WHAT’S ON APRIL– AUGUST 2025

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WHAT’S ON April – August 2025

Spring has sprung and summer is incoming at Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery! We are excited to announce our lineup of exhibitions and events that reflect our community’s rich heritage, artistic innovation and cultural vibrancy. We kick off the season by continuing the Bound Together: Modern British Bookbinding exhibition, an informative and unique look into the life and work of Roger Powell OBE from his Froxfield bindery and over 20 modern bindings from members of Designer Bookbinders who are the leading practitioners in the field today. From May, we host the brilliant works of renowned artist Michael Craig-Martin in our brand new exhibition Michael Craig-Martin: Everyday Objects (20 May – 13 September). This one-of-a-kind exhibition will feature 23 works highlighting the artist’s distinctive decades-long approach to documenting the world through the construction of images of objects, delving into the world of classic, contemporary and everyday design of past and present. Incredibly colourful depictions of headphones, lightbulbs, trainers and much more will consider the transitory

items that fill the world around us, highlighting the nature of objects in the 21st century. Explore our Live Music and Theatre Programme in 2025 for unique performances at the Museum and Art Gallery. We have a lineup of folk and acoustic concerts from local and internationally touring bands. Mark your calendar for our captivating theatre productions including Much Ado About Falstaff, a Shakespearian-inspired comedy brought to you by Giles Shenton Productions and Airswimming,

the tale of two Irish women, long forgotten by their families.

Explore our What’s On page of our website to see our full range of events and keep up to date with the latest information by joining our emailing list.

All information is correct at the time of publication, but events are subject to change. Please note that outdoor events take place regardless of the weather (unless considered dangerous).

ABOUT US

Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery is an accredited, independent museum and registered charity. Established in 1999, it underwent a £4 million redevelopment in 2020 – 2021, supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

A rare example of a restored Victorian Justice Heritage site, our permanent collections include an Archaeology Collection and Social History Collection relating to Petersfield and the surrounding area, the Flora Twort Art Collection, a Photography Collection (including the Don Eades Photographic Archive) and a Fashion and Textiles Collection (including the Bedales Historic Dress Collection), as well as a Reference Archive. The Flora Twort Gallery is a dedicated art gallery with an ambitious fine art and contemporary craft exhibition programme and an inclusive public programme. We are also home to the Tim Wilton-Steer Collection of works by and about the poet Edward Thomas, housed in The Edward Thomas Centre.

Discover more www.petersfieldmuseum.co.uk

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THE COFFEE SHOP

Coffee Shop opening times are changing 20/05 – info TBC

Take a moment to unwind in our welcoming Coffee Shop, the perfect complement to your visit. Open year-round, we proudly serve a variety of expertly brewed coffees crafted using beans from local roasters, along with an enticing selection of teas and warming seasonal specials.

Whether you’re after a comforting classic, a spiced winter brew or a rich hot chocolate, there’s always something to help you embrace the season.

Pair your drink with a tempting range of sweet and savoury treats.

Each item is carefully chosen to enhance your visit, whether you’re stopping by for a quick pick-meup or a cosy break on a chilly day.

Follow the Coffee Shop Instagram to keep up to date with our seasonal selection of drinks.

Find the Coffee Shop by walking through the green gate on the left side of the Museum and Art Gallery. We welcome everyone with a selection of kid-friendly snacks, toys and books, with the Courtyard available for your little ones to run around safely. Dogs are also welcome on leads in the Courtyard and Coffee Shop.

THE SHOP

Open to the public Tuesday to Saturday | 10.00am-5.00pm |

Find your one-stop shop for gifts in Petersfield at our Shop, located at the front of our Museum and Art Gallery. We host a range of products, taking inspiration from our latest exhibitions, special collections, local history and the beautiful South Downs landscape.

We proudly offer an ever-changing range of locally sourced gifts, high-quality stationery, seasonal cards, unusual books, educational toys, and much more! Follow our Facebook or Instagram to keep up to date with our latest seasonal products and offerings.

Great coffee shop. Highly recommend stopping by and getting a latte!
(Coffee Shop Visitor)

THE EDWARD THOMAS CENTRE

Open to the public Wednesday and Thursday 10.00am – 3.30pm. Access at other times is possible by arrangement – please email visitorexperience@ petersfieldmuseum.co.uk

The Edward Thomas Centre is the home of a collection of books, art, artefacts and other items reflecting the life and continuing influence of poet, writer and literary critic Edward Thomas.

