23-29 High St, Wimborne BH21 1HR

Museum of East Dorset


The Museum of East Dorset is a local museum in the town of Wimborne Minster in Dorset, England. It is located on the high street, opposite the Church of Wimborne Minster. The museum occupies a historic Grade II* listed building, a hall house dating from the late 16th or early 17th century.

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About



If you are planning a trip to Wimborne Minster in England, then a visit to the Museum of East Dorset should definitely be on your list. This museum is a hidden gem, offering a fascinating insight into the history and culture of the local area.

Located in the heart of Wimborne Minster, the Museum of East Dorset is housed in a beautiful Georgian building that dates back to 1784. The building itself is worth a visit, with its elegant architecture and stunning gardens. But it is what is inside the museum that truly makes it a must-visit destination.

The museum’s exhibits cover a wide range of topics, from prehistoric times to the present day. You can learn about the local geology, flora and fauna, as well as the social, economic, and cultural history of the area.

One of the highlights of the museum is the collection of Roman artefacts, which includes a mosaic floor, pottery, and jewellery. The Roman presence in Dorset dates back to the 1st century AD, and the museum’s collection provides a fascinating insight into their way of life.

The museum also has an extensive collection of artefacts from the Anglo-Saxon period, including jewellery, weapons, and pottery. The Anglo-Saxons were an important part of the history of the area, and their influence can still be seen today in the local place names and dialect.

For those interested in local industries, the museum has exhibits on everything from lace-making to brewing. Dorset has a rich history of industry, and the museum provides a unique insight into the processes and techniques used in these industries.

One of the most interesting exhibits in the museum is the replica Victorian shop, which is based on a real shop that operated in Wimborne in the late 19th century. The shop is filled with authentic products from the period, giving visitors a real sense of what life was like in Victorian times.

The museum also has a programme of temporary exhibitions, which cover a wide range of topics. These exhibitions are always well-curated and provide an opportunity to see objects and artefacts that are not normally on display.

Overall, the Museum of East Dorset is a wonderful destination for anyone interested in the history and culture of the local area. The exhibits are well-presented, informative, and engaging, and the staff are friendly and knowledgeable. So if you’re in Wimborne Minster, be sure to pay a visit to this hidden gem.

Gallery

Opening Hours

Thursday 10 am–4:30 pm
Friday 10 am–4:30 pm
Saturday 10 am–4:30 pm
Sunday Closed
Monday 10 am–4:30 pm
Tuesday 10 am–4:30 pm
Wednesday 10 am–4:30 pm

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