About the Museum
Woodbridge Museum was founded in memory of Ruby Hayward, a passionate collector of “Woodbridgiana.” Ruby hoped her collection would one day form the basis of a town museum.
The Museum opened in 1982 on Market Hill in the historic heart of Woodbridge, with its first major exhibition focused on Sutton Hoo.
As visitor activity moved towards the riverside, a new home was sought. Thanks to the support of Woodbridge Town Council, the Museum relocated in 2018 to Whisstocks Place, a modern riverside building on the site of a former boatyard.
Close to the Tide Mill and overlooking Sutton Hoo, the Museum now sits within a lively community hub alongside cafés, restaurants, and the Longshed, where the Sutton Hoo Ship’s Company is recreating the Anglo-Saxon ship discovered in 1939.
Today, the Museum welcomes more than 20,000 visitors each year.
We Rely on Volunteers and Donations
Woodbridge Museum is run entirely by volunteers and supported by the generosity of our visitors. Every donation, large or small, helps us to preserve artefacts, host exhibitions, and keep the Museum open for everyone to enjoy.
If you’d like to support us, consider becoming a volunteer or making a donation during your visit. Your help keeps Woodbridge’s story alive.
Nice work, explorer - this feline’s been spotted!
Barge with Brown Sails
Historic Thames sailing barges with brown sails were often seen moored outside the iconic Tide Mill.
The barge is a popular subject for artists and photographers due to its picturesque setting and maritime heritage. The barges contribute to the unique character of Woodbridge’s waterfront. Known for it’s large, flat-bottomed hull and ability to navigate shallow waters it is ideal for journeys along the River Deben. The brown sails are a distinctive rusty-red colour created by traditional dressing.
A Glimpse of Local History
Barge with Brown Sails
Historic Thames sailing barges with brown sails often seen moored outside the iconic Tide Mill.
The barge is a popular subject for artists and photographers due to its picturesque setting and maritime heritage. The barges contribute to the unique character of Woodbridge’s waterfront. Known for it’s large, flat-bottomed hull and ability to navigate shallow waters it is ideal for journeys along the River Deben. The brown sails are a distinctive rusty-red colour created by traditional dressing of ochre, cod oil, urine and seawater.