Kent Police Museum opens at new home in Faversham

More than 150 years of policing history will be on display when the new Kent Police Museum opens its doors in Faversham.

Kent Police Chief Constable Alan Pughsley will be joined by Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Scott, Mayor of Faversham Councillor Alison Reynolds and members of the National Association of Retired Police Officers at the official launch at Faversham Police Station on Friday 8 October 2021.

Previously, the museum was situated at Chatham Dockyard, but thanks to a grant from the Kent Police Property Fund work has now completed at its new home of Faversham Police Station in Church Road.

Originally built in 1904, it will give the public access to its atmospheric original cells.

Visitors can also expect to see a collection of artefacts, memorabilia, photographs and documents as well as interactive displays and exhibitions charting the history of Kent Police.

Chief Constable Alan Pughsley said: ‘I am delighted that we have been able to find a new home for the museum. It is important that the public are able to see the difference between the early days of policing and our operations now. And yet, over 160 years later, those foundations still align with many of our foundations today.

‘We continue to embrace the concept of policing by consent and our vision, that Kent is a safe place for people to live, work and visit is as important in 2021 as it was then.’

Museum Curator Paul Upton said: ‘The opening of the museum in its new home is the culmination of many years work. We have produced a contemporary exciting visitor experience that makes maximum use of the limited space and historic nature of the building.

‘We hope that it will help visitors discover the rich and diverse history of policing in the county.’

Police and Crime Commissioner for Kent, Matthew Scott said: ‘I’m really pleased to see the museum re-open. It’s such an important place, helping to tell the Kent Police story to future generations, as well as our own staff and the general public.

‘It’s easy to forget how far we’ve come and how much policing has changed, even in a very short time. With so many fascinating exhibits, I’m sure we’ll all learn something from a museum visit.’

Opening hours

The museum will be open to the public three days a week (Thursday to Saturday 10-4pm) from Thursday 14 October 2021, entry is free but booking is essential. Large group bookings are also welcome Monday to Wednesday. Contact the curator Paul Upton.

To book your visit, click here.