Richmondshire Museum
Volunteer-run local history museum in Richmond with displays from the Stone Age to the present and a lift to all three floors.
Have only individual sections read aloud
About the museum
Richmondshire Museum was founded in 1974 by the Richmond and Dales Soroptimists and opened to the public in 1978. The building looks small from the street but holds much more once inside, and many additions have been made since it opened.
The collection concentrates on local and social history and ranges from Stone Age finds to objects of the present day. Galleries include the Wenham Gallery, a museum garden and a behind-the-scenes display, and the museum has staged exhibitions on the River Swale.
The museum also works as an archaeological repository and has an active education role, supporting primary and secondary schools and offering work experience to university students. It is a registered charity run by volunteers.
Highlights
- Local and social history from the Stone Age to today
- The Wenham Gallery
- Museum garden
- Behind-the-scenes display
- Online virtual tour
- Founded
- 1974
- Operated by
- Richmondshire Museum (registered charity)
Admission & discounts
| Adults | £8 |
|---|---|
| Reduced | £7People aged 60 and over, students with a student card, and serving or former members of the armed forces |
| Children & teens | freefree up to age 15 · Under-16s are free when accompanied by an adult. |
| Seniors | £7Concession for ages 60 and over. |
| Students & apprentices | £7With a valid student card. |
| Groups (7+ people) | £6 per personGroup rate per person, by prior arrangement only. |
| Season ticket (unlimited visits during the open season) | £12 |
| Guided tour (supplement to admission) | £1Per person, in addition to normal admission. |
Museum members, and holders of cards from schemes the museum lists (including Art Fund and Museums Association), are admitted free.
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible
- Elevator
- 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 main entrance has a wide paved approach and no steps, and the ground floor is level. A lift serves all three floors and the toilets. The larger toilet on the first floor is unisex, wheelchair accessible and has baby-changing facilities. The approach lane is short and cobbled, with a paved path along one side, and there is a drop-off space outside. Some areas are dimly lit to protect objects, and seating is available inside the entrance and outside. Stewards can help, and magnifying glasses are available on request.
Kids & families
Great for kids & families
| Kids’ admission | free up to age 15 |
|---|
- Activity booklet, scavenger hunt or kids’ audio guide
- Baby changing facilities
A “Carry Out Bag” with quizzes, a craft activity and extra information is available for younger visitors.
Getting there & parking
By car
Parking available
On-site parking is very limited but can be arranged on request.
The museum is on Ryders Wynd, about 100 yards from the Market Place, on a slight slope.
Get directionsAmenities & dining
- Museum shop
The ticket and shop area is on the ground floor.
Events & venue rental
- Spaces for rent
The Wenham Study Centre and the Discovery Centre, both with kitchen facilities, can be booked for meetings and conferences.
Plan your visit
| Guided tours | yes |
|---|---|
| School programs | yes |
| Good to know | Allow about one to one and a half hours for a visit. Guided tours cost a small extra charge. A virtual tour is available on the museum website. Schools can book educational visits and loan boxes. |
