Weymouth Museums

(Weymouth, Dorset, England, UK)

There is plenty of history in Weymouth if you look hard enough and there are three main museums on offer here. The Weymouth Museum is one of the highlights, full of an extraordinary gathering of exhibits, ranging from regional artefacts to Indian relics.

Particularly breathtaking and a major landmark in its own right is the Victorian Nothe Fort, where you will find the Museum of Coastal Defence, while nearby, the Portland Museum offers plenty of interest about this part of Dorset.

The Weymouth Museum

Address: Brewers Quay, Hope Square, Weymouth, Dorset, DT4 8TR, England, UK
Tel: +44 (0)1305 777 622
Located within the popular Brewers Quay complex, the Weymouth Museum is the place to visit if you are in the mood for history and art work. The museum is home to a host of information about the town and how it has evolved into such a popular seaside resort. Also here is a fairly diverse group of eye-catching prints and paintings dating from the 18th century, exhibits about the Great Western Railway, large textiles, a collection of various insects and colourful butterflies, geological treasures, and an authentic Indian canoe, which was found locally and is believed to be more than 300 years old. Further attractions include exhibits of antiques, kitchen paraphernalia from days gone by, and a number of ladies' fans.
Open hours: daily - 10:00 to 16:30
Admission: free

The Victorian Nothe Fort (Museum of Coastal Defence)

Address: Barrack Road, The Nothe, Weymouth, Dorset, DT4 8UF, England, UK
Tel: +44 (0)1305 766 626
A historic building constructed in the mid-19th century to defend the coastline, the Victorian Nothe Fort stands alongside the northern breakwater around the mouth of Weymouth's harbour area. Also known as the area's Museum of Coastal Defence, the Victorian Nothe Fort has led a fairly chequered existence and remained completely empty and abandoned for several years, before being purchased and opened as an important tourist attraction by the local council in the early 1970s. Within the 70 rooms at the fortress you will find an interesting gun deck, a range of memorabilia relating to the Second World War, a number of original cannons, countless dioramas, and stunning waterfront views. The Victorian Nothe Fort is also home to a tearoom, areas suitable for picnicking, and a gift shop selling souvenirs and postcards.
Open hours: May to September, daily - 10:30 to 17:30, October to April, Sunday - 11:00 to 16:00
Admission: charge, discounts for children

The Portland Museum

Address: 217 Wakeham, Portland, Dorset, DT5 1HS, England, UK
Tel: +44 (0)1305 821 804
The Portland Museum was founded in 1930 and comprises two individual and extremely charming thatched cottages, which date back to the 17th century. Close to Weymouth and situated on the adjoining Isle of Portland, the facility contains a strong maritime theme and celebrates the areas rich smuggling past. There are a range of exhibits on display about the areas bygone era, including details about major nearby shipwrecks. There is also a gallery space concentrating on the Island's interesting history and featuring plenty of local artefacts and true gems. The Portland Museum is also home to an impressive accumulation of fossils, a pleasant garden, a gift store and countless seasonal events, such as Viking re-enactments and regional archaeological digs.
Open hours: April to September, Friday to Tuesday - 10:30 to 13:00, and also from 13:00 to 17:30 daily during school holidays
Admission: charge, seniors and children under 16 free