Somerset Rural Life Museum from 200ft
1 / 10

Somerset Rural Life Museum

4.6
·560 reviews·, United Kingdom

Explore Somerset's rural heritage in a 14th-century abbey barn and recreated 19th-century farmhouse. Engaging exhibits and family events await!

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

May Half Term

Engaging family events

CrowdHigh
Loading map...
Somerset Rural Life Museum from 200ft

Somerset Rural Life Museum

Best Time

May Half Term

Engaging family events

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Somerset's rural heritage in a 14th-century abbey barn and recreated 19th-century farmhouse. Engaging exhibits and family events await!

4.6
(560 reviews)

"Far more interesting than I had thought... a place for all ages and abilities at a very reasonable price."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Annual Pass Value

Consider an annual pass for great value if you plan to visit multiple times within a year.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Fun Guaranteed

Look out for special events like WW2 heroines activities; kids love the interactive elements.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Abbey Barn

The Abbey Barn

Glastonbury

Step back in time in this magnificent 14th-century abbey barn, a stunning example of medieval architecture.

19th-Century Farmhouse

19th-Century Farmhouse

Museum grounds

Explore a recreated farmhouse, complete with demonstrations of traditional crafts and daily life.

Special Exhibitions & Events

Special Exhibitions & Events

Museum galleries and barn

Discover rotating exhibits on local history, art, and rural traditions, often with family-friendly activities.

Instagram+1
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Visit to Somerset Rural Life Museum

Discover the rich history of Somerset's rural past. This museum offers a glimpse into 19th-century farm life, featuring an impressive 14th-century abbey barn. Check their website for special events and exhibitions, especially during school holidays, as these can be very popular with families. Instagram

Getting Around and What to Expect

The museum is located in Glastonbury, Somerset. While public transport options exist, many visitors find driving more convenient. The museum is generally accessible, with ramps and facilities for disabled visitors, though parking details should be confirmed. Reddit

Best Times

When
May Half Term
Why
Engaging family events
Crowd
High
When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Orchard and outdoor areas
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The Glastonbury Winter carnival is like no other! #glastonbury #glastonburytown #travel #traveltiktok #traveluk #somerset #hostellife
@indiehostelsuk
380.2K likes • 6.7M views

🎯 Annual Pass Value

Consider an annual pass for great value if you plan to visit multiple times within a year. Reddit

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Fun Guaranteed

Look out for special events like WW2 heroines activities; kids love the interactive elements. Reddit

Toppers Carnival Club - Glastonbury Carnival 2023 #illuminatedcarnival #carnival #somersetcarnivals #guyfawkes #november #glastonburycarnival #topperscc #fyp #viral
@carnivaluk
56.1K likes • 1M views
5 Reasons to visit Somerset Rural Life Museum this May Half Term … #HalfTermDaysOut #daysoutwiththekids #daysoutwiththefamily #daysoutglastonbury #WhatsonGlastonbury #FamilyFriendlySomerset #VisitSomerset @visitsomersetuk
somersetrurallifemuseum
56 likes • 702 views

☕ Cafe Delights

Enjoy tea, cake, or light meals at the cafe; it's a pleasant spot, though can get noisy. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Grounds

Don't miss the orchard and outdoor areas, especially when donkeys are present for petting. Reddit

Tag a friend you keep meaning to have that play date with in July… 1️⃣ Somerset Rural Life Museum @somersetrurallifemuseum 2️⃣ Grand Pier at Weston-super-Mare @thegrandpier 3️⃣ Bath City Farm @bathcityfarm 4️⃣ Haynes Motorland @haynes_motor_museum 5️⃣ Collett Park in Shelton Mallet 6️⃣ Redwood Rare Breeds Farm @redwoodrarebreeds 7️⃣ Forde Abbey @fordeabbey . . . . . #somersetparents #somers...
littlelegs.somerset
15 likes • 891 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Annual Pass Value

Consider an annual pass for great value if you plan to visit multiple times within a year. Reddit

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Fun Guaranteed

Look out for special events like WW2 heroines activities; kids love the interactive elements. Reddit

☕ Cafe Delights

Enjoy tea, cake, or light meals at the cafe; it's a pleasant spot, though can get noisy. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Grounds

Don't miss the orchard and outdoor areas, especially when donkeys are present for petting. Reddit

🎨 Art & Local Crafts

The museum shop features local producers, artists, and crafters, with free entry. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(560 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Somerset Rural Life Museum for its engaging exhibits, particularly the impressive 14th-century Abbey Barn and the immersive 19th-century farmhouse. The friendly and informative staff, along with well-organized special events for families, are frequently highlighted as positives. While the cafe is generally appreciated, some find the room can be noisy.

