National Waterways Museum Gloucester
Explore Britain's rich waterway history with fascinating boats, engines, and interactive exhibits in historic Gloucester Docks.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer school groups
National Waterways Museum Gloucester
Best Time
Fewer school groups

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Britain's rich waterway history with fascinating boats, engines, and interactive exhibits in historic Gloucester Docks.
"A great place to visit, suitable for all ages, includes a cafe and kids play area."
Engage with Volunteers
Buttonhole a volunteer for deeper insights! They know more than the display cards. :bustsinsilhouette:
Check Repeat Visit Options
Entrance fee often includes a year of repeat visits – maximize your value! :ticket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Queen Boudicca
Main Exhibition Hall
Marvel at the restored Dunkirk Little Ship, the Queen Boudicca, and learn about its incredible wartime history.
Fielding Engine
Near the Museum Entrance
See the impressive restored Fielding Engine, a powerful piece of industrial heritage from 1929.

Replica Lock Chamber
Exhibition Area
Experience a hands-on understanding of canal navigation with this interactive replica lock chamber.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for a Smooth Visit
Maximizing Value and Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Engage with Volunteers
Buttonhole a volunteer for deeper insights! They know more than the display cards.
:bustsinsilhouette:Check Repeat Visit Options
Entrance fee often includes a year of repeat visits – maximize your value!
:ticket:Explore the Docks
Don't miss the surrounding Gloucester Docks for more history and atmosphere.
:world_map:Kid-Friendly Fun
Hands-on exhibits are great for kids, but can be busy during half-term.
:child:Tips
from all over the internet
Engage with Volunteers
Buttonhole a volunteer for deeper insights! They know more than the display cards.
:bustsinsilhouette:Check Repeat Visit Options
Entrance fee often includes a year of repeat visits – maximize your value!
:ticket:Explore the Docks
Don't miss the surrounding Gloucester Docks for more history and atmosphere.
:world_map:Kid-Friendly Fun
Hands-on exhibits are great for kids, but can be busy during half-term.
:child:Café with a View
Enjoy reasonably priced food and drinks at the café, especially by the big window.
:coffee:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the National Waterways Museum Gloucester to be a fascinating place, particularly for its historical exhibits like the Queen Boudicca and the Fielding Engine. It's considered suitable for all ages, with hands-on activities for children and engaging stories for adults. The surrounding Gloucester Docks add to the appeal, and the café is noted for its reasonable prices and pleasant atmosphere. Some reviewers felt the entrance fee was a bit high for a single visit and noted that some exhibits appeared tired or were no longer available.
"Fascinating, perfect for an hour or so. Some of the exhibits look a bit tired, but would be great for children. Lovely shop and café. I especially enjoyed the video stories of the men who had worked on the canals. A bit expensive for what it was. I loved the Queen Boadicea story and she is beautiful to see."
Victoria Bennett Kane
"A great place to visit, suitable for all ages, includes a cafe and kids play area. A spoken tour at the beginning by Chris was as great introduction to the waterways, thank you.
Dog friendly. Showcase of the bodicea and its great history with Dunkirk.
Worth a visit."
Tracy Lou
"I first visited soon after it first opened in 1988. I returned today. What a disappointment. Only two floors are now open to the exhibition space. Clearly the place is short of funds. I remembered the barge driving simulator and other tasty treats…. all gone. No worth the adult entrance fee of £10 when there is least one other free museum with better exhibits nearby."
Brian Pritchard
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in Gloucester Docks. For parking, the Quays shopping centre multi-storey is a 5-minute walk away, or try the small car park at Southgate Moorings, which fills quickly.
Yes, there's a small car park at Southgate Moorings, but it fills up fast. The Quays shopping centre car park is a convenient alternative, just a short walk away.
Gloucester city centre is well-served by public transport, and the docks are within walking distance from the main bus and train stations. Check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date information.
The museum offers exhibits on two floors, and while some areas might be more accessible than others, it's advisable to contact them directly for specific accessibility details regarding ramps or lifts.
The museum is situated within the historic Gloucester Docks, offering a pleasant area to explore. Nearby attractions include the Gloucester Quays shopping centre and the Gloucester Cathedral.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The museum is open on Tuesdays and throughout the week, but specific opening hours can vary. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most current 'Gloucester waterways museum opening times' and 'waterways museum gloucester opening hours'.
