Oxford University Museums
The museum is housed in the world’s oldest surviving purpose-built museum building, in Broad Street. The present collection of the Museum preserves the material relics of past science. Particular strengths include the collections of astrolabes, sundials, quadrants, early mathematical instruments generally (including those used for surveying, drawing, calculating, astronomy and navigation) and optical instruments (including microscopes, telescopes and cameras), together with apparatus associated with chemistry, natural philosophy and medicine.
In case this sounda a bit dry, I should point out that the Museum also has special exhibitions from time to time, and these have included Steampunk Art, and Eccentricity (eccentric objects and behaviour.)
I spent several hours in the museum, and I remember large amounts of polished brass, and a vast collection of astrolabes of all sizes and materials, and different designs, some elaborately engraved.
I recommend looking at the Museum’s website to help plan your visit.
Practical details: Admission is free. The Museum is closed on Mondays. There is no museum café, but you should find refreshments in busy Broad Street. Travel: Arrival by car is not advised. The Museum is easily accessible by Park and Ride. The council now charges £1.50 for Park & Ride parking, so have this with you in coin in case you see a bus about to depart! You are not required to display the ticket.