Attracted by the landscape and the South Downs, Thomas and his family lived in Steep, near Petersfield for ten years, from 1906 to 1916. Discover the life and times of Edward Thomas and see our library of poetry and prose holding works by and about the writer.

Picture by Gill Shaw

Bound Together: Modern British Bookbinding

Until 3 May 2025

Included in admission price

Discover the extraordinary legacy of Roger Powell (1896 – 1990), the internationally renowned bookbinder, in Bound Together: Modern British Bookbinding. From his Froxfield bindery near Petersfield, for over four decades, Powell redefined the craft of bookbinding, blending tradition and innovation to create works of enduring beauty and significance.

Explore Powell’s remarkable career including his connection to a tradition that links back to William Morris and the Kelmscott Press, his rebinding of the Book of Kells and conservation work following the 1966 Florence flood, which damaged thousands of books in the Biblioteca Nazionale Centrale di Firenze. Through rarely seen fine bindings from private collections, Bound Together offers a unique glimpse into Powell’s career, his mastery of the craft and his legacy in the world of bookbinding today.

Book tickets: https://www.petersfieldmuseum.co.uk

Complementing this are 20 stunning creations from Designer Bookbinders, showcasing the artistry and skill of today’s leading practitioners. Celebrate the timeless craft of bookbinding, where history and innovation are bound together.

Admission Prices

Adults: £8

Age 60+ / Unwaged / Disability / Military / NHS: £7.00

(Proof of discount may be required)

Young Person (aged 12-17): Free

Child (aged 5-11): Free Child Under 5: Free Students: £5.00

(Proof of discount may be required)

Carer / Companion: Free

The Art Fund: £4.00

Museum Association: Free

Above: J. Basil Oldham, English Blind Stamped Bindings, Cambridge, 1952. Bound by Roger Powell, Peter Waters with blocks designed by Sheila Waters. Collection of Edward Bayntun-Coward (detail).
Left: Binder: Stuart Brockman, Title: Twenty Duets, Authors and Illustrators: Peter Lawrence and Paul Dunmall, Printed by Paul L. Kershaw for Duet Books, Oxford, 2021, Edition: 20 of 50, Dimensions: 240 x 193 x 27mm, Year of binding: 2024
Right: Roger Powell in his workshop

Michael Craig-Martin: Everyday Objects

20 May – 13 September 2025

Includes Museum and Art Gallery admission.

One of the best-known artists of his generation, and also highly influential or the next, Michael Craig-Martin (b.1941) has been celebrated worldwide for his conceptual artworks that are instantly recognisable. The Irishborn artist’s creations continue to excite and provoke in equal measure, and as a Goldsmiths Tutor he has been credited as helping foster the Young British Artists who were students at the time.

For over four decades, CraigMartin has been bringing colour and line to his exploration of the relationship between real objects and their depictions, highlighting the transitory nature of objects in 21st century contemporary life. The prints include depictions of headphones, lightbulbs and trainers and invite the viewer to consider the transitory items that fill the world around us.

Admission Prices

Adults: £10

Age 60+ / Unwaged / Disability / Military / NHS: £9.00

(Proof of discount may be required)

Young Person (aged 12-17): Free

Child (aged 5-11): Free Child Under 5: Free Students: £7.00

(Proof of discount may be required)

Carer / Companion: Free

The Art Fund: £5.00

Museum Association: Free

The Horsewoman

Until 3 May 2025

Included in admission price

Two superb riding outfits from the early twentieth century are on display from our Fashion and Textiles Collection: a beautifully tailored women’s habit for riding side saddle (aside) and a styled woman’s jacket and breeches for riding either aside, with an apron skirt, or cross saddle (astride). Together, they demonstrate changes in fashion and attitudes in the equestrian world.

We are also proud to display Artemis, 2024, a recent bronze sculpture by prominent artist Holly Hickmore. Hickmore is based in West Meon, Hampshire, and her love of the countryside equals her passion for sculpture. Her horse sculptures are renowned for capturing the spirit of power and movement.

Holly Hickmore, ‘Artemis’, 2024 © The Artist

Waistcoats: A Tailored History

20 May - 20 December 2025

Includes Museum and Art Gallery admission.

