Dorset County Museum History

Dorset's rich landscape unfolds in fascinating displays which capture the imagination of all ages. History, geology, archaeology, wildlife and literature mingle with stunning temporary exhibitions.

The Victorian Hall built in 1883, lit by a beautiful rose window, houses an array of objects including paintings, furniture and ceramics. The upstairs gallery of the hall traces the fascinating history of the county town of Dorchester. From here you can move to the Archaeology Gallery which houses a vast number of rich and varied artefacts. Here you can trace the history of the area from prehistoric times through to Dorset’s Roman period, including beautiful mosaics, jewellery, glassware and pottery.

Go further back in time in our Jurassic Coast Gallery celebrating the World Heritage Coast which stretches along the Devon and Dorset coast. Incredible fossils, inspirational interactive and video displays, hands-on activities and animated flying dinosaurs bring the sounds and sights of prehistoric Dorset to life.

The novelist and poet Thomas Hardy spent most of his life in Dorset and the Museum holds the world’s largest collection of items relating to his life and work. Experience the Rural Wessex Hardy wrote about in our farming gallery which highlights the important role agriculture has had in the county. A wide range of agricultural machinery and tools show how our ancestors tilled the land. The many and varied habitats of Dorset including woodland, lowland heath, rivers and coastal areas together with their wildlife are shown in the Natural History Gallery.

The Museum hosts a lively events programme with temporary exhibitions, children’s activities, textile and local history day schools and lecture series in literature, geology, archaeology and natural history.

Opening Times

10am - 5pm

July - September: 7 days a week
October - June: Monday - Saturday

Costs

Adult - £6.00 (valid for one year)
Concession - £5.00 (valid for one year)
Children - Up to 2 accompanied free, additional children £1.00
Groups (15 or more) £3.00 per person

Directions

Dorset County Museum is situated on High West Street next to St. Peter's Church in the centre of Dorchester. Public car parks at Charles Street or Top o' Town.

Additional Information

Wheelchair access to ground floor and Jurassic coast gallery only. Audio guides available in English, French and German and tactile guides for braille users.

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