Upminster Tithe Barn Museum of Nostalgia

The Upminster Tithe Barn Museum houses around 14,500 items that were once used for agricultural or domestic purposes, from Roman times until the present day. The building itself dates back to the 15th century, however it was opened as a museum in 1976. It is believed that it was built by the Abbey of Waltham as a hunting seat for the Abbot. While its thatched roof suggests it was indeed once a barn it is not known whether it was used for the storage of tithes – a tithe was 10% of the farmer’s produce that had to be donated to the Church. The museum is only open on certain weekends throughout the year, check before you go. Guided tours are available.