St Neots Museum
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St Neots Museum

4.6
·156 reviews·St Neots, United Kingdom

A charming local museum in a former Victorian police station, offering interactive exhibits and a glimpse into St Neots' past.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit

CrowdLow
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St Neots Museum

St Neots Museum

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A charming local museum in a former Victorian police station, offering interactive exhibits and a glimpse into St Neots' past.

4.6
(156 reviews)

"A little delight packed full of unusual and interesting exhibits, well worth visiting!"

Vertical photo
TIP

⏳ Allow ample time

You could spend hours exploring the exhibits and interactive displays. Don't rush your visit!

👟 Comfortable shoes recommended

You'll be doing a fair bit of exploring, especially if you check out the old cells.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Victorian Police Cells

Victorian Police Cells

Ground Floor

Experience the chilling atmosphere of the original police cells, complete with sound effects.

Interactive Train Carriage

Interactive Train Carriage

Upstairs

Step into a recreated train carriage with engaging slideshows and videos about local history.

Mini Museum & Kids' Area

Mini Museum & Kids' Area

Upstairs

A detailed model of the museum and a fun games area, including the unique Eynesbury Giant.

Local Crafts & Gifts

Local Crafts & Gifts

Gift Shop

Browse unique handmade crafts, stationery, and jewelry from local artists and makers.

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Planning Your Visit

Interactive Exhibits for All Ages

Discover a surprisingly interactive museum experience! Recent updates include a model of the museum itself, an old train carriage with multimedia, and a dedicated kids' games area. Perfect for keeping younger visitors engaged.

Explore Local History & Charm

Step back in time in the atmospheric former Victorian police station. Explore old cells and learn about St Neots' rich past through fascinating exhibits. Don't miss the local crafts and gifts in the shop!

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit
Crowd
Low
When
During special events
Why
Unique workshops & exhibitions
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

St Neots Museum is holding their annual winter selling exhibition. Local St Neots makers and artists fill the space with beautiful handmade work that the public can buy from now until 23rd December. It's so exciting to see what the people of this area make and the quality of work. I'm really happy to be a part of it.
kate_aldridge_art
9 likes • 123 views

⏳ Allow ample time

You could spend hours exploring the exhibits and interactive displays. Don't rush your visit! Reddit

👟 Comfortable shoes recommended

You'll be doing a fair bit of exploring, especially if you check out the old cells. Reddit

My home town of St Neots is full of local creative talent and what better way than to show it all off, than by having a rummage around the @stneotsmuseum Winter Craft & Gift Fair!! 😍 You'll certainly find some absolutely gorgeous #christmasgiftideas to make your loved ones #festive experience extra special! #handmadechristmas #handmadegifts #stneotsmuseum # localbusinesses #christmasmagic #handm...
luckyrainbowboutique
10 likes • 518 views
Are you local to St Neots? Have you visited our lovely museum?! It's full of local treasures from our past, where nostalgia and history have been so well preserved. They're also running workshops and activities throughout the summer, many are free! And, if you have time to browse the lovely little gift shop, you'll find crafts, stationary, jewellery and so much more, all made locally! @stneo...
sensoryphilosophy
12 likes • 322 views

☔ Check for accessibility

The stairlift was out of order during one visit, limiting access to the ground floor. Reddit

🎁 Support local artists

The gift shop features beautiful handmade items from local makers – perfect for souvenirs. Instagram+2

We had a great time at @stneotsmuseum today! Addison loved doing the marble run and lived the new additions upstairs! So much more interactive!! 🎉🎉 . . . . . . #Mumblogger #reelmum #instamum #girlmum #momblogger #instamom #reelmom #girlmom #ftm #discoverunder1k #discoverunder2k #mumlife #momlife #hinchexpress #stneotsmuseum #stneots
athomewith__ashleigh
7 likes • 286 views

Tips

from all over the internet

⏳ Allow ample time

You could spend hours exploring the exhibits and interactive displays. Don't rush your visit! Reddit

