Highlights of the Museum of Somerset
From the Frome Hoard, the largest collection of Roman coins ever discovered in a single container, to the 4th century Low Ham Roman mosaic; the earliest example of large-scale narrative art ever discovered in Britain – our extraordinary collections stand us apart from the rest.
The Low Ham Mosaic was voted by viewers of Channel 4’s Time Team to be the third most important Roman treasure in England.
One of our latest acquisitions is an exceptional solid bronze Roman figurine of Capricorn, which is now on display at the museum. The figurine, which was found by a metal detectorist in Somerset, dates from the first or second century AD. This is an extraordinary and very important find as Roman Capricorn figurines are extremely rare, and this one is particularly unique in Europe because of its quality and size.
The remarkable carved relief sculpture of St Peter (pictured right) is a rare example of early English stone carving at its finest. Dating back to around 1,000AD, the sculpture was acquired for safe-keeping in the Autumn of 2014 and installed in the Museum of Somerset early in 2015. It was purchased with grant aid from the Heritage Lottery Fund, The Art Fund, ACE/V&A Purchase Grant Fund and Friends of the Museum of Somerset.
Key events throughout the year include Father’s Day, Halloween and Santa’s Grotto. Regular activities include:
Object handling – every Tuesday
Toddler Explorers – first Friday of the month
Talk and Tea – second Friday of the month
Family Fun – last Saturday of the month
Something Extra
Private Views
We offer private views of the museum, which occur outside normal opening hours. Each private view lasts approximately two hours and typically includes a full-site interpretive tour of the museum’s permanent collections and galleries. Private views are fully flexible and can include a talk. The minimum group size is 20; the maximum is 250. From £150 per group. Catering is available (separate charges apply).
Guided Tours
We welcome group bookings and offer guided tours during normal opening hours. These last approximately an hour and include a tour of the museum’s permanent collections and galleries. The minimum group size is 8; the maximum is 15. We can accommodate up to three groups at a time, a total of approximately 45 people. For larger groups more time will need to be allowed. We request all groups are booked to avoid clashes. From £3.50 per person. Catering is available (separate charges apply).