Lancaster Maritime Museum
Explore Lancaster’s maritime heritage and the city’s complex history in immersive Georgian quay buildings by the River Lune.
Lancaster Maritime Museum, set in historic 18th-century Georgian buildings on St George’s Quay, reveals the rich maritime heritage of Lancaster and Morecambe Bay. Explore the city’s past as a bustling international port, the local fishing traditions, and the challenging crossings of Morecambe Bay sands. The museum also addresses Lancaster’s complex history involving the transatlantic slave trade, offering immersive exhibits and a changing program of special displays.
A brief summary to Lancaster Maritime Museum
- Custom House, St George's Quay, Lancaster, LA1 1RB, GB
- +441524382264
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Budget
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-4 pm
- Friday 12 pm-4 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-4 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-4 pm
Local tips
- Check opening times carefully—open 12pm to 4pm on Monday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday; closed Tuesday to Thursday.
- Allow at least two hours to fully explore the exhibits and special exhibitions.
- Local residents with LA1–LA6 postcodes can enter free of charge.
- Visit the grab & go café for refreshments with views over the River Lune.
- Don’t miss the nearby memorial to enslaved Africans, reflecting Lancaster’s role in the transatlantic slave trade.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Take Lancaster’s local bus services to the city centre; from there, it’s a 10-15 minute walk along the riverside to St George’s Quay. Buses run frequently during the day with fares around £2-£4.
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Train
Arrive at Lancaster railway station, then take a 20-minute walk or a short taxi ride to the museum on St George’s Quay. Taxis cost approximately £5-£8.
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Car
Drive to the city centre with free on-street parking available for up to 3 hours near the museum. Paid parking is also available in nearby Pay and Display lots. Note that the quay area can be busy during weekends.
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Walking
From Lancaster city centre, a pleasant 10-15 minute walk along flat, paved riverside paths leads directly to the Maritime Museum. The route is wheelchair accessible.
Lancaster Maritime Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Lancaster Maritime Museum
Historic Heart of Lancaster’s Maritime Legacy
Lancaster Maritime Museum occupies two atmospheric Georgian buildings on St George’s Quay, the former Custom House designed in 1764 and an adjacent warehouse. These buildings once formed the core of Lancaster’s busy 18th-century port, a hub for trade and commerce connecting the city to the wider world. The museum opened in 1985 and preserves this heritage, allowing visitors to step back into the era when Lancaster thrived as a maritime city.Immersive Experiences of Sea and Sand
The museum offers a sensory-rich experience with soundscapes, smells, and audiovisuals that bring to life the stories of local fishermen, sailors, and merchants. Visitors can sit aboard a full-size replica Lancaster Canal packet boat, hear firsthand accounts of life on Morecambe Bay, and learn about the perilous crossings of the bay’s shifting sands. Exhibits also explore the ecology and natural history of the region, connecting maritime culture with its environment.Confronting a Difficult Past
A significant part of the museum’s narrative is its honest exploration of Lancaster’s involvement in the transatlantic slave trade. Once the fourth most prolific British port in this trade, Lancaster’s merchant families amassed wealth through enslaved African labor and slave-produced goods. The museum’s location in the original port buildings adds gravity to this story, supported by exhibitions and nearby memorials that honor those who suffered.Changing Exhibitions and Community Connections
Alongside its permanent displays, the museum hosts a dynamic program of temporary exhibitions. Recent shows have uncovered local hoards of coins, jewelry, and weapons spanning prehistory to the Tudor period, offering insights into the region’s broader history. Virtual exhibitions and community research projects deepen engagement with Lancaster’s maritime and social heritage.Visitor Facilities and Atmosphere
The museum includes accessible facilities such as a lift, wheelchair-accessible toilets with baby changing, and a grab & go café offering indoor and outdoor seating overlooking the River Lune. A gift shop features maritime-themed and locally produced items. The setting on the quay provides scenic views and a tranquil atmosphere, blending history with the waterfront’s natural charm.Legacy and Educational Value
Lancaster Maritime Museum serves as a vital cultural resource, educating visitors about the city’s maritime past and its lasting impact. It encourages reflection on historical complexities while celebrating the rich traditions of Morecambe Bay’s coastal communities. The museum’s integration of historic architecture, immersive storytelling, and thoughtful curation makes it a compelling destination for history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Clock Tower
4.5 km
Historic Elizabethan-style Clock Tower standing proudly on Morecambe’s seafront, symbolizing the town’s Victorian heritage and timeless charm.
Kirkhead Tower / Summerhouse
15.6 km
Historic Kirkhead Tower offers stunning panoramic views over Morecambe Bay and the Lake District from its tranquil spot near Grange-over-Sands.
