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 Feb 16th

  • - Music and Merriment and 1 other event
    Music and Merriment

    Music and Merriment

    –
    19th February 2026

    Medieval Family Fun

    Step back in time for a joyful medieval music day for the whole family! Dance and sing along with medieval band Ghaetta, who’ll lead lively dances and action songs. Get hands-on with crafts as you make your own musical instruments, plus more creative activities. Perfect for children aged 3-11, with fun for all the family!

    £6.50 per child.
    Must be booked in advance.

    Online via Ticketsource
    Phone 0333 666 3366
    In person at the museum

    Thursday 19th February
    10am - 12pm OR 1 - 3pm

    There are two sessions on this day so please make sure you book and attend the correct session.

    This event is aimed at primary aged children but younger and older children are welcome. Younger children will require more assistance from their accompanying adult.
    Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

    Music and Merriment

    Music and Merriment

    –
    19th February 2026

    Medieval Family Fun

    Step back in time for a joyful medieval music day for the whole family! Dance and sing along with medieval band Ghaetta, who’ll lead lively dances and action songs. Get hands-on with crafts as you make your own musical instruments, plus more creative activities. Perfect for children aged 3-11, with fun for all the family!

    £6.50 per child.
    Must be booked in advance.

    Online via Ticketsource
    Phone 0333 666 3366
    In person at the museum

    Thursday 19th February
    10am - 12pm OR 1 - 3pm

    There are two sessions on this day so please make sure you book and attend the correct session.

    This event is aimed at primary aged children but younger and older children are welcome. Younger children will require more assistance from their accompanying adult.
    Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

  • - Family Weaving Workshop
    Family Weaving Workshop

    Family Weaving Workshop

    –
    20th February 2026

    Join professional weaver Angela Pawlyn at the Vale & Downland Museum for a fun family weaving workshop, where families will use a small loom to create their own woven creation which they will take home at the end of the session.

    £10 per family.

    How to book:

    Maximum of 4 people per family and must include at least one adult.
    Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times within the museum.
    Recommended age 7+

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.”