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Bringing your group to the Museum of Chelmsford
Whether you're organising a visit for a local history society, community group, social club, U3A group or coach party...
...we offer an inspiring day out in the heart of Oaklands Park.
Explore thousands of years of Chelmsford's history, enjoy beautiful surroundings, and spend quality time together discovering stories that connect our communities past and present.
Before You Travel
A little planning can help ensure everyone enjoys a relaxed and memorable day.
We welcome groups and ask organisers to contact our team in advance to arrange a visit. By booking ahead, we can help make sure your visit runs smoothly and doesn't clash with other large groups. Groups of more than 10 paying adults also receive a discount on admission.
Things to consider before your visit
Confirm final visitor numbers before travelling.
Check our current exhibitions and events to see what may be available during your visit.
Consider whether your group would like time for refreshments in The Hive Café.
Allow time to enjoy both the museum and the surrounding parkland.
Review accessibility information before travelling to ensure everyone can enjoy their visit comfortably.
Top tip:
Many groups find they enjoy combining their visit with a leisurely stroll through Oaklands Park, making a half-day visit into a full day out.
10am: Arrive and begin your journey through Chelmsford's history
Step inside and discover the stories that have shaped Chelmsford over thousands of years.
Our galleries showcase archaeology, natural history, social history and local stories, allowing visitors to explore everything from the Ice Age to modern-day Chelmsford. Along the way you'll encounter fascinating objects, remarkable discoveries and familiar reminders of everyday life through the generations.
Highlights include:
Archaeological treasures from across Chelmsford, including The Great Baddow Hoard, in our current exhibition Timeless Treasures
Exclusive items by artist Sir Grayson Perry, who grew up in Chelmsford
Anglo-Saxon discoveries such as the Broomfield Saxon Prince
Natural history collections and our popular live beehive
Displays exploring the people and communities that have shaped the city
As you explore, take time to share memories, conversations and connections. Many visitors enjoy discussing how local life has changed over the years, comparing objects from the collections to items they remember from childhood or recognising familiar places and stories from across Chelmsford.
Discover more about what's on displayPick up a free visitor guide
Our Visitor Guides, available for free from our front desk, contain our top 10 objects to explore along with a map of the museum. This is a great way to get to know our museum and our history while exploring at a leisurely pace, discovering more as you go.
12.30pm: Lunch and refreshments
Groups can visit The Hive Café for refreshments, light lunches and homemade treats, all served within the beautiful surroundings of the museum and park. The café overlooks the gardens and provides a welcoming place to relax and continue conversations sparked by the collections.
Alternatively, on warmer days, visitors may wish to enjoy a picnic in Oaklands Park.
1.30pm: Explore Oaklands Park
We are located within Oaklands Park making it easy to extend your day beyond our galleries.
The award-winning park offers:
Beautiful gardens and rose beds
Open green spaces
Walking routes
Plenty of seating for relaxation and conversation
It's the perfect opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, take photographs and soak up the atmosphere of one of Chelmsford's most loved green spaces.
2.30pm: One final discovery
Before heading home, why not revisit a favourite gallery, browse the gift shop or explore one of our temporary exhibitions?
Our gift shop also offers a range of souvenirs, locally-inspired gifts and keepsakes to remember your visit.
Visit Again!
Make it a regular visit in your group’s calendar
Alongside our permanent displays, we regularly hosts temporary exhibitions, talks, events and activities that explore different aspects of Chelmsford's history, culture and communities. Groups often return to experience new exhibitions, learn about different subjects and enjoy another opportunity to connect through shared discovery.
Whether you're uncovering a new story, introducing new members to the museum, or revisiting favourite exhibits, there's always another Chelmsford story waiting to be discovered.
Plan Your Visit
Opening hours
April to October: 10am to 5pm (last entry 4pm)
November to March: 10am to 4pm (last entry 3pm)
Admission
Adults: £4
Children, young people and carers: Free
Groups of over 10 adults receive a 10% discount when booked in advance.
Group visits
To help us provide the best possible experience, we encourage groups to contact us before visiting so we can assist with arrangements and ensure a warm welcome on the day.
Facilities
Accessible facilities
Toilets and baby changing facilities
Gift shop
The Hive Café
Free access to Oaklands Park during your visit