I will start with the facts then move on to opinion. There is a suggested donation of around £3 per person to enter. The museum is split into sections with parts on the left and right of the reception. It takes about 2 hours to take in all of the exhibits and every now and then they have things on for the kids downstairs, trails for holidays and they also do guided walks and theme days. I've never done these and don't know the info about them, but the Web site and social media pages are kept up to date and are informative. Opinion... I LOVE THIS PLACE and feel so comfortable being in the building. The staff are so friendly and they do not make you feel awkward if you don't donate to go in. They do run on donations so even a pound helps if you can afford it. I've never met a rude member of staff or volunteer and have been welcomed by all. This does appeal to all ages and you really can spend a long time getting immersed in the history. It is all based on Somerset, however it is also broadly ranged as a lot of items are common in places outside of the county so you have broad and localised items and information. I have to recommend the military museum if you like military history, or even if you don't. This is one of our family wide hobbies and my son and I spent over an hour in there today, despite us having been a lot of times before. We even bumped into my teen and her partner who were also visiting which says a lot of about the welcoming nature of the place as they were greeted in the same manner as we were and felt comfortable being in there. The staff and volunteers are always willing to talk to you if you wish it but they do not force information upon you. I do have to say that volunteers are the backbone of museums and if you have the time, they can tell you so many things that will bring history alive so don't take them for granted. The cafe has some tasty stuff and isn't too pricey like most historical places. I cannot recommend this place...
Read moreVisiting The Museum on Somerset was nothing short of magical. From the moment I stepped through its doors, I was transported into a world where history whispered through every exhibit, artifact, and carefully curated display. It’s more than just a museum—it’s an experience that awakens curiosity and deepens appreciation for the past.
The beauty of this place isn’t just in the breathtaking exhibits but in the way it tells a story. Each room is a gateway to another time, filled with echoes of lives lived, struggles endured, and triumphs celebrated. The intricate details, the way light falls on ancient relics, and the hushed awe of fellow visitors made it feel almost sacred.
I left The Museum on Somerset with my heart full and my mind brimming with newfound wonder. It has ignited in me a passion for history I never knew I had. There’s something truly special about a place that can make the past feel alive and deeply personal. If you ever have the chance to visit, do so with open eyes and an open heart—you may just walk...
Read moreThe Museum of Somerset (aka Taunton Museum) is a fabulous place to visit. As well as the museum itself there's a cafe with seating inside and outside and easily accessible disabled toilet. The museum itself is divided up into sections covering many aspects of Somerset history from Pre-historic times (don't forget to check out the plesiosaur in the floor) to recent era. Of particular note are a replica of King Alfred's jewel, the only surviving bronze age spear head mold and the Frome Hoard. The Military museum is also housed here highlighting Somersets rich military history. You can't talk about Somerset without mentioning the pitchfork rebellion and subsequent bloody assizes so visitors will be pleased to know that the museum has a section dedicated to those events. The museum has plenty of activities for children dotted around including a colouring area well stocked with crayons and colouring pencils. It's well worth a visit and is free, although voluntary donations are encouraged. The staff are all...
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