Discover Elmbridge’s history with free community Museum exhibitions

Elmbridge Museum’s current programme of community exhibitions explores three key periods in the borough’s history: Roman Britain, the Tudor era and the Second World War, as well as celebrating 117 years of Elmbridge Museum. 

Residents are invited to discover local stories, objects and memories at libraries across the borough and at the Civic Centre in Esher, with all exhibitions free to visit during normal opening hours. 

What’s on and where 

Echoes of War 

Where: Civic Centre, off High Street, Esher KT10 9SD 
Visiting hours: Monday to Friday, 9:30am to 4:30pm 
On display until: end of August 2026 

‘Echoes of War’ has been curated to mark the 80th anniversaries of Victory in Europe Day and Victory over Japan Day. This project was supported using public funding by the UK Government through Arts Council England. 

Visitors can explore authentic Second World War artefacts from Elmbridge Museum’s collection, including uniforms and everyday objects that highlight life on the Home Front across the borough. 

Echoes of War: Life on the Home Front 

Where: Dittons Library, Mercer Close, Thames Ditton KT7 0BS 
Visiting hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 9:30am to 5pm 
On display until: end of August 2026 

This companion exhibition echoes the main ‘Echoes of War’ display at the Civic Centre, focusing more closely on everyday life on the Home Front. 

Alongside visiting the displays at the Civic Centre and Dittons Library, you can also explore the exhibition online.  

117 Years of Elmbridge Museum 

Where: Weybridge Library Hub, Church Street, Weybridge KT13 8DE 
Visiting hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 9:30am to 5pm 
On display until: 6 July 2026 

This display celebrates Elmbridge Museum’s 117-year history, highlighting its role in preserving, sharing and celebrating the borough’s heritage since its founding in 1909. Discover the key people, objects and moments that have shaped the Museum and Elmbridge’s story. You can also retrace the Museum’s journey online.  

Roman Cobham 

Where: Cobham Library, Cedar Centre, Cedar Road, Cobham KT11 2AA 
Visiting hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 9:30am to 5pm 
On display until: 20 July 2026 

In 1942, the remains of a Roman bathhouse were discovered at Chatley Farm on the outskirts of Cobham. This exhibition invites visitors to explore Roman life in the local area, including work, culture and everyday practices. Explore the exhibition online. 

Excavating Oatlands 

Where: Walton Library, 54 The Heart (off Hepworth Way), Walton-on-Thames KT12 1GH 
Visiting hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 9:30am to 5pm 
On display until: August 2026 

From pipkin pots to clay tobacco pipes, this exhibition shines a light on the vital role of amateur archaeology in preserving local heritage. It offers a rare glimpse into life at Oatlands Palace during the Tudor period. 

You can also explore the online exhibition or watch a video explaining the story behind the discoveries.   

Don’t miss: 

A free talk on Excavating Oatlands at Walton Library during Surrey Day 2026, celebrating this year’s themes ‘Going Underground’ and ‘Uncovering Surrey’s Hidden Treasures’. 

Date: Tuesday 5 May 2026 | Time: 10:30am  

Find out more and book online or purchase a ticket in person at Walton Library. Walton Library and Elmbridge Museum look forward to welcoming you. 

For more information about other exhibitions, collections and services, visit Elmbridge Museum.