Free museums in Wales

Esgair Moel, a woollen mill, is one of the historic buildings reconstructed at St Fagans National Museum of History in Cardiff, Wales. Originally built in the early 18th century, the mill offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the traditional methods of wool production. Visitors can explore the mill and learn about its history and the processes involved in wool production.

National Museum Cardiff is a museum in Cardiff. The museum features exhibits related to Decorative and Applied Art, Fine Art, Natural Sciences, Coins and Medals and Archaeology. Key themes, people and exhibits in the museum include Evolution of Wales, Impressionist, La Parisienne, The Blue Lady, The

The Big Pit National Coal Museum is an industrial museum situated in Blaenavon, Torfaen, Wales. It was originally a coal mine that operated for a century from 1880 to 1980. The former mine was opened to the public in 1983 and now serves as a visitor mine, commemorating the significant coal mining history of Wales during the industrial revolution.

Isca became the headquarters of the Legio II Augusta around 75 AD, when the Roman governor Sextus Julius Frontinus undertook the conquest of southern Wales. A first wooden fortress was built, which included a headquarters (principia), residence of the legate, of the tribune, a hospital, baths, shops, barracks, granaries, and an amphitheater. This gives an insight into the comprehensive nature of the Roman military establishment at the time.

The Museum of Cardiff, located in Cardiff, Wales, is dedicated to showcasing the city's history. The museum, which opened its doors to the public on 1 April 2011, offers free entry to all visitors. This makes it an accessible option for tourists looking to learn more about Cardiff's past.

Heritage site/Visitor attraction

Oriel y Parc includes a Visitor Centre, Artist in Residence Studio, a Discovery Room which hosts family friendly art and nature activities, a Tower which hosts local arts exhibitions and community run classes, and a café. There is also a Class A Landscape Gallery, which was built to house works fro

The Ceredigion Museum is situated at the Coliseum on Terrace Road in Aberystwyth. This unique museum is housed in a beautifully restored Edwardian theatre, providing a distinctive setting for its exhibits. The management of the museum is under the Ceredigion County Council.

The National Waterfront Museum in Swansea is a significant part of Amgueddfa Cymru – Museum Wales. It holds a prestigious position as an Anchor Point of ERIH, The European Route of Industrial Heritage. This status highlights the museum's importance in preserving and showcasing the industrial heritage of Europe.

Caldicot Castle is a significant historical site located in the town of Caldicot, Monmouthshire, in southeast Wales. The castle, built around 1100 by the Norman earls of Hereford, is an extensive stone structure that offers a glimpse into the medieval period. Its strategic location and architectural design make it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts and tourists alike.

Caernarfon Castle, located in the city of Caernarfon in North Wales, is a significant historical site. It was constructed by King Edward I of England following his successful campaign to subdue Wales. The castle served as a symbol of the final submission of the newly incorporated territory to his kingdom. This historical context provides a rich backdrop for visitors to the castle today.

The Abergavenny Museum is situated in the scenic grounds of Abergavenny Castle, right in the heart of the town of Abergavenny, Monmouthshire, in the south east of Wales. This location offers visitors the opportunity to explore both the museum and the castle grounds, providing a rich cultural and historical experience.

Mission Gallery, located in Swansea, is a contemporary visual and applied arts gallery. It hosts a variety of art forms including contemporary art, painting, installation, photography, and craft. This diverse range of exhibits offers visitors a chance to explore and appreciate different forms of artistic expression.

Wrexham, known for its rich football heritage, is the leading contender for the proposed national football museum dedicated to Welsh association football. This proposal has been supported by various politicians from both the Welsh Government and local councils, including the Wrexham County Borough Council.

The Carmarthenshire County Museum is situated in the historic county town of Carmarthen, in Carmarthenshire, Wales. Its exact location is Abergwili, Carmarthen, SA31 2JG. This museum is a significant cultural institution in the region, managed by the Carmarthenshire County Council.

