Worthing Museum and Art Gallery
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Worthing Museum and Art Gallery

4.5
·366 reviews·, United Kingdom

A charming, multi-level museum and art gallery featuring extensive costume collections, local archaeology, and decorative arts. Free entry!

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful browsing

CrowdLow
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Worthing Museum and Art Gallery

Worthing Museum and Art Gallery

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful browsing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A charming, multi-level museum and art gallery featuring extensive costume collections, local archaeology, and decorative arts. Free entry!

4.5
(366 reviews)

"A charming, multi-level museum / art gallery for those who like history, design, contemporary art, photography and sculptures."

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TIP

🎯 Free Admission Gem

Enjoy this local treasure without an entry fee! Consider a donation to support their work. :heart:

👗 Fashion Fanatic's Dream

Don't miss the incredible costume collection; it's a highlight for many visitors. :dress:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Costume Collection

Costume Collection

Marvel at an extensive and fascinating collection of historical costumes and textiles, showcasing fashion through the ages.

Local Archaeology

Local Archaeology

Discover artifacts and insights from archaeological digs in the surrounding Downs, revealing the area's ancient past.

Decorative Arts

Decorative Arts

Explore a diverse range of decorative arts, including sculptures and contemporary pieces, offering something for every art enthusiast.

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Free Entry, Big Value

Worthing Museum and Art Gallery offers free admission, making it a fantastic budget-friendly option. Support this local gem by browsing the gift shop or making a donation.

Family Fun & Local History

With dedicated children's areas, educational activities, and exhibits on local archaeology and history, it's an ideal spot for families looking for an engaging and informative outing.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful browsing
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend afternoons
Why
Lively atmosphere, family activities
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Those Forgotten is now OPEN at Worthing Museum and Art Gallery. It's up on the top floor, in between the Edwardians and the Romans! For nearly a decade, I've repurposed archival materials to create contemporary artworks, both as a filmmaker and an embroidery artist. For this exhibition, I invited local residents to explore their own photographic collections, seeking images of people they did not...
edmunds.becky
49 likes • 408 views

🎯 Free Admission Gem

Enjoy this local treasure without an entry fee! Consider a donation to support their work. :heart:

👗 Fashion Fanatic's Dream

Don't miss the incredible costume collection; it's a highlight for many visitors. :dress:

👶 Kid-Friendly Fun

Great for families with dedicated children's areas and engaging activities. :child:

🎁 Unique Gift Shop Finds

Discover lovely gifts, local art, and unique cards in the reception gift shop. :gift:

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Admission Gem

Enjoy this local treasure without an entry fee! Consider a donation to support their work. :heart:

👗 Fashion Fanatic's Dream

Don't miss the incredible costume collection; it's a highlight for many visitors. :dress:

👶 Kid-Friendly Fun

Great for families with dedicated children's areas and engaging activities. :child:

🎁 Unique Gift Shop Finds

Discover lovely gifts, local art, and unique cards in the reception gift shop. :gift:

🌿 Peaceful Garden Spot

Take a moment to relax in the small, beautiful garden area, especially lovely in summer. :seedling:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(366 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Worthing Museum and Art Gallery for its free admission, diverse collections, and family-friendly atmosphere. Many highlight the impressive costume collection and engaging local history exhibits. While some wish for more extensive dining options, the overall sentiment is that it's a charming and valuable local treasure.

"This is a really charming multi level museum / art gallery for those who like history, design, contemporary art, photography and sculptures. It's extremely family friendly with children's areas, educational activities and exhibits with fashion & costumes, old artefacts and various local and household items throughout time. If you're

The best part is it's spacious, quiet, and FREE to enter. If you're looking for an activity to do on a budget, it's worth supporting this local gem.

Each room has a different theme with large open plan spacing, even on a weekend you feel like you're in you're own little art world.

There's a beautiful gift shop in the reception / entry with small items, books, children's gifts and small pieces from local artists and creators that are perfect for giving as a present for someone special or treating yourself. The cards are a highlight, with so many designs for every occasion!"

B ARose

"This is an interesting local museum to go to and as far as I know there are good things for children to do although I didn't have children with me.
Lots of information about local archaeological digs on the downs. Lovely costumes too view and galleries. I've always enjoyed going in"

Carole Ashby

"Lots to see and covers a large range of different parts of history. Nice tidy and well presented rooms and displays. The gift shop also has nice cute gifts such as gemstones (shown in images) The small garden area is peaceful and looks stunning in the summer."

