×
4.5/5 out of 120,849 reviews

Food Museum

Food Museum Stowmarket

Food Museum

In the heart of Suffolk, nestled within the charming town of Stowmarket, lies the Food Museum, a captivating destination that offers a delightful journey through the history of farming and food production in East Anglia. Spread across an expansive 84-acre estate, this museum is a treasure trove of historical buildings, interactive exhibits, and engaging activities that celebrate the region's rich agricultural heritage.

The History of the Food Museum

The roots of the Food Museum stretch back to medieval times, when the land was part of the Abbot’s Hall estate, an outlying manor for St Osyth's Priory in Essex. Over the centuries, it passed through numerous owners until it was purchased by the Longe family in 1903. The museum's story began in earnest when farmer Jack Carter, the Suffolk Local History Council, and other enthusiasts began collecting and preserving objects from rural East Anglia.

In 1967, Vera and Ena Longe generously donated 1.38 acres of land, including a Grade II* Medieval Barn, to establish a permanent site for the museum. By 1970, the rest of their land, including 75 acres of farmland and the Grade II* listed Abbot’s Hall, was placed in trust to become part of the museum. The full estate was officially leased to the museum in 2004 following the deaths of the Longe sisters. In April 2022, the museum was fittingly renamed The Food Museum to reflect its focus on the farming and food production industries.

Exploring the Museum's Buildings

The Food Museum boasts an impressive array of buildings, each with its unique story and significance. The William Bone Gallery, a modern addition, hosts the museum's annual exhibition programme and features a demonstration kitchen where visitors can witness culinary magic in action. Abbot's Hall, a beautiful Queen Anne house, offers a fascinating exploration of the concept of home in East Anglia, with each room telling a different tale.

Edgar's Farmhouse, a 14th-century aisled farmhouse from Combs, was the first historic building to be re-erected on the museum site. This Grade II* listed building, saved from demolition in 1970, stands as a testament to the region's architectural heritage. The Crowe Street Cottages, the last pair of workers' cottages remaining as part of the Abbot's Hall Estate, have been preserved to offer a glimpse into the lives of dairy workers.

The Boby Building is a haven for enthusiasts of agricultural machinery and craftsmanship, featuring exhibitions of agricultural engines, individual craft workshops, and a working printing press. The Eastbridge Windpump, a 19th-century windpump used for land drainage, and the Alton Watermill, an 18th-century watermill that once ground corn, are marvels of historical engineering, meticulously reassembled on the museum grounds.

Restoration and Development

The museum has continually evolved, thanks to generous grants and dedicated efforts. In 2012, a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund enabled the renovation of Abbot's Hall and Crowe Street Cottages. The project was completed in April 2012, and the restored buildings were officially opened in June of the same year. Abbot's Hall now features nine exhibition spaces that delve into the themes of home and belonging in East Anglia, alongside temporary exhibitions.

In 2018, the museum embarked on a rebranding journey, culminating in its new identity as The Food Museum in 2022. This transformation included the restoration of Alton Watermill and Eastbridge Windpump to working order, the construction of a Farm Barn to house the museum's collection of farming equipment, and the refurbishment of the William Bone Gallery. The museum's development continues with plans for new visitor facilities, the conservation of the Medieval Barn, and the creation of additional exhibition spaces.

Engaging Events and Activities

The Food Museum offers a vibrant programme of events and activities that cater to visitors of all ages. Daily talks, tours, and activities focus on farming, animals, and cooking, providing hands-on experiences that bring the museum's exhibits to life. Cooking workshops, family activities, and large events throughout the year ensure there's always something exciting happening at the museum.

Since 1996, the Food Museum has hosted the annual Festival of Beer and Brewing, a celebration of beer and cider from independent breweries. The museum is also home to the Primadonna Festival, an inclusive literature festival held each summer, and the East Anglian Storytelling Festival. Previously, the museum hosted the Stowblues Festival in partnership with BBC Radio Suffolk and the East Anglian Living History Fayre in collaboration with Black Knight Historical.

In conclusion, the Food Museum in Stowmarket is not just a museum; it's an immersive experience that celebrates the rich agricultural heritage of East Anglia. With its historic buildings, engaging exhibits, and lively events, it offers a fascinating journey through the history of farming and food production. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a food lover, or simply looking for a unique and educational day out, the Food Museum is a must-visit destination that promises to delight and inspire.

Scavenger hunts in Stowmarket

2 years
redeemable 365 days/year
4,888
in over 4,888 cities

Give an exciting experience to your loved ones

myCityHunt vouchers are the perfect gift for many occasions! Surprise your friends and family with this extraordinary event gift. myCityHunt gift vouchers are valid for 2 years from the date of purchase and can be used within this period for a freely selectable city and tour from the myCityHunt portfolio.

Buy Gift Vouchers

What our customers say