Epping Forest District Museum
📍 Waltham Abbey, East of England
Free museum in a Grade II* listed building from 1485, with interactive exploration kits including torches, magnifying glasses, and adventure waistcoats. Collections include King Harold's battle axe and woolly mammoth tusks.
🏆 Funzaroo Verdict
Best for families with younger children who engage more with exploration than passive display. The adventure waistcoats and torch kits transform a standard museum visit into an active hunt through the collections. Families with toddlers report a relaxed atmosphere with no pressure to keep children quiet.
ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go
💬 What Families Are Saying
View all reviews →139 Google reviews
G Reviews from Google
HeccTech
8 months ago
“Really enjoyed the visit to this Museum, learned and saw so many interesting things. I advise anyone visiting to donate to the Museum so it can be kept open.”
Gillian Nash
11 months ago
“Good for local history, local artists (eg. Walter Spragg). Interesting building, previously residential, until 1970s-ish.”
Andrew Cartwright
3 years ago
“This museum was advertised as telling the story of the people of the Epping Forest District, so we did think it might be a bit too much for our two small people - thankfully we didn't need to worry! Yes there is some stories and history of the area, but rather randomly there is other stuff like the current exhibition on mummified animals. For the kids, there are a few activities, and the opportunity to grab a torch and magnifying glass (and an adventure waistcoat) and look round the museum. The museum feels fairly laid back, which again is useful when your brining kids to visit! We all enjoyed the museum and spent more time than we originally expected - extra bonus - it's FREE to enter!”
💬 What parents mention
Overview
Housed in a Tudor building dating from 1485, this free museum holds King Harold's battle axe, the Waltham Abbey Bible, woolly mammoth tusks, local paintings, and costumes. Staff provide children with torches, magnifying glasses, and adventure waistcoats to explore artefacts hands-on. Changing exhibitions and themed event days — Saxon days, Punch and Judy — add variety for repeat visits.