A new collection display of nine waistcoats from our Fashion and Textiles Collection gives a glimpse into the variety of styles and patterns of men’s waistcoats from the 19th century. Waistcoats add style, decoration and panache to any suit and express the taste and personality of the wearer. Floral, velvet and patterned, these richly decorated waistcoats are part of a stylish tradition that continues to inspire designers and wearers today.

Where the Light Falls:

Winifred Joseph’s Rural Archive 1917 - 1939

30 September - 20 December 2025

Includes Museum and Art Gallery admission

From the Museum and Art Gallery’s archive, Winifred Joseph’s albums of negatives capture the life of an artistic circle in Petersfield between the two world wars. Taken mainly by Winifred Joseph (1894-1966) at the home of Dr Harry Roberts, an East End-based doctor, the house in Hampshire named ‘Oakshott

Hangers’ became a much-used country retreat from the capital.

Over the years, artists and architects including Geoffrey Lupton, the poet Edward Thomas and artist Flora Twort as well as a wide range of Petersfield residents came to the house. Joseph documented it all, from daily life tending to horses and raising children, to playful pets.

The exhibition will offer a unique glimpse into 20th century rural life, and the people that enriched it.

Bound Together: Modern British Book Binding

29 April 2025 | 9:30am-10:15am

Standard: £8

Includes Museum and Art Gallery admission.

Join our Head of Collections and Exhibitions, Louise Weller, for an exclusive inside look at Bound Together: Modern British Bookbinding.  Enjoy a 45-minute conversation-led tour and guided walk through the current exhibition, delving into the stories behind the objects and curatorial process. Learn about Roger Powell, his contributions to the craft and the art of bookbinding, past and present.

Michael Craig-Martin: Everyday Objects

27 May, 24 June, 29 July, 26 August 2025

9:30am-10:15am

Includes Museum and Art Gallery admission

Join our Head of Collections and Exhibitions, Louise Weller, for an exclusive look inside our summer exhibition Michael Craig-Martin: Everyday Objects.

Michael Craig-Martin has been a key figure in British art since the late 1960s. His depictions of everyday objects, from sunglasses and shoes to lightbulbs and laptops, drawn in outline and filled with intense saturated colours, are instantly recognisable.

This Curator Tour will take a closer look at the selection of his prints and everyday objects that are the subject of his work. Discover how Michael Craig-Martin’s bold prints highlight his unique exploration of colour, form and object.

Exhibition Documentary Screenings

Standard: £10 | Museum Friend: £8 | Museum Supporter: FREE

Delve deeper into our exhibition with our selection of themed documentaries in our historic courthouse. Our Documentary Screenings include:

l Admission to Bound Together: Modern British Bookbinding on the day/ evening of the screening

l Free small popcorn

l Licensed bar located in the Coffee Shop

l Mid-screening interval to top up drinks and grab some more popcorn.

These documentary screenings have been made possible thanks to the support of The Society of Bookbinders.

Documentary Screening:

Maureen Duke - The Life and Work of a Bookbinder 29 April 2025| Screening: 2.30pm-4.00pm (Doors & Bar Open: 2.00pm)

Maureen Duke is one of the most respected bookbinders and teachers of our time. Over a career spanning more than sixty years she has introduced many students to this special craft. She has travelled widely, taking bookbinding to new audiences around the world, has written extensively on the subject and has been a pioneer in book restoration.

She takes us on a tour of her extraordinary bindery, which she has occupied for the last forty years and in a special feature demonstrates some of her favourite techniques which have evolved over many years at the bench.

With a combination of modesty, humour and sure command of her subject, Maureen gives us a rare glimpse into her fascinating world.

Documentary Screening: Seventy Years in Bookbinding - A Portrait of Bernard Middleton 1 May 2025 | Screening 7.00pm-9.30pm (Doors & Bar Open: 6.00pm)

Bernard C. Middleton, M.B.E., F.S.A is one of the most skilled craftsman of our time. His extraordinary career has now spanned some seventy years, as bookbinder, teacher and writer.

Bernard looks back on his long and varied life in bookbinding, which began at the Central School of Arts & Crafts in 1938. He remembers his apprenticeship years at the British Museum and reflects on his time spent as the manager of Zaehnsdorf’s.

With his characteristically understated humour, his sharp mind and thoughtful observations on the he craft that he loves, Bernard gives us a truly fascinating, often moving and always enjoyable insight into his remarkable world.

