The Ashmolean Museum, Oxford : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

The Ashmolean Museum in Oxford is one of the world’s oldest public museums. Located in the heart of Oxford, the museum houses a vast collection of artwork, artifacts and historical memorabilia from across the world. Not only is the museum a stunning part of Oxford’s history, it is also home to incredible artifacts and art that span the globe. From statues and sculptures to coins and marble carvings, there’s something for everyone to discover at the Ashmolean Museum. This travel guide will provide interesting facts, information and advice on how to make the most of your visit to the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford.

Interesting Facts About The Ashmolean Museum, Oxford

1. The Ashmolean Museum is the oldest museum in the United Kingdom, having been founded in 1683.

2. It is the world’s first museum, housing the University’s collections of antiquities, coins, prints, and drawings.

3. The Ashmolean was the first public art gallery in England, opening its doors to the public in 1683.

4. The Austrian composer Joseph Haydn wrote his ‘Oxford Symphony’for the museum’s grand opening in 1790.

5. In 1845, the Ashmolean opened an Eastern art gallery, the first in the country and the first of its kind in Europe.

6. The museum is home to some of the world’s most important statues and sculptures, including the Temple of Apollo from Argos, the Bust of Julius Caesar and the Venus de Milo.

7. The museum holds the largest collection of English watercolours in the world.

8. The museum has been modernised and extended several times, most recently with the opening of the Fox-Pitt-Rivers Museum.

9. The Ashmolean was the first museum in the world to introduce a “no touching” policy in 2001.

10. Artwork in the Ashmolean Museum has been loaned by many famous figures, including Prince Charles, the Queen, Elton John, André Leon Talley, and the Bishop of Oxford.

• The Alnwick Castle, Northumberland : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

History & Information About The Ashmolean Museum, Oxford

The Ashmolean Museum in Oxford (UK) is the oldest museum in the United Kingdom, having been founded in 1683. The museum houses the world’s oldest public museum collections, on topics ranging from human history to natural sciences.

The collections of the Ashmolean Museum are on display in nine galleries. Highlights seen in these galleries include Egyptian artefacts, sculptures from Ancient Greece and Roman, medieval and Renaissance art, plus antiquities from Asia and the Americas.

The Ashmolean Museum plays an important role in the university of Oxford, as it is home to the university’s research as well as being a cultural hub for the community. It is also home to public educational programs, such as lectures and art classes, alongside bigger events like the annual Art Sermon competition.

The Ashmolean Museum has a great international reputation, as it has grown to become one of the most impressive and diverse museum collections in the world. It is widely known for its ancient Egyptian collection and has a large English Art Collection, featuring such artists as Samuel Palmer, John Constable and Turner.

The curatorial staff work hard to ensure the safety and preservation of the collections, but also strive to maintain its accessibility to the public. They host a range of events throughout the year for a variety of audiences, such as lectures, gallery tours, and family days.

• Durham Cathedral, Durham : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide
• Hadrian’s Wall, Northumberland : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Travel Guide For Visiting The Ashmolean Museum, Oxford

1. Hours and Admission: The Ashmolean Museum, located at Beaumont St in Oxford, is open Tuesday-Sunday from 10am-5pm. Admission is free, making it a great place to visit for a budget-friendly way to explore the history of Oxford.

2. Getting There: The Ashmolean Museum can be reached by car, bus, coach, and excellent walking and biking routes. There is a pay and display parking area on Parks Road adjacent to the museum.

3. What To See: The Ashmolean Museum houses an astonishing collection of artworks, historical artefacts and archaeological remains from dozens of cultures and periods. Highlights include the Greek and Roman antiquities from the museum’s original collections, as well as internationally renowned collections of Chinese porcelain, furniture, miniatures, drawings, prints and coins.

4. Activities: The museum has a range of activities and classes available, such as the weekly ‘Discover’ gallery talks. As well as occasional lectures, films, and family events it hosts a number of temporary exhibitions to explore.

5. Services: The museum’s museum shop offers a range of gifts, books and souvenirs and the Ashmolean Café provides delicious snacks and refreshments.

• Bath Abbey, Bath : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Frequently Asked Questions About The Ashmolean Museum, Oxford

Q. What is the admission cost to the Ashmolean Museum?

A. Entry to the Ashmolean Museum is free.

Q. Where is the Ashmolean Museum?

A. The Ashmolean Museum is located at Beaumont Street in Oxford, England.

Q. What are the opening hours of the Ashmolean Museum?

A. The Ashmolean Museum is usually open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00am to 5:00pm.

Q. Does the Ashmolean Museum offer audio guides?

A. Yes, the Ashmolean Museum offers free audio guides in six different languages.

Q. Are there any special events held at the Ashmolean Museum?

A. Yes, the Ashmolean Museum often hosts special events such as lectures, workshops, and guided tours. You can find more information about upcoming events on the museum’s website.

• Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide
• Cardiff Castle, Cardiff : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide