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!

Week of Apr 15th

  • - Toddler Tunes
    Toddler Tunes

    Toddler Tunes

    –
    15th April 2024

    Our musical volunteers are back for 2024!
    A fun and friendly music session of traditional songs and rhymes played on a variety of instruments.
    Monday 15th April, 13th May, 10th June, & 8th July.
    10am - 10.30am.
    £2 per child, adults go free but must book an adult ticket.
    Book tickets online here
  • - Barn Gallery Focus Group
    Barn Gallery Focus Group

    Barn Gallery Focus Group

    –
    16th April 2024

    We are redesigning our Barn Gallery and we're currently in a consultation period so we can find out from our local community and visitors, what they would like to see in our galleries.
    Our curatorial team are holding two small focus groups so you can share your thoughts and contribute to the conversation before we move on to the next stage of the consultation.
    Tuesday 16th & Monday 22nd April 10-11am.
    Free to attend but spaces are limited so please book in advance online here or pop into the museum.
  • - Friends of VDM Talk - The University of Oxford Botanic Garden
    Friends of VDM Talk - The University of Oxford Botanic Garden

    Friends of VDM Talk - The University of Oxford Botanic Garden

    –
    18th April 2024

    400 Years of Gardening & Botany

    The Oxford Botanic Garden is the oldest in Britain. Since 1621 it has stood on the banks of the River Cherwell in the centre of Oxford. It has evolved from a collection of medicinal herbs for seventeenth century physicians into the most compact, diverse collection of plants in the world. In 4½ acres 4,500 species can be seen.
    This talk details where the Garden came from and what it was up to for four centuries.

    Thursday 18th April  7.30pm

    Tickets:

    Members £5 (requires a password)

    Non-members £7

    Must be booked in advance online here or pop into the museum.

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Hannah

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“Lovely local museum. Interesting galleries, yummy cafe and good craft activities for all the family.”

Lucy

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“What a great museum we have in Wantage. It’s the best. Today was a Science exhibition and was totally amazing. Well done. Keep up the great work.”

Sean

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“A nice Museum for a nice little town and the staff is always happy to help. I recommend all friends and family should visit the museum it’s well worth it.”