Inspired by our Exhibitions and Collection Displays, experience the process behind the art with our artist-led creative and art workshops. Workshops suitable for all levels, abilities and participants aged 14+

Working in Wire –

Everyday objects in lines with Jacky Oliver

21 June 2025 | 10.00am-4.00pm

Standard: £65 | Museum Supporters and Friends: £60

This hands-on workshop invites you to explore the art of wire sculpture in an inspiring setting, surrounded by creativity and culture. Taking inspiration from the bold, expressive line work of Michael Craig-Martin, participants will begin with a series of colorful drawing exercises, observing everyday objects. These drawings will then become the foundation for translating lines into 3D wire sculptures.

Guided by artist Jacky, you’ll experiment with a range of materials, including steel, aluminum, brass, and copper, discovering how different metals behave and how to manipulate them into sculptural forms. Various approaches will be introduced to help bring your drawings to life in three dimensions.

Creative Saturday Family Workshops

Free to attend, book via our website.

Enjoy our FREE monthly Creative Saturday Family Workshops where you and your little ones can get creative at Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery. Inspired by our exhibitions and collections, explore art techniques, crafting projects and poetry-inspired creations suitable for all ages and abilities.

Creating in Clay

26 April 2025 | Morning Workshop: 10.30am-12.00pm

Let your creativity run wild in this hands-on family workshop inspired by Artemis featured in our current exhibition, The Horsewoman. Using clay, you’ll learn basic sculpting techniques to create your own unique masterpiece. Whether it’s an elegant figure, a playful animal, or an abstract creation, this workshop is perfect for all ages and abilities.

Book tickets: https://www.petersfieldmuseum.co.uk

Robin Hood – Folksy Theatre

13 August 2025 | 2:30pm-4:00pm

Adult: £12 | Child: £10

Set against the enchanting backdrop of the eerie Sherwood Forest, this whimsical production sees King John and the Sheriff of Nottingham trying to thwart the legendary outlaw, Robin Hood and his band of merry men as they steal from the rich to give to the poor.

Will Robin and his band escape the Sheriff’s clutches? And whose side is Maid Marian truly on?

Filled with Folksy’s signature live music, audience interaction, and delightful silliness, this adaptation promises to have you laughing and singing along! Don’t miss out on this unforgettable summer adventure!

We provide a range of interactive, creative learning sessions for children under 5 and their families. Our programme is designed alongside a child development expert and a teacher, with sessions aimed at improving children’s well-being and promoting the development of key skills.

Mischief Makers

Most Mondays, except bank holidays | 10.00am–11.00am Check our website for upcoming dates and session themes.

Free to attend, book via our website.’

Join us with your little ones for a unique opportunity to explore the Museum and Art Gallery in an interactive, sensory and sometimes messy way! Activities encourage complete freedom of expression. No rules - just fun!

Toddler Takeover XIV: Bubble Bonanza Monday 14 July 2025 11:00am – 4:00pm Normal admission price Kids go FREE

Float into summer with our Toddler Takeover XIV: Bubble Bonanza, a special day just for toddlers! With the Museum and Art Gallery closed to the public, your little ones can explore, play and enjoy a host of fun-filled activities.

Enjoy the excitement with crafts, courtyard play and loads of brilliant bubbles! Enjoy story time together and make magical memories as your under-5s laugh, create, and discover in a welcoming, playful environment.

We visit every week, and the sessions are always brilliant –the kids love it!
Parent Participant, Mischief Makers

Tickets are available to purchase from our What’s On webpage, at the Welcome Desk, or on the door (subject to availability). To avoid disappointment, we recommend booking in advance. Our fully licensed bar located in the Coffee Shop is open throughout each live music event.

The Kimberleys

25 April 2025 | 7.30pm–9.30pm (Doors & Bar Open: 7.00pm) Standard: £12 | Museum Supporters and Friends: £10

The Kimberleys, a husbandand-wife duo, have become recognized as authentic and original interpreters of the traditional folk repertoire. Their second album, “The Shape of A Year,” has further solidified their reputation, combining distinctive voices and harmonies that evoke the spirit of the 60’s and 70’s folk revival while offering fresh, original arrangements. Their sound appeals to both traditional folk enthusiasts and those less familiar with the genre.