Stanley Park
29.9 km
Discover the tranquility of Stanley Park in Blackpool, an exquisite park and garden offering lush landscapes, recreational activities, and family-friendly fun.
Everything Blackpool
30.0 km
Blackpool's vibrant main artery connecting seaside charm with urban energy and LGBTQ+ pride.
Blackpool Model Village & Gardens
30.3 km
Discover the whimsical charm of Blackpool Model Village & Gardens, where miniature worlds and lush gardens create a serene escape for tourists of all ages.
Blackpool War Memorial
30.7 km
A towering seafront cenotaph where Blackpool honours its fallen, blending solemn remembrance with the rhythm of the Irish Sea.
The Blackpool Opera House
30.8 km
Experience the grandeur of The Blackpool Opera House, an iconic venue offering a diverse array of spectacular performances in the heart of Blackpool.
Blackpool Town Hall
30.8 km
Historic Jacobean-style Blackpool Town Hall, a civic landmark with grand clock tower and rich heritage in the heart of Talbot Square.
North Pier
30.8 km
Experience the timeless allure of North Pier in Blackpool, where seaside charm meets modern entertainment for an unforgettable visit.
Black pool
30.8 km
Experience the vibrant energy and timeless charm of Blackpool, the ultimate seaside destination with thrilling attractions and stunning coastal views.
Blackpool Heritage Tram Tours (Tower)
30.9 km
Discover Blackpool's vibrant heritage aboard the iconic Heritage Tram Tours, showcasing stunning seaside views and rich history.
Blackpool Illuminations
31.0 km
Discover the magical Blackpool Illuminations, a breathtaking annual light display that enchants visitors along the famous seaside promenade.
Visit Blackpool
31.0 km
Explore the best of Blackpool at the Tourist Information Centre, your gateway to attractions, events, and local insights in this vibrant seaside town.
The Blackpool Tower Dungeon
31.1 km
Discover the haunting history and thrilling entertainment of The Blackpool Tower Dungeon – an unforgettable journey through time.
The Blackpool Tower
31.1 km
Discover the iconic Blackpool Tower, a blend of history, breathtaking views, and family-friendly entertainment in the heart of Blackpool.
Unmissable attractions to see
Judges Lodgings Museum
0.4 km
Step into Lancaster’s oldest townhouse to explore Georgian elegance, Gillows furniture, childhood nostalgia, and a complex local history beneath the castle walls.
Lancaster Castle
0.4 km
Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of Lancaster Castle, a must-see historical landmark in the heart of Lancaster, England.
The Cottage Museum
0.5 km
Step into 18th-century Lancaster at The Cottage Museum, a tiny immersive home showcasing working-class life and rich local history.
Lancaster City Museum
0.6 km
Discover Lancaster’s rich history and military heritage in a stunning Georgian former town hall with immersive galleries and fine art exhibitions.
Queen Victoria Memorial, Lancaster
0.8 km
A majestic 1906 tribute in Dalton Square celebrating Queen Victoria and Victorian-era luminaries with rich symbolism and historic artistry.
Ashton Memorial
1.8 km
Lancaster’s iconic Edwardian Baroque folly, the Ashton Memorial, crowns Williamson Park with stunning views and rich history.
Williamson Park
1.8 km
Historic parkland crowned by an iconic Edwardian memorial, offering woodland walks, tropical butterflies, and sweeping views to Morecambe Bay.
Butterfly House
1.8 km
Discover vibrant butterflies and exotic mini-beasts in the tropical Butterfly House nestled within Lancaster’s scenic Williamson Park.
Lune Aqueduct
1.9 km
Discover the breathtaking Lune Aqueduct in Lancaster, a stunning feat of Victorian engineering and a picturesque tourist attraction.
Lancaster Leisure Park
2.2 km
Lancaster Leisure Park blends antiques, farm-fresh shopping, and family dining in a lively, welcoming setting on Wyresdale Road.
Halton Castle (Remains)
3.6 km
Explore the ancient earthworks of Halton Castle, a Norman motte and bailey fortress overlooking the scenic River Lune valley near Lancaster.
Eric Morecambe Statue
4.6 km
Celebrate British comedy legend Eric Morecambe with this iconic bronze statue overlooking Morecambe Bay’s stunning seaside promenade.
THE RE STORE
5.1 km
Discover unique gifts and support local skills at The Re Store, Morecambe’s community-centered shop with a heart for sustainability.
Stone Jetty
5.1 km
Historic stone jetty with stunning bay views, interactive art, and a charming café on Morecambe’s scenic seafront.
Glasson Dock
6.9 km
Historic maritime dock and peaceful marina village offering scenic canal walks, wildlife spotting, and a glimpse into Lancashire’s seafaring heritage.
