VALE & DOWNLAND

At the Vale & Downland, you’ll discover so much more than a museum! From fossils to a Formula One, 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.

COFFEE SHOP & GIFT SHOP

Enjoy delicious home-made cakes and light lunch served in the Coffee Shop. 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 Coffee Shop 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 Mar 9th

  • - Small and Perfectly Formed Exhibition and 1 other event
    Small and Perfectly Formed Exhibition

    Small and Perfectly Formed Exhibition


    3rd March 2026 28th March 2026

    A new exhibition by Textiles in Oxford is coming to the museum! Featuring handmade embroidery, textile art, and mixed media, this group show brings together work by many different makers, each with their own style and approach. A colourful, tactile exhibition full of detail and creativity.

    Tuesday 3rd - Saturday 28th March

    Free admission but donations to the museum always welcome.

    Toddler Tunes

    Toddler Tunes


    9th March 2026

    A fun and friendly music session of traditional songs and rhymes played on a variety of instruments.
    Monday 12th January, 9th February and 9th March.
    10am - 10.30am.
    £2 per child, adults go free but must book an adult ticket.
    Book tickets online here

     

     

  • - Small and Perfectly Formed Exhibition
    Small and Perfectly Formed Exhibition

    Small and Perfectly Formed Exhibition


    3rd March 2026 28th March 2026

    A new exhibition by Textiles in Oxford is coming to the museum! Featuring handmade embroidery, textile art, and mixed media, this group show brings together work by many different makers, each with their own style and approach. A colourful, tactile exhibition full of detail and creativity.

    Tuesday 3rd - Saturday 28th March

    Free admission but donations to the museum always welcome.

  • - Small and Perfectly Formed Exhibition
    Small and Perfectly Formed Exhibition

    Small and Perfectly Formed Exhibition


    3rd March 2026 28th March 2026

    A new exhibition by Textiles in Oxford is coming to the museum! Featuring handmade embroidery, textile art, and mixed media, this group show brings together work by many different makers, each with their own style and approach. A colourful, tactile exhibition full of detail and creativity.

    Tuesday 3rd - Saturday 28th March

    Free admission but donations to the museum always welcome.

  • - Small and Perfectly Formed Exhibition
    Small and Perfectly Formed Exhibition

    Small and Perfectly Formed Exhibition


    3rd March 2026 28th March 2026

    A new exhibition by Textiles in Oxford is coming to the museum! Featuring handmade embroidery, textile art, and mixed media, this group show brings together work by many different makers, each with their own style and approach. A colourful, tactile exhibition full of detail and creativity.

    Tuesday 3rd - Saturday 28th March

    Free admission but donations to the museum always welcome.

  • - Small and Perfectly Formed Exhibition
    Small and Perfectly Formed Exhibition

    Small and Perfectly Formed Exhibition


    3rd March 2026 28th March 2026

    A new exhibition by Textiles in Oxford is coming to the museum! Featuring handmade embroidery, textile art, and mixed media, this group show brings together work by many different makers, each with their own style and approach. A colourful, tactile exhibition full of detail and creativity.

    Tuesday 3rd - Saturday 28th March

    Free admission but donations to the museum always welcome.

  • - Small and Perfectly Formed Exhibition and 1 other event
    Small and Perfectly Formed Exhibition

    Small and Perfectly Formed Exhibition


    3rd March 2026 28th March 2026

    A new exhibition by Textiles in Oxford is coming to the museum! Featuring handmade embroidery, textile art, and mixed media, this group show brings together work by many different makers, each with their own style and approach. A colourful, tactile exhibition full of detail and creativity.

    Tuesday 3rd - Saturday 28th March

    Free admission but donations to the museum always welcome.

    Crafter's Clearout Sale!

    Crafter's Clearout Sale!


    14th March 2026

    A home crafter's closing down sale!

    Craft materials include: buttons, beads, ribbons, felt, fabric, wool, card, stickers, craft blanks, craft kits, and decorations.

    plus

    Handmade craft items: earrings, knitted greetings cards, hanging ornaments, children’s crafts, and egg cosies.

    Saturday 14th March   10am - 2pm

    Prices from as low as 50p!

    Free admission

    Cash and card payments accepted

    Please bring your own bags

    25% of all sales goes to the museum

  • - Small and Perfectly Formed Exhibition
    Small and Perfectly Formed Exhibition

    Small and Perfectly Formed Exhibition


    3rd March 2026 28th March 2026

    A new exhibition by Textiles in Oxford is coming to the museum! Featuring handmade embroidery, textile art, and mixed media, this group show brings together work by many different makers, each with their own style and approach. A colourful, tactile exhibition full of detail and creativity.

    Tuesday 3rd - Saturday 28th March

    Free admission but donations to the museum always welcome.