Chelmsford Museum: History, Play, and Discovery

A Journey Through Chelmsford’s Past

Chelmsford Museum tells the story of the city’s rich history, from its early beginnings through to its role in industry and innovation. The galleries are well laid out, covering everything from Roman settlements and medieval times to Chelmsford’s significance in the world of engineering and manufacturing. Kids might not immediately think of industrial history as thrilling, but the museum does a great job of making it accessible. The displays on Marconi—the father of radio—bring science and technology to life in a way that’s interesting without being overwhelming.

The natural history section is a hit with little ones, with taxidermy animals and interactive displays showcasing Essex’s wildlife. There’s something fascinating about getting up close to creatures they wouldn’t normally see this way, and the clear explanations make it a fun learning experience.
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Hands-On Activities and Interactive Exhibits

One of the highlights for families is the museum’s focus on making history interactive. There are dressing-up stations where kids can try on historical outfits, create puzzles, colour-in and complete activity trails, with plenty of objects to touch and explore. Their popular "toys and games" room also has a fun, small selection of toys for younger kids to play with.

The Essex Regiment Museum, housed within the same building, offers a more structured look at the county’s military history. While it might not appeal to very young children, older ones often enjoy seeing the uniforms, medals, and wartime artefacts, with some interactive elements that help bring the stories to life.
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Oaklands Play Park

Right outside the museum, Oaklands Park is a fantastic place to let kids burn off some energy. The wonderful, castle-themed play area has equipment suitable for a range of ages, including swings, climbing frames, and slides. Most of the equipment is suitable for older toddlers as it's not too high up. There’s also a large open field for ball games, picnics, or just running around. If you have little explorers, the park’s winding paths and woodland areas offer plenty of space to roam.
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Half-Term Events

Chelmsford Museum often runs family-friendly activities during school holidays, ranging from craft workshops to hands-on history sessions.
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Tuesday 18 to Thursday 20 February 2025, the team at Chelmsford Museum are bringing back the popular Art Week sessions which were very much enjoyed by children and adults alike last year. This year, they take inspiration from the next exhibition all about viewing art and enjoying what art looks like in all its styles. The sessions will be in the Wells Suite on the first floor at Chelmsford Museum where you can create your own scrap art book to experiment with watercolour paint, pencils, pastels, charcoal, colouring pencils and felt tips. Everyone will need to book in advance to take part between 10.30am and 12.30pm or 2pm and 4pm. This activity is free and is suitable for all ages with parental supervision. The museum is open from 10am to 4pm to visit throughout the half term, with The Hive café open from 8am. There’s plenty to enjoy inside as well as outside in Oaklands Park. Check out their website to book: bit.ly/4hnem8F

Facilities and Useful Information

The museum is completely free to enter, making it an easy and affordable day out. It’s buggy-friendly, with accessible toilets and baby-changing facilities available. There’s a small café on-site where you can grab drinks and snacks, or you can bring your own food and enjoy a picnic in the park.

FREE parking is available on-site and in nearby streets, though it can get busy at weekends and during school holidays.

Chelmsford Museum is the kind of place that surprises you with how much it has to offer. It’s a really great way to spend a few hours learning, playing, and exploring, with the added bonus of a fantastic park right outside. Whether you have a little history buff, a nature enthusiast, or just a child who loves to explore, there’s something here for all.