Explore Axminster's rich history through interactive exhibits, heritage gardens, and family-friendly activities celebrating the town's famous carpet-making legacy.

Axminster Heritage Centre opened in April 2019 as a modern hub showcasing the town's fascinating history from Bronze Age origins through its world-renowned carpet manufacturing era. The centre features an extended museum with interactive displays telling 'The Story of Axminster' in a way that engages visitors of all ages. Children can follow dedicated trails, enjoy dressing-up points, and participate in hands-on activities that bring local history to life. Beyond the main exhibition, visitors can explore the restored Dye House and heritage courtyard garden, which demonstrates the plants historically used to create dyes for Axminster carpets. The venue also houses tourist information services and a gift shop staffed by friendly volunteers. The Heritage Centre hosts an extensive 'Heritage Alive' programme featuring talks, art and craft courses, films, and coach trips throughout the year. Temporary exhibitions regularly complement the permanent displays, ensuring fresh content for repeat visitors. The centre also offers venue hire for community events, meetings, and classes in the comfortable Bradshaw Meeting Room.

Venue Details

What this place offers

Toilets

Public transport nearby

Accessible toilets

Free WiFi

Baby changing facilities

Food available

On-site parking

🐕Dog-friendly

Parking nearby

Pushchair friendly

M

Malcolm Petfield

4 months ago

Fantastic museum that I would definitely recommend coming to , staff members very knowledgeable and friendly. Carpet heritage isn’t the only thing Axminster is famous for so definitely worth a visit.

D

David Barton

6 months ago

I was looking for local history around where I live and the member of staff was very helpful and informative.

J

Julieann O'Connor Spencer

a year ago

Excellent visit to a local museum, very professional easy to follow exhibit with lots of information, worth the small entrance fee

W

William Simpson

2 years ago

Very friendly informative staff. Modern interactive exhibits. Decent shop offering.

J

Jane Pearson

8 years ago

Attended a needle felting day with the very talented - and very patient - Kate Toms. A great day in super surroundings made even better by volunteer Jane supplying us with copious cups of coffee and tea enhanced with fresh fruit, biscuits and homemade cakes. Thank you Kate and Jane. Jane Pearson.

Reviews last updated: 29 September 2026