Visit our Museum
Admission to the Museum is included with the English Heritage entrance fee to Carisbrooke Castle. The English Heritage Website gives further details of current prices.
Please note: Carisbrooke Castle is managed by English Heritage, separately from Carisbrooke Castle Museum, which is managed by an independent Charitable Trust. Visit the English Heritage Carisbrooke Castle webpage for Castle contact details, opening times and admission information.
Carisbrooke Castle Museum is the oldest Museum on the Isle of Wight and was established in 1898 by HRH Princess Beatrice, Queen Victoria’s youngest daughter. Founded as a ‘treasury of objects illustrating the history of the island’, the Museum now cares for over 37,000 items connected with Isle of Wight history.
Carisbrooke Castle Museum is an independent charity and relies heavily on donations.
Please Support Us!
Attend Exciting Events
From exclusive talks to local creators shows, we offer a variety of events that everyone can enjoy.
Support Our Mission
Please support us by making a donation to help the Museum collect, care for and display the Isle of Wight’s past.
TALKS AND TOURS
Discover the rich history of the Isle of Wight through our engaging talks and guided tours. .
Our upcoming event
Roman Vectis – an archaeology of past and present identity in the Isle of Wight – David Tomalins
Discover the history of the Isle of Wight’s roman past with ‘Roman Vectis’ author Professor David Tomalin.
Vectensian identity bemuses every Islander and visitor stepping from a Southern Vectis bus. Hidden in the soil of the Isle of Wight is a story of independent and highly resourceful islanders, ready to take advantage of every opportunity on land on sea. Join Professor David Tomalin as he shares the story of past Vectensian life and gives an entertaining account of some present-day ideas of Vectensian identity. There will also be an opportunity to buy the book ‘Roman Vectis’ signed by the author, in his own words “to solve everyone’s problem of finding that Christmas gift!”
Dr Tracy Borman writes – ‘Impeccably researched and wonderfully illustrated, this book is a must for anyone wishing to explore the island’s rich history’.
Please note: Gates open from 1.30pm – 1.50pm with the talk starting at 2pm.
A car park is situated 50-100 meters from the museum building. Designated disabled parking bays are available close to the castle entrance. If you have any additional needs or have any questions, please contact the museum before booking tickets on 01983 523112 or email info@carisbrookecastlemuseum.org.uk.
Tickets £5 – All proceeds support the work of Carisbrooke Castle Museum.
Explore the Museum
Discover the historical beauty of Carisbrooke Castle Museum
Lower Gallery
Occupying the former medieval hall at the heart of the Governor’s House, this gallery tells the story of Carisbrooke Castle through six of it’s most famous inhabitants.
Upper Gallery
Occupying the upper floor of the Governor’s House, these galleries display objects from the museum’s collection which tell the stories of the people, places and ways of living from the Isle of Wight’s past.
King Charles Bedroom
During Charles’s imprisonment at Carisbrooke, this room was used as his bedroom. He was moved to another, more secure, room after his first, failed, escape attempt.
We are looking for a new Trustee with a focus on the Museum finances.
On sale at the Museum
100 Treasures and Curiosities from the Collection of Carisbrooke Castle Museum
The Lady of the Wight
The life of Isabella de Fortibus
Roman Vectis
Archaeology & Identity in the Isle of Wight
ResinArt By Holly
Locally made work, which utilises colours inspired by the natural beauty of our planet and beyond.
Isle of Wight Beach Treasures
Handmade seaglass pictures and jewellery made on the Isle of Wight
Available Light Gallery & Gifts
The home of Isle of Wight pictures, featuring landscape photos, seascapes and night time images
Support Our Museum
Help Us Preserve History
