Ashmolean (The)

Take a step away from the hustle and bustle of the city and savour the wonderful collections inside Britain's oldest public museum. John Tradescant's collection of archaeological rarities (both man-made and natural) originally opened to the public in South London in the early 17th century, for a charge of 6d (2.5p). The collection was inherited by Elias Ashmole and the Ashmolean opened in 1683. If you only have time to enjoy the antiquities galleries, with their exhibits dating from Paleolithic to Victorian times, your visit will have been worthwhile. You'll probably have to come back again if you also want to take in the collections of eastern and western art and the Heberden Coin Room. If time is very limited, try joining one of the lunchtime talks, which are always interesting and accessible. Admission:free

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• Attraction Type: Museums and Art Galleries

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