Museum of Island History
Council-run museum on the ground floor of Newport Guildhall telling the story of the Isle of Wight from earliest times to the present.
Have only individual sections read aloud
About the museum
The Museum of Island History occupies the ground floor of the Guildhall on Newport High Street and is run by the Isle of Wight Council. It presents the story of the Isle of Wight from its earliest times to the present day, starting with the footsteps of dinosaurs.
The collection ranges from fossils and Roman remains to maritime heritage and farming tools, and it shows recent archaeological finds from the island. Material on Giuseppe Garibaldi’s connection with the Isle of Wight has also been displayed. Temporary exhibitions change through the year.
Touch-screen computers and hands-on objects let visitors explore the displays, and children can try quizzes and games. The Guildhall itself was designed by the same architect who worked on large parts of Buckingham Palace.
Highlights
- Isle of Wight history from dinosaur footprints to the present day
- Fossils, Roman remains, maritime heritage and farming tools
- Recent archaeological finds from the island
- Touch screens, hands-on objects and quizzes for families
- Housed in the historic Newport Guildhall
Permanent exhibition
- The story of the Isle of Wight – Displays on island history from dinosaur footprints and fossils through Roman remains, maritime heritage and farming to the present day, with interactive touch screens.
- Founded
- 1996
- Operated by
- Isle of Wight Council
Admission & discounts
| Adults | £2 |
|---|---|
| Reduced | £1.50Students and visitors aged 65 and over |
| Children & teens | £1free up to age 4 · Children aged 5 to 17 pay £1; under-5s are free. |
| Seniors | £1.50Visitors aged 65 and over. |
| Students & apprentices | £1.50 |
| Groups | –Groups can book by appointment outside normal opening hours. |
| Families | £5Two adults and three children. |
Prices apply from 1 April 2026. Payment is by cash or card, but contactless payment is not accepted. The shop and foyer can be visited without paying admission. National Art Pass holders receive free entry according to the Art Fund.
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible
- Elevator: no information
- Accessible restroom
- Accessible parking: no information
- Service dogs welcome: no information
- Tactile models & exhibits: no information
- Sign language tours: no information
- Easy-to-read materials: no information
- Audio description: no information
The museum is accessible to wheelchair users and has an accessible toilet. Dogs on leads are welcome in the shop and foyer.
Kids & families
Great for kids & families
| Kids’ admission | free up to age 4 |
|---|---|
| Family ticket | £5 · Two adults and three children. |
- Activity booklet, scavenger hunt or kids’ audio guide
- Hands-on stations
Touch-screen computers and hands-on objects are available, and children can try quizzes and games.
Getting there & parking
By car
No on-site parking at the museum.
There is no parking at the museum. Pay-and-display on-street parking and car parks are available nearby in central Newport.
The museum is on the ground floor of the Guildhall on High Street, Newport.
Get directionsAmenities & dining
- Museum shop
There is a museum shop in the foyer.
Events & venue rental
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Plan your visit
| School programs | yes |
|---|---|
| Good to know | Schools and groups can book visits by appointment. |
