Dorset County Museum

Dorset County Museum is a local history institution in Dorchester with exhibits covering archaeology, geology, natural history, and literature displayed across four floors. The galleries house tens of thousands of objects, from prehistoric tools and Roman artifacts to fossils and mineral specimens that tell the story of the region.

The institution was founded in 1846 as a repository for local collections and moved to its current neo-Gothic building in 1881, constructed from Portland stone. A major renovation program completed in 2021 updated the building while preserving its historical character.

The collection displays original manuscripts and personal items of Thomas Hardy, reflecting his deep connection to the town. Visitors can see how this writer shaped local intellectual life through objects and works on display.

The building sits on High West Street in central Dorchester within walking distance of other town attractions. Plan several hours to explore all four floors properly, especially if you want to read the detailed information provided with each collection.

The Ancient Dorset Gallery features Viking burial artifacts and Roman glass vessels recovered from local excavations that visitors might otherwise miss. These objects reveal layers of settlement and cultural change spanning more than a thousand years of the region's past.

Location: Dorchester

Inception: 1846

Founders: Thomas Hardy

Address: 66 High West Street, Dorchester DT1 1XA

Website: http://dorsetcountymuseum.org

GPS coordinates: 50.71560,-2.43720

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:06