Bourne Hall Museum

Bourne Hall Museum in Ewell offers one of Surrey’s most engaging local history experiences, set within the striking circular architecture of Bourne Hall. One of its most interesting facts is its strong connection to Ewell’s ancient past: many of the archaeological finds displayed here were uncovered just metres away, revealing Roman villas, Saxon settlements, and evidence of early ritual activity around the natural springs that gave the town its name. Inside, the museum traces Epsom and Ewell’s story from prehistory to the modern era. The Roman collection includes pottery, tools, and domestic objects that show how prosperous the area once was. Medieval displays highlight Ewell’s role as a farming community and its links to nearby religious houses. The Victorian and Edwardian sections feature domestic items, shop signs, and photographs that capture everyday life as the town expanded with rail travel and new industries. A highlight is the material linked to Epsom Salts, the mineral-rich water discovered locally in the 17th century that turned Epsom into one of England’s earliest spa towns. The museum also preserves artefacts from the borough’s military history, including items connected to local regiments and wartime life.