About Us
Our vision is to inspire people everywhere to connect with 250 million years of Dorset’s stories through our world‐class collections.
The Museum’s nationally and internationally recognised collections unlock the secrets of Dorset’s natural world, archaeology, history, art and culture.
We welcome people from everywhere to discover and enjoy the richness of Dorset’s natural, historical and cultural heritage. Our aim is to ignite an appreciation of our county – and of how Dorset people have helped advance understanding of the wider world.
Through exciting, fun and enjoyable public programmes and exhibitions, we work hard to inspire learning, advance knowledge and engage with the widest possible audience. As one of Dorset’s leading cultural tourism attractions, we also play an important part in the local economy.
We are delighted to be recognised by Arts Council England as a National Portfolio Organisation through the Wessex Museum Partnership.
Christmas & New Year Opening Times
Sat 24 December | CLOSED
Sun 25 December | CLOSED
Mon 26 December | CLOSED
Tues 27 Dec | OPEN, Bank Holiday hours
Wed 28 Dec | OPEN, normal hours
Thurs 29 Dec | OPEN, normal hours
Fri 30 Dec | OPEN, normal hours
Sat 31 Dec | OPEN – 9am to 3pm (early closing)
Sun 1 Jan 2023 | CLOSED
Mon 2 Jan | OPEN, Bank Holiday hours
Tues 3 Jan | OPEN, normal hours
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Opening hours:
Daily: 9.00am - 4.30pm
Sunday: 10.00am - 4.00pm
Bank Holidays: 10.00am - 4.00pm -
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For more information
[email protected]
Our Story
The Museum began by collecting natural history and archaeology. Literature, fine art, textiles and costume, local history and photography collections grew over time – and the Thomas Hardy collection was a major bequest in 1937. Today the Museum looks after an incredible four million objects.
Dorset Natural History and Archaeology Society
Dorset Museum is owned and cared for by members of the Dorset Natural History and Archaeological Society. A lively organisation of over 2,000 members, it was Dorset’s first conservation organisation being established to collect, preserve, research and exhibit objects relating to the archaeology, natural history, art, literature and culture of Dorset.
Become A Member Today!
Become a member of the Dorset Natural History and Archaeological Society today and get a deeper insight into 250 million years of Dorset’s history, while you help protect its rich heritage for future generations.