Priest's House museum and garden

The Priest's House is an historic town house dating from the 16th century, located in the heart of Wimborne Minster. This Grade 2 listed building retains many original architectural features. There are period room settings, such as the Victorian kitchen with working Beetonette range. The building also houses displays covering the rich local history and archaeology of East Dorset and its communities.

There is a delightful walled garden at the back of the house, its ever changing flowering plants set amongst mature fruit trees, topiary work and smooth lawns. There is something of interest at all times of the year. A tea room serves drinks and home made cakes.

We offer hands-on experience supporting the National Curriculum for schools. Our education programme includes sessions on the Victorians, World War Two, the Romans and Toys. Object loan boxes on these subjects are also available. The Museum's Education Service has been awarded the Heritage Education Trust's Sandford Award.

Guided tours of the historic rooms, revealing fascinating facts about former inhabitants, are available throughout the year. Advance booking is essential.

The Priest's House Museum is run by an independent charitable trust. It is supported by East Dorset District Council but relies on admission income to operate.

Address: 23-27 High Street, Wimborne, Dorset BH21 1HR.

Telephone number: 01202 882533

Opening times:

April to October and two weeks after Christmas, Monday to Saturday, 10am to 4.30pm

Admission charged

Children under 5: Free
Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

Further Information:

The ground floor and garden are accessible to wheelchair users. Toilets are suitable for wheelchair users with assistance. If you require further information or assistance regarding accessibility, please let the Curators know.

The Museum has no parking facility but there is coach and car parking in Wimborne.