Captain Cook Memorial Museum, Whitby
Discover the legendary voyages of Captain Cook in Whitby’s historic museum, blending maritime heritage with modern explorations of health at sea and in space.
The Captain Cook Memorial Museum in Whitby is dedicated to the life and voyages of Captain James Cook, one of history’s most famous explorers. Housed in the 17th-century house where Cook once lived as an apprentice, the museum offers fascinating exhibitions on maritime history, navigation, and the challenges of sea exploration. Its 2025 special exhibition explores health at sea and in space, linking historical maritime medicine with modern space travel.
A brief summary to Captain Cook Memorial Museum
- Grape Ln, Whitby, YO22 4BA, GB
- +441947601900
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9:45 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9:45 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9:45 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9:45 am-5 pm
- Friday 9:45 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9:45 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9:45 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays or early mornings to avoid peak crowds and enjoy a quieter experience.
- Take advantage of free entry for children under 16, making it a great family-friendly outing.
- Explore the special 2025 exhibition on maritime and space health to see unique scientific and historical connections.
- Use the DVD presentation if the upper floors are inaccessible, especially for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues.
- Check the museum shop for exclusive souvenirs including replica navigational instruments and books.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Take the local bus service from Whitby town center to Grape Lane, with a journey time of approximately 10-15 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day, and a single fare costs around £2.50. The stop is a short walk from the museum entrance.
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Train and Walk
Arrive at Whitby Railway Station and enjoy a 20-minute walk along the scenic harbor and through the town to reach the museum. The route is mostly flat but includes some cobbled streets, suitable for most visitors. Train fares vary depending on origin.
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Car
Drive to Whitby and park in one of the town’s public car parks, such as the Whitby West Cliff or Abbey car parks, about a 5-10 minute walk from the museum. Parking fees range from £3 to £8 depending on duration. Note that Grape Lane itself has limited parking.
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Taxi
Local taxis are available from Whitby town center or the railway station, with rides to the museum typically taking 5 minutes and costing approximately £5-£8. This is a convenient option for those with mobility concerns or carrying luggage.
Captain Cook Memorial 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 Captain Cook Memorial Museum
A Historic Home of a Legendary Explorer
Nestled in the heart of Whitby on Grape Lane, the Captain Cook Memorial Museum occupies the very building where Captain James Cook lived during his formative years. This 17th-century house offers visitors a unique glimpse into the domestic life of the young Cook before he embarked on his renowned voyages that reshaped global navigation and exploration. The museum’s setting itself is a preserved heritage site, with period architecture and interiors that evoke the atmosphere of 18th-century maritime England.Exploring Maritime History and Navigation
The museum’s core exhibitions chronicle Cook’s extraordinary seamanship, endurance, and survival against the odds. Through detailed displays of navigational instruments, maps, and personal artifacts, visitors gain insight into the challenges faced by sailors during the Age of Discovery. The museum highlights Cook’s contributions to mapping previously uncharted territories, emphasizing his role in expanding the known world and advancing maritime science.2025 Special Exhibition: Uncharted Dangers – Health at Sea and in Space
The current special exhibition draws compelling parallels between the medical challenges faced by sailors in the 18th century and those encountered by modern astronauts. It delves into historical naval medicine, focusing on diseases like scurvy and the evolving understanding of health during long voyages. Collaborations with scientists from the Boulby Underground Physics Laboratory enrich this narrative, exploring how lessons from maritime history inform health strategies for space exploration, particularly missions to Mars.Visitor Experience and Accessibility
Visitors can explore the museum’s multiple floors with self-guided tours supported by informative displays and knowledgeable staff. While the building’s historic nature means some upper floors are accessed via a lift (currently under repair), a DVD presentation offers an alternative view of upper-level exhibits. The museum welcomes families, offering free entry for children under 16, and accommodates guide dogs with appropriate identification. The on-site shop provides a variety of souvenirs, from postcards to replica instruments, catering to diverse interests.Location and Atmosphere
Situated in a quaint side street, the museum is surrounded by Whitby’s charming maritime townscape. The atmosphere is intimate and reflective, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the story of exploration and discovery. The museum’s courtyard offers a quiet space, complementing the indoor exhibits with a sense of place tied to the sea and Whitby’s rich nautical heritage.Practical Details and Community Engagement
Open daily from February to November with varying seasonal hours, the museum is a key cultural attraction in Whitby. Admission prices are reasonable, with adults paying £11 and children under 16 entering free. The museum also hosts annual exhibitions and educational programs, fostering community engagement and continuing to inspire curiosity about maritime history and exploration. Its commitment to hygiene and visitor safety remains strong, with ongoing Covid-19 precautions.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Tranquil
- Cultural Heritage
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
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For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
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For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
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For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
