Willis Museum

Market Place
Basingstoke
Hampshire
RG21 7QD

Tel: +44 (0)1256 465 902
Fax: +44 (0)1256 471 455
Email: sue.tapliss@hants.gov.uk
Web: http://www.hants.gov.uk/museum/willis


George Willis a local clockmaker and former Mayor of Basingstoke who saved so much of the town's history from destruction established the Museum in 1931. Travel back in time, and experience some of the major changes that have created the Basingstoke that we know today. Contrast the present with the past and the rich with the poor. Meet Pickaxe, a 19th century farm worker forced to scrape a living from the streets of Basingstoke as a scavenger. Walk into a 1960s sitting room and kitchen and transport yourself back to the days of teddy boys and twin tubs. Take time to explore our fascinating collection that includes locally made grandfather clocks and enjoy our changing exhibition of Hampshire's special interest collections, including displays of maps and embroideries.

Discover Basingstoke and Deane's rich archaeological heritage including the unusual Iron Age burial found at Viables, Fred the Roman skeleton and reconstructions of nationally important Saxon buildings excavated at Cowderys Down.

Addition Information:

  • Education Service - please telephone
  • Local History - old photographs, maps etc
  • Comfortable coffee lounge
  • New exhibitions every month
  • Friends of the Willis Museum - join our active group of supporters
  • Disabled access - ramp to main entrance and ground floor. Stairlift and stairs to first floor
  • Public car parks within five minutes walk

     

    Opening Times
    (2007 times)
    Monday to Friday 10.00am - 5.00pm. Saturday 10.00am - 4.00pm. Sunday Closed.

    Admission Charges
    (2007 prices)
    Free. Groups welcome by appointment.

    Directions
    Show map of Willis Museum...

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