One room with a replica bedpost of the Great Bed of Ware
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Ware Museum

4.7
·75 reviews·, United Kingdom

Discover Ware's rich history, from Roman skeletons to the legendary Great Bed of Ware. A gem for families and history buffs!

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends

More volunteers available

CrowdMedium
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One room with a replica bedpost of the Great Bed of Ware

Ware Museum

Best Time

Weekends

More volunteers available

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Ware's rich history, from Roman skeletons to the legendary Great Bed of Ware. A gem for families and history buffs!

4.7
(75 reviews)

"So much in this little museum, I look forward to returning and learning even more!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Engage with Volunteers

Volunteers are super helpful and welcoming, eager to share local history! :handshake:

Great for All Ages

Perfect for kids, homeschooling, or anyone who learns visually. Dressing-up clothes available! :child:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Great Bed of Ware

The Great Bed of Ware

A colossal Elizabethan bed, 10 feet wide, that inspired Shakespeare. A true historical marvel!

WWII Exhibit

WWII Exhibit

Step back in time with artifacts, war rations, and insights into life during World War II.

Roman Skeleton & Well

Roman Skeleton & Well

Discover ancient history with a well-preserved Roman skeleton and a fascinating ancient well.

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Uncover Local History

Dive into Ware's rich past, from Roman times to WWII. This museum is packed with local artifacts, including a fascinating Roman skeleton and a well. Perfect for visual learners and history buffs alike.

The Great Bed of Ware

Don't miss the legendary Great Bed of Ware, a massive Elizabethan bed that inspired Shakespeare! It's a unique piece of history, often highlighted by visitors and featured in viral TikToks.

Best Times

When
Weekends
Why
More volunteers available
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Quieter for focused exploration
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The Great Bed of Ware, a large four-poster bed, was likely created as a tourist attraction for inns in Ware, Hertfordshire, around 1590, and became famous, appearing in Shakespeare's "Twelfth Night" and other literary works.  #londonexhibitions #exhibition #museummoment #ukhistory #TheGreatBedofWare
@samanth_3
23 likes • 473 views

Engage with Volunteers

Volunteers are super helpful and welcoming, eager to share local history! :handshake: Reddit

Great for All Ages

Perfect for kids, homeschooling, or anyone who learns visually. Dressing-up clothes available! :child: Reddit

Fancy a 😴 #learnontiktok #bed #museum #history #shakespeare #vamuseum
@vamuseum
103 likes • 2.9K views
Step inside history’s most scandalous artifact ; The Great Bed of Ware. Built around 1590, this monstrous oak bed wasn’t just made for sleep, it was made for stories. 10 feet wide, drenched in Elizabethan drama, and whispered about for centuries. Even Shakespeare couldn’t resist referencing it. Now preserved at the V&A Museum in London, its carvings still hold the energy of hundreds of nights, str...
@nubianprincefashionstyle
23 likes • 401 views

Discover Local Treasures

Packed with archaeological finds, a well, a bunker, and treasures from bygone eras. :gem: Reddit

See the Great Bed

Don't miss the famous Great Bed of Ware, a historical highlight! :bed: TikTok

The gigantic bed with a spicy story 🌶️ 😳 🛌 Great Bed of Ware. British, 1590-1600. 📍On display now at V&A South Kensington. #vandamuseum #greatbedofware #shakespeare #museum
@vamuseum
203 likes • 6.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Engage with Volunteers

Volunteers are super helpful and welcoming, eager to share local history! :handshake: Reddit

Great for All Ages

Perfect for kids, homeschooling, or anyone who learns visually. Dressing-up clothes available! :child: Reddit

Discover Local Treasures

Packed with archaeological finds, a well, a bunker, and treasures from bygone eras. :gem: Reddit

See the Great Bed

Don't miss the famous Great Bed of Ware, a historical highlight! :bed: TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.7
(75 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Ware Museum for its rich collection of local history, from Roman artifacts to WWII memorabilia, and the iconic Great Bed of Ware. The welcoming and helpful volunteers are a standout feature, making it an engaging experience for all ages, especially families and children.

"Love going to our local museum with my little mindees .... always something for them to do to keep them entertained and the volunteers are so helpful and welcoming 🥰"

Vee Bee

"Was there for yarnbombing exhibtion which was great, so much in this little museum, i look forward to returning and learning even more!"

Sarah Thomas

"Popped in here on a day out to see if we could find out more about The Great Bed of Ware! Lots of information and a great volunteer team. There's an abundance of local history in here; from the Victorian River Lea to the Roman times."

Molly Carroll

What People Like

Rich local history
Great Bed of Ware
Welcoming volunteers

What People Dislike

Limited opening hours (sometimes)

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Ware Museum is located in the heart of Ware. If you're arriving by train, Ware station is a short walk away. For those driving, local parking is available nearby. The walk along the River Lea to Ware is also a scenic option if the weather is good. Reddit

Yes, Ware Museum is accessible by public transport. Ware train station is within walking distance, and local bus routes also serve the town center. Check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date information.

