In 2018, it embarked on a huge transformation project! Please go to our Plan your visit page under Visiting for more information. The redevelopment will see the Museum, which was partially closed in 2011, triple in size and increase the number of exhibits from 286 to around 750. It will tell the often-overlooked story of Oxford, its people, and its communities through exhibits, objects, and oral h
istories. The project aims to create an award-winning museum and events space in the centre of Oxford. Alongside the £2.8m capital construction of the new Museum and its exhibits, the project is delivering a 3-year programme of exciting activities; including community exhibitions, learning resources for schools, family workshops, and reminiscence projects. On the ground floor, the Museum will feature two new galleries displaying lots more of Oxford’s collections and state-of-the-art, interactive exhibits. A new space, called Museum Makers, will encourage school children and communities to handle and create exhibits. The space will allow for the exploration of self and place, ensuring the Museum’s relevance for the future. Our handling and reminiscence collections will be on open display for visitors to see and use. A small library within comfortable surroundings will allow for research or for families to learn more. Equipment will also give visitors the opportunity to add their own stories and objects to the collections digitally. You’ll be able to enjoy all the Museum has to offer, exhibitions, events, and collections all in one place, in a dedicated area of Oxford Town Hall. Entry to the Museum is via our new entrance in the foyer of Oxford’s Grade II* Listed Town Hall. This entrance leads into a welcome and retail area where staff and volunteers will greet you. Updated and refurbished toilets, a new kitchenette, storage spaces, and a new volunteer area will mean that schools, groups, and volunteers using this floor will have the facilities needed to make the Museum of Oxford a user-friendly space. The Museum of Oxford has received support and funding from the National Heritage Lottery Fund (who kindly contributed £1.9 million towards the project), Oxford City Council, and Arts Council England to help with the redevelopment. We are also very grateful to the major donors, trusts and foundations, companies, and individuals who have given significant financial support towards the capital campaign. To read about our funders for the Oxford’s Hidden Histories project, visit our Support Us pages.
