Museums

A trip to Gloucester would not be complete without exploring its history and learning about the characters who put the city on the map. Forget dusty displays and unidentifiable relics, Gloucester’s museums are vibrant, immersive, and full of surprises. From jet engines to Roman kitchens, the city offers a dynamic mix of history, art, and innovation that captivates visitors of all ages. These museums aren’t just places to look – they’re places to experience. With interactive exhibits, stunning architecture, and year-round events, Gloucester’s museums prove that history doesn’t have to be stuck in the past.

Museum of Gloucester

Brunswick Road, Gloucester, GL1 1HP

A collection of over 750,00 historical objects can be found in the beautiful city centre. The Museum of Gloucester allows you to marvel over the Roman origins of the city and its continuing development throughout history. Highlights include a Roman kitchen playhouse and medieval street. Part of the original Roman wall can also be viewed within the museum. The Archaeology collection includes the world-famous Birdlip Mirror, impressive Roman tombstones and the Gloucester Tables Set, the oldest complete backgammon set in the world. They also offer tours of the Eastgate Chamber and Behind the Scenes Tours! While you are there, check out the Museum Gift Shop which features carefully considered gifts from local Gloucestershire makers, sustainably conscious souvenirs, curated exhibition gifts and educational books to capture your imagination!

National Waterways Museum

Llanthony Warehouse, Gloucester Docks, Gloucester, GL1 2EH

The second of the two museums in Gloucester Docks is the National Waterways Museum. Take a ‘Journey Through Britain’ in the award-winning museum which tells the 200-year story of our inland waterways. With fun interactive exhibits, a café, and a museum shop, you’ll discover the stories of the communities that have lived and continue to thrive here. Your ticket allows you to return as many times as you like in 12 months.

Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum

Custom House, Gloucester Docks, Gloucester, GL1 2HE

One of two museums found in Gloucester Docks; the Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum tells the remarkable stories of soldiers who have served the county since 1694. Visitors can experience what it was like for soldiers and their families throughout the last three hundred years. You can view the interactive displays, contemporary film records, the magnificent medal collection, highly decorative uniforms, weapons, and souvenirs from all corners of the globe. These items have been donated and collected over the years by past soldiers and their families and are now a tribute for their service to their country, their county and to you, the generations that follow.

Jet Age Museum

Meteor Business Park, Cheltenham Road E, Gloucester, GL2 9QL

Just a short bus ride from the city centre is The Jet Age Museum. This museum is home to a unique collection of historic aircrafts and artefacts charting the history of Gloucestershire’s rich aviation heritage. Its purpose is to preserve the county’s aviation history, record the stories of those involved, and inspire future generations through education.

The House of the Tailor of Gloucester

9 College Court, Gloucester, GL1 2NJ

One of the most loved Beatrix Potter characters, The Tailor of Gloucester, was created here in Gloucester! Inspired by a story of an actual Gloucester tailor who claimed his work was completed by fairies, Beatrix Potter used this tale to write her 1902 book and used real life Gloucester locations in the illustrations. The House of the Tailor of Gloucester is found in the original College Court building seen in the book! You can enjoy viewing the tailor’s kitchen as well as a variety of displays which bring her favourite story to life. Entry is free, and the magical shop sells a range of attractive souvenirs.

Nature in Art

Wallsworth Hall, Gloucester, GL2 9PA

Found within a gorgeous Georgian Mansion is the widest range of nature inspired art in the world. The Nature in Art collection contains the best creations of 600 artists from over 50 countries. With such diversity you’re sure to find things that appeal to you, perhaps some that intrigue or inspire you, whilst you’ll certainly make some discoveries of your own.

Llanthony Secunda Priory

Priory Junction, Gloucester, GL2 5FA

Near Gloucester Docks you will find the remains of a once large and important Augustinian Priory. Llanthony Secunda Priory was founded in 1136 after canons fled Llanthony Priory in Monmouthshire, Wales. Today, the Priory is a popular cultural venue. The two main buildings, dating from the 15th century often play host to weddings, corporate events, and private functions. Their information room is open Monday–Friday, 10am-4pm and offers a glimpse into Llanthony’s long and captivating history.

The Folk of Gloucester

99 - 103 Westgate Street, Gloucester, GL1 2PG

The wonderful Folk of Gloucester on Westgate Street is one of the city’s most iconic and historic buildings. The exquisite Tudor timber-framed building is used as a community space with regular events, exhibitions, and activities. You can book onto one of their many guided tours to learn the fascinating stories and gory tales while giving you a feel for how life was lived here over the past five centuries. Their café and rustic garden are also open for drinks, home-made snacks, and light lunches.

Gloucester Prison

Barrack Square, Gloucester, GL1 2JN

Gloucester Prison has transformed from a historic correctional facility into a fascinating visitor attraction offering immersive tours and events. Originally built in 1791, the prison housed thousands of inmates over two centuries. Now tours and spooky events at the site showcase its grim past through guided experiences. Exhibits and stories reveal the lives of prisoners, the architecture of the jail, and its role in British penal history.

The Discovery Centre

1-3 Bell Walk, Eastgate Shopping Centre, Gloucester, GL1 1XH

The city’s story is held in our memories, in written records, but also in hidden objects, waiting to be found. It is a story being told beneath our feet. As the city changes and buildings are built, what’s hidden becomes found, and many of these finds are now held in hundreds of boxes in Museum of Gloucester’s collection. At the Discovery Centre they are unboxing all this archaeology in a giant year-long project, and you can see the archaeologists at work, witness their discoveries, and take part in fun activities and events. Come on in!

Walks and Tours

You’ll find a wonderful selection of guided walks and tours to help you explore Gloucester, where you will learn about why the city remains a fascinating place with so much history that will keep you coming back for more. You can meet local experts at Gloucester Civic Trust who offer over 18 different guided walks around the city. Volunteers at Gloucester Cathedral can show you beautiful views from the tower or let you explore the cathedral foundations in its underground crypt. You’ll also find incredible guided tours at some of the city’s favourite attractions such as the Eastgate Chamber, St Mary DeCrypt, Gloucester Prison, or even behind the scenes at Gloucester Brewery.

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