About The Ashmolean Museum
Discover half a million years of art and archaeology at The Ashmolean Museum! Founded in 1683, it is Britain's first public museum and home to the University of Oxford's world-class collections of art and archaeology. The whole family will be left in awe, from Egyptian mummies and Samurai warriors to Pre-Raphaelite drawings and modern art.
Things To Do At The Ashmolean Museum
The Ashmolean Museum boasts diverse galleries, each showcasing famous collections spanning thousands of years of human history. From the 12th century to the 20th century, there's plenty to explore, including:
Ancient Egypt: Marvel at mummies, sculptures, and ancient artefacts that bring the world of pharaohs and pyramids to life.
Ancient Greece and Rome: Discover classical sculptures, art and relics that tell the story of ancient civilisations.
Medieval Europe: View intricate medieval objects, including arms and armour, and learn about life in the Middle Ages.
Asian Art: Explore art and artefacts from China, Japan, India and more.
and so much more! Ashmolean Museum is also home to an important collection of Egyptian pre-dynastic sculptures and ceramics. It's even home to the world's largest collection of astrolabes and houses one of the largest collections of classical Greek and Roman statues! You can really enjoy the beauty of these sculptures in their natural-light-filled space. Some of the major exhibitions in the museum are works by American artists and the supernatural in the art of the Islamic world.
Fun Fact: the museum's original collection actually belongs to 2 gardeners, a father and son team who collected artefacts while working abroad for the Earl of Salisbury!
Did you know that the Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology has the greatest collection of Raphael drawings and the foremost collection of modern Chinese paintings in the Western world? You'll find plenty of modern art, including contemporary Chinese artists, American artists (like Jeff Koons) and British artists. There are also lots of Old Master paintings reminiscent of an English Country House. There are many incredible prints to marvel at and inspire the inner artist within you!
Workshops and Interactive Trails
The Ashmolean Museum offers a range of family workshops designed to be fun and educational. These workshops often include hands-on activities where children can take part in art projects.
To help you search the galleries, the information desk always has a range of family gallery trails to capture the kids' interest. They have separate ones for younger and older children to present an appropriate challenge.
Special Exhibitions
The museum frequently hosts special exhibitions that provide new and exciting experiences. These temporary exhibits cover a wide range of topics and often include interactive elements, providing fresh content and learning opportunities with each visit. Currently, you can find the Money Talks exhibition at the museum! It explores the art and power of money.
Toddler Time
The museum offers a Toddler Time subscription. This is a monthly season of events that offers sessions packed with activities like singing, rhyme time, storytime, exploration of exhibits and more. Choose from a 3- to 9-month event subscription: £12 for a 3-month subscription, £24 for 6 months and £36 for 9 months.
Whether you're a history buff or an art expert, there's something for everyone to enjoy at the Ashmolean Museum!
Why We Recommend the Ashmolean Museum
- It's a spectacular setting with awe-inspiring architecture
- Discover a range of artefacts and art prints from over half a million years of history
- This impressive space houses artefacts from across the world and art from ancient and contemporary artists
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A Time Machine to Ancient Egypt
Ever wanted to travel back to the time of pharaohs? The Ashmolean Museum offers the next best thing! Step into the Ancient Egypt gallery and find yourself surrounded by real mummies, ancient sculptures, and rare artefacts that have survived millennia. It's not just a collection; it's an immersive journey through the land of the Nile that will leave both adults and kids spellbound.
Journey Through Different Cultures In The Museum
At the Ashmolean, you can journey through different cultures and time periods without leaving the museum. Gaze at one of the largest collections of classical Greek and Roman statues, discover the world’s most extensive collection of astrolabes, or be mesmerised by the armor of Samurai warriors. Not to mention, the museum boasts the greatest collection of Raphael drawings anywhere!
There Are Monthly Toddler Time Sessions
Who says museums are just for grown-ups? The Ashmolean’s Toddler Time is a brilliant way to introduce the youngest visitors to art and history. With a subscription, your little one can enjoy monthly sessions packed with singing, storytelling, and hands-on exploration of exhibits. It’s an engaging way to nurture curiosity and creativity from an early age, making the museum a place of wonder for even the tiniest historians. Plus, it’s a perfect excuse for a fun family outing!
Facilities
Toilets
Accessible Toilets
Food Available
Wheelchair Friendly
Opening Times
- Monday, 10:00 - 17:00
- 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, 10:00 - 17:00
Open until 20:00 on the last Friday of the month (except December)
Pricing & Tickets
- Child (4-17) : Free
- Adult (17-18+) : Free
Admission is free!
Book in advance for cheapest tickets
Find other attractions similar to The Ashmolean Museum by visiting our attraction tickets section.
Plan Your Visit
Typical visit time 1 - 2 hours
Suitable for Kids and Adults too
Food & Drink Options
Refuel at the Ashmolean Cafe with cakes, sandwiches, soups and cream teas. Cafe open during opening hours. Alternatively head up to the roof top restaurant ‘The Dining Room' for a lovely meal. The Dining Room is open for breakfast, lunch and traditional afternoon tea from Tuesday to Sunday 10am to 6pm. The restaurant is also open on Thursday and Friday Evenings, from 5 Apr, 5 to 9.30pm.
FAQs
Parking
Toilets
Family Friendly Options
Food & Drink
Accessibility Information
Tickets & Bookings
Private Hire & Birthday Parties
Public Transport
Contact Details
University Of Oxford
Ashmolean Museum
Beaumont Street
Oxford
Oxfordshire
OX1 2PH
England
Tel: 01865278000
Visit WebsiteTransport Information
By Train
The nearest train station is Oxford, which is a 5-10 minute walk away.
By Bus
You can take the following buses: City 2, City 6, S3, Park and Ride 300 (Pear Tree) and Park and Ride 500 (Oxford Parkway).
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Last Updated: 07:21 29/08/2024
The Ashmolean Museum Reviews
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