VALE & DOWNLAND

At the Vale & Downland, you’ll discover so much more than a museum! From fossils to a Formula One racing car, we have objects and stories to fascinate all ages.

EXHIBITIONS & EVENTS

Our vibrant and frequently changing programme of exhibitions and events ensures there is always something new to see and do for families and schools.

CAFÉ & SHOP

Whilst you are here you can also enjoy delicious home-made cakes and lunches served in the Café. Our shop also stocks a range of books, gifts, toys and souvenirs.

Welcome to the Vale & Downland Museum

We are open Monday to Saturday 9.30am • Last admission to the Galleries is 3.30pm • Admission is free.

The Vale and Downland Museum is located in the busy market town of Wantage in Oxfordshire, UK.

The museum has been nationally acclaimed as an outstanding example of community partnership.

The range of services is very broad ranging, from galleries interpreting the cultural heritage of the Vale of White Horse region, to a café with a delightful terrace and garden.

It also acts as a springboard for residents and visitors to enjoy and appreciate the countryside around Wantage.

Admission to the museum galleries is free but we welcome donations. (suggested donation of £5)

We have lots of exciting events taking place at the museum throughout the year.

See below for our upcoming and current events. For a calendar of events, check out our ‘What’s On’ page!

21st March 2019

Faringdon Drop In Art Group (Exhibition)

Faringdon Drop In Art Group (Exhibition)


21st March 2019

An exhibition of paintings by the Faringdon Drop In Art Group (members of Faringdon Art Society). Includes artworks for sale. Free Admission.

Church Street
Wantage, Oxfordshire OX12 8BL
United Kingdom
01235 771 447
One Master and Four Apprentices (Exhibition)

One Master and Four Apprentices (Exhibition)


21st March 2019

This exhibition of Chinese painting features a selection of ink paintings and calligraphy from the last 20 years by a Chinese master artist – Jiang Tao – and his four apprentices.

Chinese painting, also known as “the traditional national painting”, has a history stretching back many millennia. It has a unique place in the world of fine art. In materials and techniques it shares many ideas with Chinese calligraphy, and many Chinese artists are also accomplished calligraphers.

Throughout the centuries of its development, the skills of a master have been passed on to apprentices. The works in this exhibition demonstrate three main aspects of Chinese art – calligraphy, traditional painting (with just black ink), and Western-influenced painting (multiple colours).

Join Li Ying, apprentice to master Jiang Tao, for a Demonstration of Chinese Painting Technique on Saturday 23rd March 11am - 1pm

Free admission but donations welcomed.

Church Street
Wantage, Oxfordshire OX12 8BL
United Kingdom
01235 771 447