Your visit
Known as the Jewel of the Fens, Wisbech and Fenland Museum offers an inspiring visit - its interior Victorian Museum and library has survived intact since originally opening in 1847 as a purpose-built site for Wisbech Literary Society and Museum Society collections of ethnography, natural history, geology, archaeology, decorative arts and paintings. You can see -
Original artefacts, letters and documents belonging to Thomas Clarkson, English abolitionist, and a leading campaigner against the slave trade. born in Wisbech. We tell the story of his life, work and achievements.
The Townshend Collection of decorative art, archives, rare books and paintings bequeathed to the Museum by Reverend Chauncey Hare Townshend.
A remarkable Ancient Egyptian collection which illustrates the beliefs and culture of this fascinating civilisation and the work of Victorian collectors who were intrigued by archaeology.
This permanent display combines with a modern gallery and workshop space where a programme of exhibitions and events are staged all year round.
This programme ranges from showcasing contemporary artistic talent, highlighting themed selections of the Museum’s collections and creative activities for our local community.
Opening hours
Saturdays only from Saturday 5 January 2019 10am - 4pm. Normal opening hours will resume on Tuesday 12 February 2019.
Tuesday – Saturday: 10.00am - 4.00pm Closed Sundays and Mondays.
The original manuscript of Great Expectations is on display on the first Saturday of the month when the library is open to the public.
Accessibility
Lift
The Museum has a lift giving access to all main display areas.
Toilet
There is an accessible toilet near the level entrance.
Level entrance
There is level access to the Museum via Wilderness Walk. From the main entrance on Museum Square turn right onto the Cresent, right onto Market Street and right into Wilderness Walk to reach this entrance. Ring the doorbell. If you have any suggestions regarding improvements to access, please contact us either by phone on 01945 - 583817 or by email at info@wisbechmuseum.org.uk
Gift Shop
The Museum has a gift shop with a range of items inspired by the Museum’s collections on display.
We have fossils, minerals, postcards, books, maps, cards and gifts. There is also a selection of pocket money souvenirs to choose from.
Group visits
Group visits are more than welcome to the Museum. Please let us know if you are a group over 15 so we are able to accommodate you on the date of your visit. A self-led group can visit for free during our opening hours.
We look forward to welcoming your group to the Museum. Donations are always welcome to support the Wisbech & Fenland Museums’ work, building and collections. Prefer to pick up the phone? Call us on 01945 583817
Group meet and greet - £3.00 per person
We meet and welcome your group to the Museum and provide a 15-minute introductory talk by one of our experienced volunteers covering the story of the Museum, an overview of its collections and work.
Guided group tour - £5.00 per person
Your group will be welcomed by our knowledgeable staff and given a guided tour of the galleries and temporary exhibitions. A visit to the library to see the original manuscript of Great Expectations is included - please mention if you would like this to be part of your visit when you arrange your booking. Groups can expect to spend 1.5 hours during their visit.
Explore the market town of Wisbech
The market town of Wisbech has finely preserved Georgian streets along its North and South Brinks area and Crescent.
The architecture has featured in many films, setting the scene for period dramas such as David Copperfield and Micawber. Wisbech offers groups a unique day out to see St. Peters Gardens, Museum Square, The Crescent, Market Square, Wisbech Port and Brink.
Wisbech Town
Peckover House
Opposite the Birthplace House across the river on the North Brink. A splendid Georgian house with a magnificent Victorian garden, it is owned by the National Trust.
Elgood’s Brewery & Garden
The North Brink Brewery was built in 1795 and the brewhouse is a classicEnglish Ale brewery and Elgood's proudly carry on the brewing of their own beers for local and wider distribution accross the UK.
Octavia Hill Bithplace House
Find out the story about the founder of the National Trust and her life as a social reformer
