Explore East Devon's heritage in a beautiful volunteer-run museum housed in a historic thatched cottage by the sea, featuring nationally important costume and geological collections.

Fairlynch Museum & Arts Centre is a volunteer-run museum celebrating 50 years of preserving East Devon's heritage in a charming thatched cottage located a short walk from Budleigh Salterton's beach. The museum offers an eclectic and engaging experience for life-long learners of all ages, featuring nationally important costume and geological collections alongside rotating exhibitions on diverse topics including local history, photography, lacemaking, and wildlife. Visitors can explore themed rooms such as the Sir Walter Ralegh Room, which delves into the life of the local historic figure beyond popular myths, and discover local geology and archaeology exhibits explaining the area's distinctive red cliffs and colourful pebbles. The museum also provides excellent resources for local and family history researchers, making it ideal for visitors interested in genealogy and regional heritage. The venue is particularly praised for its informative displays, knowledgeable and friendly volunteer staff, and unique presentation of local subjects ranging from smuggling history to Mr Punch. With free entry for children under 16 and Friends of Fairlynch members, plus nominal admission of £2.50 for others, it offers exceptional value for families. The museum operates seasonally and hosts special events including Coffee Time Talks, creating an interactive and welcoming atmosphere for visitors of all ages.

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

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Joan Davies

9 months ago

Lovely little museum giving the history of the local area, from Sir Walter Relegh to local smugglers. Very helpful volunteer staff. Very interesting. Only access for disabled is a ramp to ground floor.

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Stephen Bletso

a year ago

went to see the railway history part of the museum, friendly staff and they went to the archives and brought out three railway history files. Because i only had two hours parking I was unable to see all of the museum so i will be making another visit.

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Julieann O'Connor Spencer

a year ago

Lovely visit to the museum, arrived at 2pm and walked straight in, charge of £2.50 each was definitely justified, the ladies who were there were incredibly knowledgeable and friendly, lots of information shared, well laid out exhibits with a small shop at the end. We live locally and found this museum to be a wonderful afternoon visit worth every penny, highly recommend.

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Amy Hallett

3 years ago

Been to Budleigh lots of times but never been to the museum. Fascinating visit, lots of different areas for all ages to enjoy. Volunteers friendly and knowledgeable. Particular highlight was the Polyphon upstairs, worth taking a few extra 50ps for this! Definitely worth a visit!

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Stuart Shaw

6 years ago

The staff were very friendly and helpful we had fun doing the treasure hunt,which was pretty rock solid! The kids like dressing up too. The section on Burleigh's pebble beach answered all questions we had after our afternoon there.

Reviews last updated: 29 September 2026