Adult entrance fees are around £10, which some visitors find a bit expensive for a single visit. However, this often includes a year of repeat visits, offering good value for those planning multiple trips.
Yes, the museum hosts special events like 'Stories with Santa'. Keep an eye on their social media and website for ticket announcements and booking details, as prices often remain the same year-on-year.
While specific discounts aren't always advertised, purchasing an annual pass or visiting during off-peak times can offer better value. Engaging with volunteers can also enhance your experience without extra cost.
Yes, the museum is dog-friendly, allowing you to bring your canine companions along to explore the exhibits with you.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore exhibits on British waterway history, including narrowboats, barges, and tugs. Highlights include the Queen Boudicca, a Dunkirk Little Ship, and the Fielding Engine.
Yes, the museum has hands-on exhibits that are very engaging for children. However, it can get busy with school groups, so visiting during off-peak times is recommended.
Spoken tours are sometimes offered, providing a great introduction to the waterways. Engaging with the knowledgeable volunteers is also highly recommended for a richer understanding of the exhibits.
The museum has exhibits on two floors. Some visitors have found the layout slightly confusing and recommend ensuring you explore both levels to see all displays.
Gloucester Docks is a historic area with a maritime heritage, featuring restored warehouses and a vibrant atmosphere. It's a great place to walk around and soak in the history.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a café that serves reasonably priced food and drinks. They offer good tea and cakes that taste homemade.
The café offers a selection of food and drinks, including tea and cakes. It's a pleasant spot to relax after exploring the museum.
Besides the museum café, the surrounding Gloucester Docks and Quays area offers a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to restaurants.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally best to consume outside food and drinks in designated areas or before/after your visit to maintain the museum's exhibits. The café is a convenient option for refreshments.
Yes, the Gloucester Quays area has numerous family-friendly restaurants and cafes, making it easy to find something to suit everyone's taste.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions on flash photography or certain exhibits. Capturing the historic boats and engines can make for great shots.
The Queen Boudicca, the Fielding Engine, and the replica lock chamber are all visually interesting subjects. The exterior of the museum and the surrounding Gloucester Docks also offer picturesque views.
Drone usage is typically restricted in and around museums and historic sites to protect the property and ensure visitor safety. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, can offer beautiful lighting for photographing the docks and the museum's exterior. Weekdays outside of peak hours will also mean fewer people in your shots.
Tripod usage might be restricted to avoid obstructing other visitors or damaging exhibits. It's advisable to inquire at the information desk upon arrival if you plan to use a tripod.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't forget to check out the museum's café for reasonably priced refreshments, and consider bringing your little ones for special events like 'Stories with Santa' if you're visiting during the festive season. The surrounding Gloucester Docks also offer plenty of space for kids to explore and enjoy the waterfront atmosphere.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider packing your own snacks and drinks to enjoy outside the museum, or take advantage of the reasonably priced café for a budget-friendly meal. Exploring the Gloucester Docks themselves is free and offers a great historical atmosphere, complementing your museum visit without additional cost.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of British Waterways
One of the standout exhibits is the Queen Boudicca, a Dunkirk Little Ship that survived the war and is now beautifully preserved. Its story is a powerful reminder of maritime history. For those interested in industrial heritage, the Fielding Engine, a robust piece of machinery from 1929, showcases the engineering prowess of the time. The museum also features a replica lock chamber, offering a hands-on way to understand how canal locks operate, making it engaging for all ages.
Beyond the main exhibits, the museum offers insights into the lives of the people who worked on the canals. Video stories and personal accounts provide a human element to the historical narrative. While some exhibits might appear a bit dated to some visitors, the overall preservation and presentation are commendable, offering a comprehensive look at British waterway heritage.
Exploring Gloucester Docks
Visitors can enjoy the scenic views of the water, watch narrowboats and other vessels, and explore the various amenities. The Gloucester Quays shopping centre is adjacent to the docks, offering a modern contrast with its retail outlets and dining establishments. This makes the museum and docks a perfect destination for a day out, combining historical exploration with contemporary leisure activities.
For those looking to extend their visit, the Gloucester Cathedral is also within walking distance, adding another layer of historical and architectural interest to the area. The combination of the museum, the docks, and nearby attractions makes Gloucester a compelling destination for history buffs and casual tourists alike.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit