Business Details
Discover Gloucester's Living History
Museum of Gloucester stands as a custodian of the city's rich historical legacy, tracing Gloucester's evolution from a Roman settlement to a modern urban centre. Our Victorian building on Brunswick Road houses over 750,000 internationally significant artefacts, including the Birdlip Mirror and the world's oldest complete backgammon set. Through ever-changing exhibitions, interactive displays like the Roman kitchen playhouse, and community-driven projects such as the Discovery Centre, we actively engage visitors with Gloucester's past. Our dedicated team delivers educational programmes for schools, hands-on loan boxes, and outreach initiatives that align with national curriculum requirements.The museum's archaeological projects, including the restoration of the Black Dog icon, demonstrate our commitment to preserving local heritage. Supported by Arts Council England's Museum Renewal Fund, we combine historical expertise with modern engagement strategies. Our facilities include a themed gift shop, caf, and venue hire spaces that enhance visitor experience while supporting our conservation efforts. This institutional experience spanning decades ensures we maintain rigorous academic standards while making history accessible to all.
Services
Historical exhibitions
Educational programmes
Venue hire
Archaeological projects
Gift shop retail
Highlights and features
- We offer access to 750,000+ internationally significant historical artefacts
- Our educational programmes align with national curriculum requirements
- We deliver hands-on learning through interactive exhibits and loan boxes
- Our Discovery Centre provides behind-the-scenes archaeological access
- We maintain the oldest complete backgammon set in world history
Associations and certifications
- Arts Council England
Services
Historical exhibitions
Our changing exhibitions showcase Gloucester's 2,000-year history through archaeological treasures and contemporary installations. Visitors explore Roman tombstones, medieval artefacts, and modern interpretations of local heritage. The museum combines traditional curation with interactive technology for engaging historical narratives.
Educational programmes
Award-winning learning sessions align with national curriculum requirements for Key Stages 1-3. Expert facilitators deliver immersive experiences through storytelling, role-play, and object handling. Programmes include Roman history workshops and literary heritage walks across Gloucester's historic sites.
Venue hire
Historic spaces available for private and corporate events include the Eastgate Chamber and Kings Bastion. These venues combine architectural heritage with modern facilities in central Gloucester. Dedicated event coordination ensures seamless execution of conferences and celebrations.
Archaeological projects
Active archaeological research reveals new insights into Gloucester's Roman and medieval past. The public can observe conservation work at the Discovery Centre, where experts catalog finds from recent excavations. This ongoing project creates the first digital inventory of local heritage assets.
Gift shop retail
The Moomin-themed gift shop offers historical replicas, local crafts, and exclusive merchandise. Products include books on Gloucestershire history, archaeological replicas, and officially licensed museum souvenirs. All purchases directly support conservation efforts.
Questions
What historical periods does the museum cover?
We showcase Gloucester's history from Roman settlement through medieval times to the present day.
Are educational resources available for schools?
We offer curriculum-linked programmes for Key Stages 1-3 with specialist facilitators and handling collections.
Can I host events at the museum?
Our historic spaces accommodate conferences, weddings, and corporate events with dedicated support.
How does the museum acquire new exhibits?
Our collection grows through archaeological discoveries, community donations, and strategic acquisitions.
What accessibility features are available?
We provide wheelchair access, sensory resources, and quiet spaces for visitors with diverse needs.
How can I support the museum's work?
Support through donations, object adoptions, or volunteering directly funds conservation and education programmes.
Videos
