Priest's House Museum

23-27 High Street
Wimborne
Dorset
BH21 1HR

Tel: +44 (0)1202 882 533
Email: priestshouse@eastdorsetdc.gov.uk


The Historic House

The Priest's House is an historic town house dating from the 16th century. This Grade II* listed building retains many original architectural features.

Recent research and restoration means that you can now enjoy the rooms that provided home comforts for the families who lived and worked here over the years. From the 17th century hall to the 18th century parlour and Victorian kitchen with its working 'Beetonette' range, the rooms bring the past to life.

The East Dorset Villages Gallery gives a taste of local community life from industry to shopping, school to church life, with a hands-on Victorian schoolroom.

The Museum

This fascinating building also houses the Priest's House Museum, where the historic rooms provide authentic settings for the Museum's local history collections. Displays include reconstructions of local businesses that once ran from the building. Mr. Low's Victorian stationery shop (closed up for over 30 years)..... ...and the Coles' Ironmongers, both recreated from original shop stock. You can also come face to face with East Dorset's ancient history in a hands-on archaeology gallery.

The Walled Garden

The delightful walled garden behind the Priest's House covers one third of an acre. With its ever-changing flowering plants, set amongst mature fruit trees, topiary work and smooth lawns, there is something of interest at all times of the year. Seats are provided where visitors to the museum can rest in this surprisingly tranquil retreat in the centre of Wimborne. The 1920's Boathouse Tea Room is set in the middle of this delightful garden, serving teas and home-made cakes from June - September.

Other Facilities

  • Hands-on experience supporting the National Curriculum
  • Victorian Britain/Local History Units.
  • Ground floor and Garden accessible to wheelchair users.
  • Lavatories are on the ground floor.
  • Seating is available around the building and garden.
  • Coach and car parking in nearby town car parks.
  • Shop for quality gifts and souvenirs.

    Allow 1-2 hours to visit the Priest's House - it's bigger than it looks!

     

    Opening Times
    (2006 times)
    1st April to 31st October: Monday to Saturday 10.00am - 4.30pm; Plus two weeks after Christmas.

    Admission Charges
    (2006 prices)
    Adults £3.00; Senior Citizens/NUS Students £2.00; Children £1.00; Family ticket (2+3) £7.50.

    Directions
    Show map of Priest's House Museum...

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