Business Details
Torquay Museum - Discover Torbay's Heritage
Torquay Museum has been dedicated to preserving Torbay's natural and cultural heritage since 1844. Our mission is to safeguard and present collections spanning 400 million years of geological history, local archaeology, and social history through accessible exhibitions and educational programs. As a registered charity, we rely on visitor support to maintain our unique collections and deliver engaging experiences for all ages.Our Venetian-Gothic building houses interactive displays, including the renowned Agatha Christie exhibition, while our research projects explore Torquay's marble industry and international collections. We offer family-friendly activities, school visits, and special events throughout the year, with annual entry tickets providing unlimited access to regular exhibitions.
Services
Exhibitions
Family Activities
Research Access
Group Bookings
Gift Shop
School Visits
Lectures
Film Screenings
Special Events
Collections Research
Highlights and features
- We offer 175+ years of heritage preservation expertise
- Our collections include unique geological specimens and Roman artifacts
- We provide interactive family-friendly educational experiences
- We offer discounted entry for Blue Light Card holders
- Our research projects contribute to academic understanding of local history
What people say
Interactive displays
Agatha Christie area
Fun for kids
Entertaining exhibits
Fascinating collections
Services
Exhibitions
Our permanent exhibitions showcase Torbay's 400 million-year history through geological specimens, Roman artifacts, and social history collections. Temporary displays include the popular Agatha Christie exhibition featuring original costumes and memorabilia. All exhibitions are included in standard admission tickets.
Family Activities
We offer hands-on experiences including explorer dress-up, interactive trails, and themed activity days. These educational programs engage children with local history while providing entertaining learning opportunities for school groups and families.
Research Projects
Our research initiatives cover Torquay's marble industry, Fijian collections, and Kent's Cavern excavations. Scholars can access archives and collaborate with institutions like Cambridge University through our documented collections and specialist resources.
Group Bookings
We accommodate educational groups with tailored programs aligned to curriculum requirements. Group rates apply for pre-booked visits, including guided tours and interactive workshops focused on local heritage and historical investigations.
Special Events
Seasonal events include crime fiction festivals, film screenings, and academic lectures. These programs enhance visitor experiences through expert-led discussions, themed exhibitions, and community engagement activities throughout the year.
People
Reverend Stebbing
Historical Figure
Laid the foundation stone for the current museum building in 1874, establishing the permanent home for Torquay's collections.
William Harvey Jnr.
Architect
Designed the Venetian-Gothic style museum building, featuring distinctive terra-cotta window decorations and the iconic glass lantern roof.
Questions
What are Torquay Museum's opening hours?
We're open Wednesday-Saturday 10am-4:45pm, Sunday 10am-4:45pm. Closed Mondays, Tuesdays, and 20 Dec-7 Jan.
How much are entry tickets?
Adults £10, children 5-17 £5, under 5s free. Family tickets available from £15 with annual access included.
Are there family discounts available?
Yes, we offer family tickets (1 or 2 adults + children) and free entry for under-5s. Blue Light Card holders get 25% off.
Can I access research collections?
Researchers can access documented collections through our ongoing projects. Contact us to discuss specific research requirements and access arrangements.
Do you host group visits?
Yes, we welcome school and community groups. Email us for booking details and tailored educational programs.
What special events do you offer?
Annual events include the Crime at the Coast literary festival, Into Film Festival screenings, and academic lecture series.
Videos
Reviews (5)
Stephen Karl McQueen
Nov 28, 2021
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Torquay Museum is a great place. Who knew Torquay had so many influential people. So many cool exhibits to look at and friendly staff. Although hard to choose from my favorite piece was a 400,000 year old cave man skull! The explorers floor is just incredible! Check it out!
Dave Crispin
Nov 27, 2021
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Fascinating --- a real pleasure to visit. Welcoming, friendly and knowledgable staff. Excellent layout with interests for all age groups --- oh! and a lovely cafe, too
Jane Jennings
Nov 17, 2021
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Not a large museum but lots of local interest exhibits. Worth a visit, especially on a cold, wet day as good way to spend an hour or two.
Tiffany Bowes-Cavanagh
Oct 31, 2021
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A lovely Harry Potter/Fantastic Beasts/Halloween event held at the museum, lots of activities included in the small 6 ticket price. Lovely cafe open for hot drinks and cakes during large events, staff all welcoming and very knowledgeable and helpful, love coming to events here, highly recommend.
Lynne Munro
Oct 12, 2021
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So much to see , definitely worth spending a few hours there. Agatha Christie exhibition (including some of the genuine Poirot/Miss Marple sets) and the Egyptian exhibition with the mummy as centre stage
