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 Dec 4th

  • - Beryl Maile Exhibition
    Beryl Maile Exhibition

    Beryl Maile Exhibition

    –
    4th December 2023

    Beryl Maile

    Artist. Eccentric. Raconteur. 1928-2018

     

    A special exhibition celebrating the wonderful and diverse work of talented local artist, Beryl Maile.

    17 November 2023 - 17 February 2024

    Free Admission

    This exhibition was made possible by the generous loans and donations of the local community, supporters, and the Friends of the Vale and Downland Museum.

  • - Beryl Maile Exhibition
    Beryl Maile Exhibition

    Beryl Maile Exhibition

    –
    5th December 2023

    Beryl Maile

    Artist. Eccentric. Raconteur. 1928-2018

     

    A special exhibition celebrating the wonderful and diverse work of talented local artist, Beryl Maile.

    17 November 2023 - 17 February 2024

    Free Admission

    This exhibition was made possible by the generous loans and donations of the local community, supporters, and the Friends of the Vale and Downland Museum.

  • - Beryl Maile Exhibition and 1 other event
    Beryl Maile Exhibition

    Beryl Maile Exhibition

    –
    6th December 2023

    Beryl Maile

    Artist. Eccentric. Raconteur. 1928-2018

     

    A special exhibition celebrating the wonderful and diverse work of talented local artist, Beryl Maile.

    17 November 2023 - 17 February 2024

    Free Admission

    This exhibition was made possible by the generous loans and donations of the local community, supporters, and the Friends of the Vale and Downland Museum.

    10,000 Years of Textiles Talk

    10,000 Years of Textiles Talk

    –
    6th December 2023

    The museum's collection includes spindle whorl and loom weights which have been used to spin and weave textiles for thousands of years. Professional weaver Angela Pawlyn will present information about examples and discuss how the textiles were spun and woven.

    Wednesday 6th December at 1.30pm

    £7.50 per person.
    This event is suitable for people aged 16+

    Book tickets online via Ticketsource

    Pick up a copy of the full programme of Adult Gallery Talks for the 2023/2024 season from the museum or see it here

    The Museum Café will be open before and after this talk, where refreshments will be available to purchase. Last food orders at 3pm. Please note food and drink are not permitted in the museum galleries, where the talks are held, so please allow enough time to visit the café.

  • - Beryl Maile Exhibition
    Beryl Maile Exhibition

    Beryl Maile Exhibition

    –
    7th December 2023

    Beryl Maile

    Artist. Eccentric. Raconteur. 1928-2018

     

    A special exhibition celebrating the wonderful and diverse work of talented local artist, Beryl Maile.

    17 November 2023 - 17 February 2024

    Free Admission

    This exhibition was made possible by the generous loans and donations of the local community, supporters, and the Friends of the Vale and Downland Museum.

  • - Beryl Maile Exhibition and 1 other event
    Beryl Maile Exhibition

    Beryl Maile Exhibition

    –
    8th December 2023

    Beryl Maile

    Artist. Eccentric. Raconteur. 1928-2018

     

    A special exhibition celebrating the wonderful and diverse work of talented local artist, Beryl Maile.

    17 November 2023 - 17 February 2024

    Free Admission

    This exhibition was made possible by the generous loans and donations of the local community, supporters, and the Friends of the Vale and Downland Museum.

    Book Group

    Book Group

    –
    8th December 2023

    The museum book group meet in the museum café every second Friday of the month at 2pm.

    The friendly group read a wide range of books, chosen by members and enjoy an insightful discussion about each book.

    It is completely free to join and attend but we do ask you support the museum café.

    If you would like more information about joining, please speak to our reception team at the museum or email info@valeanddownlandmuseum.org.uk

    Suitable for adults only.

  • - Beryl Maile Exhibition
    Beryl Maile Exhibition

    Beryl Maile Exhibition

    –
    9th December 2023

    Beryl Maile

    Artist. Eccentric. Raconteur. 1928-2018

     

    A special exhibition celebrating the wonderful and diverse work of talented local artist, Beryl Maile.

    17 November 2023 - 17 February 2024

    Free Admission

    This exhibition was made possible by the generous loans and donations of the local community, supporters, and the Friends of the Vale and Downland 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.”