What to do and see in Warwickshire, England: The Best Museums

Mobile Pottery Painting Parties / Workshops and Events for all ages from 3-100! In the Stratford Upon Avon area. (10 Mile radius). Price range from £10.00 Per person.

The Hospital is a historic group of medieval timber-framed buildings dating mainly from the late 14th Century. Of historic significance, they represent one of the finest examples in Britain of medieval courtyard architecture. Clustered around the Norman gateway into the town, the 12th century chapel sits above it. For nearly 200 years this site was home to Warwick’s medieval Guilds. In the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, under the patronage of Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester, the buildings became a place of retirement for old warriors. These soldiers are known to this day as the Brethren and with the Master, still live within the walls of the building. They are a living legacy of 450 years. Each morning they meet and pray together the words their founder Robert Dudley set down. You can often see the Brethren in ceremonial uniform as they give tours through the buildings and gardens. ​These extraordinary medieval buildings are open to visitors and can also be hired for private events.

Montpellier Gallery is one of England’s longest established independent retail craft galleries, first opening in 1989. We have built a strong reputation for our individuality, varied choice and careful selection, and now exhibit some of the finest Studio Glass, Contemporary Jewellery and Ceramics alongside Fine Art and Sculpture by established and emerging artist/makers. Set in a 400 year old building opposite the Shakespeare Hotel, Montpellier gallery comprises three adjoining rooms, opening to a delightful courtyard which floods the rooms with natural light. We like to think we offer a welcoming and friendly atmosphere together with a knowledgeable staff and attentive service.

St Johns House, a Jacobean Mansion located in Warwick, has a history spanning almost 900 years. Currently used for The land on which the current building now stands was originally used as a hospital in the 12th century. The current house has been used as a private residence, a school and administrative offices of the War Department in the early 20th century. Latterly the building was bought by Warwickshire County Council and turned into a Museum, which was opened to the public in 1960. Since 2017 the House is not be for public visits, but by pre-arranged schools and groups only. On the first floor of the house is The Royal Warwickshire Regiment of Fusiliers Museum, visit their website for opening hour details

Home to the world's largest collection of historic British cars the British Motor Museum has over 300 vehicles on display spanning the classic, vintage and veteran eras. With a selection of interactive exhibitions and family activities, the museum is ideal for both families and enthusiasts alike. Situated in Gaydon, Warwickshire just off junction 12 of the M40.

Discover where William Shakespeare was educated and inspired to become the world's greatest playwright. Learn how he spent his early school days and first experienced theatre. Take part in a Tudor lesson with Master Thomas Jenkins and brush up on your Latin! More than just a museum, Schoolroom & Guildhall provides a truly immersive experience for all. Marvel at our medieval wall paintings, dress up Tudor-style, play Tudor games and get messy with quill and ink. Stratford-upon-Avon's Guildhall, in the heart of the town, is a fine example of one of a few remaining medieval Guildhalls in the country. Our knowledgeable, enthusiastic and welcoming guides will share with you the many stories the building has to tell. If you're coming to Stratford don't miss out on what many are saying is the best attraction in town!

This award winning art gallery near Stratford-upon-Avon offers enjoyable ways to experience art and natural beauty of it's stunning landscape. Housed in a Grade I listed Robert Adam mansion set in Capability Brown landscaped parkland, Compton Verney is home to a growing collection of works of art from around the world including Naples 1600-1800, Germanic art 1450-1650, British portraits including Reynolds, exceptional collection of Chinese bronzes, unique collection of British Folk Art, the Marx-Lambert collection, plus an exciting program of changing exhibitions.

Stratford upon Avon is most famous for being the birthplace of poet and play writer William Shakespeare, but why not try something completely outside of the box and visit the towns newest most exciting attraction- The MAD (Mechanical Art & Design) Museum.As soon as you step into this quirky attraction you'll be greeted with whirling robotics, churning clogs, rolling ball circuits, ingenious design and crazy sounds! The MAD Museum does what it says on the tin, showcasing an absolutely MAD assortment of Kinetic Art, Automata and Steampunk contraptions, gadgets and gismos. Venture into an eccentric world of moving art; The MAD Museum is a wonderful place to watch and interact with an astonishing assortment of both modern and old fashioned, yet highly innovative and elaborate machines! For the young ones: Dancing lasers, rolling ball machines, roaring mechanical dinosaur heads and whirligigs all with lots of buttons to press! The MAD Museum offers an exciting visit with an educational bias, relevant to curriculum modules such as Design & Technology and Science. We give children an experience that is worthwhile, educationally beneficial and also a lot of fun!