Chepstow Museum is conveniently located near the town centre, making it easily accessible for tourists. It is situated opposite Chepstow Castle on Bridge Street, and is also near the River Wye. This location not only provides easy access, but also offers a scenic view of the surrounding area.

Usk Rural Life Museum is a museum in Usk, particularly focused on rural life across the years in our local area. We have exhibitions of rural trades from a bygone year as well as a cottage showing how we once lived. There are so many artefacts jammed into a little space you will be amazed! The m

Winding House is a museum in New Tredegar. The museum features exhibits related to: social history and industry.

These two tiny religioius sites together make a big impression. Built in 1637, Rug is a perfect example of a little-altered period chapel. Llanger Church is older, dating back to 1291 and was originaly called Llann-Garw_gwyn, meaning church of the white deer.

Blaenavon World Heritage Centre is situated in the first school in Wales built (in 1816) by Ironmasters for their workers. Inside visitors will find interactive exhibitions telling the story of the Blaenavon World Heritage Site and its residents through history. There are exhibitions in the Gallery

Now, as in the past, this is a place to seek solice from the stresses of everyday life. The medieval bishops of St Davids chose just the right place for a lavish sanctuary. The exqusiit palace reflects their wealth, status and power.

Mostyn, located in Llandudno, North Wales, is a public art gallery that was formerly known as Oriel Mostyn. The name 'Oriel' is Welsh for 'Gallery', but the institution was rebranded as simply Mostyn following its revamp in 2010. This gallery is a significant cultural landmark in the region, offering visitors a chance to explore a variety of art exhibits.

MOMA Machynlleth, previously known as MOMA Wales, is an arts centre and gallery situated in Machynlleth, Powys, Wales. It is adjacent to Y Tabernacl, a former Wesleyan chapel that was converted into a centre for performing arts in the mid-1980s. The museum has grown alongside it, boasting six exhibition spaces.

Llanyrafon Farm is a museum in Cwmbran. The museum features exhibits related to Science and Technology and Social History.

The Monmouth Museum was closed during the COVID-19 pandemic and did not reopen. However, in 2021, the Monmouthshire County Council announced plans to relocate the museum collection to the Shire Hall in Agincourt Square. This move is part of a five-year project supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, with the new museum expected to open by 2027.

Parc Howard Museum & Art Gallery is located in a 19th-century Italianate country house, nestled within 24 acres of parkland. This beautiful location is situated north of the town centre of Llanelli in Carmarthenshire, Wales. The museum and art gallery offer a unique blend of history, art, and nature, making it a worthwhile destination for tourists.

Llangollen Museum is a museum in Llangollen. The museum features exhibits related to: social history.

The Cefn Coed Colliery Museum, situated in Crynant near Neath in the South Wales Valleys, is a former coal mine that has been transformed into a museum. This location offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the history and heritage of coal mining in the region.

The Newport Museum and Art Gallery, also known as the City Museum, is a multifaceted cultural institution located in the heart of Newport city centre. It is conveniently situated on John Frost Square, adjacent to the Kingsway Shopping Centre, making it easily accessible for visitors. The museum, library, and art gallery offer a diverse range of exhibits and collections, providing a comprehensive insight into the rich history and culture of Newport and Wales.

Strata Florida Abbey, also known as Stratflur in Welsh, is a former Cistercian abbey located 27 km southeast of Aberystwyth, near Pontrhydfendigaid in Ceredigion, Wales. This historical site, once a significant religious institution, offers a glimpse into the past and is a point of interest for those interested in history and architecture.

Pontypridd Museum is a museum in Pontypridd. The museum features exhibits related to Social History, Costume and Textiles, Weapons and War, Fine Art, Archives, Science and Technology, Music, Personalities and Land Transport.

The Bangor Town Hall, previously known as The Bishop's Palace, is a municipal building located on Ffordd Deiniol in Bangor, Gwynedd, Wales. This structure, which is now utilized as a museum, is a Grade II listed building. It was originally commissioned by the Bishop of Bangor, likely Arthur Bulkeley, as his residence and was completed around 1546. The building has undergone several extensions and renovations over the years, and it ceased to be the bishop's residence in 1900.

