National Waterways Museum Gloucester - A building with arches over a river.
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National Waterways Museum Gloucester

4.2
·399 reviews·, United Kingdom

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer school groups

CrowdLow
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National Waterways Museum Gloucester - A building with arches over a river.

National Waterways Museum Gloucester

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer school groups

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.2
(399 reviews)

"A great place to visit, suitable for all ages, includes a cafe and kids play area."

Vertical photo
TIP

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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Queen Boudicca

The Queen Boudicca

Main Exhibition Hall

Marvel at the restored Dunkirk Little Ship, the Queen Boudicca, and learn about its incredible wartime history.

Reddit
Fielding Engine

Fielding Engine

Near the Museum Entrance

See the impressive restored Fielding Engine, a powerful piece of industrial heritage from 1929.

Instagram
Replica Lock Chamber

Replica Lock Chamber

Exhibition Area

Experience a hands-on understanding of canal navigation with this interactive replica lock chamber.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for a Smooth Visit

To avoid crowds and make the most of your visit to the National Waterways Museum Gloucester, consider visiting on weekdays outside of school holidays. Some reviewers mention that the museum can get busy with school groups, so planning your trip during off-peak times will enhance your experience. Reddit

Maximizing Value and Experience

While some find the entrance fee a bit steep for a single visit, it often includes a year of repeat visits. To get the most bang for your buck, engage with the knowledgeable volunteers who can offer insights beyond the displays. Reddit Also, be sure to explore the surrounding Gloucester Docks for a richer historical context. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer school groups
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon, outside holidays
Why
Quieter atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

A hidden gem in MA 💕 located 50 min north of Boston. Take a day trip out to Hammond Castle in Gloucester, MA. 🎟️Admission is $20-$25 based on when you go. #castle #ma #travel #hammondcastle #newengland #Summer
@foodtravelbae
129.4K likes • 970.8K views

Engage with Volunteers

Buttonhole a volunteer for deeper insights! They know more than the display cards. Reddit :bustsinsilhouette:

Check Repeat Visit Options

Entrance fee often includes a year of repeat visits – maximize your value! Reddit :ticket:

🌊 Wingaersheek Beach in Gloucester is truly the gem of Massachusetts + New England. Clean & clear you can wade comfortably through the beautiful rock formations and tide pools. Super soft sand and lots of beach space. I recommend going on a weekday after 4 to avoid crowds and for no cost parking. High tide or low, this beach is perfection. Massachusetts, beach, north shore, wingaersheek, Gloucest...
@girlynewengland
45.4K likes • 695.2K views
Introducing the most surprising thing you probably never knew existed in the #GloucesterDocks. Open and in action on a Tuesday. Find it just by the #NationalWaterwaysMuseumGloucester The Fielding Engine was built in 1929 and was last used during power cuts in 1974. After fire damage it was restored by the Mid-Gloucestershire Engine Preservation Society. Since the 1980s it has been at the Museum a...
nwmuseumgloucester
84 likes • 2.9K views

Explore the Docks

Don't miss the surrounding Gloucester Docks for more history and atmosphere. Reddit :world_map:

Kid-Friendly Fun

Hands-on exhibits are great for kids, but can be busy during half-term. Reddit :child:

Stories with Santa tickets coming soon. 🎅🏼 We can't wait to welcome you back for this popular event at the National Waterways Museum Gloucester. 🎁 And the good news is, our prices are staying the same as last year. 🎄Watch this space for ticket details. #StoriesWithSanta #GloucesterDocks #GloucesterQuays
nwmuseumgloucester
18 likes • 267 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Engage with Volunteers

Buttonhole a volunteer for deeper insights! They know more than the display cards. Reddit :bustsinsilhouette:

Check Repeat Visit Options

Entrance fee often includes a year of repeat visits – maximize your value! Reddit :ticket:

Explore the Docks

Don't miss the surrounding Gloucester Docks for more history and atmosphere. Reddit :world_map:

Kid-Friendly Fun

Hands-on exhibits are great for kids, but can be busy during half-term. Reddit :child:

Café with a View

Enjoy reasonably priced food and drinks at the café, especially by the big window. Reddit :coffee:

What Travellers Say

4.2
(399 reviews)

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

Fascinating historical exhibits
Engaging for all ages
Dog-friendly policy

What People Dislike

Entrance fee perceived as high
Some exhibits dated
Missing attractions from past visits

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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'. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

Yes, the museum is dog-friendly, allowing you to bring your canine companions along to explore the exhibits with you. Reddit

🎫 🧭 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. InstagramReddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a café that serves reasonably priced food and drinks. They offer good tea and cakes that taste homemade. Reddit

The café offers a selection of food and drinks, including tea and cakes. It's a pleasant spot to relax after exploring the museum. Reddit

Besides the museum café, the surrounding Gloucester Docks and Quays area offers a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to restaurants. TikTok

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. TikTok

📸 📸 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. Instagram

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

The National Waterways Museum Gloucester is a great spot for families, with hands-on exhibits designed to capture children's attention. The replica lock chamber and interactive displays make learning about waterways fun and engaging. Reddit However, be aware that the museum can get lively with school groups, especially during term time. Visiting on a weekday morning outside of school holidays is your best bet for a more relaxed experience. Reddit

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. Instagram The surrounding Gloucester Docks also offer plenty of space for kids to explore and enjoy the waterfront atmosphere. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

While the initial entrance fee might seem a bit high at around £10, remember that it often includes free repeat visits for a year. This offers excellent value if you plan to return or want to explore the exhibits at your own pace over multiple visits. Reddit To maximize your experience, make sure to engage with the knowledgeable volunteers who can provide a wealth of information beyond what's on the display cards, essentially giving you a personalized tour. Reddit

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. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Heart of British Waterways

The National Waterways Museum Gloucester is a treasure trove for anyone interested in the history of Britain's canals and rivers. It delves into the vital role these waterways played in trade, transport, and industry. You'll find a fascinating collection of narrowboats, barges, and tugs, each with its own story to tell. The museum effectively brings to life the era when these waterways were the arteries of the nation. Reddit

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. Instagram 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Exploring Gloucester Docks

The National Waterways Museum Gloucester is nestled within the historic Gloucester Docks, a vibrant area that offers a rich maritime experience beyond the museum walls. This area is a testament to Gloucester's past as a significant inland port, with beautifully restored Victorian warehouses now housing shops, restaurants, and apartments. A stroll around the docks provides a fantastic opportunity to soak in the atmosphere and imagine the bustling trade that once took place here. Reddit

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. TikTok 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. Reddit

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