👟 Comfortable shoes recommended

You'll be doing a fair bit of exploring, especially if you check out the old cells. Reddit

☔ Check for accessibility

The stairlift was out of order during one visit, limiting access to the ground floor. Reddit

🎁 Support local artists

The gift shop features beautiful handmade items from local makers – perfect for souvenirs. Instagram+2

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Kid-friendly fun

Interactive elements and a dedicated kids' area make it a hit with families. InstagramReddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(156 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise St Neots Museum for its surprisingly interactive exhibits, especially the engaging train carriage and kids' area. The atmospheric former police cells and the collection of local history and fossils are also highlights. Staff are consistently described as friendly and welcoming, making it a delightful visit for all ages.

"Went to the museum for the first time in a while. They have made a lot of updates in recent years including: impressive slideshow of old St Neots criminals, added an interactive train carriage (complete with slideshow and video), and changed the area near the old school desks to add in a mini museum and kids games area. My little boy would have happily stayed there all day.

The mini museum is a model of the museum. I know the museum layout well and you can tell the team have put care into designing it, even incorporating a mini Eynesbury Giant!

Definitely consider stopping by to check out the exhibits and learn some local history or go to one of their events"

Shona Ellis

"What a little delight - packed full of unusual and interesting exhibits. The old police cells are atmospheric - especially to hear first hand how noisy it must have been with tiled walls, metal washbasins, and metal doors slamming.
For a contrast, walk along Market Square Road and across the bridge admiring the river and the parks as you go. There are plenty of shops and places to eat."

Emma

"For a small town museum, this is an excellent place to visit. The building is the former police station, with the old cells still there and accessible. The array of fossils and other items from prehistory were sone if the best I've seen in any museum. Well worth visiting."

Alice Goss

What People Like

Interactive exhibits
Atmospheric police cells
Friendly staff

What People Dislike

Occasional accessibility issues (stairlift)

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

St Neots Museum is located in the heart of St Neots. It's easily accessible by public transport, with the train station a short walk away. If driving, there are several car parks nearby. Reddit

Yes, there are several public car parks within a short walking distance of the museum. Check local signage for parking durations and fees. Reddit

St Neots has a bus station with services connecting to surrounding towns and villages. The museum is a short walk from the main bus stops.

The ground floor of the museum is generally accessible. However, access to the upper floors may be limited if the stairlift is not operational. It's advisable to call ahead to confirm. Reddit

The museum is situated near Market Square, the river, and local parks, offering plenty of opportunities for a stroll or a meal. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Opening hours can vary, so it's always best to check the official St Neots Museum website or their social media for the most up-to-date information before your visit. Instagram

Admission prices are generally very reasonable for a small town museum. Check their website for current ticket prices and any concessions. Reddit

For general admission, booking in advance is usually not required, but it's a good idea to check, especially if you plan to attend a special event or workshop. Reddit

Yes, St Neots Museum frequently hosts events, workshops, and exhibitions, including seasonal craft fairs. Keep an eye on their social media for announcements. InstagramReddit+2

Yes, the museum offers secure storage for wet coats and bags, which is particularly helpful on rainy days. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Explore the atmospheric former police cells, an interactive train carriage, a mini museum replica, and a kids' games area. They also showcase local history and prehistory fossils. Reddit+1

Absolutely! With interactive exhibits, a dedicated kids' area, and activities like 'Cardboard Clues', it's a fantastic place for families. InstagramReddit

The cells are atmospheric and offer a glimpse into the past, with sound effects to enhance the experience. Reddit

Yes, the museum has made significant updates to include interactive elements like the train carriage, a model of the museum, and children's games. InstagramReddit

The museum covers a range of local stories, from prehistory with impressive fossils to the history of the former police station and local figures. Reddit

🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining

Yes, the museum has a lovely gift shop featuring crafts, stationery, and jewelry from local artists and makers. Instagram

