Langton Matravers Museum
Small volunteer-run museum in a former coach house, devoted to Purbeck stone, its geology, stonemasons' tools and a reconstructed underground quarry.
Have only individual sections read aloud
About the museum
The museum, also known as the Purbeck Stone Museum, is run by the Langton Matravers Local History and Preservation Society and staffed by volunteers. It stands in the centre of the village, immediately behind the church, in an old coach house that was once the stable where local clergy kept their pony and trap when the Old Rectory was still a rectory.
It is devoted to the heritage of Purbeck stone and explains the geology of the Isle of Purbeck, with examples of the different beds of stone. The top layer, Purbeck Marble, has been quarried near Langton since Roman times and can be seen in many English cathedrals and in most of the local churches.
The displays include apprentice pieces carved from the cliff stone, a large collection of stonemasons' tools, examples of masons' craftsmanship and many old photographs and documents. A section of underground quarry workings has been reconstructed, and a 20 minute audio-visual introduction to the local stone industry, written and presented by the former curator Reginald Saville, puts the displays in context.
Highlights
- Collection of stonemasons' tools
- Reconstructed section of underground quarry workings
- Examples of Purbeck stone beds and apprentice pieces
- 20 minute audio-visual introduction to the stone industry
- Free entry
Permanent exhibitions
- Purbeck stone and geology – Examples of the different beds of Purbeck stone, with an explanation of the local geology and of Purbeck Marble.
- Stonemasons' tools and craftsmanship – A large collection of masons' tools, apprentice pieces and samples of masons' work, with photographs and documents.
- Underground quarry reconstruction – A reconstructed section of underground quarry workings.
- Founded
- 1972
- Operated by
- Langton Matravers Local History and Preservation Society
Admission & discounts
Admission is free.
Entry is free and donations are gratefully accepted.
Accessibility
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Kids & families
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Getting there & parking
By car
Parking available
Some parking is usually available at the museum.
The museum is at St George's Close, in the centre of the village behind the church.
Get directionsAmenities & dining
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Events & venue rental
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Plan your visit
| Good to know | A 20 minute audio-visual introduction to the local stone industry is shown to give context to the displays. |
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