Pitt Rivers Museum
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Oxford Day Trip Must-See: The Wunderkammer of Wonders! 🗝️✨
Dagmar EvansDagmar Evans
332
Life Advice: Take a trip to the Occult Museum in the UK 🔮
Aubrey Phillips Aubrey Phillips
202
A Treasure Trove of World Cultures: The Pitt Rivers Museum The Pitt Rivers Museum in Oxford is a unique and fascinating place, unlike any other museum you're likely to visit. Here's a breakdown of what you can expect: Wonderfully Weird and Wide-Ranging Collection: Prepare to be amazed by an incredible collection of objects from all corners of the world and throughout history. From weaponry and clothing to religious artifacts and everyday tools, there's something for everyone. The museum isn't organized by region or era, but by theme, which can lead to some surprising juxtapositions. Imagine comparing a samurai sword to a ceremonial headdress from the Amazon! This thematic approach can be both thought-provoking and overwhelming. Be prepared for a sensory overload of intriguing artifacts. A Glimpse into the Past: The museum offers a window into different cultures and ways of life. You'll gain a new appreciation for human ingenuity and diversity. Some exhibits, like the witchcraft collection, delve into fascinating (and sometimes unsettling) aspects of human history. Things to Consider: The museum is on the smaller side, but there's still a lot to see. Factor in a few hours for your visit, especially if you like to take your time and delve into the details. The signage can be a little lacking at times, so don't hesitate to ask a staff member if you have any questions. Keep in mind that due to recent changes, some sensitive cultural items, like shrunken heads, are no longer on display. Overall: The Pitt Rivers Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in anthropology, archaeology, or simply the wonders of human culture. It's a treasure trove of curiosities that will spark your imagination and leave you wanting to learn more. Bonus Tip: The museum is free to enter (donations are appreciated) and has a lovely cafe on-site, perfect for grabbing a bite after your exploration.
Charles SchlesingerCharles Schlesinger
00
You may wish to see my review for the Oxford Museum of Natural History. Pitt Rivers Museum (better termed "Collection") is inside the natural history museum. This museum is an excellent location for individual travelers, adult and young learner's. The Natural History portion is best served for families with younger children. Childrens may not be interested in the cultural collections found in the Pitt Rivers Collection. Enter through the Natural History Museum. Directly across the quadrangle inside is the entrance to Pitt Rivers. You may review the collection for free! There are Children's learning papers to help visitors around the museum to see items of particular items. Many travelers ask about the "shrunken heads" in the Pitt Rivers collection. Many tour leaders reference the heads in their talks. If you wish to see the heads (other than the images below)...enter the collection and go to the center of the room. Turn right and look back towards the collection entrance. That will put you in the general area of the display case. These items are not viewable from the entrance side of the cases.
John HillJohn Hill
00
I love museums and visit as many as my husband's patience will allow. This is one of the loveliest I've been to in Europe. Attached to the Natural History Museum in Oxford, both are outstanding. Exhibits have such variety that everyone will find something that interests them. I didn't take a lot of photos as I was talking with my friend too much, but there was so much to chat about amongst the artefacts, it was just brilliant. Pitt Rivers Museum specifically can best be described as being akin to a huge curiosity shop, stuffed to the rafters with treasures, some that you couldn't make up, even in your darkest imagination. Pro's, as above and: Free admission for all. Bathrooms are good and clean, staff very helpful. Cons: 1. If you're going to drive all the way in, you're going to cry quite a lot trying to find the non-existent car parks that Google maps takes you too! 2. No cafe/ decent coffee shop - although there appears to be some work going on outside which hopefully will remedy this situation. Currently there's an outside mobile coffee bar with some seating.
AmyAmy
00
Located in the heart of Oxford, the Pitt Rivers Museum stands as a captivating testament to the wonders of anthropology and human history. During my recent visit, I found myself immersed in a world of diverse cultures and fascinating artifacts that span centuries. The museum's unique layout, with its dimly lit galleries and narrow walkways, creates an atmosphere of intrigue and discovery. As I ventured deeper into the exhibits, I was met with an impressive collection of artifacts from around the globe. The sheer variety of objects, from intricate masks and ceremonial weapons to everyday tools and textiles, offered a glimpse into the lives and customs of cultures long gone. Overall, the Pitt Rivers Museum in Oxford is a captivating destination that appeals to history enthusiasts, anthropologists, and curious visitors alike. Its extensive collection of anthropological artifacts, thoughtful curation, and unique setting by the river make it a must-visit attraction.
Swati PunainiSwati Punaini
10
Nearby Attractions Of Pitt Rivers Museum
Oxford University Museum of Natural History
The Covered Market
Ashmolean Museum
Oxford Castle & Prison
University of Oxford
Gloucester Green Market
Carfax Tower
Christ Church Cathedral
University Church of St Mary the Virgin
History of Science Museum

Oxford University Museum of Natural History
4.8
(4.5K)Click for details

The Covered Market
4.4
(4.3K)Click for details

Ashmolean Museum
4.7
(4.5K)Click for details

Oxford Castle & Prison
4.4
(2.9K)Click for details
Nearby Restaurants Of Pitt Rivers Museum
Turtle Bay Oxford
Turf Tavern
Banana Tree Oxford
Slug & Lettuce - Oxford
The Four Candles - JD Wetherspoon
Dishoom Permit Room Oxford
Browns Oxford
O'neill's Oxford
Red Lion Oxford
Wig & Pen

Turtle Bay Oxford
4.8
(3.1K)Click for details

Turf Tavern
4.5
(2.8K)Click for details

Banana Tree Oxford
4.6
(2.1K)Click for details

Slug & Lettuce - Oxford
4.4
(2.1K)Click for details
Basic Info
Address
S Parks Rd, Oxford OX1 3PP, United Kingdom
Map
Phone
+44 1865 613000
Call
Website
prm.ox.ac.uk
Visit
Reviews
Overview
4.7
(1.4K reviews)
Ratings & Description
cultural
family friendly
accessibility
Description
Pitt Rivers Museum is a museum displaying the archaeological and anthropological collections of the University of Oxford in England. The museum is located to the east of the Oxford University Museum of Natural History, and can only be accessed through that building.
attractions: Oxford University Museum of Natural History, The Covered Market, Ashmolean Museum, Oxford Castle & Prison, University of Oxford, Gloucester Green Market, Carfax Tower, Christ Church Cathedral, University Church of St Mary the Virgin, History of Science Museum, restaurants: Turtle Bay Oxford, Turf Tavern, Banana Tree Oxford, Slug & Lettuce - Oxford, The Four Candles - JD Wetherspoon, Dishoom Permit Room Oxford, Browns Oxford, O'neill's Oxford, Red Lion Oxford, Wig & Pen

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