Wiltshire Museum
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Wiltshire Museum

4.8
·104 reviews·, United Kingdom

Discover Wiltshire's rich history, from Stonehenge gold to interactive exhibits. A must-visit for understanding local heritage.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit

CrowdLow
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Wiltshire Museum

Wiltshire Museum

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Wiltshire's rich history, from Stonehenge gold to interactive exhibits. A must-visit for understanding local heritage.

4.8
(104 reviews)

"Small but packed with history, a great starting point for exploring Wiltshire's ancient sites."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Availability

If visiting when quiet, check for parking behind the museum. Just inform reception of your number plate.

⏳ Allow Plenty of Time

Don't underestimate this museum; you can easily spend three hours exploring its extensive collections.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Stonehenge Gold & Prehistoric Finds

Stonehenge Gold & Prehistoric Finds

Prehistory Galleries

Marvel at gold artifacts from Stonehenge and other significant prehistoric discoveries that illuminate Wiltshire's ancient past.

TikTok
Hands-On Activities for All Ages

Hands-On Activities for All Ages

Children's Area

Engage with interactive exhibits, including a flour mill, that make learning about history fun and memorable for kids.

Reddit
Megalithic Connections Exhibition

Megalithic Connections Exhibition

Special Exhibition Space

Explore stunning drawings and etchings inspired by prehistoric monuments and Egyptian influences.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Book Tickets Online

Save time and potentially secure your spot by purchasing tickets in advance online. This is especially recommended during peak seasons or if you're visiting with children who will enjoy the hands-on activities. Reddit

Plan Your Visit Around Local History

The Wiltshire Museum is a fantastic starting point for understanding the rich prehistoric heritage of the area, including Stonehenge and Avebury. Consider visiting before or after exploring these iconic sites. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon, post-lunch
Why
Tour groups often thin out
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Join us for Folk Tales with Phil Harding and listen to the tale of the Moonraker's of Devizes. In celebration of @wessex.folk opening 5th April at Wiltshire Museum #folk #folklore #wiltshire #museumtok #exhibition #museum #create #heritage #fyp #philharding #timeteam #archaeology #archaelogist #moonrakers #archive #library #librarytiktok
@wiltshiremuseum
2.3K likes • 55.7K views

🚗 Parking Availability

If visiting when quiet, check for parking behind the museum. Just inform reception of your number plate. Reddit

⏳ Allow Plenty of Time

Don't underestimate this museum; you can easily spend three hours exploring its extensive collections. Reddit

Un/Common People: Folk Culture in Wessex explores the traditions of folk culture! old and new! Visit Wiltshire Museum and see! #museum #folklore #exhibition #culture
@wiltshiremuseum
25 likes • 665 views
another day, another slay 💅👑🫶 #genzmarketing #genz #genzlife #genzmemes #wiltshiremuseum #devizes #chappellroan #heybesties #nocap
wiltshiremuseum
265 likes • 5.4K views

📚 Gift Shop Treasures

Discover a great selection of books on local history and archaeology in the gift shop. Reddit

🤝 Friendly Staff

The staff are knowledgeable and happy to answer questions, enhancing your visit. Reddit

🌟 We are so excited for "Megalithic Connections" at the Wiltshire Museum! 🌟 Check out our reel to see Dave literally jumping through some of his megalithic monument plates—turn the sound on to hear the incredible clink of the metal. You can almost smell the etching process as you watch! With around 250 stunning pieces, including 180 works from the late Queen Elizabeth II’s private collection, th...
ironbridgeprintmakers
396 likes • 12.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Availability

If visiting when quiet, check for parking behind the museum. Just inform reception of your number plate. Reddit

⏳ Allow Plenty of Time

Don't underestimate this museum; you can easily spend three hours exploring its extensive collections. Reddit

📚 Gift Shop Treasures

Discover a great selection of books on local history and archaeology in the gift shop. Reddit

🤝 Friendly Staff

The staff are knowledgeable and happy to answer questions, enhancing your visit. Reddit

✨ Special Exhibitions

Keep an eye out for temporary exhibitions like 'Megalithic Connections' and 'Corps Connections'. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.8
(104 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Wiltshire Museum for its significant collection of prehistoric artifacts, including treasures from Stonehenge, and its engaging hands-on activities that delight children. The museum is noted for being well-organized and informative, offering excellent context for local historical sites. While small, it provides a surprisingly deep dive into Wiltshire's past.