You can find unique handmade gifts, local crafts, and souvenirs, making it a great place to pick up a memento or present. Instagram+2

St Neots town centre, just a short walk away, offers a variety of shops and places to eat, from cafes to restaurants. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

St Neots Museum is a fantastic destination for families. The interactive train carriage and the dedicated kids' games area are big hits, ensuring children stay engaged and entertained. InstagramReddit Don't miss the 'Cardboard Clues' interactive adventure, which is perfect for keeping 10-year-olds happy. Reddit

Recent updates have made the museum even more family-friendly, with a model of the museum itself and other engaging displays. The former police cells also offer a unique, albeit slightly spooky, experience that kids often find fascinating. Reddit

🎨 Art & Craft Enthusiasts

For those who appreciate local artistry, the gift shop at St Neots Museum is a must-visit. It features a curated selection of handmade crafts, stationery, and jewelry from talented local makers. Instagram+2 This is a perfect place to find unique souvenirs or gifts that support the local creative scene. Instagram

Keep an eye out for the museum's seasonal craft fairs, such as the Winter Selling Exhibition, which offer an even wider variety of handmade goods. These events are a great opportunity to discover and purchase directly from local artists. Instagram+1

🚶 History Buffs & Local Explorers

The museum's location in a former Victorian police station provides an immediate historical context. Exploring the atmospheric old cells offers a tangible connection to the past. Reddit The exhibits delve into local stories, from prehistoric fossils to the history of law enforcement in St Neots, providing a rich understanding of the area's heritage. Reddit

Recent updates, like the interactive train carriage and detailed local history displays, enhance the learning experience. It's an excellent spot for anyone interested in uncovering the unique narratives and historical layers of St Neots. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into the Past: The Former Police Station

St Neots Museum is uniquely housed in a former Victorian police station, and this history is palpable throughout the building. Visitors can explore the original police cells, which are often described as atmospheric and even a little chilling. The tiled walls, metal washbasins, and slamming metal doors contribute to an immersive experience, giving a sense of what it must have been like for those detained there. Reddit

Beyond the cells, the museum leverages its historical setting to tell local stories. The exhibits are thoughtfully curated, relevant to the building's past and the broader history of the St Neots area. This integration of the building's heritage with the displayed collections makes for a richer and more engaging visit. Reddit

Recent renovations have further enhanced the visitor experience, adding interactive elements that appeal to a wider audience. These updates ensure that the museum remains a dynamic and interesting place to learn about local heritage, blending historical authenticity with modern engagement. InstagramReddit

Interactive Fun for All Ages

St Neots Museum has transformed into a surprisingly interactive space, making it a hit with families and curious visitors alike. A standout feature is the recreated train carriage, complete with slideshows and videos that bring local history to life. This engaging exhibit offers a unique way to learn about the area's past. Reddit

Adding to the interactive appeal is a miniature model of the museum itself, a clever touch that allows visitors to see the layout from a new perspective. For younger guests, there's a dedicated kids' games area and activities like the 'Cardboard Clues' adventure, ensuring that children remain entertained and involved throughout the visit. InstagramReddit

These modern additions, alongside the historical exhibits, create a well-rounded experience. The museum's commitment to interactivity means there's something to capture everyone's interest, from the youngest explorer to the most seasoned history buff. InstagramReddit

Discover Local Talent in the Gift Shop

The gift shop at St Neots Museum is more than just a place to buy souvenirs; it's a showcase for the vibrant creative community in and around St Neots. Visitors can discover a delightful array of handmade crafts, stationery, and jewelry created by local artists and makers. Instagram+2

These items offer a unique opportunity to take home a piece of local artistry. Whether you're looking for a special gift for a loved one or a personal memento of your visit, the shop provides a curated selection of high-quality, locally produced goods. Instagram

Attending the museum's seasonal events, such as the Winter Craft & Gift Fair, further highlights this local talent, offering an even wider selection of handmade treasures. It's a wonderful way to support local artisans and find truly distinctive items. Instagram+1

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