Milestones - Living History Museum

Historic Streets

Explore what life was like for Hampshire people in the past by wandering through Milestones’ old cobbled streets. And as you wander round you may also encounter some of our costumed characters. Enthusiasts will enjoy our collection of beautifully restored vintage vehicles - and so will kids of all ages!

 

If you prefer shopping you’ll be able to discover what shops used to be like before chain stores took over. You’ll probably recognise some of the things they sold, while others might leave you scratching your head about what they were actually for.

 

1940’s Sweet Shop

Buy an old penny and ration coupon at Reception and spend it in our 1940’s sweet shop to buy your own sweet ration.

 

In 1942 when sweet rationing was introduced people were only allowed 2oz (approx 56g) of sweets each, every week. Amongst their favourites were pear drops and sherbert lemons. What will you choose to spend your precious ration coupon on?    

 

Enjoy a pint             

The Baverstock Arms, our small traditional pub in Jubilee Street, has a very friendly atmosphere and opens at lunchtimes to serve teas, coffees, soft drinks and Gales ales. We occasionally even have a pianist tinkling the ivories.

 

The pub is named after Alton-born James Baverstock who was one of the first to use science to help improve the quality of ale – we salute him!

 

Housewives Choice

Our room sets from different decades will get you reminiscing about how we used to live and the everyday things we used "in the old days".

 

See how long it is before you start discussing whether ordinary homes really did have dishwashers in the 60’s or whatever happened to…

 

And try sharing your memories with the younger generation and watch their amusement – or disbelief!  

 

Vintage fans and designers will get lots of inspiration here too –  some things still seem very cool!

 

For further information please see the website.

Tue–Fri, Bank Hols, 10am–4.45pm

Sat and Sun, 11am–4.45pm

Last admission 3.45pm