Totnes Elizabethan House Museum Guide
Step Back in Time: Explore Elizabethan Life at Totnes Museum Guide
Welcome to the Totnes Elizabethan House Museum, a captivating journey into the heart of 16th and 17th-century England! This meticulously preserved merchant's house offers a fascinating glimpse into the daily lives of those who lived and worked in this bustling market town during the Elizabethan era. Prepare to be transported back in time as you wander through its rooms, each filled with authentic artifacts and intriguing stories. The building itself dates back to around 1575, a period of significant prosperity for Totnes due to its thriving wool trade and strategic location on the River Dart. Originally owned by a wealthy merchant, the house has witnessed centuries of change and adaptation. Over the years, it served as a family home, a business premises, and even a school before being carefully restored and opened as a museum. The museum's collection includes period furniture, textiles, domestic tools, and documents that paint a vivid picture of Elizabethan society, from the grandest merchants to the humblest servants. A visit to the Totnes Elizabethan House Museum offers a variety of engaging activities. Explore the different rooms, each showcasing a specific aspect of Elizabethan life, from the kitchen and parlor to the merchant's office. Examine the intricate details of the period furniture and imagine the conversations that once filled these walls. The museum also hosts regular events and workshops, including guided tours, craft demonstrations, and historical reenactments, providing a deeper understanding of the era. Don't miss the opportunity to climb the winding staircase to the attic, where you can discover more about the lives of the servants who kept the household running.
Transportation
The museum is located in the heart of Totnes, easily accessible on foot from the town's main bus stops and train station. From Totnes Train Station, it's approximately a 10-minute walk. Several bus routes serve Totnes town center, including the Stagecoach Gold service. Look for stops near the High Street or the Plains.