A new home for the Museum

Wiltshire Museum and the Devizes Assize Court Trust are working together on an ambitious project to revitalise the Devizes Assize Court as the new home for the Wiltshire Museum and its internationally important collections. Our project ‘Assizes for Devizes: Unlocking Wiltshire's Stories’ aims to rescue the much-loved, Grade II* listed and ‘At Risk’ Devizes Assize Court and transform it into a world class cultural and community destination at the heart of Wiltshire.

The Museum’s collections span over 6,000 years of history, including Britain’s best Bronze Age archaeology collection. The constraints of our current location mean that we cannot do justice to these extraordinary collections and stories. A new home in the stunningly restored and historic Assize Court building will allow us to fulfil our Mission to care for, celebrate, and share the extraordinary story of Wiltshire's past.

The Devizes Assize Court building has a rich history of its own, dating back to the 19th century. The building's grand architecture and role in administering justice make it a prominent landmark in Devizes and central to Wiltshire’s story. Yet, it is in danger of being lost after decades of neglect.

Support from the National Lottery Heritage Fund

In June 2023 we received £300,748 of initial support from the National Lottery Heritage Fund to help us develop our plans, backed by other suporters including Devizes Town Council. Thanks to National Lottery Players, we have appointed a team of professional architects and designers to work with us on bringing our vision for the new building to life. Plans include two large, designated learning and event rooms, new galleries, a special display space capable of hosting national-standard exhibitions, and a café that makes use of the new open space behind the Assize Court.

What will happen next

We are applying in mid-2025 to The National Lottery Heritage Fund for a Delivery Phase grant to make the project happen. While we may be able to apply for £8 million, the project cost, still subject to detailed design work, is likely to be £14 million. We have some early confirmed pledges in place, but still have a target of over £4 million to raise, much of which will come from Trusts and Foundations.

If successful, work will start on the Assize Court building in 2026, with a target opening date of 2030.

How you can help us now

We will be running a major public fundraising campaign once we know that we have secured funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund and that the work can finally start! But we need your help now to enable us to make a successful application, to ensure the continuing success of Wiltshire Museum and the care of our important collections. There are many ways you can support us and make the new museum a success.

Become a member of Wiltshire Museum

• Join the Museum and know that you are making an invaluable contribution to the project. Includes free entry to Stonehenge and our Wessex Partner Museums. Sign up online at https://www.wiltshiremuseum.org.uk/membership/.

Already a member of the Museum?

• Already a member? Please consider upgrading your membership to Amber, Gold or Jadeite, which includes an extra donation. Email us on hello@wiltshiremuseum.org.uk to find out more.

Support ongoing costs and emergency repairs to the Devizes Assize Court

• Join the supporters of the Devizes Assize Court Trust to help keep the building safe before we can start restoration work. Become a member of our ‘22’ group, donating £2,000 every year for five years. To find out more, email info@devizesassizecourt.org.uk.

Leave a lasting legacy

• A gift in your legacy ensures that the Museum you love will have a vibrant future and generations to come will continue to enjoy and be inspired by its work and fabulous treasures.
• A legacy gift is the final chapter in a person’s life story – a reflection of their values, interests and experiences – and can support the Museum into its future.
• Visit the Legacy page on our website for more information and contact David Dawson, our Director, on 01380 727369 or david.dawson@wiltshiremuseum.org.uk.

  Major Gift

• • Are you able to help us with support that could be transformational in achieving our project aims? Contact David Dawson, our Director, on 01380 727369 or david.dawson@wiltshiremuseum.org.uk.