The museum had its origins with the Surrey Archaeological Society, which was founded in 1854. In 1898 the society made their permanent headquarters here at Castle Arch, and opened the museum to the public. In 1911 Gertrude Jekyll gave the society her large collection of objects from cottages in West Surrey and more space was needed to show them. Mr Ferdinand Smallpiece, a councillor paid, for a purpose built gallery and the council became more involved, having built up a large collection of its own from 1905.

Since 1933 the museum has been run entirely by Guildford Borough Council, which includes the care and display of the Surrey Archaeological Society’s own collection. Many of the items currently on display are part of the society’s collections.

The society’s headquarters are still at the museum. To find out more visit the Surrey Archaeological Society’s website at www.surreyarchaeology.org.uk.