There are several parking options available in Ware town center, which is a short walk from the museum. It's advisable to check local signage for any restrictions or charges.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ware Museum opening times can vary, so it's best to check their official website or social media for the most current information. Many visitors find weekends offer more volunteer support. Reddit

Generally, advance booking is not required for Ware Museum, as it's a local museum with a welcoming atmosphere. However, for special exhibitions or group visits, it's always a good idea to inquire beforehand.

Ware Museum is often free to enter, relying on donations and volunteer support. It's a community-focused attraction, making it accessible for everyone to explore local history. Reddit

Yes, Ware Museum is a great destination for groups, including school trips and community organizations. The exhibits are engaging for all ages, and volunteers are happy to assist. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The museum boasts a variety of exhibits, including the famous Great Bed of Ware, a WWII display with rations, a Roman skeleton, a well, and a bunker. There's a wealth of local history to explore. TikTokReddit

Absolutely! Ware Museum is highly recommended for children. They offer dressing-up clothes, interactive elements, and visually engaging displays that make learning fun and accessible. Reddit

You can learn about Ware's history from Roman times, through the Victorian era and the River Lea's importance, up to World War II. The museum covers a broad spectrum of local heritage. Reddit

Ware Museum often hosts special exhibitions, such as the 'yarnbombing exhibition' mentioned by visitors. It's worth checking their schedule for any temporary displays. Reddit

Photography policies can vary. It's best to check for signage within the museum or ask a volunteer if you're unsure about taking photos, especially of specific exhibits like the Great Bed of Ware. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The Great Bed of Ware is a unique and impressive subject for photos. The WWII exhibit and the Roman skeleton also offer interesting visual elements. Always be mindful of any 'no photography' signs. TikTok

While the Great Bed of Ware is a major draw, photography rules can apply. It's advisable to check with museum staff or look for signage regarding photo permissions for this specific exhibit. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Ware Museum is a fantastic destination for families looking for an engaging and educational outing. The museum is specifically designed to be kid-friendly, with interactive displays, dressing-up clothes, and plenty of visual aids that cater to younger learners. The WWII exhibit, with its war rations, and the Roman skeleton are often highlights for children, sparking curiosity and making history tangible. Reddit

Parents and educators will appreciate how the museum makes learning accessible and fun. The volunteers are particularly noted for being welcoming and helpful, ensuring a positive experience for everyone. It's a great place for homeschooling families or simply a fun day out where kids can learn without even realizing it!

📚 History Enthusiasts

For those with a passion for local history, Ware Museum is a treasure trove. You'll find a rich collection spanning from Roman times to the Victorian era and beyond, including significant archaeological finds like a Roman skeleton and an ancient well. The museum meticulously documents the town's development and its role in various historical periods. Reddit

The Great Bed of Ware is a unique historical artifact that draws many visitors, offering a glimpse into Elizabethan life and culture. Coupled with the detailed WWII exhibit, the museum provides a comprehensive narrative of Ware's past. The knowledgeable volunteers are also a great resource for deeper insights and answering specific historical queries.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Enigmatic Great Bed of Ware

The Great Bed of Ware is undoubtedly the museum's most famous artifact, drawing visitors and sparking curiosity. This colossal oak bed, dating back to the late 16th century, is an astonishing 10 feet wide and 11 feet long. It was likely created as a novelty attraction for inns in Ware, Hertfordshire, and gained significant fame, even inspiring literary works. Its sheer size and historical context make it a must-see.

TikTok videos often highlight the bed's impressive dimensions and its connection to literary history, with some even mentioning its potential to fit '26 butchers and their wives'! TikTok+1 The bed's presence at the museum is a testament to Ware's historical significance and its role in Elizabethan England. It's a piece of furniture that tells a grand story.

While the bed is a star attraction, remember that the Ware Museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the broader history of the town. The Great Bed is a fantastic hook, but the museum offers much more to discover about local life through the ages. Reddit

A Journey Through Time: Ware's Local History

Ware Museum offers a comprehensive glimpse into the town's past, spanning millennia. Visitors can explore archaeological finds, including a remarkably preserved Roman skeleton, offering a tangible link to the area's ancient inhabitants. The museum also features a fascinating ancient well, providing insights into historical water sources and engineering.

Beyond its ancient roots, the museum delves into more recent history. The World War II exhibit is a poignant display, featuring examples of war rations and other artifacts that paint a vivid picture of life on the home front. For those interested in the town's maritime heritage, exhibits on the Victorian River Lea showcase its importance as a transport and trade route. Reddit

The museum's collection is thoughtfully curated, making it an excellent resource for visual learners and families. The interactive elements and the sheer variety of artifacts, from everyday objects to significant historical pieces, ensure there's something to capture everyone's interest. It’s a place where history truly comes alive. Reddit

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