Chelmsford Museum and the Essex Regiment Museum
With a National Art Pass you get
The extended Chelmsford Museum includes archaeology and coins (including items purchased with Art Fund support), local and social history, and natural history.
Explore of the region's history, spanning from the prehistoric Ice Age to the present day. Interactive exhibits and displays include a replica of a mammoth and a mock Anglo-Saxon burial. There is also a fine art collection which focusses on Essex artists, whilst the extended building contains displays on Chelmsford's industries, such as Marconi’s wireless factory, and houses the Essex Regiment Museum.
Grayson Perry
The museum also delves into the fascinating world of Chelmsford's renowned potters, including Edward Bingham and Joanna Constantinidis. Pieces by Turner Prize winner Grayson Perry, who grew up in Chelmsford, include Chelmsford Sissies and a Julie Tile.
Military history
The Essex Regiment Museum houses military artefacts, chronicling the regiment's service from 1741 to the present day. Uniforms, badges, weaponry, and regimental memorabilia are displayed alongside captivating trophies, including the prized Salamanca Eagle captured from the French forces. The museum also houses four Victoria Crosses, the highest military honour for gallantry awarded to members of the Essex Regiment.
Glam rock jumpsuit
One quirky highlight is a black leather jumpsuit made for, and worn by, American glam rock star Suzi Quatro. Famous for songs such as Can the Can and Devil Gate Drive, the pioneering female musician made Chelmsford her home in the 1980s.
Refreshments
A visit to Chelmsford Museum isn't complete without a stop at the Hive cafe offering a delicious selection of coffees, cakes, and lunches, perfect for a refreshing break after exploring the exhibits.
Visitor information
Address
Oaklands Park, Moulsham Street, Chelmsford, Essex, CM2 9AQ
01245 605700
Opening times
Monday to Sunday
10am – 5pm
We are open on Bank Holidays.
We are closed 25 and 26 December and 1 January
Refurbishments
From January 2018 part of the museum will be closed for 12 months for redisplay work.
Visitor information
The more you see, the more we do.
The National Art Pass lets you enjoy free entry to hundreds of museums, galleries and historic places across the UK, while raising money to support them.