Welcome to the Museum of Ryde!
Step into the heart of Ryde’s vibrant past at the Museum of Ryde. Housed within a beautifully restored historic building, our museum offers a captivating journey through the events, people, and places that have shaped this unique Isle of Wight town. We are more than just a collection of artifacts; we are a living testament to Ryde’s enduring legacy.
A Grand Opening, A Rich Legacy
Our story truly began with a grand three-day celebration during the Royal Victorian Ryde 2011 weekend. It was then that our museum’s home, the once-empty basement of a significant Ryde building, was officially unveiled. A remarkable historical thread connects us directly to the past: Lady Lucinda Lambton, the three-times great-granddaughter of the renowned “Radical Jack” Lord Lambton, honoured us by attending. It was Lord Lambton himself who laid the building’s foundation stone back in May 1835 – a truly wonderful connection to Ryde’s early Victorian heritage!
The extensive refurbishment that brought this vision to life was generously supported by the Ryde Townscape Heritage Initiative, a joint effort funded by the Isle of Wight Council and the Heritage Lottery Fund. Thanks to this vital backing, the Museum of Ryde opened its doors to the public on Monday, August 15, 2011, ready to share its treasures.
Unearthing Ryde’s Secrets: The Historic Ice Well
Beyond our main exhibits, the Museum of Ryde holds a fascinating secret: a rare, internal ice well, hidden for many years within the building’s arcade. Discovered in October 2012, this incredible historical feature offers a unique glimpse into Georgian-era life and commerce in Ryde.
We are passionately working to fully restore and open this integral ice well for all to explore. Our vision is to recreate the bustling Georgian confectionery shop that would have once operated here, offering a truly immersive historical experience.
Help Us Bring History to Life: Support the Ice Well Fund
Your support is crucial in helping us complete the restoration of this remarkable ice well. By contributing to the Ice Well Fund, you can become a part of Ryde’s enduring heritage:
* £10: Have your name proudly displayed on a brick, or sponsor a foot’s length of our unique floor, crafted from recycled pier planks.
* £200: Dedicate a stair riser to your name, or that of a loved one, leading visitors down into the museum – a lasting tribute.
Every donation, large or small, helps us preserve and share Ryde’s rich history. Please consider contributing and help us spread the word!
Become a Guardian of History: Volunteer at the Museum
The Museum of Ryde thrives thanks to the dedication of our incredible volunteers. Their passion keeps Ryde’s stories alive, and their efforts have even earned us awards from the Isle of Wight Community Action group in 2012 and 2013!
We offer a wide range of rewarding volunteer opportunities, both front-of-house and behind the scenes. Whether you’re keen to greet visitors, help with research, assist with exhibitions, or even lend a hand with practical tasks like painting or organizing, there’s a role for you.
No prior experience is needed – we provide full training! Volunteering is a fantastic way to learn new skills, meet like-minded people, and contribute directly to your community’s heritage.
Ready to Join Us?
If you’d like to make a difference, please reach out:
* Email: admin@historicrydesociety.com
* Phone: 01983 717435 (during opening hours)
* Or contact us via the website.
We’d love to hear from you!
Plan Your Visit & Group Experiences
The Museum of Ryde is a wonderful educational resource for schools, youth groups, and local interest societies. We welcome groups of all ages and can tailor visits to suit your specific interests and curriculum needs.
* School & Youth Groups: Engage young minds with interactive learning about Ryde’s past. Risk assessment forms and activity worksheets are available upon request.
* Community & Interest Groups: Discover fascinating local history. We can even arrange engaging presentations or coffee mornings at your chosen venue.
Organisers are always welcome to visit the museum free of charge to discuss your requirements and plan the perfect historical experience.
To arrange a group visit or discuss an outreach presentation, please contact us directly at the museum.
Community & Creativity: Ryde’s “Saucy” Side
The Historic Ryde Society isn’t just about preserving the past; it’s about connecting with the community in engaging and sometimes unexpected ways!
In 2011, we teamed up with James from the Donald McGill Postcard Museum to bring a touch of classic seaside humour to Ryde. Our founder member, Lynne Gregory Phillips, created four delightful boards reminiscent of the iconic, saucy seaside postcards by the late Donald McGill.
Thanks to the support of local businessman Wayne Whittle and his staff, and Wightlink, these popular displays have brought smiles to countless faces during successful summer seasons, adding a unique and playful element to Ryde’s historical landscape.