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Cambridgeshire has an extremely rich and fascinating history and to understand it fully you need to visit at least one of the many fine Cambridgeshire museums. Every town and city has their own way of presenting their local history and some of the smaller museums are just as fascinating as the larger city based ones. The largest and most famous museum in Cambridgeshire is undoubtedly the Fitzwilliam Museum in Cambridge. The Fitzwilliam is one of the finest museums you will find outside London and boasts one of the most spectacular art collections in the country. In 1968 the Standing Commission on Museums & Galleries described the museum as “one of the greatest art collections of the nation and a monument of the first importance”. As well as their fine collection of art and antiquities the museum also engages in regular exhibitions, events and courses meaning that there is something to see and do for all ages at all times of the year.

Admission to the museum is free although donations are gratefully received. If you want to take in everything the museum has to offer you should leave yourself a full day to explore all the collections. The Lion Yard Car Park is a good 15 minute walk from the museum if you are driving yourself. A taxi from the station to the museum should take no more then 10 minutes (traffic permitting) and cost around £8-£9 (€12-€14). Although not as expansive as the Fitzwilliam there are plenty of other very good Cambridgeshire museums. The Cromwell Museum in Huntingdon provides a fascinating insight into the life and times of Oliver Cromwell. Regarded as a hero by some and a tyrant by others, the museum presents a balanced view of the facts surrounding this intriguing man’s life and leaves the visitor to make up their own mind. If your visit is taking in the cathedral city of Ely you should definitely make time to pay a visit to Ely Museum. Situated in the old Bishop’s Goal just a few minutes walk from the Cathedral the museum gives an interesting glimpse into Ely’s transformation from an island in the fens surrounded by Eels (hence the name) to one of the South East’s major tourist destinations. Of particular interest to younger visitors is the section that covers the history of the Goal and some of the punishments dealt out by it’s former owners!

To find out more information on opening times and museums near your destination follow the link below: Cambridgeshire Museums