Business Details
Explore Free Arts & Culture at Museum in the Park, Stroud
Museum in the Park is a free-to-enter cultural institution located in Stratford Park, Stroud, Gloucestershire. Our mission is to preserve and showcase the history, art, and natural heritage of the Stroud District through extensive collections, temporary exhibitions, and community engagement. We house over 4,000 objects that narrate the region's story, complemented by an art gallery featuring works like Alan Evans' Earth Fire Iron exhibition. The museum's walled garden, maintained by dedicated volunteers, offers a tranquil space for visitors to connect with local horticultural history. We provide educational programs for schools, remote learning packages, and interactive resources for families and home educators.Our commitment to accessibility ensures all visitors can enjoy our facilities, including designated parking and inclusive events. As part of Stroud District Council, we prioritise public engagement through free membership schemes, volunteering opportunities, and partnerships with local organisations. Our temporary exhibitions, such as the Gloucestershire Stegosaur display, highlight unique regional narratives while fostering dialogue about sustainability and cultural preservation. With opening hours Tuesday to Sunday, we aim to be a welcoming hub for both casual visits and structured learning experiences.
Services
Museum Exhibits
Art Gallery
Walled Garden
Educational Programs
Gift Shop
Event Hosting
Highlights and features
- We offer free admission with donations welcomed for enhanced access
- Our 4,000+ collection objects tell unique Stroud District stories
- We provide educational programs for schools and home educators
- Our volunteer-maintained walled garden showcases local horticultural heritage
- We host special exhibitions like the Alan Evans artist-blacksmith retrospective
Services
Museum Exhibits
Explore over 4,000 historical objects telling Stroud District's story through changing displays and curated themes. Our collections span local archaeology, social history, and domestic life from the 18th century onwards. Exhibits include unique items like Mikael Pedersen's early bicycle designs and the Gloucestershire Stegosaur fossil.
Art Gallery
Discover rotating art exhibitions featuring regional creators and special themes. Current display Earth Fire Iron showcases Stroud artist-blacksmith Alan Evans' career, highlighting his Tolstoyan community roots and influence on British artist blacksmithing from the 1970s onwards through 2025.
Educational Programs
Book facilitated school visits for up to 30 children daily, with remote learning packages and digital teacher resources available. Our programs align with national curriculum requirements while offering unique hands-on experiences with historical artifacts and art collections.
Walled Garden
Enjoy our restored Victorian walled garden maintained by community volunteers. The space features heritage plants, educational displays about traditional gardening techniques, and seasonal events demonstrating the importance of community involvement in preserving green spaces.
Event Hosting
Attend special events including exhibition openings, family workshops, and community celebrations. Our calendar features activities for all ages, from fossil fishing experiences to evening lectures about local history and contemporary art practices.
Questions
Is admission to Museum in the Park free?
Yes, entry is completely free with donations welcomed to support our operations and community programs.
What are the museum's opening hours?
We're open Tuesday-Friday 10am-4:30pm, Saturday-Sunday 11am-4:30pm, and closed Mondays.
Can schools book educational visits?
Yes, we offer facilitated school visits for up to 30 children daily, with remote learning options available.
Is the museum accessible for disabled visitors?
We have designated parking, accessible pathways, and staff assistance available to ensure all visitors can enjoy our facilities.
Are there volunteering opportunities available?
Yes, we welcome volunteers for gardening, collections management, and event support through our membership program.
Reviews (6)
Jane Mcardle
Dec 15, 2021
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Loved this little museum and the park. I learnt a lot re Stroud. I wish it was open earlier as I had to rush round before checking out of hotel.
Sharon Baker
Sep 23, 2021
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Absolutely fabulous for kids. With a 4 and 5 year old, who loved the dinosaur bones and mammoth tusks. They were fascinated by the drawers full of bugs, flints and other treasures. We loved the secret garden and after you step out into the beautiful Stratford Park.
Carrie Sermon
Sep 19, 2021
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The current exhibition is stunning being full of beautiful textiles and stunning colour. The garden as always is fabulous too.
Mark Cross
Sep 07, 2021
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Didn't get an experience. No dogs allowed. Disappointing when you are on holiday but just head straight over to Prinknash Abbey, not far away. Great cafe, takes dogs and lovey area to walk.
Louise S.
Aug 23, 2021
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It's a like a Tardis - so much more to see than you could possibly imagine in such a small building. Welcoming staff and volunteers as well. Beautiful walled garden outside, thoughtfully designed and cared for.
Dot Bacon
Aug 19, 2021
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It’s free! Lots of interesting items to look at, a beautiful walled garden and art gallery. Staff lovely and friendly :)
