🏺When the British Museum came to Castlehaven

Objects, Stories, and Connections: The British Museum at Castlehaven Food Bank

Over the past few months, our Food Bank queue has looked a little different. Twice now, just outside our doors, members of the British Museum’s Community Engagement team have joined us, bringing with them an array of fascinating objects to share. Instead of simply waiting in line, our members have been invited to explore, handle, and talk about items from all around the world, sparking curiosity and conversation.

These visits grew from our conversations with the Museum about bringing the collection closer to our community. Museums can sometimes feel distant, but these drop-in sessions turn that idea on its head. Right on our doorstep, people can touch, hold, and explore objects that share stories of comfort, food, music, and clothing from cultures around the world.

The first session focused on objects of comfort. People enjoyed holding items related to everyday rituals, from eating and drinking to clothing and adornment. The second visit was all about mystery objects. From unusual musical instruments to tools with unexpected purposes, members delighted in guessing what they might have been used for. Some recognised objects from their own countries and cultures, leading to lively conversations and shared stories.

Others were puzzled, sparking discussion and “aha!” moments once the answers were revealed. What stood out most was the way people connected, both with the objects and with one another. A simple object could unlock a memory from home or inspire curiosity about somewhere new. For many, it was a reminder that the treasures of the British Museum aren’t just for tourists or academics, they’re part of everyone’s heritage.

”It was nice to see the objects and find out more about them while waiting for my Food Bank parcel.

What's Next

We’re looking forward to one more session later this September, and we’re also exploring the possibility of organising a trip for Food Bank members to the Museum itself. The idea is to continue breaking down barriers and to create a welcoming, guided experience for our community in one of London’s most famous cultural spaces.

We’re grateful to the British Museum’s Community Engagement team for their generosity and creativity, and we can’t wait to see where this partnership leads. Find out more about the British Museum’s Community Programme here.