"Small but nice museum to visit, worthing to buy tickets online.
It's good to visit with children as they can follow history steps through the rooms.
Shop and toilets available."

Lara Keats

"Me, My dad, and my 2 daughters visited today. My daughters had so much fun with the hands on activities. The flour mill had them both entertained. If you go when it's quiet there is some parking behind the museum. Just tell the reception your number plate.
A good experiance."

hannah jane

"This is an excellent museum. It’s small but has lots of original finds from the area - Neolithic, Iron Age & Medieval. Each area is well organized. We parked out front. I was in the area visiting the Stonehenge and Avebury areas. This museum along with the collections in Avebury and Salisbury are essential to understanding the sites you can visit."

Mark M

What People Like

Prehistoric artifacts
Hands-on activities
Context for local sites

What People Dislike

Can be small

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Wiltshire Museum is located in Devizes. While public transport options exist, many visitors find driving to be the most convenient. There is some parking available behind the museum, but it's advisable to check with reception about availability and to register your number plate. Reddit

Devizes is served by bus routes, but specific details on reaching the museum directly via public transport would require checking local bus schedules. For those coming from further afield, consider train services to nearby towns and then a bus or taxi. Reddit

To travel from Salisbury to Wiltshire Museum in Devizes, you can take a bus or drive. The journey typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour by car, depending on traffic. Bus routes are also available, though they may take longer. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available behind the museum, especially when it's quiet. It's recommended to inform the reception of your number plate. Other public car parks can also be found in Devizes town centre. Reddit

Devizes is a town with cycling routes, and cycling to the museum is an option for local visitors or those on a cycling tour of Wiltshire. Secure bike parking facilities would need to be confirmed with the museum directly. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

It's recommended to buy tickets online in advance, especially during busy periods, to save time and ensure entry. This is also beneficial if you plan to utilize the hands-on activities with children. Reddit

Opening times can vary, so it's best to check the official Wiltshire Museum website or their social media channels for the most up-to-date information on opening hours and any special closures. Reddit

Admission prices can be found on the museum's official website. It's advisable to check for any concessions or family ticket options that might be available. Reddit

The museum may offer concessions for students, seniors, or families. Checking their website or contacting them directly is the best way to find out about current discount policies. Reddit

Group visits are often accommodated. It's recommended to contact the museum in advance to arrange group bookings, discuss potential guided tours, and confirm any group rates. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The museum boasts significant prehistoric finds, including gold from Stonehenge, Iron Age and Medieval artifacts, and engaging hands-on activities for children like a flour mill. Temporary exhibitions also feature prominently. TikTokReddit

Absolutely! The museum is very child-friendly, with hands-on activities that keep younger visitors entertained and engaged with history. Reddit

Many visitors find themselves spending around three hours exploring the museum's collections, as it's packed with fascinating artifacts and information. Reddit

Yes, guided tours are available on certain days. These tours are excellent for gaining deeper insights into the collections and local history. Reddit

You can see a wide range of artifacts, from Neolithic and Iron Age items to Medieval finds, as well as gold objects associated with Stonehenge. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The museum typically has a gift shop that may offer light refreshments, but it's not usually described as having a full cafe or restaurant. It's advisable to check their facilities or plan to dine in Devizes town centre. Reddit

Devizes town centre, located near the museum, offers a variety of pubs, cafes, and restaurants catering to different tastes and budgets. Reddit

Picnic areas are not typically advertised within the museum itself. It's best to consume outside food and drinks in designated areas outside the museum or in nearby public spaces. Reddit

Devizes has a good selection of traditional pubs offering classic British fare, as well as cafes for lighter meals and snacks. Reddit

For a local experience, trying a traditional pub meal in Devizes is often recommended. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can vary. Generally, non-flash photography for personal use is permitted, but it's always best to check for specific signage or ask museum staff to confirm. Reddit

The gold artifacts from Stonehenge, the prehistoric displays, and any temporary exhibitions often make for compelling photographs. The hands-on exhibits can also be visually interesting. TikTok

While personal photography is usually allowed, commercial photography or filming may require special permission. Always adhere to museum guidelines regarding flash and tripods. Reddit

Weekday mornings, when crowds are lower, can offer better opportunities for unobstructed photos. The lighting within the museum is generally designed for artifact preservation. Reddit

