Orford Museum
Housed in Henry II's Orford Castle, Orford Museum displays historical material relating to the local area between the Butley River and River Alde in Suffolk.
This charming museum, run by a dedicated team of volunteers, delves into the rich history of the surrounding area, encompassing six parishes of Orford and Gedgrave, Sudbourne, Iken, Chillesford, Butley, and Tunstall.
Historic displays
Orford Museum has six display cases in Orford Castle: ‘The Borough’; ‘River, Land and Sea’; ‘Bronze Age'; ‘Prehistory to 1500; ‘The Castle’ and a sixth case designed to contain other items of interest from the Museum collection on a changing basis.
Collection highlights
Objects on display include the Town Crier’s Bell used by 90-year-old Sam Smy, the oldest town crier in England until shortly before his death in 1936 and replica Gold Torc of the Early Bronze age found at Boyton in 1835. The museum also proudly displays part of the regalia used by the former Orford Borough, offering a glimpse into the town's prominent medieval status as a port.
Search the archive
The museum also maintains an archive at the Potkins Craft Centre, allowing those curious to delve deeper into the area's history through a vast collection of artefacts, textiles, maps, and documents.
Visitor information
Address
Orford Castle, Orford, Suffolk, IP12 2ND
01394 450472
Opening times
Please visit Orford Museum's website for full seasonal opening times information.
English Heritage charges for entry to Orford Castle, but there is no additional charge for entry to Orford Museum.