Much Wenlock Museum reaches 50,000 visitors milestone
This week a significant milestone has been passed, with Much Wenlock Museum welcoming its 50,000th visitor since reopening in early February (2012), after a comprehensive refurbishment paid for by the Heritage Lottery Fund and Shropshire Council.
All through the year journalists around the world have been visiting the town to write about, film and report on what turned out to be the most covered place outside London. As a result, thousands of extra visitors came to see where the Olympics had their British roots and hear about the work of Dr William Penny Brookes in the 19th century.
The town of Much Wenlock entered 2012 with an acute sense of anticipation as this was predicted to be one of the most important years in the town’s history. Over £1.4 million was invested in improving the experience of visitors to the town, as well as promoting the link with the heritage of the Olympics.
The refurbished museum became the focal point for visitors wishing to learn more about the town’s links with the Games. The London Olympic mascot was named ‘Wenlock’ to honour the connection and became the town’s ‘calling card’ with the world’s media.
Mike Owen, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member responsible for tourism and culture, was delighted by the news. He commented:
“I am so pleased for the team who have worked very hard this year to look after the extra visitors. To reach 50,000 visitors before the change to winter opening hours is a real achievement and also brought significant expenditure in to the town.”
The Museum continues to open daily until the end of October 2012 from 10.30am -1pm and 1.30am – 4pm.
Admission is free. The winter opening hours from November 2012 will be listed soon on www.muchwenlockmuseum.co.uk