Essential places to dine
Quite Simply French - Restaurant with Rooms
0.0 km
Elegant French dining and boutique rooms on Lancaster’s scenic St George’s Quay, blending classic cuisine with modern comfort.
Merchants 1688
0.6 km
Historic 17th-century wine cellar pub serving modern British cuisine with local ingredients beside Lancaster Castle.
The Quarterhouse
0.7 km
Seasonal British small plates and cocktails in Lancaster’s stylish city-center bistro with a warm, contemporary vibe.
The Waterwitch
1.2 km
A welcoming canal-side gastropub in Lancaster blending traditional English fare with standout vegan options and a lively community vibe.
Bay Horse Inn at Bay Horse
9.5 km
Historic 18th-century gastropub blending traditional charm with locally sourced cuisine in a scenic Lancashire village setting.
The Fenwick
10.2 km
Historic 250-year-old gastro pub and charming country inn in Claughton, offering fine seafood, cozy rooms, and warm Lancashire hospitality.
The Patten Arms
13.2 km
Historic Lancashire pub blending traditional charm with modern comfort, renowned for hearty local cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere year-round.
The Barn at Scorton
13.8 km
A charming blend of dining, garden centre, and gift shop delights in the heart of Scorton, Lancashire.
Stepping Stones
14.0 km
Charming riverside British restaurant in Garstang offering classic dishes and stunning views in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
Pipers
17.0 km
Experience traditional English cuisine with modern flair in the heart of Garstang’s historic High Street at Pipers Restaurant.
The Wheatsheaf, Beetham
17.4 km
Historic country pub and inn in Milnthorpe offering hearty British fare, cozy rooms, and warm, dog-friendly hospitality in scenic Cumbria.
L'Enclume
19.1 km
Experience Simon Rogan’s three Michelin-starred farm-to-table masterpiece in Cartmel, where seasonal British ingredients shine in innovative tasting menus.
The Farmers Arms Great Eccleston
22.6 km
A charming Lancashire gastropub offering fresh seafood, hearty British classics, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Great Eccleston.
Twelve Restaurant and Lounge Bar
24.0 km
Exquisite modern British fine dining with impeccable service and a stylish atmosphere in Thornton-Cleveleys.
The Pickled Goose
25.2 km
A lively British pub and restaurant in Barton, Preston, blending countryside charm with modern dining and a vibrant social bar.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
GB Antiques & Furniture Centre
2.2 km
Over 100 dealers, thousands of treasures, endless browsing in Lancaster's premier antiques marketplace.
The Arndale Shopping Centre
4.4 km
Morecambe’s only covered shopping centre offering everyday retail and discount stores in a convenient town centre location.
Beach Bird
4.6 km
Discover unique antiques, vintage fashion, and artistic homewares at Beach Bird, Morecambe’s beloved artisan gift shop on the scenic promenade.
Carnforth Bookshop
8.7 km
Discover Carnforth Bookshop, a family-run independent haven of books, gifts, and local heritage in the heart of historic Lancashire.
Kitty Brown Boutique
8.7 km
A warm, independent women’s fashion boutique in Carnforth, offering curated clothing, footwear and accessories with comfort, style and sustainability at heart.
THE FOSSIL STORE
13.5 km
A unique design studio and shop in the Forest of Bowland, transforming rare fossils into bespoke art and jewellery.
Dream
17.1 km
Distinctive gifts in the heart of Lancashire's historic market town.
The Hive
17.2 km
Discover unique gifts and warm hospitality at The Hive, Garstang’s beloved local gift shop nestled in a charming historic setting.
Rufford's Country Lifestyle
20.1 km
Discover premium British country wear and footwear at Rufford's, your stylish gateway to authentic country living near Preston.
The Book Lounge
21.4 km
Discover a cozy haven of books, puzzles, and community spirit in the heart of Kirkby Lonsdale’s historic Main Street.
Blossom Boutique
24.0 km
Independent women's fashion boutique blending curated style with genuine hospitality in Thornton.
Hillside Toys -Farm Models & Toys
24.2 km
Discover a nostalgic world of farm models and classic toys at Hillside Toys in Ingleton, where agricultural heritage comes to life.
Muse Boutique
24.5 km
Unique and affordable ladies' fashion boutique in the heart of Ulverston’s historic Market Street.
Squirrel A store of buried treasure
24.6 km
Discover unique gifts and artisanal treasures in a charming converted pub at the heart of Ulverston’s Market Street.
Pretty Things Boutique
24.7 km
Discover unique ladies’ fashion and personalized styling at Ulverston’s charming Pretty Things Boutique on King Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Bowerham
2.0 km
A historic Grade II listed pub in Lancaster offering great food, live music, and a welcoming community atmosphere near beautiful parkland.
