Exhibitions

Special Exhibition Gallery: What People Wore

A look at fashion from the Regency to Edwardian period, and beyond to the 1970s. 

Featuring men's, women's and children's clothing and accessories with representative examples of shoes, hats, gloves, umbrellas and parasols, and fans. There are also wedding dresses, decorative waistcoats and christening gowns. 

The garments on display are made from a wide range of fabrics and many are ornately decorated, including a crystal-embellished Christian Dior evening gown. Several have local provenance from the Dover district, thus reflecting life in the area over the last two centuries.

Includes some of the Salter Collection from Deal Costume and Accessories Museum (open 1984 - 1998). 

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Queen of the Waves

A special stairwell exhibition marking the 100th anniversary of Gertrude Ederle’s historic achievement as the first woman to swim the English Channel.

A century after Ederle’s remarkable crossing in 1926, this exhibition celebrates her courage, determination and enduring influence on women’s sport and the history of open-water swimming.

The exhibition will showcase objects, contemporary photographs, and memorabilia that bring Ederle’s extraordinary accomplishment to life for a new generation.

Visitors unable to access the stairwell can borrow a printed copy of the exhibition panels from the front desk.

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Stairwell Exhibition: Channel Swimming

Permanent exhibition on the rear stairwell with tales of this amazing feat of endurance from Captain Matthew Webb in 1875 to the present day.

Visitors unable to access the stairs can borrow copies of the exhibition panels from the front desk.