Museum of Somerset
Taunton, Somerset and Bristol
About Museum of Somerset
Museum of Somerset
An under-floor Plesiosaur, the largest collection of Roman coins ever discovered in Britain and a chilling recreation of the infamous Bloody Assizes – you'll find them all at the Museum of Somerset! Set in the heart of Taunton, the Museum of Somerset tells the county's story from prehistoric times to the present day, using real objects, interactive games, eye-catching film projections and the words and voices of Somerset people, past and present. This must-see visitor attraction contains objects from across many of the museum's collections, including geology, archaeology, medieval and ethnography. There are lots of interactives and family areas for visitors of all ages to enjoy. The museum houses many of Somerset's great archaeological treasures such as the Frome Hoard; the largest collection of Roman coins ever discovered in Britain in a single container, and the 4th Century Low Ham mosaic; the oldest object in Britain to tell a complete story: the tragic love story of Dido and Aeneas. The museum also houses the Somerset Military Museum. As well as the permanent galleries, the museum offers regularly changing temporary exhibitions and activities such as family drop-in sessions and ‘talk and tea' with a curator. There is also a programme of special events, including evening talks, music and outdoor theatre. Entry to the museum is free.
Discover 400 million years of history in Taunton's historic castle.
Set within Taunton’s historic 12th-century castle, the Museum of Somerset tells the county story from prehistoric times to the present day. It contains thousands of real objects, from outstanding fossil geology and the largest hoard of Roman coins ever discovered in Britain to an evocation of the infamous Bloody Assizes. There are also interactive games, eye-catching film projections and the words and voices of Somerset people, past and present. The museum also houses Somerset Military Museum.
With an amazing nine themed galleries, each with its own distinctive character, there’s something for everyone to discover. Our ‘must see’ exhibits include a 200 million year old Plesiosaur fossil (a type of marine reptile); the impressive Low Ham Roman mosaic; a stunning Bronze Age Gold Torc and the Frome Hoard of more than 50,000 Roman coins. The museum also houses The Somerset Military Museum.
An exciting exhibitions and events programme.
As well as the permanent galleries, the museum offers regular changing exhibitions and activities such as family drop-in sessions. There is a programme of special events, including evening talks, music and outdoor theatre.
Courtyard Café and shop
The Courtyard Café showcases Somerset’s great-tasting produce. Take your pick from morning coffees and pastries, freshly-made light lunches, afternoon teas and cake. There is a choice of indoor or outdoor seating.
You can also visit the museum shop which stocks a range of reasonably-priced toys, cards, books and gifts including the ‘Made in Somerset’ range of local food and drink.
Facilities
Toilets
Gift Shop
Baby Changing
Food Available
Wheelchair Friendly
Pushchair Friendly
Card Payments Accepted
Opening Times
- Monday, Closed
- Tuesday, 10:00 - 17:00
- Wednesday, 10:00 - 17:00
- Thursday, 10:00 - 17:00
- Friday, 10:00 - 17:00
- Saturday, 10:00 - 17:00
- Sunday, Closed
Tuesday to Saturday 10:00 - 17:00 (last entry 16:30)
The museum is open on Bank Holiday Mondays.
Pricing & Tickets
- Child (4-17) : Free
- Adult (17-18+) : Free
Free admission
Family activities £2
Trails £1
Book in advance for cheapest tickets
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Plan Your Visit
Typical visit time 3 - 4 hours
Suitable for Kids and Adults too
Food & Drink Options
Please see menu on site.
FAQs
Parking
Toilets
Family Friendly Options
Food & Drink
Accessibility Information
Tickets & Bookings
Private Hire & Birthday Parties
Contact Details
Taunton Castle, Castle Green
Taunton
Somerset and Bristol
TA1 4AA
England
Tel: 01823255088
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Verification & Last Updated
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Last Updated: 09:10 20/08/2025
Museum of Somerset Reviews
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