Smugglers Den Morecambe
4.2 km
Historic 1740s pub in Morecambe offering friendly service, quality ales, and a cozy atmosphere at great value.
Fylde Bar
5.2 km
The Mill at Fylde College is Lancaster University's lively on-campus sports bar, perfect for affordable meals, live sports, and social gatherings.
Bellflower
17.3 km
A historic and family-friendly country pub in Garstang offering home-cooked British classics, award-winning ales, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Th'Owd Tithe Barn
17.4 km
Historic 1701 canalside pub in Garstang offering traditional ales, seasonal dishes, and a charming garden retreat by the vibrant Garstang Basin.
The Horns Inn
19.3 km
A stylish and welcoming country pub in Churchtown offering quality food, real ales, and a vibrant social atmosphere.
Clockwork Bars
20.1 km
A lively and welcoming bar in Preston’s Beacon Retail Park, offering diverse drinks, live events, and a relaxed social atmosphere.
The Vault Bar & Lounge
25.0 km
Historic charm meets modern cocktails in Thornton-Cleveleys’ unique Vault Bar & Lounge, a welcoming spot for crafted drinks and lively nights.
GlassHouse Cocktail Bar
25.1 km
A vibrant cocktail bar and bistro in Thornton-Cleveleys offering expertly crafted drinks, gourmet burgers, and lively weekend music nights.
Strickland Arms
25.1 km
Traditional British pub with hearty fare and warm hospitality nestled near Kendal’s scenic Lake District gateway.
The Stags Head
27.3 km
A charming Lancashire gastropub blending traditional British fare with warm hospitality in the heart of Goosnargh village.
Wheatsheaf Inn, Brigsteer
27.4 km
A charming countryside pub and boutique inn in Brigsteer offering rustic comfort, excellent food, and warm hospitality near Kendal.
The Stage Door
27.9 km
A cozy, rustic bar and restaurant in Longridge offering expertly crafted cocktails, stone-baked pizzas, and a welcoming atmosphere for relaxed and lively nights.
The Plough Grimsargh
30.0 km
A friendly village pub in Grimsargh serving classic British dishes, excellent beers, and hosting lively community events in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Number Three Cocktail Bar Function Room
30.2 km
A lively Blackpool cocktail bar with affordable drinks, friendly staff, and a spacious function room perfect for events and live music nights.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Manhattans Nightclub
28.3 km
Barrow-in-Furness’s top nightclub for themed parties, DJ nights, and vibrant late-night entertainment on Cavendish Street.
Hollywood Nightclub
28.3 km
Experience the vibrant late-night pulse of Barrow-in-Furness at Hollywood Nightclub, where music and dance light up Cavendish Street.
The Lounge C9
28.4 km
Experience Barrow-in-Furness’ vibrant nightlife at The Lounge C9, where music, drinks, and community come alive every weekend.
Funny Girls
30.5 km
Discover the magic of Blackpool's Funny Girls, where dazzling performances meet delightful dining in an unforgettable night out.
Club underground
30.6 km
Experience Blackpool’s authentic old-school basement club with vibrant music, friendly crowds, and late-night energy on Talbot Road.
Sanuk Nightclub
30.6 km
Experience Blackpool’s vibrant nightlife at Sanuk Nightclub, a premier venue with six rooms and a lively house music scene on the iconic promenade.
Trilogy Nightclub
30.7 km
Experience Blackpool’s vibrant nightlife across three floors of music, lights, and energy at Trilogy Nightclub.
Popworld - Blackpool
30.8 km
Experience retro pop hits and vibrant party vibes at Popworld Blackpool, the iconic two-floor nightclub on the Promenade.
The Tache Rock Club
30.8 km
Blackpool’s spirited rock nightclub offering authentic music, friendly vibes, and late-night energy in a casual setting.
Hush Nightclub
30.9 km
Experience Blackpool’s vibrant RnB and Afrobeats nightlife at Hush Nightclub, where music, cocktails, and atmosphere come alive.
Switch Nightclub
33.3 km
Energetic and affordable nightlife hub in Preston, popular with a middle-aged crowd and known for its lively atmosphere.
Popworld - Preston
33.6 km
Popworld Preston: Where cheesy pop tunes meet vibrant nightlife and unforgettable party vibes in the heart of the city.
The Warehouse
33.6 km
Three floors of diverse music and vibrant nightlife in Preston’s welcoming alternative club scene.
Wheelhouse Nightclub
35.1 km
Experience vibrant weekend nightlife with dynamic music, drinks, and dancing at Wheelhouse Nightclub in scenic Bowness-on-Windermere.
Windermere Social Club
36.3 km
A friendly and versatile social club in Windermere offering games, sports viewing, and community events in a welcoming atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Cultural Heritage
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
