HALLATON MUSEUM

Hallaton Museum first opened its doors in 1977. At that time it was the smallest museum in Leicestershire but has recently lost that distinction.

It was the inspiration of Mrs Honoria Whigham who wanted to record for future generations a way of life in a small village community which was rapidly changing.

To this end a great variety of artefacts were gathered to form the nucleus of an historic local collection and a display was mounted each year.

Subsequently a group of people became interested in village history and from the research generated by this group of enthusiasts a different exhibition was mounted annually. It became a challenge to present Hallaton history in an interesting, friendly, and 'hands on' way in such a small space. The fact that we have been so successful is supported by the number of awards we have won over the years.

Such diverse subjects as 'Hallaton at War', 'Hallaton Charities', 'Underground Hallaton', 'Hallaton School', 'From Field to Table', 'Hallaton Horsefairs' and 'Blacklead and Beeswax' have been presented.

We were fortunate to be awarded a grant by the heritage Lottery Fund to research and present a display devoted solely to Hallaton's ancient tradition of Bottle-Kicking and Hare-pie Scrambling and for the first time the presentation was handled by professionals with research by committee members.

The award winning 2007 exhibition featuring Hallaton Railway entitled 'Before Beeching' is remaining for 2008 and opens over the Easter weekend and thereafter from 3rd May every Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holiday from 2.30 to 5.00 pm until the end of October.

Hallaton Museum is a registered charity with special commitment to education. We are always happy to open specially for groups and if wished, to include a village tour/talk. A small fee is charged for this.

At present entry to the museum is free but donations are very gratefully accepted.

The museum is situated in Hog Lane, off the High Street.