Weald & Downland Open Air Museum

Our ancestors' homes and the way they built them, their animals and the way they raised them, their crops and flowers and the way they grew them…at the Weald and Downland Open Air Museum you'll discover how the people of south east England lived and worked over the past 500 years. And it's all set in 50 glorious acres of the South Downs National Park.
At the heart of the Museum's collection are over 45 historic homes, farms and workplaces that have been rescued from destruction and restored as far as possible to their original form. To demonstrate how the original occupants may have lived, many of the houses contain reproduction period furniture and furnishings, plus the tools and utensils of everyday life. There is an operational 17th century watermill, and a working Tudor kitchen.
Children enjoy discovering the differences - and similarities - of our ancestors' homes and workplaces compared to their own. They can even find out what life may have been like in the Victorian schoolroom! They will love the open space, walking through the woods, seeing the traditional breed farm animals, watching the Shire horses and working cattle, and picnicking by the lake.
The Museum keeps alive the skills and traditions of the countryside with demonstrations of countryside crafts and skills, and special events throughout the year.
The Museum is open throughout the year, please call or see the website for opening times.
Prices
Adults £9
Over 60s £8.15
Child £4.80
Family (2+3) £24.25
Registered disabled and main carer £2.50
Opening details
| Season Dates | Opening Hours |
|---|---|
| Sun 28 Mar 2010 - Sat 30 Oct 2010 | Mon - Sun 10:30 to 18:00 |
| Sun 31 Oct 2010 - Thu 23 Dec 2010 | Mon - Sun 10:30 to 16:00 |
| Sun 26 Dec 2010 - Sun 2 Jan 2011 | Mon - Sun 10:30 to 16:00 |
| Notes | Open throughout the year, times vary, please see website or call for details. Opening times: 10.30 – 6pm during British Summer Time. 10.30 – 4pm rest of the year. Closed 24 & 25 December. |
Contact
Museum OfficeTel: 01243 811348
www.wealddown.co.uk
email a friend
Venue
Weald & Downland Open Air MuseumSingleton, CHICHESTER, West Sussex, PO18 0EU
Map reference: SU 873126
Just off the A286 between Chichester and Midhurst. The Museum is south of Singleton Village. Follow tourist signs.
No. 60 bus passes the museum from Chichester or Midhurst regularly. 20% entry discount on presentation of Stagecoach Coastline bus ticket, valid on day of purchase only.
Parking : free
Accessible by Public Transport : 6 miles from Chichester station
Guided tours for groups or individuals must be booked.
Also at this venue
Weald & Downland Open Air Museum Gift Shop
Weald & Downland Open Air Museum Weddings
Events at this venue
| date | event |
|---|---|
| Thu 9 Sep 2010 | John Ruskin (1819-1900), The 'Good Steward' |
| Sat 9, Sun 10 Oct 2010 | Autumn Countryside Show at Weald & Downland |
| Mon 25 - Fri 29 Oct 2010 | Autumn Adventures Half Term activities |
| Sat 13, Sun 14 Nov 2010 | Christmas Market at Weald & Downland |
| Sun 5 Dec 2010 | Tree Dressing at Weald & Downland Open Air Museum |
| Mon 6 Dec 2010 | Tree Dressing at Weald & Downland Open Air Museum |
| Sun 26 Dec 2010 - Sat 1 Jan 2011 | A Sussex Christmas at Weald & Downland |
Self-assessed accessibility details
Parking
Designated parking for guests with disabilities
Within 50 metres approx. of entrance- The surface of the car park and pathway leading to entrance:
is gravel
Drop-off point for guests outside entrance- The route from the parking area to the entrance:
Is flat (i.e. without steps)
Entrance
Entrance is well lit
Public Areas
- Level access (no steps/thresholds) or access by ramp or lift:
From the entrance to reception / ticket area
To a specially adapted public toilet suitable for wheelchair users
To the gift shop
Baby changing facilities
Food
Level access (no steps/thresholds) or access by ramp or lift to cafeteria
Seating suitable for wheelchair users, ie moveable and good height for person sitting in a wheelchair
High chairs for children
General
Seating available for visitors with limited mobility
Clear signage
Audible alarm system
key



office@wealddown.co.uk
Local Accommodation
