Athelstan Museum

Athelstan Museum is a small local museum that tells the history of Malmesbury, a beautiful hilltop town that was built on a Saxon road plan, and that is also on the site of a 2,800 year old Iron Age hill fort! The museum is a great place for a family day out, with a great collection of artefacts, plus lots of local history to discover, making it a good way to learn about the area.

You can find out all about the fine and intricate Malmesbury Lace, and see the museum's unrivalled collection of lace and bobbins, plus you can learn about the Abbey, from its architecture to its long history, including how it encouraged the growth of the town. Other artefacts on display include a Roman coffin, wonderful pictures of the area, and bicycles!

You will also find out about a number of interesting old ‘Malmesburians', such as the renowned philosopher Thomas Hobbes, King Athelstan, who was the first king of all England, Eilmer the flying monk, and MP Walter Powell, who disappeared at sea in a hot air balloon!

The museum runs a series of changing exhibitions throughout the year, and there are loads of interactive things to entertain the kids. If you have any questions, feel free to ask the friendly volunteers, who are always ready to elaborate on and explain the exhibits. You can enhance your experience by using one of the audio guides that are available from reception.