Museums in Swaffham

England, United Kingdom

Swaffham, a picturesque market town in Norfolk, England, offers visitors a rich selection of museums that provide a deep insight into the local history, culture, and art.

Museums in Swaffham

The town is home to several museums that showcase various aspects of the history and culture of Swaffham and the surrounding region.

Swaffham Museum

The Swaffham Museum is an independent social history museum spread across five galleries, illuminating the history of Swaffham and the surrounding villages from the Stone Age to the present day. Special exhibitions focus on the archaeologist Howard Carter, who discovered the tomb of Tutankhamun, as well as local geology and history. The museum is located in the historic Swaffham Town Hall, a Georgian building from the 18th century.

Howard Carter Gallery

Within the Swaffham Museum is the Howard Carter Gallery, dedicated to the life and work of the archaeologist. Visitors can learn more about Carter's childhood in Swaffham and his significant discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb in 1922. The gallery offers interactive exhibitions and artifacts that provide a fascinating insight into Egyptology and the history of the discovery.

Symonds Doll Collection

Another highlight of the Swaffham Museum is the Symonds Doll Collection, showcasing an impressive collection of dolls depicting characters from literature and history. This collection offers a unique glimpse into the cultural influences and craftsmanship of dollmaking in the region.

Visitor Information

The Swaffham Museum is open from Monday to Thursday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm and on Friday and Saturday from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm. It is closed on Sundays and opens on every bank holiday except Christmas and New Year. Admission is free from February 15 to March 31; donations are welcome. The museum is located at 4 London Street, Swaffham, Norfolk PE37 7DQ.

Overall, Swaffham offers a diverse museum landscape that provides numerous discovery opportunities for history enthusiasts and art lovers alike.