Business Details
Your Gateway to Natural History, Culture & Education Since 1888
Founded in 1888 by Sir Jonathan Hutchinson, Haslemere Museum Shop stands as a beacon of learning and cultural preservation. Our institution combines extensive natural history specimens, global human history artefacts, and geological collections to foster educational engagement for all ages. With three permanent galleries, temporary exhibitions, and dedicated educational facilities, we provide immersive experiences that align with our Victorian-era mission of accessible education through hands-on exploration. Our team of curators, educators, and trustees brings decades of expertise in museum curation, scientific research, and community engagement, ensuring our collections remain relevant and inspiring.As an independent charity, we maintain rigorous conservation standards while innovating through modern exhibition techniques and digital outreach programs. Our commitment to public education is demonstrated through school loan services, community events, and partnerships with national institutions like the Natural History Museum London. The museum's historic significance is matched by its contemporary relevance, offering both physical spaces and virtual resources for lifelong learning. Our governance by qualified professionals and active community involvement ensure we continue advancing our founding principles while embracing modern educational methodologies.
Services
Natural History Exhibits
Human History Artefacts
Geology Galleries
Temporary Exhibitions
Educational Programs
School Loan Service
Venue Hire
Museum Shop
Library Access
Community Events
Highlights and features
- We offer over 240,000 natural history specimens and 140,000 global artefacts for exploration
- Our educational programs have served schools since 1951 through our unique loan service
- We maintain historic collections from the Peasant Arts Museum and Victorian-era archives
- Our curators collaborate with institutions like the Natural History Museum London
- We provide accessible learning through touch-based exhibits and modern educational facilities
Associations and certifications
- Charity number 1071244
Services
Natural History Exhibits
Our natural history collection features over 240,000 specimens including rare taxidermy, fossils, and biological samples. These exhibits showcase global biodiversity through interactive displays and curated educational content. Visitors can explore evolutionary patterns and ecological relationships across different habitats.
Human History Artefacts
With 140,000 global artefacts spanning multiple civilizations, our collection includes tools, textiles, and ceremonial objects. These items provide insights into human development and cultural practices across different eras and regions. Special focus is given to Victorian-era ethnographic materials.
Educational Programs
We deliver structured educational experiences for schools and groups using our collections. Our programs align with national curriculum standards while offering hands-on learning opportunities. Resources include touch-based exhibits and specialist-led workshops for all age groups.
Temporary Exhibitions
Rotating exhibitions feature curated themes from our collections and visiting loans. These displays offer fresh perspectives on specific topics through expert curation and interactive elements. Exhibitions change quarterly to maintain visitor engagement.
School Loan Service
Since 1951, we've provided schools with duplicate specimens and artefacts for classroom use. This service supports practical learning through physical interaction with educational materials. Resources are available for primary and secondary institutions across the region.
People
Melanie Odell MBE
Chairman
Local resident with extensive community involvement, former Mayor of Haslemere, and founder of Haslemere Rewards. Brings business and civic leadership experience to museum governance.
Richard Sabin
Collections Trustee
Principal Curator of Mammals at the Natural History Museum London with expertise in marine mammals and public engagement. Provides scientific leadership for collection development.
Jonathan Pile
Trustee
Award-winning architect with Oval Partnership, specializing in sustainable design. Contributes expertise in heritage conservation and educational facility planning.
Jilly Storey
Trustee
Retired headteacher with 32 years' educational experience. Focuses on enhancing the museum's educational outreach and community engagement programs.
Richard Manyon
Trustee
Solicitor specializing in trust and estate disputes. Brings legal expertise and governance experience to support the museum's charitable operations.
Questions
What are the museum's main collection areas?
We focus on three core areas: Natural History (240,000 specimens), Human History (140,000 global artefacts), and Geology. Special collections include the Peasant Arts Museum materials.
How can I support the museum?
Support options include donations, membership subscriptions, volunteering, and legacy gifts. All contributions help preserve collections and fund educational programs.
Is the museum accessible for educational groups?
Yes, we offer dedicated educational facilities, school loan services since 1951, and curriculum-aligned programs for all age groups with specialist-led sessions.
What facilities are available for visitors?
Facilities include three permanent galleries, two temporary exhibition spaces, a library, education room, museum shop, and 15,000 sqm grounds with nature trails.
How does the museum engage with the community?
Through local events like the Food Festival, Christmas Market, and educational programs. We also collaborate with schools and maintain the 100-year-old Haslemere High Street project.
What makes this museum historically significant?
Founded in 1888 by Sir Jonathan Hutchinson, we pioneered accessible education through hands-on exhibits. Our collections include Victorian-era ethnographic materials and rare natural history specimens.
Reviews (6)
Iana Miller Tovalovich
Sep 04, 2021
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Good exposition for archeology, biology and astronomy. Interesting exposition of life and nature and animal world plus historical daily life exponats. Exhibitions of local artists. Recommend to visit.
Keshia Alexandra Eaton
Aug 12, 2021
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Yhe museum had something for everyone, I love that children can interact with items- like the drawers with butterflies and the bee hive in the garden. We will absolutely be back!
Dee Hyde
Sep 25, 2019
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Very enjoyable plenty to see & great for children too, Entry by donation, we went round 1st & then put a nice donation in the box on the way out, would love to have done the outside walk but was raining so will definitely be back next summer. Dee, Sue & Terry
Stephen Tolley
Aug 09, 2019
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We took our grandchildren to where we took their mum and uncle many years ago. It’s still great fun for kids and maybe even better now. Nice to see the bees are still there!
Brian Long
Aug 05, 2019
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Great day at the early bird session. Really appreciated it. The boys particularly loved the bee hive.
Jessie R. Watkins
Jul 05, 2019
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I love this place- it’s weird and wonderful and on our last visit the curator took such special care to engage my 2 and 4 year old. While I tried to contain them he embraced their desire to write on everything and be royal pains and talked through their favourite pictures. It wasn’t the cold, stuffy, child unfriendly experiences I recall as a kid and that turned me off such places, but rather warm, inclusive and fun! Great work! ❤️
