Allhallows Museum of Lace and Local Antiquities, Honiton, Devon
If you’re mooching about in Honiton when you’re on your large group holiday in Devon, pop along to Allhallows Museum of Lace and Local Antiquities to check out the history of the town and what’s shaped it over the years. The biggest thing is lace – the famous Honiton Lace that was used on Queen Victoria’s wedding dress and on the jabot and cuffs of the ceremonial regalia worn by the Speaker of the House of Commons. At one time most of the townswomen were engaged in the lace trade, turning out intricate designs where one square centimetre could take up to five hours to make.
The other thing the town is known for is its Honiton Pottery, which was exported all over the world up until the Second World War and is still collectable today. Other displays include war time memorabilia, geological finds and old toys, including an impressive mid-Victorian dolls house, a tiny, tiny world full of detail – but sadly, you’re not allowed to play with it!
Open: Mon-Fri 9.30am-4.30pm Sat 9.30am-1.00pm Closed Sundays
T: 01404 44966 All information correct at the time of writing