Critically acclaimed for their ability to breathe new life into wellknown songs, The Kimberleys deliver performances rich in musical excellence and charismatic presence. Their work is part of a quiet revolution, reshaping traditional songs to reflect modern life, making them relevant for today’s audiences.

Even if you think you know a song inside out you’ll find something here to make you think again.

(Folking.com)

Iago Banet

21 May 2025 | 8.00pm-10.00pm (Doors Open: 7.30pm)

Standard: £15 | Museum Friends: £13 | Museum Supporters: £11

Spanish virtuoso guitarist Iago Banet will be joining us in the Courthouse for an evening of unmissable music.

Iago was born in Galicia in the north-west of Spain. As a teenager, he found a classical guitar at home and set about learning to master it. From that moment, there was no going back: guitar became his passion, his obsession and his future. After moving to the UK in 2014, Banet was involved with several bands of diverse style; touring and recording. These included The Boo-Hoos, JFK Blue and Deep Blue Sea.

solo fingerstyle acoustic guitarist, showcasing his immense talent and receiving rave reviews along the way.

With two studio albums and a live album under his belt, Banet redefines the boundaries of the instrument; creating stories without words and enthralling audiences as he does so.

Iago’s technique and approach to performance have captivated crowds across the UK and Spain. A one-man-band on acoustic guitar not to be missed.

An absolute genius talent on the guitar... Magical

Lou Fowkes

03 July 2025 | 7.30pm-10.00pm (Doors Open: 7.00pm)

Standard: £15 | Museum

Friends: £12 | Museum

Supporters: £12

An Evening with Lou Fowkes – Live in the Courtyard

Since 2018, Banet has been building an impressive career as a

(Kate Justice, BBC Hereford and Worcester)

Get ready for a soul-stirring night of live music under the stars as the incredible Lou Fowkes takes the stage in the outdoor courtyard at Petersfield Museum & Art Gallery. With a voice that’s rich, powerful, and packed with emotion, Lou brings timeless classics to life, performing songs from Billie Holiday, Etta James, Adele, Aretha Franklin, Roberta Flack, Beth Hart, and Amy Winehouse—plus a few surprises!

Originally from Surrey and now based in Kent, Lou has spent her life in professional arts and entertainment, performing everywhere from London’s West End to venues across the South East. With a background in R&B, jazz, and blues, she has fronted multiple bands, recorded with ‘Battered & Bluesed,’ and toured as part of the six-piece rock/blues band ‘Catching Fire’.

★ What audiences are saying: “A wonderfully deep and soulful voice.”

“A real powerhouse performer.”

Whether you’re a fan of soul, blues, jazz, or powerhouse vocals, this is a night not to be missed.

Standing at the Crossroads – A Very Short

Introduction to Petersfield

30 April 2025 | 10.30am12.00pm

Standard: £6.00

Museum Friend: £5.00

Museum Supporter: FREE

Discover more about the historic market town of Petersfield and the role that routes and pathways have played in its history. Embark on a captivating journey through the history of Petersfield. Immerse yourself in the tales of a town that has evolved over 1,000 years, from its humble origins as a small settlement at the crossroads of ancient trackways to the vibrant market town it proudly stands as today.

Beating the BoundsWalking Petersfield’s

Medieval Boundary

28 May 2025 | 10.00am-12.30pm

Standard: £6.00

Museum Friend: £5.00

Museum Supporter: FREE

Beating the Bounds is an ancient custom, enforced before Norman times and still observed in some English parishes, where a group from the community would walk the boundary of the parish. Whilst there is no recorded evidence that this ceremony took place in Petersfield, there are maps that show the ancient boundaries of the borough and parish. Join us in this ancient tradition for a springtime history-led walk!

Ales, Inns and Tales

25 June 2025 | 10.30am-12.00pm

Standard: £6.00

Museum Friend: £5.00 |

Museum Supporter: FREE

Raise a glass to Petersfield’s rich history with this fascinating guided walk! From alehouses to breweries, inns to distilleries, discover how alcohol—both brewing and drinking—has shaped the town for centuries.

Strolling through the heart of Petersfield, you’ll uncover stories of long-lost coaching inns, gin magnates, and a love story with a wine connection.

Discover more about the bustling trade that kept the town’s glasses full. Along the way, we’ll visit key locations where the town’s drinking culture thrived before finishing at our fully licenced coffee shop, where you can reward yourself with a refreshing locally produced drink.

