Bewdley Museum

Bewdley MuseumHoused in a historic and unusual 18th century Butcher's Shambles, this unique museum provides a fascinating insight into the growth and trades of the town, the lives of its people and the crafts of the surrounding Wyre Forest area.The ShamblesThe Shambles The Shambles was originally built in 1784 to house the town's butchers. It now contains galleries, displays and craft studios. Find out about the rich history of the Wyre Forest area through fascinating displays and hands-on activities.The Town JailsDare to enter the old Town Jails and learn about the crimes of the 19th Century.The Air Raid ShelterGo underground in the World War II air raid shelter. Guided tours help to recreate the 1940s experience.During the second world war, Bewdley's Post Office was housed in the large black and white building next door to the Museum. Its Air Raid Shelter was built in 1940 by the Ministry of Defence, for the use of the staff employed in, and by, the Post OfficeThe air raid shelter is open subject to the availability of our volunteers. To avoid any disappointment, please ring the museum prior to your visit to check that the shelter will be open.The Brass FoundryExplore the 250 year old Brass Foundry, hear stories from the people who worked there.Christopher Bancks came to Bewdley in 1697. He was one of the country's most famous brassfounders and pewterers. The brass foundry was owned by several generations of his family until 1828. It continued to trade under a succession of owners until 1923, when it was purchased by H J Exley whose family ran the foundry until it finally closed in 1964.The Herb GardenRelax in the recently Museum's Herb Garden and see a working watermill and bee garden.The Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Gardens provides an area for quiet contemplation and features a recently restored orchard.