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 Jul 7th

  • - Creative Book Art Workshop
    Creative Book Art Workshop

    Creative Book Art Workshop

    –
    7th July 2025

    Whether you are a crafting beginner or a seasoned pro it doesn’t matter for this workshop as it’s perfect for all crafting abilities!
    Join Elaine in the museum’s Barn Gallery as she guides you through the process of creating your own book vase and paper flowers.
    All materials are provided and you will take home your finished book vase.

    £25 per person.
    Space is limited so it must be booked in advance. Book online here or visit the museum to book.

    This workshop is for adults only.

    Please note that food and drink are not allowed in the Barn Gallery but the museum coffee shop will be open before and after the workshop should you want to purchase any refreshments.

    All profits from this workshop go towards supporting the Vale & Downland Museum (registered charity No. 1126995)

  • - Book Group
    Book Group

    Book Group

    –
    11th July 2025

    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.

  • - Museum Summer Fete
    Museum Summer Fete

    Museum Summer Fete

    –
    12th July 2025

    Support the museum at this year's Fundraising Summer Fete.

    It will be a fun filled day with games and lots of stalls, such as

    • children's tombola
    • adult's tombola
    • plants
    • bric-a-brac
    • gifts

    The museum coffee shop will be open for refreshments.

    Saturday 12th July 10am - 3pm

    Free entry but donations to the museum very welcome.

    Children must be accompanied by an adult.

    The museum fundraising summer fete is supported by Green & Co.

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.”