Ashmolean Museum

The Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology is the University of Oxford’s official museum and holds the distinction of being Britain’s first public museum, founded in 1683. It is home to a world-class collection spanning half a million years of human history, from ancient Egyptian mummies to contemporary art.

Essential Visitor Information
Where it is: Located on Beaumont Street in the heart of Oxford. It is a 10-minute walk from the Oxford Railway Station and 5 minutes from the Gloucester Green Coach Station.
When to go: The museum is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Quiet Times: Weekday mornings (especially Tuesday–Thursday) right at opening or late afternoons before closing are generally the least crowded.
Busy Times: Weekends and school holidays are the most popular periods.
Who should go: It is designed for everyone, from academic researchers to families. It is particularly engaging for history buffs, art lovers, and families with children (specifically ages 7–11 for certain interactive guides).

What You Can Do
Explore the Galleries: Wander through five floors of exhibits, including the world’s largest collection of Raphael drawings, Anglo-Saxon treasures like the Alfred Jewel, and one of the finest coin collections globally.
Take a Tour: Join free volunteer-led gallery tours or specialized “Uncomfortable Tours” that discuss the museum’s colonial origins.
Family Activities: Use the Ashmolean Adventure digital guide, which features interactive games and quizzes, or join free family gallery tours during school holidays.
Dine with a View: Visit the basement café for light bites or the Rooftop Restaurant for fine dining and afternoon tea with views over the Oxford skyline.

Why It Is Unique
The Ashmolean stands out for its interdisciplinary approach, often blending ancient and contemporary pieces to create new cultural dialogues. It houses the most important collection of Pre-Dynastic Egyptian sculpture and ceramics outside of Cairo and the only great Minoan collection in Britain.

Offers and Member Benefits
Admission to the permanent collection is free, though booking a timed entry slot online is recommended during busy periods.
Member Benefits: Joining as a Member provides:
Unlimited free access to major exhibitions without pre-booking.
Exclusive members-only previews and curator-led talks.
Discounts: 10% off in the museum shops, café, and Rooftop Restaurant.
A twice-yearly magazine.
Special Offers:
Alumni Discount: University of Oxford alumni can get 20% off their first year of membership using a “My Oxford Card”.
Seasonal Specials: Events like “Members Festive Shopping Week” offer increased discounts (e.g., 15%) and free gifts.
Family Perks: Occasional offers like a free babyccino in the café with an adult purchase during holidays.