SUMMER IN THE COURTYARD

Summer in the Courtyard is our new summer programme with something for everyone! We have Theatre, Live Music and tons of free events for people of all ages. Take a look at what we have to offer for a summertime packed with fun!

Victory Picnic – V.E. Day Celebration

03 May 2025 | 12.00pm-2.00pm Free to attend – booking required

Travel back in time and celebrate Victory in Europe Day with a nostalgic Victory Picnic in our beautiful museum courtyard! Enjoy an afternoon of local stories, hands-on activities and food set against the soundtrack of the 1940’s, bringing history to life for all ages.

What to Expect:

l Explore local V.E Day stories - discover how the people of Petersfield and surrounding area celebrated

l Hands-on history - get up close with real wartime objects from our handling collection

l Craft your own victory paper hat - perfect for little history-makers

l Music from the 1940s - enjoy the ambiance of the era as you tuck into your picnic

l A selection of period activities suitable for all ages!

Bring Your Own Picnic or Pre-Order a Victory Picnic Box!

Make your experience even more special with a Victory Picnic Box, packed with classic British treats, available to preorder on our website.

Watercolour Wednesdays

4 June, 2 July, 6 August 2025 | 10.00am-4.00pm

Free to attend – no booking required

Unleash your creativity in the inspiring surroundings of our museum courtyard! Watercolour Wednesdays invite artists of all levels to bring their projects— whether new or ongoing—and enjoy a relaxed, open-air setting steeped in history.

This is your time to sketch, paint, or experiment in whatever way inspires you.

Bonus: Bring your art materials and enjoy 15% off at The Coffee Shop!

Retro Games Day

7 June, 5 July, 2 August Drop in and play sessions in our Coffee Shop

Free to attend – no booking required

Dive into nostalgia with our Coffee and Retro Games Days! Embark on a journey down memory lane with our Retro Games Days, where pixels meet passion and classic gaming reigns supreme! Listed consoles and games are subject to change.

Pups of Petersfield

20 June, 18 July, 15 August 2025 | 10.00am-4.00pm

Free to attend – no booking required

Calling all four-legged friends and their humans! Join us for Pups of Petersfield, a tail-waggingly good event at our dog-friendly coffee shop.

Bring your pup along for a fun, relaxed meet-up in our enclosed courtyard, complete with:

l Free Puppucinos

l Tasty dog treats

l Water bowls to keep your pup hydrated

l Shady spots to lounge in

l The chance to snap a photo of your pooch for our Jail House Dogs “Wall of Shame”

Whether you’re a proud pup parent or just love to be surrounded by adorable dogs, come and enjoy great coffee, delicious cake, and plenty of wagging tails!

Minibrix Club

21 June, 19 July, 16 August 2025 | 10.00am-4.00pm

Free to attend – no booking required

Build, create, and connect!

Step back in time and get handson with Minibrix, the iconic construction toy made right here in Petersfield! Minibrix Club is a free, drop-in event designed for all ages to enjoy creative play, whether you’re following original plans or letting your imagination run wild.

This self-led activity offers a welcoming space where families, friends, and enthusiasts can come together to build, experiment, and have fun.

What to Expect:

l Hands-on building with Minibrix from our museum’s handling collection.

l Follow original plans—digitised Minibrix instructions available to recreate classic models.

l Challenge yourself! Creative prompt cards will inspire unique builds like “The tallest tower” or “Your dream house.”

l Showcase your work in our display area for others to admire.

l Capture the moment—snap a photo of your creation at our photo station (and maybe even see it featured on our social media!).

This is a self-led activity with setup and supervision by museum team members, ensuring a relaxed and welcoming environment for everyone.

Meet our Archaeologist

30 July 2025 | 1.00pm-3.30pm

Free to attend – no booking required

Join us for a FREE family-friendly drop-in session in our Courtyard as we bring history to life with hands-on archaeology!

l Hold a piece of the past—get up close with real archaeological objects, including a mammoth’s tooth, Stone Age tools, and historic lemonade bottles!

l Meet our resident archaeologist and uncover the fascinating stories behind these amazing artefacts.

l Get crafty with archaeologythemed activities—perfect for little explorers!

This event is part of the Council for British Archaeology’s Festival of Archaeology, celebrating the wonders of the past!

