Avoncroft Museum - History all in one place!

I have always had a big soft spot for this museum and a very recent trip has shown me that I will probably never get bored of the place.
Located near Bromsgrove in Worcestershire you may have driven passed this place if you come off the M5 near Droitwich and head towards both Bromsgrove and Redditch.

The museum is dedicated to the preservation of historic buildings. Amazingly, the buildings have been relocated so they are all on this one site. You really can move from Tudor England to post war Britain in a couple of minutes.

Church Spire that was relocated to the site

There is ample parking when you turn up and the staff in the visitor centre at the entrance are lovely taking time to explain the site and everything there. 

Once you are back out in the open the site is your to enjoy. Even on a busy day because the site is large enough you will find your own little spot to enjoy the many buildings on offer.

I really like taking my time. I also visited with my two children. My 3 year old loves the place. So much to explore and space to fully soak up the whole experience.

They really have done a fantastic job relocating all the buildings to the site that you would be forgiven for thinking they have always been there. The variance in buildings is also quite incredible.

So much attention to detail

I just want to quickly list some of the buildings within the museum. They have a Threshing Barn, Tudor House, Mission Church, Toll House, Forge, Post War Pre-Fab and Air raid shelter, Orchard, Chain Shop and even an old cell. Perhaps somewhere to leave the kids if they do misbehave?

This list just scratches the surface and please take time to enjoy every exhibit.

Throughout the site there are nods to the areas industrial past. They even have opportunities on site to learn how to be a blacksmith!

Presentation inside the buildings is really well done. This is the view from the TollHouse window.

It is difficult for me to pick my favourite exhibit. Worth a mention is the pre-fab. Well laid out when you are exploring the building you will start to question your modern living and realise that all home comforts are were catered for. You can see why people loved their pre-fabs so much. Its actually quite sad they are nearly all gone.

I also like the Mission Church. From what I can make out this can be used for weddings. Certainly the site does cater for weddings so if you are planning your happy day, looking at Avoncroft as an option is an absolute must. Please don't quote me but I believe that your guests will get the freedom of the museum once it closes for the public on the day!

The mission church. Actually originally from Herefordshire but on a hot day you are transported to colonial Africa for a short time.

Most peoples star of the show is the windmill. On some days and weather permitting a team of volunteers actually operate the mill. This is an absolute must see especially when it is open. You can climb up (steep steps mind) and have a good look inside. The views from the mill are not too bad either!

For an outdoor attraction accessibility is rather good. Everything is quite level around the site and you can access most buildings. Don't be put off either if the weather is not too bad. Remember that this is a museum of buildings - if you are allergic to rain then take an umbrella and spend more time exploring the inside of the exhibits.

On site they also have an Edwardian tea shop. Very pleasant atmosphere inside. I chose to take a little picnic with me and was able to find a beautiful shady spot under a tree to feed and water the nippers.

One of the museum stars. I don't need to point out that this is a windmill. What I do need to point out is it works!

Remember, places like this museum survive by you visiting. If you are local and you have never been then what a shame. Rectify it and ensure you go. 

If you are in the area then put this on your list of must see things to do.

And if you have been inspired enough to travel specifically to visit - it will be well worth the trek! 

The mantra of this blog is 'embrace the weather'. Get outside and enjoy this absolute treasure of Worcestershire.

Happy Exploring...........