A Victorian Museum with Modern Ambitions
Haslemere Museum was founded in 1888 by the surgeon and naturalist Sir Jonathan Hutchinson, who envisaged a “cabinet of curiosities” that would bring the wonders of the natural world to a small Surrey market town. More than 130 years later, his creation has grown into one of the finest independent museums in southern England, with collections spanning natural history, geology, archaeology and local heritage.
The museum’s natural history galleries are particularly strong, featuring extensive displays of British birds, insects and minerals alongside fossils from the Weald and further afield. A dedicated geology gallery explores the formation of the Surrey Hills landscape, connecting the specimens on display to the countryside visible from the museum’s doorstep.
Local History & Community Engagement
The local history collections tell the story of Haslemere and the surrounding parishes from prehistoric times to the twentieth century. Highlights include an important collection of peasant arts and crafts assembled by Ethel and Maude Lintott, early photographs of the town and artefacts from archaeological excavations across the western Weald.
Haslemere Museum is an independent charity and relies on volunteers, donations and grant funding to maintain its collections and buildings. It runs a busy programme of temporary exhibitions, family activities, lectures and nature walks, and its annual festival of natural history draws speakers and attendees from across the country. Admission is free, with donations welcomed.