Yes, taking photos of the museum's exterior is generally permitted. This can be a good way to capture your visit if interior photography has restrictions. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Wiltshire Museum is a fantastic choice for families. Its hands-on activities, like the popular flour mill, are designed to keep children engaged and entertained while they learn about history. The museum's layout and exhibits are generally easy for kids to follow, making it a stress-free visit for parents. Reddit

Consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid larger crowds and allow your children ample time to explore the interactive stations. The museum's welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff further enhance the family experience, making it a memorable outing. Reddit+1

🏛️ History Enthusiasts & Archaeology Buffs

For those passionate about history and archaeology, the Wiltshire Museum is a must-visit. It provides crucial context for understanding the prehistoric sites of Wiltshire, such as Stonehenge and Avebury, with significant artifacts like the Stonehenge gold on display. TikTokReddit

Allow at least three hours to fully appreciate the depth of the collections, which span from Neolithic times to the Medieval period. The museum's well-organized displays and informative descriptions offer valuable insights that will enrich your exploration of the surrounding historical landscape. Reddit

🎨 Art & Culture Lovers

Beyond its historical artifacts, the Wiltshire Museum also appeals to art lovers through its temporary exhibitions. These often feature artistic interpretations of historical themes, such as drawings and etchings inspired by megalithic monuments. Instagram+1

Keep an eye on the museum's schedule for these special events, which offer a unique blend of art and history, providing a different dimension to your visit and showcasing the creative engagement with the past. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Wiltshire's Prehistoric Heritage

The Wiltshire Museum serves as a crucial gateway to understanding the region's profound prehistoric past. Its collections feature significant finds from iconic sites like Stonehenge and Avebury, offering context that enriches any visit to these ancient monuments. You'll encounter Neolithic, Iron Age, and Bronze Age artifacts, including the celebrated gold items from Stonehenge, providing a tangible connection to the people who shaped this landscape millennia ago. TikTokReddit

Many visitors find that a visit to the museum before exploring the actual sites greatly enhances their appreciation. The straightforward descriptions and well-organized displays help visitors grasp the historical significance and daily life of ancient Wiltshire communities. This foundational knowledge makes the experience of standing at Avebury or Stonehenge even more impactful, transforming a visual encounter into a deeper historical understanding. Reddit

Beyond the major monuments, the museum also showcases artifacts from other local prehistoric discoveries, illustrating the widespread human activity across Wiltshire. This comprehensive approach ensures that visitors gain a holistic view of the region's ancient heritage, making the museum an essential stop for anyone interested in archaeology and early history. Reddit

Family Fun and Interactive Learning

The Wiltshire Museum is a hit with families, largely due to its emphasis on interactive learning. Unlike static displays, the museum incorporates hands-on activities designed to engage children and make history accessible and fun. The flour mill exhibit, for instance, is frequently mentioned as a highlight that keeps younger visitors entertained and curious. Reddit

These interactive elements are not just for show; they serve as educational tools that help children connect with historical processes and daily life in different eras. This approach makes the museum a valuable resource for school trips and family outings, fostering a positive and memorable introduction to history. The museum's staff are also noted for being welcoming and helpful, further contributing to a positive family experience. Reddit+1

By offering a blend of fascinating artifacts and engaging activities, the Wiltshire Museum ensures that all visitors, especially children, leave with a greater understanding and appreciation for history. It's a place where learning feels like playing, making it a recommended destination for families exploring Wiltshire. Reddit

Temporary Exhibitions and Artistic Connections

The Wiltshire Museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions that broaden its appeal and offer fresh perspectives on history and art. These exhibitions often draw from collaborations with artists and cultural institutions, bringing unique collections to Devizes. A notable example is the 'Megalithic Connections' exhibition, which featured drawings and etchings inspired by prehistoric monuments and even Egyptian influences, showcasing the artistic interpretation of historical themes. Instagram+1

These special displays provide an excellent reason to revisit the museum, as they offer diverse content beyond the permanent collections. Exhibitions like 'Corps Connections' also highlight different facets of history, demonstrating the museum's commitment to exploring varied narratives. Such events ensure that the museum remains a dynamic cultural hub. Instagram

By integrating art and history, the Wiltshire Museum creates a richer visitor experience. These exhibitions not only complement the existing displays but also attract new audiences interested in specific artistic or thematic explorations, making the museum a vibrant center for cultural engagement. Instagram+2

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