The Lilliput Doll & Toy Museum - Image 1

The Lilliput Doll & Toy Museum

Brading, United Kingdom•4.4(99)•Museum

Explore over 2,000 antique dolls and toys spanning from 2000BC to 1950, including rare collectibles and beloved vintage cartoon characters.

The Lilliput Doll & Toy Museum houses one of the finest private collections of antique dolls and toys, as recognized by the BBC Antiques Roadshow. Located in the historic town of Brading on the Isle of Wight, the museum was founded in 1974 and now contains over 2,000 items spanning from 2000BC to 1950. Visitors can discover unique and rare exhibits including German bisque head dolls from the 1920s, mechanical working dolls from the 1860s, and well-known vintage cartoon characters such as Popeye, Muffin the Mule, and classic Hornby displays. Beyond the impressive collection, the museum tells compelling historical stories. Featured items include 'The Wax Doll,' a poignant piece from the 1860s with scorch marks from its dramatic rescue during the Victorian era, and 'Rags the Dog,' a 1920s soft toy that served as a beloved mascot for RAF aircrew during World War II. The museum also showcases an innovative clockwork Gyro-Cycle invented by aeronautic engineer Dr. Hubert Charles Henry Townend. Suitable for all ages from infants upwards, the museum offers admission at £5 for adults, £4.75 for seniors, £4 for children, and free entry for children under 5. The venue operates Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 4pm, providing an engaging educational experience for families interested in toy history, craftsmanship, and fascinating personal narratives.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 10:00 – 16:00
Wednesday: 10:00 – 16:00
Thursday: Closed
Friday: 10:00 – 16:00
Saturday: 10:00 – 16:00
Sunday: 10:00 – 16:00

Venue Details

Venue Type

Indoor

Typical visit duration

1-3 hours

Booking

Walk-in

Recommended ages

0 months (newborn)+

What this place offers

ToiletsToilets
Public transportPublic transport nearby
Accessible toilets
Free WiFi
Baby changingBaby changing facilities
Food available
On-site parking
🐕Dog-friendly
Parking nearby
Pushchair friendlyPushchair friendly
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Google Reviews

4.4(99 reviews)
H
Hollie Garnham

Hollie Garnham

a year ago

Well worth a visit! The entrance is filled with delightful dollhouse miniatures for sale, along with fun souvenir bits and bobs for children,all reasonably priced. The lady running the place was so kind and welcoming. The museum itself was well laid out, clean, easy to follow, with everything clearly labelled. The dolls and toys were beautifully displayed so you could really appreciate them. I absolutely loved it and am so glad I went!

T
Tony Rich

Tony Rich

a year ago

This was a must-see for me, and I absolutely loved it. The doll and toy museum is one of the best things I saw on the whole of the Isle of Wight. It's special, unique, and you'd be a fool to miss it. If you have any interest in history, antiques, dolls, or something with unique character and charm, then this is the place for you.

D
David Wall

David Wall

a year ago

A lovely little shop & (a surprisingly substanstial) museum that was well worth the stop and the small entry fee. The place has a fascinating history behind it, the lady who served us behind the counter was very friendly & welcoming. Would highly recommend.

A
Arran Kennedy

Arran Kennedy

4 years ago

Really interesting little place to visit. Honestly at first I didn't think it was going to be my thing but I thoroughly enjoyed seeing all the old toys some as old as Roman and Egyptian times! Definitely give it a go if you're in the area. Lovely staff and a really nice gift shop. Pay and display car park just down the road and a quick 5 minute walk to the museum on the very same road.

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Thomas Keys

Thomas Keys

8 years ago

Very interesting display of bygone toys, mainly focusing on dolls, very reasonable entry fees (£3.50 for adults as of June 2018) only reason not 5 stars is they don't offer a information booklet about the museum and its contents which I would have loved there to have been as I would have gladly purchased one to learn more.

Reviews last updated: 7 October 2026

Events at The Lilliput Doll & Toy Museum

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 7 October 2026

Frequently asked questions about The Lilliput Doll & Toy Museum

Is The Lilliput Doll & Toy Museum free to visit?

The Lilliput Doll & Toy Museum is a paid attraction — see the official website for current ticket prices.

What ages is The Lilliput Doll & Toy Museum suitable for?

The Lilliput Doll & Toy Museum is suitable for visitors of all ages, from babies through to adults.

Is The Lilliput Doll & Toy Museum dog-friendly?

Dogs are not permitted at The Lilliput Doll & Toy Museum.

Is there parking at The Lilliput Doll & Toy Museum?

The Lilliput Doll & Toy Museum doesn't have on-site parking, but parking is available nearby.

Is there food at The Lilliput Doll & Toy Museum?

The Lilliput Doll & Toy Museum doesn't have food on site — bring snacks or grab something nearby.

Is The Lilliput Doll & Toy Museum pushchair-friendly?

The Lilliput Doll & Toy Museum isn't the easiest for pushchairs, prams or buggies — stairs or uneven terrain may make a baby carrier a better option.

How long should we plan to spend at The Lilliput Doll & Toy Museum?

Plan 1–3 hours for a visit to The Lilliput Doll & Toy Museum.

How do I get to The Lilliput Doll & Toy Museum by public transport?

The Lilliput Doll & Toy Museum isn't on a major public transport route — driving is recommended.
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