Axminster Heritage Centre

Axminster Heritage Centre is temporarily closed at present, but we look forward to welcoming our visitors back as soon as it is safe to do so. Please check our website and Facebook page for the latest up-to-date information.

We are a community museum that is passionate about sharing the story of Axminster. Join us as we share the history of Axminster and its surrounding area from the prehistoric to the present day. Let us take you on a journey through time as you make discoveries and uncover facts about the town through our interactive displays that delve into the archaeology, geology and social history of this bustling market town. To complement our permanent exhibition, we also present and host temporary exhibitions which often involves collaborations with the local community.

Known globally as the home of the world-renowned Axminster Carpets (first manufactured in the town by Thomas Whitty in 1755) we tell their story throughout our exhibition which includes an original 18th Century carpet hand loom and a 1930s Crabtree gripper loom. Axminster's history is about much more than just carpets however and during your visit you will be introduced to the many individuals and industries associated with the town.

Axminster Heritage Centre is a great place to visit for all ages. We are a family-friendly museum that recognises the importance of engaging our younger visitors and are dedicated to making their experience with us an enjoyable one. We do this through our interactive displays, listening posts (now accessible via QR codes in the museum and our YouTube channel) and our extremely popular 'Children's Trail' and dressing up points (the latter only in use after Covid-19 restrictions have been fully lifted).

While our museum doors are currently closed, our virtual doors are very much open as we aim to continue to connect with our audiences via social media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter) and our website. Museums have a unique role to play within their local communities and our aim is to continue to entertain and inspire our audiences by providing interesting and engaging content online.

Please do follow us on social media or visit our website for the latest information. Alternatively email Centre Manager, Nigel Sadler at: [email protected]

For now, please all do keep safe and we look forward to welcoming you once more at the end of Lockdown 3!