Situated in the heart of the South Downs National Park, Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery tells the story of Petersfield and the surrounding villages through an excitingly diverse mix of archaeology, art, fashion, literature, photography, poetry and social history.
We are an accredited, independent museum and registered charity dedicated to preserving history and celebrating the arts since 1999. Recently, we underwent a transformative £4 million redevelopment, generously supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. We are now a campus with the museum with a restored Victorian courthouse, art gallery showcasing contemporary art and modern makers, Shop, Coffee Shop, and Edward Thomas Study Centre.
At Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery, we're more than just a place to visit; we're a gateway to the past and a canvas for contemporary creativity. Alongside our rare example of a restored Victorian Justice Heritage site, our permanent collections are a testament to the rich tapestry of our region. These include the Archaeology Collection and Social History Collection,which shed light on the history of Petersfield and its surroundings. We proudly house the Flora Twort Art Collection, a treasure trove of artistic expression. In addition, our Photography Collection, featuring the renowned Don Eades Photographic Archive, and our Fashion and Textiles Collection, which includes the Bedales Historic Dress Collection, offer unique insights into different facets of our cultural heritage. For those seeking to dive deep into the records of history, our Reference Archive is a valuable resource.
The Flora Twort Gallery is our dedicated art gallery that hosts an exciting rotation of fine art and contemporary craft exhibitions. We invite you to join us on this journey through visual storytelling and creative exploration. Our public program is designed to be inclusive, ensuring that everyone can find inspiration and enjoyment within our walls.
Beyond the art and history, we are also home to the Tim Wilton-Steer Collection, a special assembly of works that celebrate the poet Edward Thomas. This collection resides in The Edward Thomas Study Centre, a space dedicated to furthering our understanding of this literary luminary.
