Quirky Historic Museums in Gloucester

Although a great number of travellers are looking for a bit of excitement when going on holiday, there are those who prefer something a bit more sedentary. If you are amongst the ‘geeks’ who love to view a bit of history rather than spending time in clubs and pubs, Gloucester has a selection of museums that might interest you. Here is a sampling of quirky historic museums in Gloucester that might be just what you are looking for.

The Tailor of Gloucester

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Photo courtesy of The Tailor of Gloucester

Sometimes families on holiday enjoy learning a bit of history as they relax and enjoy time away from work and school. This is one of the reasons why The Tailor of Gloucester is such a popular tourist spot for families on holiday. Most people know this as the location where Beatrix Potter wrote one of her best-read tales and is now a gift shop and upstairs museum dedicated to everything Potter.

Set in close proximity to the cathedral, it is easy to find and will thrill children of all ages. There are a number of family friendly hotels in the area so if you are travelling to Gloucester with the kids, click here to find a hotel with amenities for the entire family. Visit this child-friendly museum and relax in surroundings that cater to adults and kids alike.

Gloucester Waterways Museum

Not only is the Gloucester Waterways Museum a historic site telling the story of the area’s rivers and canals, it is actually housed within a warehouse that is listed and in the very centre of the city’s Victorian Docks. When seeking to learn a bit about a city or county’s heritage whilst on holiday, it pays to view displays but also to get a hands-on approach to education.

Here you can walk on boats that have survived the ages and also view films in the museums archives. Children of all ages are welcome and all will have just as much fun acting out various eras in Gloucester’s waterway history.

Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum

There probably hasn’t been a generation that hasn’t sent soldiers off to war, whether in full combat or within the cold war years. The Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum is dedicated to all the soldiers who served their country throughout the years. Not only can you see actual munitions and other items used by soldiers over time, there is a one-of-a-kind database listing more than 40,000 soldiers who served in WWI. Located on the Gloucester Docks, visit this historic museum before or after viewing the Gloucester Waterways Museum.

So here you have a few examples of quirky historic museums within the city itself, but there is an even greater number of unusual and interesting museums throughout the county as well. Take the time to visit as many as possible during your stay in Gloucester to become familiar with the land, its people and the rich heritage that made Gloucester what it is today. You will find much to see and do so relax and enjoy your stay.