7

What People Like

Free admission
Extensive costume collection
Family-friendly activities

What People Dislike

Limited cafe facilities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is centrally located in Worthing. It's easily accessible by public transport, with local bus routes stopping nearby. If driving, check for local parking options, as street parking can be limited. Reddit

While there isn't dedicated museum parking, several public car parks are available within a short walking distance. Researching these in advance can save time. Reddit

Yes, the museum is generally accessible, with spacious rooms and lifts to different levels, making it suitable for visitors with mobility needs. Reddit

Absolutely! The museum is very family-friendly and accommodates strollers and prams, with ample space to navigate the exhibits. Reddit

Worthing train station is the closest, offering good connections. From the station, it's a pleasant walk or a short bus ride to the museum. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Worthing Museum and Art Gallery offers free admission to all its exhibits, making it a fantastic budget-friendly destination. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, so it's always best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information before your visit. Reddit

As admission is free, advance booking is typically not required. However, for special events or exhibitions, it's advisable to check their website for any booking recommendations. Reddit

The museum often hosts temporary exhibitions, including contemporary art and historical displays. Check their events calendar for current and upcoming shows. Reddit

Yes, donations are greatly appreciated and help support the museum's collections and activities. Donation boxes are usually available on-site. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You'll find a diverse range including a significant costume collection, archaeological artifacts from local digs, decorative arts, sculptures, and contemporary art. Reddit

Yes, it's very family-friendly with children's areas, educational activities, and exhibits that appeal to younger visitors. Reddit

You can tailor your visit. You can pop in for a short time or spend several hours exploring the various collections and exhibits. Reddit

While there isn't a full cafe, there is a lovely gift shop that may offer light refreshments or snacks. It's best to check their current offerings. Reddit

Photography policies can vary, especially for special exhibitions. It's recommended to check for signage or ask staff if photography is permitted. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is permitted in most areas, but it's always wise to check for specific restrictions on certain exhibits or artworks. Reddit

The vibrant costume collection offers fantastic photographic opportunities, as do the detailed archaeological displays and the varied decorative arts. Reddit

Flash photography is often prohibited to protect delicate artifacts and artworks. Always look for signs or ask a member of staff if unsure. Reddit

You can usually photograph items in the gift shop, but it's polite to ask if you plan to feature them extensively, especially if they are by local artists. Reddit

The museum building itself often has interesting architectural details. Consider capturing exterior shots or the ambiance of the exhibition spaces. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Worthing Museum and Art Gallery is a fantastic destination for families. It's known for being very family-friendly, with dedicated children's areas and engaging activities designed to educate and entertain younger visitors. The museum's free admission makes it an accessible outing for families on a budget. Reddit

Parents often appreciate the variety of exhibits, from the historical artifacts to the visually appealing costume displays, which can spark children's imaginations. The spacious layout also makes it easier to navigate with strollers. It’s a great place to introduce children to the wonders of museums in a relaxed and welcoming environment.

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, Worthing Museum and Art Gallery is an absolute gem. The fact that it offers free admission is a major draw, allowing visitors to experience a rich cultural offering without any cost. Reddit

To make the most of a budget visit, consider exploring the museum's gift shop for affordable souvenirs or local crafts. Supporting the museum through a small donation or a purchase is a great way to give back to this valuable community resource. It's an excellent option for a fulfilling and inexpensive day out.

🎨 Art Enthusiasts

Art lovers will find plenty to admire at Worthing Museum and Art Gallery. The decorative arts collection offers a diverse range of sculptures and objects, while temporary exhibitions often showcase contemporary artists and thought-provoking works. Reddit

Don't miss the chance to explore the intricate details of the costume collection, which can be viewed as wearable art. The varied galleries provide a stimulating environment for appreciating different artistic styles and historical periods.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Remarkable Costume Collection

Worthing Museum and Art Gallery boasts an impressive and extensive costume collection, a true highlight for many visitors. This collection spans various eras, offering a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of fashion and textile design. From historical garments to contemporary pieces, the displays are meticulously curated and presented, allowing visitors to appreciate the craftsmanship and artistry involved.

Visitors often rave about the detail and variety within the costume exhibits. It's a chance to see how people dressed through the centuries, providing a tangible connection to the past. The way the costumes are displayed often emphasizes their texture, silhouette, and historical context, making for a visually engaging experience. Reddit

For those interested in design, history, or simply beautiful craftsmanship, the costume collection is a must-see. It’s a testament to the museum's dedication to preserving and showcasing these delicate pieces of social history.

Local History and Archaeology

The museum serves as a vital repository for the local history and archaeology of the Worthing area and the surrounding South Downs. Numerous exhibits are dedicated to artifacts unearthed from local archaeological digs, providing insights into the region's ancient inhabitants and their way of life.

Visitors can explore displays featuring pottery, tools, and other remnants of past civilizations. These exhibits offer a unique perspective on the deep historical roots of the West Sussex area. The museum effectively brings these discoveries to life, making the past accessible and engaging for all ages. Reddit

This focus on local heritage makes Worthing Museum and Art Gallery a valuable resource for understanding the specific cultural and historical landscape of Worthing. It’s a chance to connect with the stories embedded in the very ground beneath your feet.

Art and Decorative Arts

Beyond its historical collections, Worthing Museum and Art Gallery also features a diverse array of art and decorative arts. This includes sculptures, paintings, and various decorative objects that showcase artistic talent and design principles across different periods.

The museum often hosts temporary exhibitions featuring contemporary artists, ensuring a dynamic and evolving art offering. This blend of permanent collections and rotating displays means there's always something new to discover, catering to a wide range of artistic tastes. Reddit

Whether you're an art aficionado or simply appreciate beautiful objects, the art galleries provide a stimulating and enriching experience, complementing the museum's other fascinating exhibits.

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