Business Details
Your Heritage Gateway in Wisbech
Established in 1847, Wisbech & Fenland Museum is an independent charity-run institution dedicated to preserving and interpreting the natural and cultural heritage of Wisbech and the surrounding Fens. Our collections, including internationally significant literary documents and extensive archives, reflect the region's rich history through parish registers, local government records, photographs, and maps. As a community-driven organisation, we prioritise accessibility through educational programs, regular exhibitions, and volunteer opportunities, aiming to foster civic pride and intergenerational connections. Our Victorian building, a testament to 19th-century taxonomy systems, houses 12,000 library volumes and serves as both a physical and digital hub for heritage exploration.Supported by Wisbech Town Council, Share Museums East, and local patrons, we strive to maintain sustainability while expanding our impact through the Heritage Lottery Fund's 'Fit for the Future' project. Our mission combines collection preservation with public engagement, offering research facilities, family events, and community-led initiatives that celebrate Wisbech's unique identity. Through digital innovation and traditional stewardship, we ensure our resources remain accessible to current and future generations.
Services
Heritage Exhibitions
Archival Research
Educational Programs
Community Events
Volunteer Opportunities
Digital Collections Access
Highlights and features
- We offer access to unique historical collections spanning 12,000 volumes and international literary archives
- Our Victorian museum building exemplifies 19th-century taxonomy systems and learning methods
- We provide educational programs for all ages with specialist curatorial and community staff
- Our Heritage Lottery Funded projects ensure sustainable preservation of local heritage
- We combine physical and digital access to collections for modern research and enjoyment
What people say
Rich historical collections
Educational family events
Community engagement
Victorian architecture
Specialist archives
Services
Heritage Exhibitions
Our exhibitions showcase Wisbech's history through permanent collections and temporary displays. Visitors explore Victorian taxonomy systems, international literary archives, and local heritage artifacts. The museum hosts themed exhibitions like '100 Years of Wisbech Town FC' and 'Great Expectations' manuscript displays.
Archival Research
Access extensive archives including parish registers, local government documents, and manorial records dating to the 19th century. Researchers benefit from specialist staff support and digitisation projects enhancing accessibility to these historical materials.
Educational Programs
We deliver formal and informal education through school programs, family workshops, and adult learning sessions. Initiatives like 'Museum Minis' cater to young children while community projects engage diverse age groups with local history.
Community Events
Seasonal events such as 'After Dark at the Museum' and lecture programs create interactive heritage experiences. These activities foster community connections through shared cultural exploration and volunteer participation opportunities.
Digital Collections
Our digital initiatives provide virtual access to collections through the 'New Conversations' project. This includes digitised photographs, manuscripts, and research materials enabling remote exploration of Fenland heritage for global audiences.
People
Stephen McGregor
Chair
Leading the museum's strategic direction with extensive governance experience, Stephen oversees board operations and ensures alignment with heritage preservation goals.
Robert Bell
Curator
Managing collections and exhibitions, Robert brings specialist knowledge of Victorian taxonomy systems and oversees the care of the museum's 12,000-volume library.
Louise Haselgrove
Learning and Community Participation Officer
Developing educational programs, Louise creates accessible learning experiences that connect diverse audiences with local history through workshops and community projects.
Paul McGregor
Chair of Friends
Leading volunteer efforts, Paul coordinates the Friends organisation that supports museum operations through fundraising and community engagement initiatives.
Emma Bunbury
Museums Development Officer
Providing professional expertise, Emma supports the museum's development strategy and ensures best practices in heritage management and community engagement.
Questions
What are the museum's opening hours?
We're open Wednesday to Saturday, 10am to 4pm, with last admission at 3:45pm.
How can I access archival materials?
Our archives are available for research by appointment with specialist staff support during opening hours.
Are there educational programs for children?
Yes, we offer 'Museum Minis' sessions for ages 3-5 and school programs aligned with curriculum requirements.
How can I support the museum?
Support options include donations, volunteering, Friends membership, or joining our Supporters Circle.
Can I visit the museum outside regular hours?
Group visits outside regular hours can be arranged by prior appointment with our curator.
Is the museum accessible for disabled visitors?
We provide accessible facilities and welcome assistance dogs, with staff available to support visitor needs.
Reviews (4)
Steph Dimock
Dec 19, 2020
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Came along to the Christmas craft session today, my children loved it and enjoyed walking around the museum as did me and my husband! So much thought and effort went into this activity.
Samantha Eagling
Oct 27, 2020
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My little one had a great time today exploring the collections looking for Wally and creating these Halloween lanterns in our bubble session. Thank you for putting on these events at a time when everything else seems to be online only. Great family time, outside of the house, indoors.
Formula One Fix
Sep 20, 2020
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At the time of my arrival the museum was not open due to Covid-19. I will hopefully go back one day to visit. Looks nice, from the outside
Gilly Kim Jarvis
Aug 22, 2020
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I adore this museum, it's in my home town and is such a treasure to visit. There's something for everyone, and even though I've been many times over the years it's always worth another visit.
