Frequently asked questions

BOOKING TICKETS

Will I need to book a ticket? Tickets are available to book online in advance. Although pre-booked tickets are not mandatory, it is helpful to book in advance to avoid disappointment as our opening hours are subject to change (please see below).

Can I buy a ticket in person on the day? Yes, you are able to buy tickets on arrival.

What are your opening times? We are open Tuesday-Sunday from 10am-4pm (last entry to the museum is at 3.30pm). Please note that as we rely on a team of volunteers, our opening hours are subject to change. Please refer to our online booking system which will display up to date ticket availability. If you have any queries ahead of your visit please email or call 01386 854695.

Are discounts and special offers available? Yes. We offer discounts for Caravan and Motorhome Club Members, National Art Pass holders and Museums Association members. Carers, students, and children under 16 are admitted free of charge.

Do I still have to book if I have a special offer or free/discounted ticket? All ticket types will be available to book online in advance, but you can also buy your tickets on the day.

My plans have changed and I don’t need ticket what should I do? Please email us to arrange a refund. If you would like to book another slot please do so via the Art Tickets website

Can I book a group visit? Yes, we welcome groups to the museum and our team of experienced and knowledgeable volunteers guides provide informative tours for all ages. Please contact us to find out more.

COVID-19 HYGIENE AND SAFETY

What safety measures do you have in place? The museum follows a one-way route, hand sanitiser is available at the entrance to the shop and air quality is measured through a portable carbon dioxide monitor.

We regularly review our risk assessments and abide by public health advice. We ensure that staff and volunteers who test positive for Covid-19 are asked to self-isolate and given adequate support to stay at home.

Will I need to wear a face covering? Face coverings are no longer mandatory, but a supply of disposable masks is available at reception for any staff, volunteers and visitors who would like to wear one but have not brought their own.

What personal protective equipment have you provided for your volunteers? Face coverings are available for our volunteers to wear if they wish to. They also have hand sanitiser and wipes for equipment.

If I’m unwell on the day of my visit, what should I do? If you or anyone you live with displays symptoms associated with Covid-19, or if you’ve recently been in contact with someone who has, or has displayed symptoms of Covid-19 please stay at home and delay your trip until it is safe to visit the museum. Please email us to cancel your booking and arrange for a refund or exchange of tickets.

FACILITIES

What steps have you taken to ensure visitors with disabilities have access to the museum? Our Accessibility Statement is available to view on our website.

Will guided tours be taking place? We welcome group bookings – please contact us for further information.

Are there toilets on site? Toilet facilities are available on the ground floor of the Museum.

Are there baby changing facilities on site? We do not currently have baby changing facilities.

Are buggies allowed in the gallery? Yes, as always we welcome visitors with young children and buggies to come and enjoy the museum. There is a lift on site to take you to the first floor.

Is there a cloakroom? We do not have a cloakroom on site.

Will I be able to shop at the museum? Yes, we welcome visitors to our on site shop Plane & Saw, and a museum ticket is not required for entry. Our selection of UK-made crafts and gifts is also available to buy online. Every purchase supports the museum. 

Can I pay using cash? We accept cash as well as card payments. We also accept ApplePay.

THE COLLECTION

Where can I find out more about Gordon Russell, or a particular piece of furniture? Please email [email protected] If your enquiry relates to the archives, it will be passed on to our volunteer archive team. Please note that as the archive team work on a voluntary basis, there may be a delay in responding to your enquiry.

Can I make a donation? Yes! As an independent museum and registered charity, we rely on ticket sales, shop sales and donations and are hugely grateful for any amount you are able to give. You can make a donation by adding it to your online ticket booking, via our dedicated donation page Alternatively, our volunteer team will be happy to process a donation on request on the day of your visit. Thank you.