The Museum of Somerset is to undergo a phased, temporarily closure ahead of opening the landmark Chew Valley Hoard exhibition in 2027 and essential conservation works.

Essential improvements that will safeguard the historic building and collections for future generations are taking place. The primary feature of the work is the removal and reinstatement of the floor in the Great Hall of the Grade I Listed building.

While the doors are closed, the team will be preparing the museum’s most ambitious exhibition to date, which will see coins from the nationally significant Chew Valley Hoard go on display.

At A Glance  – Key Information

Phase 1: 3 – 28 November 2026

The Museum is open to the public apart from the Great Hall (Foundations Stones Gallery and Claiming The Land Gallery).

The Great Hall will be closed to the public while we remove objects from these galleries. This is to ensure the safety of the collections while improvement works take place.

Need to know:

  • The Museum is open for visits
  • The Great Hall is closed with a revised route in place for visitors
  • The Courtyard Café is open
  • The RPS International Photography Exhibition 167 is open. Book your tickets.

 

Phase 2: From 1 Dec 2026

While contractors are working on site the museum will be closed. This is to ensure the safety of collections, staff, visitors and volunteers.

Subject to the completion of work the museum is expected to reopen in late February/ early March. We will keep you updated via the website and on social media.

Need to know:

  • The Museum is fully closed to visits during this period
  • The Courtyard Café is closed
  • Santa’s Grotto will still take place in the Almshouse Grotto and in Castle House.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Why is the museum temporarily closing?

    The museum is closing temporarily to allow essential work to take place. This period will enable us to carry out improvements that will help us care for the Grade I listed Taunton Castle and the remarkable collections on display. The works will enhance the visitor experience and ensure the museum is able to welcome visitors for years to come.

  • Why does the museum need to close for three months?

    Some of the work planned cannot safely take place while the museum is open to visitors. A temporary closure allows contractors and staff to complete the project more quickly and efficiently.

  • What improvements are being made?

    During the closure we will be updating galleries and improving facilities.

    The main works involve replacing the floor in the Great Hall because the rubberised surface has severely deteriorated over time. The existing floor will be removed and the substrate prepared before the installation of a new latex subfloor system and damp-proof membrane. A replacement floor surface will then be laid.

    The closure does provide us with an opportunity to make some further improvements for visitors. These enhancements include improvements to the cafe, welcome space and shop. We will also be updating some interpretation and interactives to improve access.

    We’ll also be working on the museum’s major exhibition for 2027 which will see coins from Chew Valley Hoard go on display. Subject to the completion of works, this is expected to open in late May and will run throughout the year.

  • Will events continue during the temporary closure?

    Events continue as usual until the end of November and can be found on our What’s On pages.

    In December limited events are taking place in nearby Castle House:

    • Santa’s Grotto
    • Christmas sewing workshop
    • Toddler Explorers

     

    Keep on eye on the website for announcements about the 2027 exhibition and event programme.

  • Can I access the museum collections during the temporary closure?

    If you have a specific research enquiry, please contact us via the website and we will advise what assistance may be available.

  • Can I still contact museum staff?

    Yes. Staff will continue to be available during the closure and can be contacted via museumofsomerset@swheritage.org.uk

  • Are school visits affected?

    Any visits scheduled during the closure period will be affected. Our team will be in touch to discuss alternative arrangements where possible. Our outreach work in schools continues as normal.

  • Where else can I visit during the temporary closure?

    The Museum of Somerset is part of a family of heritage sites run by the South West Heritage Trust. You can also visit: 

     

    If you’re looking for Christmas events, there’s plenty to do at our sister sites this festive season.

  • How can I stay up to date?

    You can follow the project and receive updates by:

    • Visiting our website
    • Following us on social media
    • Signing up to our e-newsletter

  • What if the reopening date changes?

    We are working towards reopening within three months of the contractor starting work on 1 December. If there are any changes to this timetable, we will communicate them as soon as possible through our website and social media channels.

Thank you for your patience as we invest in the future of The Museum of Somerset.