Bygones

Location

About

Torquay, England is known for its beautiful beaches, stunning coastline, and rich history. One of the best places to experience this history is at the Bygones Museum. As a tourist, a visit to this museum is a must-see, as it provides a unique and immersive experience into the past.

The Bygones Museum is a private collection of historical artifacts and memorabilia from the Victorian and Edwardian eras. As soon as you step inside the museum, you are transported back in time. The displays are laid out in a series of realistic Victorian street scenes, complete with authentic shops, streets, and vehicles. You will feel as though you are walking down a bustling street in the heart of the Victorian era.

The museum has an impressive collection of items, including antique toys, Victorian clothing, household items, and much more. The displays are all incredibly well-preserved and offer a glimpse into life during these bygone eras. Visitors can expect to see everything from old-fashioned sweet shops and toy stores to traditional barbershops and post offices. You can even step inside an old-fashioned pub and imagine what it would have been like to enjoy a pint in Victorian times.

One of the highlights of the museum is the authentic steam train. This fully functioning steam train is a replica of the first passenger steam train, the Rocket. Visitors can climb aboard and experience what it would have been like to travel by train during the Victorian era. The train journey takes you through a realistic countryside setting, complete with sound effects and animations, making it a truly immersive experience.

The museum also has a large collection of vintage cars, motorcycles, and bicycles. Visitors can admire these beautiful machines up close and learn about their history and significance. The collection includes rare vehicles such as a 1913 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost and a 1932 Austin Seven.

The Bygones Museum is perfect for families with children, as there are plenty of interactive exhibits and activities to keep the little ones entertained. Kids can dress up in Victorian clothing, ride on a penny-farthing, and even try their hand at some old-fashioned games and toys.

Overall, the Bygones Museum is a must-see for anyone visiting Torquay. It offers a unique and immersive experience into the past, providing visitors with a fascinating insight into what life was like during the Victorian and Edwardian eras. Whether you're interested in history, vintage cars, or simply looking for a fun family day out, the Bygones Museum is the perfect destination.

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Things to do nearby

Bygones is a unique and charming museum located in the quaint village of St. Marychurch, Torquay, Devon. With its impressive collection of antiques, memorabilia, and curiosities from the Victorian and Edwardian eras, it offers visitors a glimpse into the past and a chance to step back in time. But there's more to St. Marychurch than just Bygones - here are some other places and things to do nearby that are worth checking out:

1. St. Marychurch Parish Church: Just a short walk from Bygones, this beautiful church is a must-visit for those interested in architecture and history. Built in the 14th century, it boasts a stunning interior with intricate carvings, stained glass windows, and a unique collection of brasses.

2. Babbacombe Model Village: A short drive or bus ride from St. Marychurch, this miniature world is a delight for visitors of all ages. Featuring over 400 buildings and thousands of tiny figures, it offers a fun and educational way to learn about history, architecture, and more.

3. Babbacombe Cliff Railway: Another nearby attraction worth checking out is this historic cliff railway, which has been transporting visitors up and down the steep hillside since 1926. The views from the top are breathtaking, and there are plenty of great photo opportunities to be had.

4. The South West Coast Path: For those who enjoy hiking and outdoor activities, the South West Coast Path offers miles of stunning scenery and rugged coastline to explore. There are plenty of trails and walks to choose from, with something to suit all levels of fitness and ability.

5. Torre Abbey Museum: A short drive or bus ride from St. Marychurch, Torre Abbey Museum is a fascinating place to visit for those interested in history, art, and culture. Housed in a beautiful medieval monastery, it features a range of exhibits and collections that showcase the region's rich heritage.

6. Kents Cavern: Just a few miles from St. Marychurch, Kents Cavern is a must-visit for anyone interested in prehistoric history and geology. Featuring an impressive network of underground caves and tunnels, it offers a unique insight into the lives of our ancient ancestors.

7. Cockington Country Park: A short drive or bus ride from St. Marychurch, Cockington Country Park is a beautiful and peaceful place to explore. Featuring a range of gardens, lakes, and woodland trails, it's a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and connect with nature.

In conclusion, while Bygones is certainly the main attraction in St. Marychurch, there's plenty more to see and do in the area. From historic churches and museums to outdoor activities and natural beauty spots, there's something for everyone in this charming part of Devon. So why not plan a visit and discover all that St. Marychurch has to offer?