South Molton Museum

About the museum

South Molton Museum is on the ground floor of the town’s Guildhall, a building completed in 1743 on the south side of the market square. It is managed by South Molton Town Council with the help of volunteers, and it aims to show the social history of the town and the surrounding district.

South Molton grew prosperous from the wool trade, and the sheep on the borough’s coat of arms recall this. The museum’s best-known objects reflect that wealth. The Newsham fire engine, bought by the town for £46 in 1736, is one of the earliest of its kind and was in use until 1886, when the horse-drawn Merryweather engine took over.

The collections also cover local archaeology from the Stone Age onwards, farm tools, a cider press from about 1780, kitchen and household objects, textiles, toys, maps and documents. Two town charters, granted by Elizabeth I and Charles II, are among the highlights, and there is a hands-on area for children.

After the local archive and history society disbanded in 2016, its photographs, transcripts and research files were gathered at the museum, where volunteers help with family and house history enquiries by appointment. The museum has received grants from the Heritage Lottery Fund and the Pilgrim Trust, and a Friends group raises money for exhibits.

Highlights

• Newsham fire engine of 1736, one of the earliest of its kind
• Horse-drawn Merryweather fire engine from 1886
• Cider press from about 1780
• Lead-lined Saxon church font
• Penny-farthing bicycle and Victorian household displays
• Hands-on children’s area

Permanent exhibition

• Museum galleries – Three galleries show the life and trades of South Molton and the surrounding district, from archaeology and farming to fire engines, textiles and toys.

Operated by

South Molton Town Council

Admission & discounts

Admission is free.

Admission is free; donations are welcome.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible: no information
• Elevator: no information
• Accessible restroom: no information
• Accessible parking: no information
• Service dogs welcome
• Tactile models & exhibits: no information
• Sign language tours: no information
• Easy-to-read materials: no information
• Audio description: no information

The museum’s leaflet mentions disabled access, and staff will help visitors with particular access needs; the museum asks visitors to call in advance. Animals other than guide dogs are not allowed inside. Devon Museums lists nearby public toilets with disabled access and baby changing.

Kids & families

Great for kids & families

• Activity booklet, scavenger hunt or kids’ audio guide
• Hands-on stations
• Playground / play area

Children of all ages are welcome. There are quizzes for children, and the museum’s leaflet describes a children’s area with hands-on collections, “please do touch” exhibits and story-telling sessions.

Getting there & parking

The museum is on the ground floor of the Guildhall on the south side of the town square, next to the Pannier Market.

Amenities & dining

Local history booklets are on sale at the museum. Public toilets are nearby.

Events & venue rental

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Plan your visit