The Dock Museum

Location

About

The Dock Museum in Barrow-in-Furness, England is a fascinating destination for history lovers, families, and tourists alike. Located in a beautiful setting overlooking the Walney Channel, the museum offers an insight into the industrial history of the town and its surrounding areas.

The museum is housed in a restored Victorian dock building that was originally built in the late 19th century. The building has been renovated and expanded to create a modern, spacious museum that is easy to navigate and offers a range of interactive exhibits and displays.

One of the main attractions of the museum is its collection of historic boats and ships. These include a range of vessels that were used in the local shipbuilding industry, such as the Barrow-built submarine HMS Alliance, the largest submarine on display in the UK, and the restored steamship 'Sir John Barrow'.

Visitors can also explore the museum's extensive collection of photographs, paintings, and artifacts that document the history of Barrow-in-Furness and its people. The exhibits cover a range of topics, including the town's industrial heritage, the local fishing industry, and the development of the town's infrastructure and transport systems.

The museum's interactive exhibits are particularly popular with families and younger visitors. These include a replica of a Victorian street, complete with period shops and workshops, and a recreated ship's cabin that allows visitors to experience life aboard a ship during the height of the town's shipbuilding industry.

In addition to its exhibits and displays, the museum also hosts a range of events and activities throughout the year. These include guided tours, workshops, and talks by local historians and experts on a range of topics related to the town's history and heritage.

Overall, The Dock Museum in Barrow-in-Furness is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history and heritage of this fascinating town. With its impressive collection of boats and ships, interactive exhibits, and extensive collection of artifacts, the museum offers a unique and engaging insight into the town's industrial past and its people. Whether you are a history buff, a family looking for a fun and educational day out, or a tourist looking to explore the best of Barrow-in-Furness, the Dock Museum is a destination not to be missed.

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Things to do nearby

The Dock Museum, located in Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, England, is a fascinating museum that explores the history of the area's shipbuilding industry and the lives of the people who worked there. But if you're a tourist visiting the area, there are plenty of other things to do and places to see nearby. Here are just a few suggestions:

1. Furness Abbey: Just a short drive from the Dock Museum, Furness Abbey is a beautiful and well-preserved medieval abbey founded in the 12th century. Visitors can wander around the ruins, which include a church, cloisters, and a chapter house, and learn about the abbey's history and architecture.

2. South Lakes Safari Zoo: A 20-minute drive from the Dock Museum, the South Lakes Safari Zoo is a great place to get up close and personal with some amazing animals. The zoo is home to over 1,000 animals from around the world, including tigers, lions, giraffes, and lemurs.

3. Walney Island: Just a short drive from Barrow-in-Furness, Walney Island is a stunning nature reserve with beautiful beaches and plenty of wildlife. Visitors can walk along the sandy shores, spot birds and other wildlife, or simply relax in the peaceful surroundings.

4. The Laurel and Hardy Museum: If you're a fan of the legendary comedy duo Laurel and Hardy, you won't want to miss the Laurel and Hardy Museum in nearby Ulverston. The museum features a collection of memorabilia, including photographs, posters, and costumes, as well as interactive exhibits and a gift shop.

5. The Lake District: The Lake District, located just a short drive from Barrow-in-Furness, is a stunning area of natural beauty with mountains, lakes, and picturesque villages. Visitors can hike through the hills, take a boat ride on one of the many lakes, or simply enjoy the stunning scenery.

6. Piel Island: A short boat ride from Barrow-in-Furness, Piel Island is a beautiful and tranquil spot with a rich history. Visitors can explore the castle ruins, enjoy a pint at the island's pub, or simply relax on the beach.

7. Dalton Castle: Dalton Castle is a 14th-century fortified tower in the nearby town of Dalton-in-Furness. Visitors can tour the castle, which features a collection of local history exhibits and a gift shop.

These are just a few of the many places to see and things to do near the Dock Museum. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or just having a good time, there's something for everyone in this beautiful part of England.