Alexander Keiller Museum

About this activity

The Alexander Keiller Museum in Wiltshire is a fascinating and family-friendly museum that offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and culture of the area. Located in the picturesque town of Avebury, just a short drive from Stonehenge, this museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, archaeology, or just looking for a fun and educational day out.

The museum is named after Alexander Keiller, an archaeologist and entrepreneur who made significant contributions to the study of prehistoric Britain in the early 20th century. Keiller was particularly interested in the ancient stone circles and megaliths that dot the landscape around Avebury, and he spent much of his life excavating and studying these remarkable monuments.

Today, the Alexander Keiller Museum is a testament to Keiller's legacy and a treasure trove of artifacts and exhibits that offer visitors a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the ancient people who once lived in the region. The museum is housed in a charming 17th-century building that was once a farmhouse, and the exhibits are spread over several floors and rooms.

One of the highlights of the museum is the impressive collection of prehistoric artifacts that have been found in the area. Visitors can see everything from ancient tools and weapons to intricate jewelry and pottery. The exhibits are arranged in chronological order, so visitors can follow the evolution of human civilization in the region over thousands of years.

But what really sets the Alexander Keiller Museum apart is its interactive exhibits. The museum has been designed with families in mind, and there are plenty of hands-on displays and activities that children (and adults!) will love. Visitors can try their hand at grinding corn on a prehistoric quern stone, learn how to make fire using flint and steel, or even create their own cave art.

Another popular exhibit is the reconstructed Neolithic house, which gives visitors a glimpse into what life was like for the ancient people who lived in the region. The house is a faithful recreation of a typical Neolithic dwelling, complete with thatched roof, wattle-and-daub walls, and a central fire pit. Visitors can step inside and imagine what it must have been like to live in such a simple yet awe-inspiring structure.