Topsham Museum

Topsham from the Foreshore – by Primrose Vera Pitman (1902-1998)

The oldest part of 25 Strand, the Merchant’s House, has substantial structural defects requiring extensive repairs to roof trusses, floor joists, lintels, windows and shutters. While repairs are ongoing the Museum cannot open to the public. You can download the detailed planning statement which explains the problems and their repairs.

Listed building consent is required for these works and was approved by the Exeter City Council Planning Committee on 28 May 2025. More information will be posted on this page whenever we have news of progress.

The Museum is housed in one of a group of late 17^th century buildings overlooking the Exe Estuary. Visitors can enjoy the furnished period rooms of the original Merchant’s House and the exhibits in the Sail Loft. Displays give a timeline of the town’s general history with much of the Museum’s focus on Topsham’s maritime history, in its role as a trade port and shipbuilding centre. Exhibits also include unique historic river craft, local trades and organisations and wildlife of the Exe Estuary. You can also see memorabilia of the film star Vivien Leigh and discover why these can be found in Topsham Museum. Follow the links to see more, or jump to our latest news.

Visit

How to find us. Explore collections and exhibitions, enjoy the garden, savour a cream tea, browse the shop. Discover Topsham walks and Museum guided tours and group visits.

What’s On

There are permanent and temporary Museum exhibitions, lectures, guided walks, special events and family activities. There’s also a 24/7 virtual tour and online exhibitions.

Collections

The Museum boasts collections related to Topsham’s past – a Roman settlement, the medieval charter, maritime history and local trade. Some of our collections can be seen online.

Learning

Discover Topsham’s unique history: browse the reference library, research local and family history. We host group visits and we can provide visiting speakers.

About Us

A member of a local ship-building family, Dorothy Holman, established the Museum in her own house, bequeathing it to the Town. Discover our history and read about our aims.

Support Us

The Museum is volunteer-run and maintained, and entry is free to all. It is funded by membership subscriptions and donations. We welcome new volunteers and members.

Secret Gardens of Topsham

Entry Programmes are now on sale for the 2025 SECRET GARDENS OF TOPSHAM. No fewer than 15 secret gardens, normally completely private...

This illustrated talk provides a fascinating insight into the artist's personal and physical relationship with the landscape and his ‘love affair’ with the Exe Estuary.

Hear about the life and times of William S. Lindsay, Victorian politician, envoy and one of the largest shipowners of the 1850s.