A much-loved Somerset attraction is set to close for around three months this winter while essential repairs and improvements are carried out on the historic building.
The Museum of Somerset, which is housed within the Grade I listed Taunton Castle, will close completely to visitors from December 1.
It is expected to reopen in late February or early March 2027, although the precise date will depend on when the work in completed.
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The closure forms part of a phased programme designed to protect the historic building and its prized collections.
Shutting the doors to visitors will also allow the museum team to prepare for an ambitious new exhibition opening next year.
The most significant part of the works will involve replacing the deteriorating floor in the museum’s Great Hall, which has been damaged by damp.
The existing floor will be removed before the underlying structure is prepared. A new damp-proof membrane, subfloor system and floor surface will then be installed.
Other parts of the museum will also be enhanced with new displays, including the welcome area, shop and café.
"Significant deterioration" of Great Hall floor requires repairs
Sam Astill, chief executive of the South West Heritage Trust, said: “These works are essential to protecting one of Somerset's most important historic buildings and the remarkable collections it houses.
“The replacement of the Great Hall floor will address significant deterioration caused by damp and is a vital investment in the future of the Grade I listed Taunton Castle. By undertaking this work now, we can help safeguard the building and its collections for generations to come."
Mr Astill added: “We're looking forward to welcoming visitors back in 2027 to enjoy these improvements and to experience our biggest exhibition to date, which will tell the story of the nationally significant Chew Valley Hoard.
"It promises to be a landmark year for the Museum of Somerset."
Museum closure dates confirmed
Before the full closure begins, parts of the museum will become unavailable during November.
From November 3 to 28, the Great Hall, including the Foundations Stones Gallery and Claiming the Land Gallery, will be closed while collections are carefully removed ahead of the work.
However, visitors will still be able to explore most of the museum, use the Courtyard Café and see the Royal Photographic Society International Photography Exhibition 167.
The entire museum will then close from December 1 while contractors carry out the improvement work.
Although the main building will be unavailable, Santa’s Grotto will continue throughout December in the Almshouse Grotto and Castle House.
The closure period will also be used to prepare an exhibition featuring coins from the nationally significant Chew Valley Hoard. The exhibition is due to open in 2027.
During the closure, the museum are encouraging members of the public to visit other sites managed by the South West Heritage Trust, including the Somerset Rural Life Museum in Glastonbury, Avalon Archaeology at Shapwick and the Somerset Brick and Tile Museum in Bridgwater.
Christmas events are also due to be held at those attractions throughout the festive season. Further information is available through the Museum of Somerset website.
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