The Museum & Heritage Centre

The Museum and Heritage Centre is run by West End Local History Society and occupies the former fire station on the High Street in West End, a village on the edge of Southampton in Hampshire. The building was designed to match the nearby houses in Orchards Way and sits within a conservation area, so the visit starts with the setting as much as the displays. Inside, the collection is an ever-growing archive of local material, including old maps, directories and photographs of the area, which gives children and parents a clear picture of how the village looked and worked in earlier times. It suits families with an interest in local history, school projects about the local area, or a short, low-key outing that does not need a long itinerary. Entry is free, and the museum is open on Saturdays, so it is a simple option for a weekend trip. Check the site before travelling, as opening arrangements can change.