"Lovely house and gardens. Friendly staff, particularly the guide in the house who was very informative.
We had tea and cake in the cafe which was ok but we did find the room quite noisy"

Kevin Ellis

"Can I congratulate the Rural Life Museum on its brilliantly creative event at half term on WW2 heroines. The careful thought that went into planning the wide range of activities was wonderful. I took my 7, 5 and 3 year old grandchildren, and the older 2 learnt so much and had such fun - cipher wheel decoding messages, rationing, land girl work, and the trail quiz. The 3 year old was obsessed with flying his 'spitfire' on the incredible lit up runway in the barn.
Hats off to you - imaginative, absorbing, educational. Great work!"

Jan Styan

"Far more interesting than I had thought.....and I like museums! As well as historical artifacts there were pictures, films, photos and galleries. Beautiful barn. Covered space for youngsters to relax for a while, with chairs and tables and quiet activities. There was a trail which a wide range of children seemed to enjoy. A cafe with nice drinks, cakes and light meals. Plenty of seating in and out, would be squashed inside in wet weather. Lovely orchard and small outdoor area ... there were donkeys to stroke today. Very pleasant helpful staff. A demonstration of spinning and knitting in the farmhouse kitchen. Good facilities for disabled ..... toilet, lift, ramps, but not sure about car park. Close by but didn't notice disabled spaces. In all, a place for all ages and abilities at a very reasonable price."

Ian Richardson

What People Like

Impressive Abbey Barn
Engaging farmhouse exhibits
Friendly, informative staff

What People Dislike

Cafe can be noisy

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is located in Glastonbury, Somerset. While public transport is an option, many visitors find driving to be the most convenient method. Check local bus routes if relying on public transport. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available. However, if you have specific accessibility needs, it's advisable to confirm the availability of disabled parking spaces beforehand. Reddit

The museum is generally accessible for disabled visitors, offering ramps, a lift, and accessible toilets. Reddit

Yes, the museum is located in Glastonbury, and the iconic Glastonbury Tor is a nearby landmark, often visited in conjunction with the museum. TikTok

The nearest train stations are Castle Cary and Yeovil Pen Mill, both requiring onward travel by bus or taxi to reach Glastonbury. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Somerset Rural Life Museum website for the most up-to-date information on opening times and any special closures. Instagram

Admission prices are very reasonable, and the museum offers an annual pass system which can be excellent value for repeat visits. Reddit

While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance, especially for special events or during peak times like school holidays, is recommended to guarantee entry and avoid queues. Instagram

The museum offers good value for money, and an annual pass is a great way to save if you plan multiple visits. Check their website for any specific concessionary rates. Reddit

Yes, the museum shop, which supports local producers and artists, has free entry, allowing you to browse and purchase unique items. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Explore a 14th-century abbey barn, a recreated 19th-century farmhouse with craft demonstrations, and engaging exhibitions on rural life, art, and local history. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! Children often enjoy the interactive exhibits, dress-up sections, trails, and special events like the WW2 heroines activities. InstagramReddit

The museum frequently hosts special events and exhibitions, particularly during school holidays. Check their website or social media for the latest announcements. Instagram+1

Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions on flash photography or for particular exhibits. Instagram

The museum offers a cafe, accessible toilets, a lift, ramps, and seating areas both inside and outside. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a cafe on-site serving drinks, cakes, and light meals. It's a pleasant place to relax, though it can get noisy. Reddit

While the cafe offers refreshments, there are also outdoor seating areas where you might be able to enjoy a picnic, especially during good weather. Reddit

The cafe typically offers a selection of drinks, cakes, and light meals. It's best to inquire directly with the cafe staff about specific dietary options. Reddit

The cafe serves drinks, cakes, and light meals, providing a convenient option for visitors during their visit. Reddit

The cafe has plenty of seating, but it can get busy, especially during peak times or events. For larger groups, it might be advisable to call ahead. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The 14th-century Abbey Barn offers stunning architectural shots, while the farmhouse and orchard provide charming rural scenes. Don't forget the unique exhibits! Instagram+1

Tripod usage policies can vary. It's best to check with museum staff upon arrival to ensure you comply with their photography guidelines. Instagram

Drone photography is generally not permitted within museum grounds to ensure the safety and comfort of all visitors and to protect the heritage site. TikTok

The museum sometimes hosts art exhibitions that may include photography, showcasing local artists and themes related to Somerset's rural life. Instagram

