Red House Museum and Gardens

About

Important information: With the rapid increase in COVID-19 infections and the resulting changes to government guidance, to help keep everyone safe Hampshire Cultural Trust museums and galleries are currently closed and will remain so until further notice. They will re-open as soon as they can and look forward to welcoming you back.

A former Georgian workhouse, the Red House is now a museum exploring the story of Christchurch from before the Ice Age to modern times.

There is plenty for all the family to discover during your visit. Find out about the town’s ancient past with displays about Saxon princes and Iron Age dwellers at Hengistbury Head, then take a glimpse at life in the 19th century in the Victorian bygone gallery. In their family area, you’ll find plenty of hands-on activities and dressing-up costumes, as well as quizzes and spotter trails. 

There are plenty of corners to escape to at the museum. Relax in the aromatic walled herb garden, featuring herbs and old-fashioned roses and stroll through the woodland walk in the tranquil south garden, which also holds unexpected dinosaur surprises. The Red House has a shop, café and exhibition gallery with a varied programme showcasing the best local art, family shows and touring exhibitions.

Through the year, they also run fun, family-friendly events – find out more on their website.