National Museum of the Royal Navy

We were driving around the northeast coast on our recent holiday to Saltburn-by-the-sea. We had no plans for the day but while we were driving through Hartlepool we spotted the National Museum of the Royal Navy. It looked really interesting so we paid it a visit and it didn’t disappoint.

What is there to do at the National Museum of the Royal Navy?

The museum is home to one of Europe’s oldest floating warships but there’s so much more to see than that! There is also a free museum next door the ‘Museum of Hartlepool’. It tells the story of Hartlepool from prehistoric times to the present day and it can certainly add more time to your visit.

The warship is docked in the quayside and you can explore the many floors of the ship and its 46 guns, you can even ring the bell. It has been lovingly and creatively restored with authentic sights and sounds wherever you look, even the staff are authentically dressed. A visit on board is like stepping back in time. Our son loved exploring and so did we. Kids are encouraged to touch and explore just about everything on display which is always lovely to see. The ship, the HMS Trincomalee, was originally built in 1817.

Around the dockyard, there are many, also authentically recreated, buildings that you can explore. There is a printers, tailors, a gun shop and many more. Again with authentic sounds and lots to look at. There are also daily demonstrations which are worth seeing and they involve the children as much as possible.

A great and recent addition is the pirate ship-themed adventure playground. It sits alongside the warship and it is great fun with lots to play on in just a small space. There is also an indoor adventure centre with interactive exhibits for children to play with.

Further Information

Is there food and drink available?

There is a quayside coffee shop with light bites and hot and cold drinks.v

What are the main things to do?

A historical warship with lots of floors to explore, quayside buildings again that you can explore with lots of authentic sights and sounds everywhere. Indoor play area and an outdoor pirate-themed playground. free, museum next door. There are toilets, a shop and a cafe.

What are the ticket prices?

An adult ticket online in advance is £8.00 and £6.50 for a child. Under 5’s are free. Once you have bought your tickets you are then entitled to return as much as you wish for free, over the next year.
Prices are subject to change and/or discounts online.