Cambridge Must-Sees: The Museum of Cambridge

The Museum of Cambridge

Learn more about this museum, which offers a glimpse into the social history and cultural heritage of Cambridge and the surrounding area.

The Museum of Cambridge, housed in a historic 17th-century timber-framed building called the White Horse Inn, offers a fascinating glimpse into the social history and cultural heritage of Cambridge and the surrounding area. Located on Castle Street in Cambridge, England, the museum was founded in 1936 to preserve the local stories, customs, and everyday life of the people in Cambridgeshire and its nearby counties.

The museum is known for its community-centered approach and active engagement with locals. It frequently collaborates with local schools, artists, and community groups to provide educational programs and creative workshops. These events help visitors engage with the historical artifacts in a hands-on way, promoting the preservation and appreciation of local heritage.

What to See In This Museum

The museum’s collections focus on the lives of the people in Cambridge, particularly the working-class communities, rather than academic history or the famous university. The displays cover everyday objects, domestic tools, and artifacts that illustrate various aspects of life from the 17th century to recent decades. Some of the themes include:

  • Childhood: Toys, games, and school-related items that depict how children were raised and educated in Cambridge’s past.
  • Farming and Trade: Objects related to agriculture, local trade, and rural life, showcasing the region’s historical dependence on farming.
  • Cambridge at Work: Items illustrating the variety of trades, crafts, and industries that have been part of Cambridge’s economy over the years.
  • Home Life: Artifacts from household life, such as furniture, kitchen tools, and personal items, giving visitors a sense of domestic life through different periods.

The Museum of Cambridge also regularly hosts special exhibitions and events, many of which are interactive and designed to appeal to all ages. Topics of these exhibitions can range from specific aspects of regional folklore to the evolution of technology in domestic spaces.

Architecture and Ambiance

The White Horse Inn building itself is a beautiful piece of Cambridge history. Its architecture reflects the traditional 17th-century style, with exposed wooden beams and an old-world charm that complements the museum’s theme. The atmosphere is intimate and informal, creating a cozy and immersive experience as visitors walk through different rooms set up to mimic old-style homes, kitchens, and workshops.

How to Get There

The Museum of Cambridge is a relatively small but highly unique museum that offers a deep dive into the everyday lives of Cambridge’s residents. It’s open to the public most days, with ticketed entry. As a registered charity, it relies on donations, memberships, and volunteers to continue its mission of preserving and sharing Cambridge’s social history.

If you’re interested in discovering Cambridge from a different perspective—one that focuses on the lives of its residents rather than its academic fame—the Museum of Cambridge offers an enriching experience!

The Museum of Cambridge is located at 2-3 Castle Street, Cambridge, CB3 0AQ. It is accessible by foot or bicycle. Bike parking is available on Bridge Street or Northampton Street.

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