Uncover the stories of Furness' past and unlock its secrets
Welcome to the Dock Museum, a unique cultural institution situated in the heart of Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria. Established in 1989, our museum has been dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich historical heritage of the Furness Peninsula, from its ancient roots to its significant contributions to modern industries.
The Dock Museum is home to a diverse and fascinating collection of objects and stories that reflect the area's unique identity. Our galleries take you on a journey through time, from the Roman and Viking eras to the Victorian age, the world wars, and the more recent centuries marked by iron and steelworks, the Furness Railway, and shipbuilding. We are proud to showcase the oldest Northerner, the oldest piece of wooden furniture ever discovered in the UK, and many other unique artifacts that connect us to our past.
One of our primary goals is to make history accessible and engaging for all visitors. We offer a variety of services and facilities designed to enhance your experience, including fun quizzes with prizes for families, a gift shop filled with mementos, and free Wi-Fi throughout the museum. Our playground provides a space for children to enjoy themselves while learning about Barrow's past, and the surrounding area offers picturesque walks along Walney Channel, historic dock sites, and fishing boat displays.
We are committed to providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone. Our museum is fully accessible, and we offer assisted listening devices, wheelchairs, and accessible parking areas. We also have the Bridge Cafe on-site, offering a range of refreshments and catering services for visitors.
The Dock Museum is more than just a museum; it is a hub of community activity and engagement. We offer a range of exciting events and exhibitions throughout the year, from temporary displays to workshops, lectures, and performances. We also host learning group visits, loans boxes, and school visits, providing opportunities for students of all ages to engage with history in a fun and interactive way.
Our conservation and shipyard town project aims to preserve and promote the unique history of Barrow's shipbuilding industry, while our volunteer program offers opportunities for individuals to get involved and contribute to the museum's mission. We are proud to be a vital part of the local community, and we welcome visitors from all over the world to explore and learn from our collections and exhibitions.
We look forward to seeing you at the Dock Museum, where history comes alive, and every visit is a great day out.
Overview of the Dock Museum
The Dock Museum in Barrow-in-Furness has received an overwhelmingly positive response from visitors, with the majority awarding it a 5-star rating.
Museum Exhibits and Features
The museum showcases the local history of Barrow-in-Furness, including its connection to shipbuilding, and features a range of exhibits and interactive displays. Visitors have praised the museum's collection of intricate ship models, video rooms, and exhibits on the history of the docks.
Facilities and Accessibility
The museum offers free entry, free parking, and has a cafe on site. Visitors have also praised the museum's accessibility features, including wheelchair-friendly ramps, lifts, and accessible toilets.
Additional Amenities
The museum also features a children's play area outside, which has proven to be a hit with families. The cafe on site has been praised for its reasonably priced food and quick service.
Minor Criticisms
A few visitors have noted some minor issues, such as limited parking due to construction work and some exhibits being difficult to navigate with a wheelchair.
Negative Reviews
A small minority of visitors have left negative reviews, with one criticising the museum for lacking information on ship production and another expressing disappointment that dogs are not allowed inside.
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