Ignite Your Passion for Life
Nestled within the historic heart of Tavistock, the Tavistock Museum stands as a beacon of local heritage, delighting visitors with a captivating journey through time. Led by a dedicated team of volunteers, this town and community museum evokes the rich tapestry of Tavistock's past through fascinating exhibitions and captivating stories.
Exploring the Past
Step through the welcoming entrance and be transported to the heart of Tavistock's captivating history. Discover the captivating tale of the town's once magnificent Medieval Abbey, its connection to the controversial figure of Sir Francis Drake, and the dramatic tale of its two vanished railway stations. Explore the mesmerizing transformation of the local landscape as it became a part of the esteemed Mining Landscape World Heritage Site.
D-Day Commemoration: A Pivotal Moment
Witness the captivating new exhibit commemorating the 80th anniversary of D-Day, the largest amphibious invasion in history. Witness the remarkable cooperation that culminated in the liberation of Normandy, and learn how Tavistock played its vital role in this pivotal moment of World War II.
From Postcards to Post-history
Delve into the changing landscape of Tavistock through the captivating collection of vintage postcards. Discover the stories behind the images, ranging from the construction of modern buildings to the evolution of the town's streets.
Highlighting Local Voices
Discover the remarkable life of Arabella Buckley, a Victorian science writer who became close friends with celebrated figures like Charles Darwin. Explore her notable works and significant contribution to scientific understanding.
Accessibility and Hours
The Tavistock Museum welcomes visitors of all abilities. The ground floor is fully accessible, while the main galleries reside on the first floor accessible by stairs. The museum is open from 11 am to 3 pm from March 30th to November 1st, and welcomes inquiries for private events outside regular operating hours.
Join Us at Tavistock Museum and embark on a captivating journey through the captivating history of this unique town!
General Information
The museum is run by volunteers and relies on donations, including from second-hand book sales, to keep it running. It has a lot of information on Bedford Cottages, mining heritage, minerals on display, John Taylor (Canal), Tavistock through postcards exhibition, D-Day exhibition, Tavistock Railways, and some early clothing on display.
Opening and Accessibility
The museum is only open during the summer/autumn months and has an audio-visual room downstairs for those unable to access the upstairs area.
Exhibits and Displays
The museum has a lot of interesting exhibits, including information on Francis Drake and the war years. However, some reviewers felt that the displays could be updated and made more creative.
Staff and Volunteers
The staff and volunteers at the museum are very welcoming and helpful.
Visitors' Experiences
Some visitors had a great time at the museum, finding it interesting and enjoyable, while others felt that it looked tired and needed some fresh ideas.
Special Events
One reviewer was unable to visit the museum as it was closed due to a royal visit by Charles and Camilla.
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