Museums can be an entertaining way to spend your day. It’s an opportunity to learn something new, look at wonderful displays, and get insight into the past.
It can also be a costly day out if visiting with the family.
We’ve found 10 brilliant museums to visit in Dorset that are all free!
Plan your next day out that is cost-effective, interesting and family-friendly.
Table of Contents
Gold Hill Museum
Gold Hill Museum is a delightful spot in Shaftesbury. Located at the top of the famous Gold Hill, it offers spectacular views.
The museum is housed in historic buildings, including one that used to be a lodging house for traders.
Visitors can explore exhibits showcasing the rich history of Shaftesbury and the surrounding area. The museum also features beautiful gardens, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
📌 Good to know:
- Disabled access
- Activities for children
- Well-behaved dogs welcome
📍 Gold Hill, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8JW
Red House Museum and Gardens
Nestled in Christchurch, the Red House Museum and Gardens welcomes visitors to explore its fascinating past.
This former Georgian workhouse has been transformed into a museum showcasing the history of Christchurch from the Ice Age to modern times.
Visitors can enjoy displays about Saxon princes, Iron Age dwellers and Victorian life.
Each exhibit offers a glimpse into different eras, making history come alive.
Visitors can explore the gardens offering a peaceful escape with beautiful plants and flowers.
📌 Good to know:
- Accessible for wheelchair users
- Cafe
- Events and workshops held throughout the year
- Activities for children
📍 Quay Road, Christchurch, Dorset BH23 1BU
Tolpuddle Martyrs Museum
The Tolpuddle Martyrs Museum tells the powerful story of six farm workers who fought for their rights in the 1830s. Their arrest and trial laid the foundation for modern trade unions.
The museum uses engaging interactive displays to share this history.
Visitors will find the museum modern and informative.
The graphic panels and touchscreen displays make learning about the Martyrs fascinating and easy for all ages.
📌 Good to know:
- No dogs allowed
- Disabled facilities
- Audio trail available
📍 Dorchester Road, Tolpuddle, Dorset, DT2 7EH
Bournemouth Natural Science Society
Bournemouth Natural Science Society offers a captivating blend of natural sciences and history.
The Society’s home is a grand late Victorian Grade II listed building, which adds to the charm of the visit.
Open to members and the public most Tuesdays from 10am to 4pm, with the last entry at 3.30pm.
They run an extensive programme of events, including lectures, exhibitions, study groups, and even a monthly “Young Explorers” club.
📌 Good to know:
- Holds Lectures and exhibitions
- Disabled access
📍 39 Christchurch Road, Bournemouth, Dorset BH1 3NS
Wareham Town Museum
Wareham Town Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of the Wareham area from prehistoric times to the present day.
The museum specialises in Lawrence of Arabia and regularly updates its exhibits.
Visitors can explore archaeology, geology, and social history displays, as well as artefacts highlighting Wareham’s role as a port and market town.
📌 Good to know:
- Disabled access
- Events held, such as ghost walks and town tours
📍 East Street, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 4NN
Sherborne Museum
Sherborne Museum is a must-visit. This gem offers free admission and explores the rich geological, historical, and cultural heritage of Sherborne.
Highlights include a unique medieval wall painting and a touch-screen version of the beautiful Sherborne Missal. It’s a treat for history buffs and curious minds alike.
Explore fascinating exhibits from the town’s past, including fossil displays and botanical watercolours.
The museum feels like a treasure trove of stories waiting to be uncovered.
📌 Good to know:
- No dogs allowed
- Disabled Facilities
- Regular events and exhibitions
📍 Abbey Gatehouse, Church Lane, Sherborne, DT9 3BP
Tudor House Museum
The Tudor House Museum in Weymouth is a fascinating place to explore. It’s one of the best-preserved Tudor buildings in the UK.
Built-in the early 17th century, this building offers a glimpse into life during that time.
Visitors can enjoy interactive activities, such as the Tudor House Rat Trail, which guides children through the museum with fun tasks for just £2.
There are also free activities for under-fives, like a hide-and-seek game with knitted rats.
This museum is perfect for families. Dressing up and games keep the kids entertained year-round.
Good to know:
- No dogs allowed
- Disabled facilities
- Activities for children
- Gift Shop
📍 Tudor House, 3 Trinity St, Weymouth DT4 8TW
Note: Temporarily closed
Gillingham Museum
Gillingham Museum offers a rich dive into the local history from prehistoric times to the Victorian era.
Visitors can explore exhibits like a 1790 manual fire engine and a display on artist John Constable.
Located in the heart of Gillingham, the museum is an engaging and educational spot.
📌 Good to know:
- Disabled access
📍 Chantry Fields, Gillingham, Dorset SP8 4UA
Purbeck Stone Museum
The Purbeck Stone Museum showcases the unique geology of Purbeck with examples of various stone beds.
The topmost layer is Purbeck Marble, quarried since Roman times.
Inside the museum, visitors get a free audio-visual introduction. This 20-minute presentation explains the history of local stone quarrying and its uses.
Good to know:
- Dogs Allowed
- Disabled Facilities
📍 Langton Matravers, Swanage, Dorset BH19 3HZ
Shaftesbury Abbey Museum and Gardens
Shaftesbury Abbey Museum and Gardens is a hidden gem in Dorset. It was founded in AD 888 by King Alfred the Great.
It once flourished as an important Benedictine nunnery for women.
The museum is set among the peaceful walled gardens, with beautiful views over the Blackmore Vale.
Visitors can explore the ruins and enjoy the medieval orchard and herb garden. The story of the Abbey and its inhabitants comes to life through engaging displays.
History buffs will find a fascinating lead casket thought to contain the bones of King Edward the Martyr.
📌 Good to know:
- Dogs welcome on leads
- Disabled facilities available
- Special events throughout the year
- Gift shop
📍 Park Walk, Shaftesbury, Dorset, SP7 8JR
