Custom House, St George's Quay, Lancaster LA1 1RB

Lancaster Maritime Museum


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About



Lancaster, a historic city located in North West England, boasts an array of attractions for tourists. One such attraction that stands out is the Lancaster Maritime Museum. If you are interested in history, particularly maritime history, then the Lancaster Maritime Museum should be on your list of places to visit.

The Lancaster Maritime Museum is housed in the former customs house, which was built in the late 18th century. The museum is situated on the quayside of the River Lune, which was once a bustling port, and tells the story of Lancaster's maritime past. The museum has four floors of exhibits, each one telling a different aspect of the story.

The ground floor of the museum introduces visitors to the maritime history of Lancaster, starting with its early beginnings as a Roman fort and its rise to prominence as a trading hub in the 18th and 19th centuries. Here, visitors can learn about the port's role in the slave trade and the smuggling that took place on the river.

The first floor of the museum is dedicated to the fishing industry in Lancaster. This exhibit showcases the tools, techniques, and boats used by the fishermen of the area. Visitors can learn about the different types of fishing that took place in the past, including shrimping and salmon fishing.

On the second floor, visitors can explore the history of shipbuilding in Lancaster. This exhibit showcases the shipbuilding industry of the area, including the famous shipbuilders of the past such as Richard White, who built many ships for the Royal Navy. Visitors can also learn about the construction of the Lune Aqueduct, an engineering marvel that was built in the early 19th century.

The final floor of the museum is dedicated to the Lancaster Canal. This exhibit explores the history of the canal, which was built in the late 18th century to transport goods from the port of Lancaster to the towns and cities of the North West. Visitors can learn about the canal's construction, the barges that travelled on it, and the people who worked on it.

Aside from the exhibits, the Lancaster Maritime Museum also has a gift shop where visitors can purchase maritime-themed souvenirs, and a café where visitors can relax and enjoy a drink or a bite to eat.

Overall, the Lancaster Maritime Museum is a fascinating place to visit for anyone interested in the history of the city and its relationship with the sea. With its informative exhibits and interactive displays, the museum offers a unique insight into the maritime history of Lancaster. Whether you're a history buff or simply looking for something interesting to do while in Lancaster, a visit to the Lancaster Maritime Museum is well worth your time.

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Things to do nearby



Lancaster is a beautiful city located in the North West of England. It is a place that offers a wide range of attractions for tourists. One of the most popular tourist destinations in Lancaster is the Maritime Museum. The Lancaster Maritime Museum is located in the heart of the city, and it is an excellent place to learn about the city's maritime history.

The museum is housed in the old Custom House building, which was built in the 18th century. The building has been restored and renovated to house the Maritime Museum. The museum's exhibits showcase the city's rich maritime history, from its early days as a bustling port to its present-day role as a center for shipping and commerce.

Here are some places and things to do near the Lancaster Maritime Museum:

1. Lancaster Castle: Lancaster Castle is a historic castle located near the Maritime Museum. It is one of the oldest castles in the country, and it has a rich history. Visitors can take a guided tour of the castle and learn about its history, including the stories of the people who lived and worked there.

2. Lancaster Canal: The Lancaster Canal is a beautiful waterway that runs through the city. Visitors can take a boat trip along the canal and enjoy the scenery. There are also several walking and cycling paths along the canal that provide a great way to explore the area.

3. Williamson Park: Williamson Park is a beautiful park located on the edge of the city. It offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside. Visitors can explore the park's many walking trails, picnic areas, and gardens.

4. Lancaster Priory Church: The Lancaster Priory Church is a beautiful church located near the Maritime Museum. It is one of the oldest churches in the city, and it has a rich history. Visitors can take a guided tour of the church and learn about its history and architecture.

5. Lancaster City Museum: The Lancaster City Museum is another great museum located in the city center. It showcases the history and culture of Lancaster and the surrounding area. Visitors can explore the museum's many exhibits, including artifacts from the city's past.

6. Lancaster Market: The Lancaster Market is a bustling market located in the city center. It is a great place to explore and shop for local produce, crafts, and souvenirs.

7. Lancaster Brewery: The Lancaster Brewery is a local brewery that produces a wide range of craft beers. Visitors can take a tour of the brewery and learn about the brewing process. They can also enjoy a tasting of the brewery's beers.

In conclusion, Lancaster is a great city to explore, and the Maritime Museum is a must-see attraction. Visitors to the museum can learn about the city's rich maritime history and explore the many exhibits. There are also many other great places to visit near the museum, including Lancaster Castle, the Lancaster Canal, Williamson Park, the Lancaster Priory Church, the Lancaster City Museum, the Lancaster Market, and the Lancaster Brewery.

Opening Hours

Tuesday 12–4 pm
Wednesday 12–4 pm
Thursday 12–4 pm
Friday 12–4 pm
Saturday 12–4 pm
Sunday 12–4 pm
Monday 12–4 pm

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