Explore Chelmsford's history from the Ice Age to present day with interactive displays, stunning art, and free admission for children at this award-winning museum set within beautiful Oaklands Park.

The Museum of Chelmsford offers families an engaging journey through the city's past and present. Visitors can see remarkable artifacts including a mammoth skeleton, watch displays of princely Anglo-Saxon burials, and admire stunning artwork by Turner Prize winners. The museum features wide-ranging displays and changing exhibitions that appeal to all ages, with interactive elements that encourage children to see, smell, touch, and hear history come alive. Set within the historic Oaklands House and surrounded by the beautiful 12-acre Oaklands Park, the museum combines indoor cultural exploration with outdoor recreational space. Families can enjoy the park's two play areas, rose garden, sports pitches, and tennis courts, making it perfect for a full day out. The venue is highly family-friendly with free admission for children under 16 (who must be accompanied by an adult), accessible facilities including baby changing, pushchair access, and The Hive café for refreshments. The museum holds prestigious Green Flag and Green Heritage status, having served the community since 1930. Group visits are welcome with advance booking, and membership options provide year-round free admission plus discounts on events and café purchases. Staff provide activity sheets and welcome guides to help families make the most of their visit.

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

☕ Food & Drink

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Ann Marks

2 months ago

We went there for a picnic found some shade. A couple of dogs tried to join us. It was peaceful to.

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Luke Goold

7 months ago

This is the home of the Chelmsford museum, which is housed in a beautiful Georgian mansion. The grounds are dog friendly, the parking is free, and the cafe is exquisite. The museum has a very eclectic range, including a replica of the communications room aboard the Titanic, and a working bee hive colony. Great for a visit, a coffee, or a trot with the dog. A wonderful open space, with ancient trees, tennis courts, an incredible children's play area, quiet areas, flower beds, this place is a delight.

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Alex Hillman

4 years ago

Nice open space ideal for dog walks. The kids playground is good here too. Some handy picnic benches if needed. Plenty of parking. The excellent free museum is well worth a look with some great exhibits on Marconi, military history, toys and animals.

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Jermaine N

5 years ago

Very well maintained gardens with plenty of landmarks ands what i presume is free to use facilities like the park and tennis court. People found their way into the court anyway. Dog friendly, family friendly, couples friendly, walking friendly. Ill come again when the museums open.

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Mirry Well

8 years ago

First time to this park for decades but what a pleasure to return. It's hardly changed in years, needs a little love and time spent on it but the climbing apparatus was great and lots of castle themed activities to use your imagination with. My granddaughter loved it.

Reviews last updated: 29 September 2026