MUDO - Musée de l’Oise, Beauvais

Museum in Beauvais

Beauvais (Oise) MUDO et cathédrale
Beauvais (Oise) MUDO et cathédrale
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Patrick

The Musée de l'Oise, known locally as MUDO, is one of the top attractions in Beauvais for art lovers and history enthusiasts. Housed in the former episcopal palace opposite Beauvais Cathedral, the museum blends medieval fortifications with Renaissance elegance, creating an atmospheric setting for its rich and varied collections. Following a major restoration and reopening in 2015, MUDO presents an inspiring journey through centuries of artistic heritage, making it a great place to visit on a walking tour of Beauvais.

Inside, the museum displays works by celebrated nineteenth-century painters such as Camille Corot and Alfred Sisley, along with sculptures, ceramics, medieval objects, and exquisite Renaissance pieces. One of the standout sections highlights Beauvais’ historic tapestry tradition, with beautifully woven examples that pay tribute to the city’s renowned workshops. The thoughtful layout and light-filled galleries make the museum an inviting cultural stop for visitors of all ages.

History and Significance of the Musée de l’Oise

The MUDO building has been a landmark of Beauvais for centuries. Originally constructed as the episcopal palace, it combines medieval defensive features with later Renaissance enhancements, reflecting the evolving tastes and political realities of its occupants. For generations, the palace stood as a symbol of ecclesiastical influence, positioned strategically opposite the cathedral.

By the twentieth century, as the need for a regional museum grew, the palace was repurposed to house the artistic and historical heritage of the Oise. After extensive renovations, the museum reopened in 2015 with redesigned galleries, improved accessibility, and enhanced displays focused on clarity and visitor experience.

The museum’s mission is to showcase the cultural richness of the region, from Middle Ages craftsmanship to nineteenth-century landscape painting, while preserving the palace’s historic character. Its dual identity as both an architectural monument and a museum makes it one of Beauvais’ most compelling cultural venues.

Things to See and Do in the Musée de l’Oise

The museum’s tapestry collection is a highlight, celebrating Beauvais’ long history as a centre of tapestry production. Visitors can admire intricate designs, vibrant colours, and scenes that reflect both mythological and daily life subjects.

Paintings by Camille Corot, Alfred Sisley, and other nineteenth-century artists offer insight into the evolution of French landscape art. Sculptures and ceramics add depth to the collection, while medieval and Renaissance objects-ranging from devotional art to decorative pieces-round out the historical overview.

The building itself is part of the experience: visitors walk through fortified gateways, Renaissance wings, and restored rooms that reveal architectural layers spanning centuries. Between galleries, the tranquil gardens and courtyard provide a peaceful moment to pause.

How to Get There

Beauvais is served by Paris-Beauvais Airport, which connects to numerous European destinations. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Beauvais on Booking.com.

The museum is about a 10-12 minute walk from Beauvais railway station, which has frequent trains from Paris-Gare du Nord. You can use SNCF Connect to check schedules, compare routes, and purchase tickets for National (SNCF ) and regional trains (TER). For a more streamlined experience, we recommend using Omio, which allows you to easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for both National and Regional travel across all of Europe, all in one place.

Nearby public car parks around the historic centre make it easy to access the museum on foot. If you are looking to rent a car in France I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Musée de l’Oise

  • Best time to visit the Musée de l’Oise: Early afternoon for quieter galleries.
  • Entrance fee in Euros: Free for permanent exhibitions.
  • Opening hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 11:00 AM-6:00 PM.
  • Official website: https://www.beauvais.fr
  • How long to spend: 45-90 minutes.
  • Accessibility: Fully accessible; lifts and ramps provided.
  • Facilities: Gift shop, restrooms, and nearby cafés around the cathedral square.
  • Photography tip: Capture the fortified entrance from the garden side for a blend of medieval and Renaissance lines.
  • Guided-tours: Available; workshops offered for families and school groups.
  • Nearby food options: Several cafés and restaurants around Beauvais Cathedral.

Where to Stay close to the Musée de l’Oise

Several hotels sit within easy walking distance of the museum. Mercure Beauvais Centre Cathédrale offers modern comfort near both the museum and cathedral. For a cosy central stay, Hotel du Cygne is a convenient option. Travellers arriving via the airport may prefer Ibis Beauvais Aéroport, combining value and accessibility.

Is the Musée de l’Oise Worth Visiting?

Yes - the MUDO is one of Beauvais’ most rewarding cultural experiences. Its exceptional artworks, beautifully restored palace setting, and free admission make it an essential stop for anyone exploring the city’s artistic and architectural heritage.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.4 (691)

MUDO - Oise Museum at 1 Rue du Musée in Beauvais occupies a striking old building next to the cathedral and offers free entry; visitors praise its pleasant courtyard for relaxing, rotating special exhibitions (past shows include paintings of myths and legends), helpful staff, and practical on-site arrangements such as leaving large bags at the office and keeping your ticket for the toilet code; inside you can admire features like the roof and Art Deco furniture.

Rita van Eck
5 months ago
"The courtyard is open and free to all. I didn't visit the meseum, but sitting in the shade/sun in the courtyard looking at the gorgeous buildings wasa great relaxing way to spend an hour...."
Legends l
a year ago
"Nice museum to visit. When we visited, they had a couple of exhibitions on. It is free to enter; you just need to confirm your nationality if you area tourist. Rucksacks or big bags must be left in the office area. Friendly staff. It is located right next to the cathedral. Well worth a visit...."
Simon Scott
a year ago
"The museum is in a beautiful old building. When I went, there was an exhibition of paintings of myths and legends. Some beautiful paintings. As youenter, you'll be issued a ticket from the desk. It's worth keeping as it has the code for the toilets printed on the reverse...."

FAQs for Visiting

Yes, with family-friendly workshops and accessible displays.
Permanent collections are free; some temporary exhibitions may have a fee.
In most cases, access to the courtyard and gardens is integrated with the visit.
Photography is generally permitted without flash, depending on the exhibition.
Not usually; walk-ins are welcome during opening hours.

Nearby Attractions to the Musée de l’Oise

The MUDO - Musée de l’Oise appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Beauvais!

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Moira & Andy

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Planning Your Visit

Hours:

Daily 10am to 1pm and from 2pm to 6pm

Price:

Free

Address: MUDO - Musée de l'Oise, Rue du Musée, Beauvais, France
Beauvais: 0 km
Official Website

Nearby Attractions

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