The museum is a thriving centre for the local community. It is housed within a converted 17th century cloth merchant's house with modern extensions and a reconstructed barn. The museum reopened in July 1999 after extensive refurbishment and includes an interactive auditorium. Many of the collections are on showfor the first time and tell the story of Wantage and its surrounding area. There are many hands-on activities, special events and temporary exhibitions. The Museum is supported by Wantage Town Council, Vale of the White Horse District Council and its many Friends and volunteers.