Is the museum wheelchair accessible?

Currently, the museum building is not fully accessible to wheelchair users, but there is a fully accessible toilet and disabled parking nearby. The museum is working on improvements for future access.

How long should I plan to spend at the museum?

A typical visit lasts about one hour, allowing you to comfortably explore the exhibits and the historic building.

Are guided tours available?

The ticket includes self-guided entry; however, knowledgeable volunteers are available to answer questions and provide additional information during your visit.

Is photography allowed inside the museum?

Visitors are welcome to take photographs for personal use to capture the building and exhibits.

Are children allowed to visit the museum?

Yes, visitors of all ages are welcome. Children will find the fossils and curiosities especially engaging.

Does the museum have a shop or café?

Yes, there is a museum shop on-site offering souvenirs and local craft items, but no café. Nearby Broadway has several dining options.

Explore Broadway Museum & Art Gallery: A Cultural Gem in The Cotswolds

Located in the picturesque village of Broadway in the heart of The Cotswolds, the Broadway Museum & Art Gallery offers visitors a compelling journey into the rich cultural and natural history of this quintessential English locale. Housed within a remarkably preserved 17th-century building, one of the few of its age still open to the public in Broadway, the museum combines centuries-old architecture with engaging, thoughtfully curated exhibits that invite exploration and discovery. With its timber-framed walls and original features, the building itself is a window into the past, setting the perfect stage for the stories that unfold inside.

Visitors embarking on the one-hour self-guided tour will encounter a diverse collection that highlights the unique local heritage. The museum’s fossils provide a glimpse into the ancient natural world beneath The Cotswolds, while the "Story of Wool" exhibit traces Broadway's rise and fall as a prosperous wool town in the 16th century. These artifacts place the region’s economic transformation into perspective and deepen understanding of the area’s historical landscape.

Among the museum’s most fascinating displays is the Cabinet of Curiosities, which showcases an assortment of rare and intriguing objects reminiscent of the world’s earliest museums. This collection evokes a bygone era of wonder and discovery, enriching visitors’ appreciation of historical curiosities.

The museum also chronicles the evolution of travel, from the golden age of coach travel in the 17th century to the disruptive arrival of steam-powered transport. These narratives underscore Broadway’s role as a hub of change and connectivity, influencing both the local community and broader England.

Adding cultural depth, the museum honors the late 19th-century influx of American artists and writers who were drawn to Broadway’s serene beauty, capturing the enduring artistic inspiration of the area. Furthermore, furniture enthusiasts will appreciate the fine pieces from H. W. Keil Ltd, a renowned dealer whose collection reflects the craftsmanship and elegance tied to the region.

Since its establishment in 2013, with support from H.W. Keil and the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford, Broadway Museum & Art Gallery has been sustained by dedicated local trustees, staff, and volunteers who bring passion and knowledge to each visitor’s experience. While wheelchair access within the historic building is currently limited, efforts are underway to improve accessibility, with facilities such as a fully accessible toilet and nearby disabled parking to accommodate guests.

Perfectly situated in Broadway, this museum invites travelers seeking a meaningful cultural adventure alongside the natural charm of The Cotswolds. Capture memories with photographs and soak in the authentic character of a village that has witnessed centuries of history unfold.