The Torfaen Museum, previously known as the Valley Inheritance Museum and Amgueddfa Pontypool Museum, is a significant cultural institution located in Pontypool, Torfaen, South Wales. This museum is a key destination for those interested in the rich history and heritage of the region.

Oriel Davies Gallery is based in Newtown, Powys in the Severn Valley area of the Welsh Borders. Oriel Davies runs a visual arts exhibitions programme throughout the year, showing national and international art and craft from Wales, other parts of the UK and abroad. Oriel Davies also organises a full

Lleyn Historical and Maritime Museum is a museum in Nefyn. The museum features exhibits related to: fine art, maritime, social history and personalities.

From the Celtic age to present day, we tell the fascinating stories of South Wales’ officers through the decades. Explore the kit of a Victorian constable; discover the tough duties of Glamorgan officers in World War I, and uncover some of the weapons used against police. Our galleries contain a ran

The Museum tells the remarkable story of Robert Owen, born in Newtown (Powys) in 1771. A village boy who hobnobbed with royalty. A shop assistant who became a factory manager. An educator with little education. A rich man who fought for the poor. A capitalist who became the first "socialist". An ind

Powysland Museum is a museum in Welshpool. The museum features exhibits related to Weapons and War, Coins and Medals, World Cultures, Archaeology, Costume and Textiles, Land Transport, Social History and Natural Sciences.

Y Cwm is the childhood home of Sir Henry Jones, who from humble origins became a major influence on the education system in Wales.

National Wool Museum is a museum in Llandysul. The museum features exhibits related to: social history, costume and textiles, industry and science and technology. Key themes, people and exhibits in the museum include: welsh woollen industry.

The Moelfre RNLI Seawatch has an Oakley Lifeboat inside the building and loads of history about the Moelfre Lifeboat and ship wrecks that are local to the village.

The Narrow Gauge Railway Museum, located at the Tywyn Wharf station of the Talyllyn Railway in Tywyn, Gwynedd, Wales, is a dedicated museum for narrow-gauge railways. This purpose-built museum offers a unique insight into the history and development of narrow-gauge railways, making it an interesting destination for railway enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Come along to the Cynon Valley Museum to discover the history of the people who worked and lived here. The museum also displays wall-mounted and 3D art in two temporary exhibition spaces, all produced by locally based artists. The Shop sells handmade homeware, art and gifts. Our cafe is open everyd

Newtown Textile Museum is located in an 1830s hand-loom weaving 'factory'. The building consisted of six back-to-back cottages on the lower floors and two large rooms which housed up to 22 handlooms on the top two floors. It gives visitors a chance to see how the handloom weavers of the mid-19th ce

The Caerleon Roman Fortress and Baths complex consists of the remnants of a first-century Roman legion fort with baths, located in Caerleon in the Welsh region of Newport, in the historic county of Monmouthshire in Great Britain. This site offers a unique opportunity to explore the history and architecture of the Roman era, with the ruins of the fort and baths providing a glimpse into the lives of the Roman soldiers who once inhabited this area.

Y Gaer, located in Glamorgan Street, Brecon, Powys, Wales, is a municipal structure that houses a museum, an art gallery, and a library. This complex offers a rich cultural experience for visitors, with a variety of exhibits and collections to explore. The museum, in particular, boasts a collection that includes a tombstone of a young cavalryman called Candidus, found at Y Gaer, a local Roman fort.

Penmaenmawr Museum takes you on a journey through the history of the landscape, the town and its people using stories and objects from the ancient past to the present. The museum spans two floors, with the main exhibition gallery situated on the ground floor and another exhibition room showing a rol

The Minera Lead Mines, once a bustling mining operation, have been transformed into a country park and tourist centre. Located in the quaint village of Minera, near Wrexham in Wrexham County Borough, Wales, the site offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the remnants of the mining operation and enjoy the serene surroundings of the country park.

