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27 Years
experience
Discover Petersfield Museum
Established in 1999, we are an accredited independent museum and registered charity dedicated to preserving history and celebrating the arts. Housed in a restored Victorian Justice Heritage site, our institution combines the former police station and courthouse to showcase the rich cultural heritage of Petersfield and the surrounding area. Our permanent collections span archaeology, social history, photography, fashion, textiles, and literature, with particular emphasis on the Flora Twort Art Collection and the Edward Thomas Centre. Through our exhibitions and events programme, we create a cultural space for all, bringing people together to explore history and creative arts. Our digital resources extend access to collections and events beyond our physical location, while our educational initiatives cater to learners of all ages through workshops, walks, and outreach sessions.

We operate as an independent charitable trust without regular government funding, relying on public support through donations, memberships, and fundraising events. Our venue hire services provide unique spaces for cultural and community activities, and our shop offers locally sourced gifts inspired by our exhibitions and collections. The museum underwent a transformative 4 million redevelopment supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, enhancing our facilities and visitor experience. Our team is committed to providing excellent visitor experiences, conserving collections, and delivering engaging community events that reflect our region's heritage and creativity.
Services
Exhibitions Educational Workshops Venue Hire Digital Collections Museum Shop Guided Tours Community Events Research Facilities Photography Archive Family Activities
Details
  • Year established: 1999
Highlights and features
  • We offer 25 years of expertise in preserving local history and promoting arts
  • Our unique venue combines a restored Victorian courthouse and police station
  • We provide diverse educational programmes for all age groups
  • Our collections include rare items like the Flora Twort Art Collection
  • We host regular cultural events in a South Downs National Park location
Services
Exhibitions
Our exhibitions showcase diverse collections including archaeology, social history, photography, fashion, textiles, and literature. We feature both permanent displays and temporary exhibitions that change throughout the year. The Flora Twort Art Collection and Edward Thomas Centre form key parts of our cultural offerings.
Educational Workshops
We deliver educational workshops for all age groups from early years to lifelong learners. Our programmes include school sessions, community engagement activities, and outreach to care homes and community groups. The Edward Thomas Centre supports literary education and research.
Venue Hire
Our restored Victorian Justice Heritage site offers unique spaces for cultural and community events. The venue includes performance areas in the historic courthouse and courtyard spaces for outdoor events. We host art workshops, theatrical performances, and special exhibitions.
Digital Collections
Our digital resources provide access to collections and events beyond physical visits. The platform includes virtual exhibitions, recorded talks, educational materials, and walking maps. This initiative extends our cultural offerings to remote audiences while preserving digital records of our collections.
Museum Shop
The museum shop offers locally sourced gifts inspired by our exhibitions and collections. Products include books, souvenirs, and items reflecting local history and the South Downs landscape. The shop supports our charitable activities through retail sales.
Questions
What are the museum's opening hours?
We are open Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00am to 5:00pm. Last entry is at 4:00pm.
How can I purchase admission tickets?
Tickets can be bought online in advance or at our Welcome Desk upon arrival.
Are there educational programmes available?
We offer workshops for all ages, school programmes, community engagement activities, and outreach sessions.
Can I hire the venue for events?
Our restored Victorian courthouse and courtyard spaces are available for cultural and community events.
Is there a museum shop?
Yes, our shop offers locally sourced gifts inspired by our exhibitions and collections.
How is the museum funded?
As an independent charity, we receive no regular government funding and rely on donations, memberships, and fundraising.
Reviews (5)
Gemma Booty
Oct 31, 2021 Report
We had a great time at the Halloween party today. Some great crafts and messy play. The storytelling was brilliant too, all of the children were captivated. We had visited in the summer and the children were keen to revisit their favourite areas. Wonderful effort by the staff, we will definitely visit again.
Gillian Young
Aug 19, 2021 Report
We had a wonderful time at Petersfield Museum today. My 7 year old son was captivated but the history detectives trail, and we learnt so much about the history of the building and surrounding Petersfield. My… son was particularly interested (or should I say scared) of the police cells. The staff & volunteers were so kind and knowledgeable. Would definitely recommend.
Helen Kettle
Jul 30, 2021 Report
We took our 7 year old to the museum today and she absolutely loved it! She thoroughly enjoyed the history detectives trail and earnt herself a badge at the end. The staff were very helpful and made sure we got the most out of our visit. What an incredible transformation from the tiny museum I last visited before the move.
Debra Wayland
Jun 18, 2021 Report
We had a very enjoyable time at the newly reopened museum. Lots of interesting items even for those not local. I particularly liked the fact that they still have the court room and police cells from the buildings previous life. Very pleasant, professional staff.
Andy Forbes
Jun 15, 2017 Report
Tonight's Talk by Dr Kim Simpson about the Fallen Women in Jane Austin's novels and in other literature of the time was a fascinating insight into the treatment and portrayal of women who fell foul of the… conventions of that era. The many questions and comments from the large number of people who attended the Talk showed how interesting they found it as well.