DEVIZES is proud to be the home of the Wiltshire Heritage Museum, which houses one of just 62 collections nationally which the Government has officially designated as outstanding.

Housed in two Georgian houses in Long Street, the museum is owned and run by the Wiltshire Archaeological and Natural History Society, which recently celebrated its 150th anniversary.

The museum's collections trace the history of Wiltshire and its people from the earliest times to the present day in eight galleries.

Its Bronze Age collection is particularly fine and is thought to be the best of its kind outside London. Many of the artefacts were discovered in excavations undertaken by society members in the county.

There are also galleries dealing with the Neolithic period, the Roman occupation, the birth and development of Devizes as a town and the flora and fauna which you are likely to find in the area.

You will also see stuffed Great Bustards, which became extinct in Wiltshire in the early 19th century and are now the subject of a reintroduction programme taking place not far from the town.

The museum also houses a magnificent library, holding a comprehensive collection of books, journals, manuscripts and photographs relating to the archaeology, genealogy and history of the county.

There is also an art gallery within the museum and special exhibitions are held throughout the year, some of them featuring the work of esteemed local artists who are recognised internationally.

The hard-working museum staff hold occasional family days, usually on a Sunday, when re-enactment groups like the Ermine Street Guard and The Sealed Knot show visitors what it was like to be living at particular periods in local history.

The museum shop is worth a visit, stocking a wide selection of books, cards and souvenirs.

Entry to the museum is free on Sundays and Mondays and free to children at all times. There is a charge for adults on Tuesday to Friday and for the use of the library. There are charges for some special events.

Much of the ground floor of the museum is accessible to wheelchair users with assistance. The librarian provides a service on the ground floor for those unable to go upstairs.

Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 10am to 5pm. Sunday and most bank holidays noon to 4pm. For more information, ring (01380) 727369 or e-mail wanhs@wiltshireheritage.org.uk