New Place to Visit

In September last year the new East Grinstead Museum opened in purpose-built town centre premises with a professional curator in post. Funding was largely by the Heritage Lottery Fund, plus grants from the town and district councils and other bodies, donations and fundraising activities.

The museum holds local history, not just the town's, but also of the surrounding Kent, Sussex and Surrey villages and parishes within a radius of around 6 or 7 miles, East Grinstead's traditional market area.

In addition to permanent displays, regular temporary exhibitions and a small shop, there is a research room dedicated to the history of the area, which is regularly receiving fresh donations. Material ranges from local ephemera and periodicals such as parish magazines, to extensive (but not yet complete) runs of Sussex Archaeological Collections, Sussex Notes and Archaeologia Cantiana and other journals for the three counties. The museum also has a small collection of local maps and over 6000 photographic images, which can be consulted by arrangement. The publications are available to any visitor during normal opening hours.

The museum is in Cantelupe Road, just off the High Street, within a short walk of car parks and the railway station. It opens on Wednesdays and Saturdays 10am - 4pm, and on Sundays 2-5pm. Admission is free. For further information ring 01342 322923, email info@eastgrinsteadmuseum.org.uk or visit www.eastgrinsteadmuseum.org.uk.