Dorset Museum

Museum Overview

The Dorset Museum is located in the centre of Dorchester in Dorset. It was originally founded in 1846 and the museum covers the history of the local area and environment. The current building was built in 1881.

There are a variety of galleries. In Natural Dorset you can see 250 million years of natural history come alive through the secrets of the county’s geology, landscapes, habitats and wildlife. In Peoples Dorset, you can learn more about 500,000 years worth of history from people living in the area from the Paleolithic to the present day with the theme of land, sea and community.

In Hardy’s Dorset gallery, you will be able to discover more about the work of Dorset’s famous novelist and poet Thomas Hardy. The fourth gallery is Artist’s Dorset which is full of paintings, sculptures, prints, drawings, textiles and fine and decorative art.

Further Information Dorset Museum

Is there food and drink available?

There is a cafe serving food and drinks.

What are the main things to do?

A museum that covers the history of the local area and environment. There are toilets and a cafe.

What are the ticket prices?

The museum is free to visit.

Is there parking?

There is parking nearby, charges may apply.

When are they open?

Dorset Museum is open for most of the year. For up-to-date opening times and dates please visit their website.

Dog friendly?

Only assistance dogs are permitted.

Are they accessible?

Information on accessibility