Discover the Stone Age

31 July 2025 | 10.30am-12.30pm

Free to attend – no booking required

Travel back 10,000 years and explore what life was like for the Stone Age people who once called Petersfield home!

l Get hands-on with real and replica Stone Age tools

l Taste a prehistoric dinner— could you survive on an ancient diet?

l Create your own cave painting just like early humans did!

Part of the Council for British Archaeology’s Festival of Archaeology, this family-friendly event is a chance to touch the past, try ancient skills, and uncover the secrets of Stone Age life!

Bubble Magic

07 & 20 August 2025 | 10.30am12.30pm

Free to attend – no booking required

Step into a world of bubble-tastic fun as Professor Bubbles brings his giant bubble magic to our courtyard!

l Marvel at giant bubbles floating through the air

l Create your own bubble art to take home

l Relax with coffee & cake while little ones are entertained

Get ready for a magical, bubbly adventure—fun for all ages!

Much Ado About Falstaff

Written by Simon Downing

Performed by Giles Shenton and Georgie Taylor

19 June 2025 | 7.30pm-9.30pm (Doors & Bar Open 7.00pm)

Standard: £15 | Museum Supporters & Friends: £12

Giles Shenton Productions follow up recent successes with Old Herbaceous, Three Men in a Boat and My Dog’s Got No Nose with a new play about Sir John Falstaff…a rogue, a philanderer and a glutton, but also one of Shakespeare’s greatest and enduring comic creations.

In this new comedy by Simon Downing we find Falstaff, played by Giles Shenton (Old Herbaceous & Three Men in a Boat) in his bedroom in the Boar’s Head being nursed by Mistress Quickly, played by Georgie Taylor.

The creditors arrive demanding payment. Will Falstaff resort to marrying Mistress Quickly in order to pay off his debts? Will he turn teetotal? Will he mellow in his old age? Find out the answers to all these important questions that Shakespeare never bothered to answer and join Falstaff for an evening of jollity, frivolity, a definite lack of coequality and more Shakespearean insults than ever previously heard on a theatrical stage!

“Giles Shenton effortlessly embodies all that audiences have come to know and love of Sir John Falstaff. He commands the stage with epic, rousing speech peppered with asides that win the audience within the opening moments.”

(The Brighton Source)

Airswimming

10 July 2025 | 7.30pm-10.00pm

(Doors & Bar Open 7.00pm)

Standard: £15 | Museum

Friends: £14 | Museum

Supporters: £12

Persephone is just planning for her coming out ball when she finds herself consigned to a rather puzzling finishing school: St Dymphna’s Hospital for the Criminally Insane. Here she meets Dora, a fellow inmate, shunned by society for daring to be different. Airswimming is based on the true story of two women who have been incarcerated in a mental asylum for being ‘moral imbeciles’ for having borne illegitimate children.

Forgotten by their families and institutionalized for over 50 years, Dora and Persephone adopt alter egos Dorph and Porph, to enact their fantasies and survive the silence of incarceration.

Described by BBC radio 4 as “an uplifting comedy of friendship, fantasy and freedom” the play is equal parts funny and vivacious, and heartbreakingly poignant.

Twelfth Night – Folksy Theatre

12 August 2025 | 7:00pm-10:00pm

Adult: £15 | Child: £12

Shipwrecked and separated from her twin brother, Viola disguises herself as a man and becomes entwined in a hilarious love triangle. Serving Duke Orsino, who secretly loves Countess Olivia, Viola finds herself in a twist when Olivia falls for her in disguise!

Amidst the comedic chaos of mistaken identities, meet the drunken Sir Toby Belch, the pompous Malvolio, and enjoy a lively atmosphere filled with Folksy’s touch of fun and live music. Bursting with romance and laughter, “Twelfth Night” is a whirlwind of mistaken identities and joyful endings!

Join us today and enjoy access to an incredible range of benefits. As an independent museum and art gallery, we do not receive regular funding. Your generous support therefore helps us to maintain our collections for future generations.

Became a Friend of Petersfield Museum and Art

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Options

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Benefits

l Unlimited entry to the Museum and Art Gallery for the duration of your Supporter membership

l Invitation to an exclusive Friend and Supporter event

l Discounts on selected Museum and Art Gallery events (subject to availability and must be booked in advance)

l 10% discount in the Shop at Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery (exceptions apply)

l 15% discount in the Coffee Shop at Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery (exceptions apply)

l Free book loans from The Edward Thomas Centre at Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery

l Free participation in Museum walks and talks (subject to availability and must be booked in advance)

l Monthly treat in the Coffee Shop at Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery

l Invitation to special events

l Regular emails about events and exhibitions

*To access the benefits, your guest must accompany you to the Museum and Art Gallery.

