Andover Museum and Museum of the Iron Age — Attraction in Test Valley

I booked via their website for tickets, which were free, for a Saturday morning, between 10 and noon. I presume that booking in advance was to control numbers for social distancing. On entering I realised that I couldn't find the confirmation email, but just giving the receptionist my surname was sufficient.

A volunteer told us the layout of the museum, and pointed out the direction signs as passage is one-way.

On entering the first room I looked at an area OS map on the wall to orient myself. I'm not a local, and had done little research of what this museum covers. While studying the map another volunteer, who I was later told was one of the Roman period specialists, explained the history covered, from around 800 BC to the Roman invasion and settlement. Something I hadn't realised was the blending or merging of Celtic and Roman deities, as this was explained amply by the volunteer and the floor mosaic displayed on a wall nearby. Apparently this mosaic floor, about 2/3 complete, had been dug up by a local farmer and used in his house, covered by carpet, unbeknown to the rest of the world! Fortunately it is now on display in this museum. At its centre is the Roman god Mars, and images surround it of Celtic deities.

There are exhibits, too many to mention them all, on the iron age period. I spent about an hour in this museum and would definitely go back to look in more detail at some of them.

I was intrigued by a 14th century chart of the varying weights and prices of loaves, which included Roman numerals and other symbols. Given that the Arabic numerals we use today were introduced in the 10th century, why were they still using Roman numerals 400...

During our holiday trip to Winchester in the first week of January 2025, we were pleasantly surprised by the exceptional experience we had at the Andover Museum.

Upon arrival, we were immediately struck by the museum’s visitor-friendly layout. One of the most convenient features was the complimentary car park situated adjacent to the museum, eliminating the need for us to search for parking and saving us time.

The museum itself is a captivating blend of local history, meticulously preserved artifacts, and engaging displays. We spent approximately three hours exploring the various sections, ranging from the ancient history of the region to more contemporary exhibits. The museum’s layout was thoughtfully designed and provided a wealth of information. The staff were friendly, knowledgeable, and evidently passionate about the museum and its heritage.

While entry to the museum is free, we were more than willing to make a donation as a token of our appreciation for the museum’s well-maintained and enriching environment. The museum undoubtedly deserves the support it can receive.

Highly recommended for families, history enthusiasts, and anyone passing through the area, the Andover Museum offers both educational and recreational opportunities. It is a charming gem that provides a valuable learning experience and is definitely...

Good way to spend some time with family.

Visited on a Saturday, was pleasantly greeted by a volunteer working there and made to feel welcome.

The exhibits on, were ok. I think this is aimed more at older children and adults. However the museum does accommodate activities for younger children. A lot of the display cabinets a quite low for adults, we found some of the displays being missed due to there height.

There are some interesting items throughout and worth a look if you are into local history and artifacts.

We spent just under an hour inside. The museum is free, which is a positive for us. They do accept donations, which helps them out. There are different ways you can donate to the museum.

Overall not a bad little museum, staff are friendly, facilities are clean and Covid friendly.

• A suggestion to the staff working there. Maybe making some of the displays interactive and modern may bring in a different audience. Possibly reviewing the displays on there visuals and making them more story based and fun. Instead of reading information. This would be more child friendly and engaging, bringing more families and change the experience.

This doesn't detract away from how friendly the staff are and the museums content.

A nice way to spend some time, would...