Basingstoke Leisure Park, Churchill Way West, Basingstoke RG22 6PG
Milestones Museum
Milestones Museum of Living History is a museum located on the Leisure Park in Basingstoke, Hampshire, UK. Milestones is made up of a network of streets that have been recreated according to those found in Victorian and 1930s Hampshire.
Location
About
Milestones Museum, located in Basingstoke, England, is an award-winning museum that takes visitors on a journey through the history of everyday life in Hampshire. With its immersive exhibits and authentic period buildings, the museum offers an engaging and educational experience for tourists of all ages.
One of the standout features of Milestones Museum is its collection of over 20 full-size buildings, each representing a different period of Hampshire's history. Visitors can step into a Victorian high street, complete with shops and a pub, or explore a 1940s sweet shop and a post-war prefab home. Each building is filled with period-specific objects and displays, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience what life was like in each era.
In addition to the period buildings, Milestones Museum also features a number of interactive exhibits that bring history to life. Visitors can try their hand at traditional crafts like pottery and blacksmithing, or learn about the importance of canals and railways in Hampshire's history. Children will especially enjoy the museum's Victorian schoolroom, where they can experience a typical school day from the 1800s.
Another highlight of Milestones Museum is its impressive collection of vintage vehicles. From horse-drawn carts to steam engines and classic cars, the museum's transport exhibits provide a fascinating look at the evolution of transportation over the past two centuries. Visitors can climb aboard some of the vehicles, including a 1930s double-decker bus and a Victorian steam train.
Milestones Museum also hosts a number of special events throughout the year, from vintage fairs to Christmas markets. These events offer visitors a chance to experience the museum in a different way and often include additional activities and entertainment.
Overall, Milestones Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history or looking for a fun and educational day out. With its immersive exhibits, authentic buildings, and interactive experiences, the museum provides a unique window into Hampshire's past and is sure to be a highlight of any trip to Basingstoke.
Gallery
Things to do nearby
Milestones Museum is a unique tourist destination located in Basingstoke, Hampshire, UK. This museum offers visitors a chance to step back in time and explore the rich history of Hampshire, from the Victorian era to the 1950s. If you're planning a visit to Milestones Museum, there are plenty of things to do and places to see nearby. Here are some of the top attractions and activities that you can enjoy during your visit.
1. Visit the Basing House
The Basing House is a ruined Tudor mansion that dates back to the 16th century. It was once the home of the powerful Paulet family, who were instrumental in shaping the political landscape of Hampshire. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of the mansion, learn about its fascinating history and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
2. Explore the Viables Craft Centre
The Viables Craft Centre is a unique shopping destination located just a short distance from Milestones Museum. Here, you can browse a wide range of locally-made crafts and gifts, including jewellery, pottery, textiles and more. There are also plenty of cafes and restaurants on site, so you can stop for a bite to eat or a cup of coffee as you shop.
3. Take a Walk at the Basingstoke Canal
The Basingstoke Canal is a beautiful waterway that stretches for over 32 miles through the heart of Hampshire. Visitors can take a leisurely walk along the towpath, stopping to admire the wildlife and take in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside. There are also plenty of places to stop for a picnic or to try your hand at fishing.
4. Visit the Willis Museum and Sainsbury Gallery
The Willis Museum and Sainsbury Gallery is a must-visit destination for art lovers. Here, you can explore a wide range of exhibitions and collections that showcase the rich history and culture of Hampshire. The museum is also home to a fascinating collection of artefacts from around the world, including Egyptian mummies, Roman pottery and medieval manuscripts.
5. Go Shopping at Festival Place
Festival Place is a modern shopping centre that's located just a short drive from Milestones Museum. Here, you can browse a wide range of shops, from high-street favourites to designer boutiques. There are also plenty of restaurants, cafes and bars on site, so you can grab a bite to eat or a drink as you shop.
In conclusion, Milestones Museum is a fantastic destination that offers visitors a chance to step back in time and explore the rich history of Hampshire. But there's plenty to do and see nearby, too, from exploring Tudor mansions and browsing local crafts to taking a walk along the canal and going shopping at Festival Place. Whether you're a history buff, an art lover or just looking for a fun day out, there's something for everyone near Milestones Museum.
Opening Hours
| Saturday | 10 am–4:45 pm |
|---|---|
| Sunday | 10 am–4:45 pm |
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | 10 am–4:45 pm |
| Wednesday | 10 am–4:45 pm |
| Thursday | 10 am–4:45 pm |
| Friday | 10 am–4:45 pm |