Bognor Regis Museum: A Treasure Trove of History and Fun
Are you ready for a blast from the past? If so, you’ll be delighted to hear that the Bognor Regis Museum is reopening at 10am on Saturday the 1st of April. This charming and quirky museum is packed with fascinating exhibits that will take you on a journey through thechistory of our fabulous seaside town and beyond.
What can you expect to see at the museum? Well, for starters, you can marvel at the new display marking the forthcoming coronation of King Charles, and learn about the role of Bognor Regis in the Mulberry harbours project during World War II. These artificial harbours were used to support the Allied invasion of Normandy in 1944, and some of their remnants can still be seen on the beach today¹.
You can also enjoy a nostalgic trip down memory lane with the collection of vintage toys, cameras, radios, and kitchenware. The Ron Simpson Wireless Collection is named after a former curator who bequeathed his extensive collection of old radios to the museum. You’ll be amazed by how much technology has changed over the years.
But that’s not all. The museum also boasts a brand new display area, dubbed the Beach House, which features an original, full sized bathing machine. The machine was once used to preserve the dignity of lords and ladies as they visited the beach, and now takes pride of place as part of the new exhibition space. You’ll also find a special display celebrating the 60th anniversary of the filming of The Punch & Judy Man in Bognor Regis in 1963. This comedy film starred Tony Hancock as a struggling puppeteer who clashes with his wife and the local council over his seaside show. You can see some of the original props and costumes from the film, as well as photos and memorabilia.
And if you’re a fan of David Bowie, you won’t want to miss the full-size poster promoting his gig in Bognor Regis in 1967. It’s a perfect spot for a selfie, even if the gig-location details are not entirely accurate. But as they say, why let facts get in the way of a good story?
The Bognor Regis Museum is more than just a museum. It’s a place where you can discover the unique treasures and stories of this town and its people. It’s a place where you can have fun and learn something new. It’s a place where you can experience history come alive.
So don’t miss this opportunity to visit one of the best attractions in Bognor Regis. You’ll be glad you did.
The museum is located on West Street, just off the seafront, and is open from Tuesday to Saturday, 10am to 4pm, plus Bank Holiday Mondays until the 30th November. Admission is free, but donations are welcome to help keep this wonderful attraction running. You can also visit the museum from the comfort of your own home with their virtual 3D tour: http://www.bognormuseum.org/virtual-tour.html
