the beauty and diversity of geological formations. Visitors can marvel at the intricate details, vibrant colors, and unique structures of these natural wonders. The atmosphere is designed to be captivating, drawing visitors into the fascinating world of minerals. Instagram

This gallery is a testament to the museum's commitment to preserving and presenting its collections in engaging ways. It's a must-see for anyone interested in geology, natural history, or simply appreciating the stunning artistry of the earth. Instagram

Automata and Artistic Expressions

The Royal Cornwall Museum is not just about history and minerals; it also features a vibrant art collection, including a fascinating display of automata. These intricate mechanical sculptures offer a unique blend of art and engineering, bringing static pieces to life with movement and sound. The museum has hosted exhibitions featuring automata from the CMT collection, showcasing the creativity and craftsmanship involved. Instagram

Artists like Keith Newstead have contributed to these displays, with works such as 'Gormenghast' captivating audiences. These automata provide a whimsical and engaging experience, appealing to both adults and children with their intricate designs and playful movements. They represent a different facet of artistic expression found within the museum's diverse offerings. Instagram

Beyond automata, the museum also displays a range of paintings and other artworks. For instance, a piece by Scottish artist George Sherwood Hunter depicting Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee procession highlights the museum's collection of historical art, offering insights into past events through artistic interpretation. Instagram