Oliver Cromwell was born in Huntingdon on April 25th 1599. Since his death as Lord Protector in 1658 his life, ambitions, motives and actions have been the subject of scholarly investigation and intense, often vitriolic, debate.
A 16th-century building with rooms displayed to reflect the lives of the families who have lived here through history. Of particular interest are a Tudor bedroom and dining-room, Victorian kitchen, scullery and parlour, and the Conspiracy Room, where the trial and execution of King Charles I was allegedly plotted. There is also a special children's room with replica toys and there are hands-on activities throughout the house.
One of England's greatest painters, Gainsborough was as much a master of landscape as portraits. The collection at Gainsborough's House includes fine paintings, drawings and etchings from throughout Gainsborough's career.
This early 16th-century timber-framed building overlooks and dominates the town's market place. Inside are exhibitions on local history, farming and industry, as well as the story of the medieval woollen cloth trade. There is also an attractive walled garden with dye plants, and 19th-century lock-up and mortuary.
The story of the people and horses involved in racing from its Royal origins to Lester Piggott, Frankie Dettori and other modern heroes. Highlights include: the head of Persimmon, a great Royal Derby winner in 1896; a special display about Fred Archer, the late Victorian jockey who committed suicide, which features the pistol he used to take his life; and the colourful jackets of 'Prince Monolulu', the 1950's tipster.
