The Willis Museum sits on the Market Place in one of the few remaining historic buildings in central Basingstoke. It traces the town's history from the Iron Age through the Romans, the Civil War, the railway age, and on into the post-war redevelopment that reshaped the centre. The collection includes Roman finds from nearby Silchester, agricultural tools, and a strong assortment of clocks and watches reflecting the founder's trade.
For a town that has lost much of its old fabric, the museum does honest work in showing what was here before. Entry is free, the building itself is worth seeing, and the staff are knowledgeable. Allow an hour. The adjoining Sainsbury Gallery hosts touring exhibitions and is usually worth a look.