The Rum Story & Jefferson's Shop

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If you are planning a visit to Whitehaven, England, then one attraction you don't want to miss is The Rum Story & Jefferson's Shop Museum. This museum is dedicated to the fascinating history of rum, and it provides visitors with an immersive experience that takes them back in time to the days when rum was the drink of choice for sailors and pirates alike.

The Rum Story is located in the heart of Whitehaven, a charming coastal town in the county of Cumbria. The museum is housed in a beautifully restored 1785 Georgian building, which was once the home of the Jefferson family. The building itself is an attraction in its own right, with its stunning architecture and elegant interior design.

As you step through the doors of The Rum Story, you'll be transported back in time to the 18th century, when rum was first introduced to England. The museum is designed to be interactive, and you'll find yourself surrounded by the sights, sounds, and smells of the era. You'll be greeted by costumed guides who will take you on a tour of the museum, explaining the history of rum and how it was made.

One of the highlights of the museum is the rum distillery, where you'll see how rum was produced in the 18th century. The distillery is a fully functioning replica, complete with copper stills and wooden barrels. You'll be able to see the entire rum-making process, from the grinding of the sugar cane to the bottling of the finished product.

Another fascinating exhibit is the smugglers' cave, which takes visitors on a journey through the world of smuggling. You'll see how smugglers used to hide their contraband, and you'll learn about the dangers they faced when trying to evade the authorities.

The museum also houses Jefferson's Shop, a recreation of the original 18th-century shop that once stood in the same location. The shop is filled with authentic period items, such as pewter tankards, ceramic jugs, and glass bottles, which were all used to store and serve rum.

Overall, The Rum Story & Jefferson's Shop Museum is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in the history of rum, or who simply wants to experience what life was like in 18th century England. With its interactive exhibits, knowledgeable guides, and beautiful Georgian architecture, this museum is the perfect place to spend an afternoon in Whitehaven. So, if you're planning a trip to England's northwest coast, be sure to put The Rum Story on your itinerary – you won't be disappointed!

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Things to do nearby

The Rum Story and Jefferson's Shop are two popular tourist destinations located in the charming town of Whitehaven, Cumbria, in the United Kingdom. While these attractions alone are worth the visit, there are also plenty of other interesting things to see and do in the surrounding area. In this article, we'll explore some of the best places to visit and things to do nearby The Rum Story and Jefferson's Shop.

The Rum Story is an immersive museum dedicated to the history and production of rum. The interactive exhibits take visitors on a journey through the rum-making process, from the sugarcane fields to the final product. In addition to the museum, The Rum Story also boasts a cafe, gift shop, and even a rum bar where visitors can sample different varieties of the popular spirit. Just a few steps away from The Rum Story is Jefferson's Shop, a delightful store that sells an array of traditional sweets, homemade fudge, and other local treats.

Once you've explored these two attractions, there are plenty of other things to do in the area. Here are some ideas to get you started:

1. Take a walk along the harbor: Whitehaven has a beautiful harbor that's perfect for a leisurely stroll. Admire the colorful boats and take in the fresh sea air as you wander along the quayside.

2. Visit the Beacon Museum: Just a short walk from The Rum Story and Jefferson's Shop is the Beacon Museum, which tells the story of Whitehaven's maritime history. You'll learn about the town's shipbuilding past and see exhibits related to the local fishing industry.

3. Explore St. Nicholas' Church: This historic church is located in the heart of Whitehaven and dates back to the 17th century. Inside, you'll find intricate stained glass windows and impressive stone carvings.

4. Go for a hike in the Lake District: The stunning Lake District National Park is just a short drive from Whitehaven. Lace up your hiking boots and explore the beautiful landscapes and trails, including the famous Wainwright walks.

5. Visit Muncaster Castle: This historic castle is located about 20 minutes' drive from Whitehaven and boasts beautiful gardens, a hawk and owl center, and even a ghost tour for brave visitors.

6. Take a trip to Ravenglass: This charming coastal village is located about 30 minutes' drive from Whitehaven and is home to the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway, which takes visitors on a scenic journey through the stunning Eskdale Valley.

7. Enjoy a pint at a local pub: After a day of exploring, there's nothing better than relaxing with a pint of local ale in a cozy pub. Whitehaven has several traditional pubs to choose from, including The Globe and The Bransty Arch.

As you can see, there's no shortage of things to see and do in the area surrounding The Rum Story and Jefferson's Shop. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or simply relaxing with a drink, Whitehaven and its surrounding towns have something for everyone. So why not plan a visit and discover all that this charming corner of England has to offer?