Court Hall Museum
email: courthallmuseum@hotmail.com
phone: 01797 226642
Museum Opening 2025
The Museum is now closed for the winter and will reopen in April 2025
Welcome
The Court Hall Museum contains displays and exhibits that illustrate the history of the ‘Ancient Town of Winchelsea’.
The museum is housed in a single large room on the first floor of the Court Hall in the High Street. It is one of the oldest buildings in the town.
Exhibits include maps, models, pictures, local pottery and items relating to daily life in the town and its surrounding area.
Wall Panels list Mayors from 1295 to the present day
One of our most noteworthy features is the list of Mayors of Winchelsea shown on a series of oak boards. This list, far fuller than that of most towns, is complete from 1430, and is partially complete from 1295 when Mayors first replaced the King’s Bailiffs. The boards are a matter of great pride to the Museum and were presented to the town by G M Freeman. It was here in the Upper Court Hall from 1665 to 2019 that new Mayors were elected every Easter Monday and took their seat beneath the great roll of their predecessors. The Mayoring Ceremony now takes place in Winchelsea Church.
Accessibility
The Museum is located on the first level of the Court Hall and access is via steps. Unfortunately, this would prohibit access to those in wheelchairs, as there is no other entry to the Museum.
Group and School Visits
We welcome group visits of all kinds. For schools we are able to accommodate small groups of up to 15 with an appropriate helper/ child ratio.