At the Vale & Downland, you'll discover so much more than a museum! From fossils to a Formula One racing car, we have objects and stories to fascinate all ages. Our vibrant and frequently changing programme of exhibitions and events ensures there is always something new to see and do for families and schools.
Whilst you are here you can also enjoy delicious home-made cakes and lunches served in the Caf. Our shop also stocks a range of books, gifts, toys and souvenirs. We are open Monday to Saturday 9.30am - 4.00pm Last admission to the Galleries is 3.30pm Admission is free. The Vale and Downland Museum is located in the busy market town of Wantage in Oxfordshire, UK.
Whilst you are here you can also enjoy delicious home-made cakes and lunches served in the Caf. Our shop also stocks a range of books, gifts, toys and souvenirs. We are open Monday to Saturday 9.30am - 4.00pm Last admission to the Galleries is 3.30pm Admission is free. The Vale and Downland Museum is located in the busy market town of Wantage in Oxfordshire, UK.
Services
We are located in the centre of Wantage and encourage you to walk, cycle, or use public transport if possible. 2 hours' free parking (ticket required) is available at three Council owned car parks, the closest to the museum being on Portway (OX12 9BU), alternatively Limborough Road (OX12 9AJ) and Mill Street (OX12 9AJ).
Are you a parent or carer looking for somewhere to take the children? We pride ourselves on being family friendly, in fact we were shortlisted for the Kids in Museums award in 2017! There are always free gallery trails for children, and many of our galleries include interactive elements, such as feely boxes and dressing up clothes, that give our younger visitors a 'hands on' museum experience.
Most areas, including toilets, are accessible to visitors with mobility impairments. A stairlift assists with access to the main galleries and a wheelchair is available for visitors to borrow. Unfortunately, as the museum is housed within a historic old building, the Upper Gallery, Library and Mezzanine Gallery are not accessible to wheelchair users.
Groups of all ages are welcome at the Vale & Downland, and group visits can be coordinated within and outside of regular museum hours. If you have a group of 10 or more, please book your visit in advance, so we can provide the best possible experience for your group. For a modest fee we can organise tours, talks, refreshments, or other private events to meet your needs.
Whether you're visiting the Museum, or simply looking for a delicious lunch in Wantage, you're welcome to our spacious Museum Caf, where you'll find freshly prepared breakfasts, delicious lunches, a roast dinner on Wednesdays, and our famous coffee cake! We are currently offering Winter Warmers daily lunch specials such as lasagne, vegetable curry, and macaroni cheese.
Reviews (9)
Anne Millard
Jan 10, 2022
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Jaysn Phillips
Dec 30, 2021
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Alan Beal
Dec 08, 2021
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Phyllis Holter
Oct 27, 2021
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The house staff were lovely But not I pressed with the meals meat hard cold soup lovely but for one that could not have Stilton and a reaction to cheese was not a good idea on the.nite we had it we were not told if contents of soup..
So would be good to have it put on menu in future...
But the Breakfasts were Excellent Top Knotch
So would be good to have it put on menu in future...
But the Breakfasts were Excellent Top Knotch
Nick Prince
Sep 11, 2021
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Gaye Blackmore
Aug 29, 2021
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Holly Barrett
Aug 25, 2021
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Richard Morley
Aug 08, 2021
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This is a small place and perfectly formed. It has a really good community feel and the latest displays about King Alfred are very interesting. I do wish they could get a more modern Formula One car but seeing an old one in the flesh is still a treat. The cafe always does OK food and nice tea/coffee. Cakes is where it excels I would say. Its a good place to spend a couple of hours and learn about local history.
Andy Holding
Jun 21, 2018
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A fantastic little museum with history from fossils to a Williams F1 formula one car.
As a Williams F1 fan I was especially pleased to see the Sir Patrick Head & Adrian Newey designed FW16B which Williams F1 which had won the 1994 constructor’s championship with & the various car race car parts from it, such as a brake disk, steering rack, brake cooling pod & brake & accelerator pedals, as well as Damon Hill’s race suit.
Entry is free, plus there’s free WiFi and donations are welcome.
The staff are very friendly & helpful, and there’s a lovely restaurant area too which serves hot & cold
As a Williams F1 fan I was especially pleased to see the Sir Patrick Head & Adrian Newey designed FW16B which Williams F1 which had won the 1994 constructor’s championship with & the various car race car parts from it, such as a brake disk, steering rack, brake cooling pod & brake & accelerator pedals, as well as Damon Hill’s race suit.
Entry is free, plus there’s free WiFi and donations are welcome.
The staff are very friendly & helpful, and there’s a lovely restaurant area too which serves hot & cold