Yes, the museum's exhibits, including the farmhouse and demonstrations, offer ample opportunities to capture the essence of Somerset's rural heritage. InstagramReddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Somerset Rural Life Museum is a fantastic family day out, offering a blend of education and fun. Children will love exploring the old farmhouse, especially the humorous wooden bench toilets, and engaging with the dress-up section. Instagram Special events, like the WW2 heroines activities, are highly praised for their imaginative and educational approach, keeping kids entertained and learning. Reddit

Look out for interactive trails and hands-on activities that make history come alive. The museum's accessible facilities and the presence of friendly animals like donkeys add to the appeal for younger visitors. Reddit Consider an annual pass if you're local, as it offers great value for repeat visits throughout the year. Reddit

🎨 Art & Culture Enthusiasts

For those interested in art and local culture, the Somerset Rural Life Museum offers a rich experience. The museum regularly hosts art exhibitions, often featuring artists inspired by the unique Somerset landscape and its rural heritage. Instagram These exhibitions provide a wonderful opportunity to discover new talent and appreciate diverse artistic perspectives. Instagram

The museum shop is also a treasure trove, showcasing local artisans and crafters. You can find unique handmade items, from preserves to artwork, supporting the vibrant creative community of Somerset. Instagram The museum's connection to organizations like Somerset Art Works further solidifies its role as a hub for artistic expression and cultural engagement. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ History Buffs & Curious Explorers

History enthusiasts will be captivated by the museum's centerpiece, the magnificent 14th-century Abbey Barn, a stunning example of medieval architecture. Reddit Beyond this, the museum delves deep into the 19th-century rural life of Somerset, presenting a vast collection of artifacts, photographs, and films that paint a vivid picture of the past. Reddit The recreated farmhouse and craft demonstrations offer an immersive way to understand the daily lives and traditions of the region's ancestors. Reddit

Don't miss the opportunity to explore the grounds and orchard, which add to the historical ambiance. The museum's commitment to presenting history in an engaging and accessible manner, often with community-backed insights, makes it a rewarding visit for anyone keen to uncover the stories of Somerset's past. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Historic Abbey Barn

The Somerset Rural Life Museum is home to a magnificent Abbey Barn, dating back to around 1370. This impressive structure, originally part of Glastonbury Abbey, is a testament to medieval craftsmanship and a highlight for many visitors. Its sheer scale and architectural detail offer a fascinating glimpse into the past. The barn is often used for special exhibitions and events, making it a dynamic space that blends history with contemporary displays. InstagramReddit

When visiting, take time to appreciate the timber framing and the grandeur of the space. It's a popular spot for photographers and history enthusiasts alike. The barn's enduring presence provides a powerful connection to the region's rich ecclesiastical and agricultural history. Instagram+1

Consider how this barn would have functioned centuries ago, supporting the abbey's agricultural needs. Its survival is remarkable, and its current role as a venue for cultural events ensures its continued relevance and appreciation by the public. Instagram

Experiencing Rural Life Through Exhibits

The museum excels at bringing Somerset's rural past to life through its diverse exhibits. Visitors can step into a recreated 19th-century farmhouse, complete with demonstrations of traditional crafts like spinning and knitting. This immersive experience allows you to imagine the daily routines and challenges faced by families living in rural Somerset. Reddit

Beyond the farmhouse, the museum showcases a wide array of artifacts, including tools, machinery, and personal items that tell stories of agricultural labor, domestic life, and community traditions. The presentation is often enhanced with pictures, films, and photographs, providing a multi-sensory approach to learning. InstagramReddit

Special events, such as the WW2 heroines activities, are particularly praised for their educational and engaging nature, making the museum a fantastic destination for families. These events often involve hands-on activities like cipher wheel decoding and learning about rationing, ensuring that history is not just observed but actively experienced. Reddit

Art and Local Producers

The Somerset Rural Life Museum is not just about history; it also celebrates contemporary local talent. The museum shop is a curated space featuring local producers, artists, and crafters, offering a chance to purchase unique souvenirs and support the local economy. Entry to the shop is free, making it accessible to all visitors. Instagram

The museum also hosts art exhibitions, often showcasing artists inspired by the Somerset landscape and its rural heritage. These exhibitions provide a platform for both established and emerging artists, adding a vibrant cultural dimension to the museum experience. Instagram+1

Collaborations with organizations like Somerset Art Works highlight the museum's commitment to the arts. For instance, the 'Spinning a Yarn' exhibition explored the heritage of British wool through film and art, demonstrating how the museum connects historical themes with creative expression. Instagram

You may also like