Aberystwyth University Gallery and Museum is a museum in Aberystwyth. The museum features exhibits related to: coins and medals, fine art, world cultures, decorative and applied art and archives.

Gwefr Heb Wifrau - Wireless in Wales, a charitable trust, is a small radio museum with a difference. With its emphasis on the history of Broadcasting in Wales, the influence of broadcasting on our national identity and the contribution of the Welsh to the development of wireless technology it is un

Treborth Botanic Garden is a museum in Bangor. The museum features exhibits related to Natural Sciences.

Brynmawr Museum and Historical Society is a museum in Brynmawr. The museum features exhibits related to Medicine, Agriculture, Literature, Weapons and War, Social History, Design, Fine Art, Film and Media, Coins and Medals, Photography, Industry, Archives, Toys and Hobbies, Archaeology, Religion, M

The campus of Swansea University is strategically located just outside the city centre, on the grounds of Singleton Park and on the north side of Swansea Bay. This location offers a serene and conducive environment for both study and leisure, with easy access to the city's amenities.

Radnorshire Museum is a museum in Llandrindod Wells. The museum features exhibits related to Fine Art, Social History, Archaeology, Photography, Personalities, Toys and Hobbies, Medicine, Decorative and Applied Art, Coins and Medals and Sport. Key themes, people and exhibits in the museum include Th

Segontium is a Roman fort that is situated on the outskirts of Caernarfon in Gwynedd, North Wales. The fort's name is believed to be derived either directly from the Afon Seiont or from a pre-existing British settlement named for the river. The name is a Latinised form of the Brythonic language *seg-ontio, which translates to 'strong place'.

Tŷ Siamas, located in Dolgellau, is recognized as the National Centre for Folk Music in Wales. This cultural hub was established with the aim of promoting music and cultural activities for the benefit of both the local community and visitors. The centre is housed in the old market hall of the town, Neuadd Idris, which underwent extensive renovation before opening to the public in June 2007.

Amgueddfa Nant Gwrtheyrn is a museum in Pwllheli. The museum features exhibits related to: social history.

MOMA Machynlleth, previously known as MOMA Wales, is an arts centre and gallery situated in Machynlleth, Powys, Wales. It is adjacent to Y Tabernacl, a former Wesleyan chapel converted into a performing arts centre in the mid-1980s. The museum has grown alongside it, boasting six exhibition spaces.

Rhyl Library Museum and Arts Centre is a museum in Rhyl. The museum features exhibits related to: land transport, maritime, medicine and social history.

Carmarthen's Town Museum and Gallery is located in Carmarthen Regional Library. The Library's listed facade once formed part of Furnace House, home to the Morgan dynasty of iron masters. The Library itself offers a range of services for library users. Carmarthen Town Museum features exhibits related

Cowbridge and District Museum is a museum in Cowbridge. The museum features exhibits related to Archives, Costume and Textiles, Natural Sciences, Social History and Archaeology.

The museum traces the fascinating history of Mold. You can see Bronze Age treasures including axes, jewellery and a replica of the famous gold cape. Learn about some of Mold's most famous residents including the novelist Daniel Owen who is seen in his reconstructed tailor's shop and study.

In the late 19th century, large-scale industry transformed the Amman Valley. Rich natural resources, especially the famous anthracite coal, brought coal mines, iron and tinplate works, railways and people to work them. The gallery pays tribute to one of its famous sons, Jim Grifftiths of Betws, min

The museum, located on the first floor of the public library, tells the story of Buckley's place as a major centre for the pottery and brick industries from medieval times through to the Twentieth Century. Visitors can see many of Buckley's finest wares on display and browse through the extensive lo

This small museum depicts the life and work of Howell Harris, the first Methodist (converted 1735) and the self-sufficient Christian community (Teulu Trefeca - the Trefeca family) founded on the site in 1752. The museum is housed in part of the Grade II* Listed Building built by the community. Amgue