Opening Times

Open Tuesday to Saturday, 10.00am–5.00pm (Last entry at 4.00pm).

May Gallery Closure

In preparation for our next exhibition, Michael Craig-Martin: Everyday Objects, our galleries will be closed from Tuesday 6 May – Saturday 17 May 2025.

The Coffee Shop, Shop and the Edward Thomas Centre will remain open for normal hours during this time with the exception of our whole site closure on Saturday 10 May and Saturday 17 May 2025.

The Museum and Art Gallery will fully re-open on Tuesday 18 May 2025, featuring the new exhibition Michael Craig-Martin: Everyday Objects.

Tickets

Purchase admission and event tickets online at www.petersfieldmuseum.co.uk or at the Welcome Desk in the Museum Shop.

All events have individual prices. Please check the What’s On section of our website for more details.

Please see your chosen exhibition page for relevant admissions prices.

Getting Here

Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery is housed in the old Police Station and Courthouse on St Peter’s Road in the centre of Petersfield.

Address

Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery, St Peter’s Road, Petersfield, Hampshire, GU32 3HX

By Car

Petersfield is easily accessible via the A3 or the A272. Parking is available at the nearby pay and display car parks by Tesco or Waitrose supermarkets.

By Rail

Petersfield is easily accessible by rail, and the Museum and Art Gallery is only a 10-minute walk from Petersfield Station. Follow Lavant Street (opposite the station) exit to the end, and then turn right onto Chapel Street. This takes you out onto The Square. St Peter’s Road is in the opposite corner of The Square, between Café Nero and St Peter’s Church.

By Bicycle

Petersfield is a great starting point for exploring the South Downs by bicycle. We have a range of South Downs leaflets and trails in the Shop to help you start your adventure!

Accessibility

We want everyone who visits Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery to enjoy the building, collection and exhibitions. If you require any further information, please call 01730 262601.

Wheelchair & Buggy Access

The Museum and Art Gallery site is fully accessible for wheelchair users and buggies, but at a certain point during your visit you will have to double back to avoid some stairs located at the end of the Petersfield Gallery. A member of staff will provide further guidance on your arrival.

A wheelchair is available free of charge from the Welcome Desk.

Wheelchairs/Buggies can be left near the Welcome Desk during your visit but are left at the owner’s own risk.

Hidden Disabilities

We welcome and support visitors who choose to wear a Sunflower item as part of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower scheme. We have some Sunflower items available at the Welcome Desk if you would like to pick up something.

Service Dogs

All service dogs are welcome throughout Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery.

Accessible Toilet

There is an accessible toilet by the Welcome Desk near the main entrance, and also in the Courthouse.

Baby-Changing Facilities

Baby-changing facilities are available in the accessible toilet in the Shop, and also in the Courthouse.

Accessible Parking

There is one accessible parking space at the front of the Museum and Art Gallery which is available for visitors with mobility issues. Unfortunately, this space cannot be booked in advance.

Seating

There are benches located around the Museum and Art Gallery where you can sit and contemplate, with further seating available in the Courtyard.

Accessible Resources and Displays

A fixed hearing loop is available at the Welcome Desk. Large-print labels are available in each of the galleries and temporary exhibitions.

SEND Resources

We offer several resources for visitors with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities). To access these, please visit: www.petersfieldmuseum.co.uk/visit/accessibility

Contact Us

Email: visitorexperience@petersfieldmuseum.co.uk

Telephone: 01730 262601

Facebook: @petersfieldmuseum

Instagram: @petersfieldmuseum

LAVANT ST REET SWAN ST REET Petersfield

CHARLES ST RE ET

M’ S W ALK

ST RE ET CHAPEL ST RE ET

ST REET

HALL

AT H ROAD

St. PE TE RS CHURCH

SHEEPSTREET HYLTON ROAD MUSEUM and AR T GALLERY

DR A GON ST RE ET St. PE TER’S ROAD

HE AVENUE

SUSSEX ROAD

Project support from Arts Council England

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