Kingston Museum
About This Museum
People often wander into Kingston Museum with a simple goal: to uncover the story of this historic market town. But what they discover is a fascinating journey that pivots around one of its most famous sons, the photographic pioneer Eadweard Muybridge. His groundbreaking motion-capture sequences are on display, showing galloping horses and athletes in motion, which feel surprisingly modern. The rest of the collection weaves together local archaeology, art, and artifacts that paint a vivid picture of life here through the centuries. It’s a wonderfully intimate museum that connects a global legacy to its very specific hometown roots.
Collection Highlights
The star attraction is undoubtedly the Eadweard Muybridge gallery, featuring his original zoopraxiscope and the sequential photographs that proved a horse *does* lift all four feet off the ground at a gallop. You can also find beautiful watercolours by John Gendall and an intriguing 'Keepership' badge from the reign of Charles I.
Visitor Information
It's tucked away just behind the main library on Wheatfield Way, so it's easy to miss but absolutely worth seeking out. Best of all? Admission is completely free, making it a perfect spot for a spontaneous cultural pit-stop.
Architecture & Building
Housed in an elegant Edwardian baroque building of red brick and Portland stone, it has that classic, dignified presence you'd expect from a turn-of-the-century municipal treasure.
Contact & Location
Address: Wheatfield Way, Norbiton, Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames, London, Greater London, England, KT1 2PD, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 20 8547 6440
Website: Visit Website
