Museum of Gloucester

Museum in Gloucester

Gloucester City Museum Art Gallery
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Jaggery /Gloucester City Museum & Art Gallery

The Museum of Gloucester is one of the top attractions in Gloucester, offering an engaging and interactive journey through the city's 2,000-year-old story. Housed in a distinguished Victorian building, the museum takes visitors from Gloucester's beginnings as a Roman settlement through its evolution in the Dark Ages and Medieval era. With rich archaeology, hands-on exhibits, and an impressive art collection, it is one of the best places to visit in Gloucester for all ages.

It is often visited on walking tours of Gloucester, especially for families and history fans who enjoy immersive experiences. With recreated Roman rooms, medieval streets, and access to part of the original Roman wall, the museum blends education with discovery in a way that appeals to both children and adults.

History and Significance of the Museum of Gloucester

The museum tells the story of Gloucester’s development from a Roman fort and colonia known as Glevum into a thriving medieval city. Its archaeological collections trace centuries of urban life, trade, and craftsmanship. The Victorian building that houses the museum was founded to preserve significant finds from Gloucester’s soil, including mosaics, pottery, and statues unearthed during excavations across the city.

Its fine art collection includes works by leading British artists such as Thomas Gainsborough, Richard Wilson, John Atkinson Grimshaw, and Thomas Dibdin. Together, the art and archaeology collections offer a comprehensive look at Gloucester’s historical, cultural, and artistic heritage.

The museum is particularly notable for containing part of the city’s original Roman wall and for safeguarding treasures of national significance.

Things to See and Do in the Museum of Gloucester

Highlights of the museum include interactive ground-floor exhibits designed to bring ancient history to life. Children can enjoy the Roman kitchen playhouse, while visitors of all ages can stroll through the atmospheric medieval street recreation.

The archaeology galleries feature some of the most important Roman and Iron Age artefacts in Britain. Key exhibits include:

  • The world-famous Birdlip Mirror, an exquisite Iron Age bronze mirror.
  • Impressive Roman tombstones, beautifully carved and remarkably preserved.
  • The Gloucester Tables Set, the oldest complete backgammon set in the world.
  • A section of the original Roman city wall, visible within the museum.

The fine art galleries display notable landscapes, maritime scenes, and atmospheric paintings by major British artists, adding depth beyond the historical displays.

How to Get to the Museum of Gloucester

Gloucester enjoys excellent rail connections, with direct trains from London Paddington, Bristol, Cardiff, Birmingham, Cheltenham, and Worcester. Gloucester Station is just a short walk from the museum. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

For visitors arriving from abroad, the nearest airport is Bristol Airport, with easy train and coach links via Bristol Temple Meads. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Gloucester on Booking.com.

If travelling by car, Gloucester is accessible via the M5 and A40, with several city-centre car parks a few minutes' walk from the museum.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Museum of Gloucester

  • Suggested tips: Explore both floors—the archaeology and interactive exhibits downstairs and the fine art upstairs.
  • Best time to visit: Weekdays or early afternoons for a quieter experience.
  • Entrance fee in Euros: Usually around €7–€10 for adults; discounts may apply.
  • Opening hours: Typically open daily except Mondays; check seasonal changes.
  • Official website: Visit the Museum of Gloucester listings for current hours and ticket details.
  • How long to spend: 1–1.5 hours.
  • Accessibility: Fully accessible, with lifts and clear pathways.
  • Facilities: Café, shop, restrooms, and family-friendly spaces.
  • Photography tip: Capture the Roman tombstones in soft, even lighting.
  • Guided tours: Occasional tours and educational talks available.
  • Nearby food options: Numerous cafés and restaurants around Brunswick Road and Gloucester city centre.

Where to Stay close to the Museum of Gloucester

For a modern stay within easy reach of the museum and cathedral, Premier Inn Gloucester City Centre is very convenient. Visitors seeking boutique charm might enjoy The Locking Castle Hotel. For a characterful historic option close to shops and attractions, consider The New Inn.

Is the Museum of Gloucester Worth Visiting?

Yes. The Museum of Gloucester is one of the must-see places in Gloucester for its blend of archaeology, interactive displays, fine art, and rare historical treasures. Whether you're interested in Roman Britain, local heritage, or family-friendly learning, it offers a rewarding experience.

FAQs for Visiting the Museum of Gloucester

Is the museum suitable for children?
Yes, with hands-on exhibits and interactive play areas.

Is photography allowed?
Generally yes, except where indicated.

Are the Roman exhibits original?
Yes, many artefacts are authentic discoveries from Gloucester.

How long does a visit take?
Around 1–1.5 hours.

Is the museum fully accessible?
Yes, with lifts and accessible facilities.

Are there events or workshops?
Yes, regular activities are held for families and adults.

Can I see the Roman wall?
Yes, a section is preserved within the museum.

Is there parking nearby?
Several city-centre car parks are within short walking distance.

Do I need to book in advance?
Not usually, but booking may be required for special events.

Is it close to the train station?
Yes, it is within easy walking distance of Gloucester Station.

Nearby Attractions to the Museum of Gloucester

The Museum of Gloucester appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Gloucester!

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Visiting Museum of Gloucester

Hours:

PEAK SEASON (February half-term to end October half-term)

Tuesday-Saturday | 10am-5pm and Sunday | 11am-4pm


OFF-PEAK SEASON (End October half-term to February half-term)

Tuesday-Saturday | 10am-4pm and Sunday | 11am-3pm

Gloucester: 1 km
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