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Museum and heritage
To better showcase Watford's rich history and dynamic spirit, we plan to relocate the Museum of Watford, and its growing historical collection, to Watford Town Hall, including in its listed 1930s design ‘committee rooms’.
The move gives us a great opportunity to design a musuem that gives visitors a really exciting, interactive and memorable experience.
This move will foster connections with nearby cultural venues like the Colosseum and Watford Central Library, accommodate a broader range of visitors and allow us to open up the Museum for all our community to enjoy.
During the move, the Museum team will take the heritage service 'On Tour' across the town. Look out for dates and venues.
Museum proposals
We are excited to be sharing the proposals for the new Museum of Watford, and appreciate all the feedback received throughout 2023 and 2024 to shape these. We will keep you informed as these plans progress.
Gallery One: Introducing Watford
Using projection and sound, visitors embark on a sensory journey through Watford's history. This includes its ancient origins, the Industrial Revolution changes, and the football club's growth. The gallery centres on three objects:
- Pennant pub bar,
- Columbian printing press,
- Watford Observer Clock.
Voices and stories from community members will be woven throughout this immersive experience.
Gallery Two: Sporting Watford
Incorporating fans' insights, this vibrant gallery highlights Watford's sports heroes and institutions. It features the memorable moments and diverse fan communities of Watford FC, known as the 'Original Family Club'.
The gallery also animates the town's boxing legacy and showcases individuals and clubs across all levels, from the Buxton brothers and many more.
Rotating displays allow local sports groups and amateur teams to share their stories and achievements.
Gallery Three: We Are Watford
Gallery 3, in the former Council Committee Rooms, delves into Watford's diverse history. It aims to honour life, work, and leisure in Watford, focusing on its residents.
The gallery blends museum collection items with film, photos, personal narratives, and interactive elements. Your stories and artefact are crucial to making the museum distinct to Watford; so please connect with the museum team to share your experiences.
It also offers room for community members and groups to curate displays that explore diverse stories and perspectives, along with newly donated objects.
Future of Benskin House
The current museum building, Benskin House, is an important piece of Watford’s heritage and its Grade II listing will ensure it is preserved for future generations.
