National Waterways Museum: Gloucester Docks

at Canal & River Trust
Gloucester Available until Wed 31 Dec

Explore the National Waterways Museum in Gloucester, where history meets the heart of the docks

  • Step inside the Grade II listed Victorian warehouse known as Llanthony Warehouse at Gloucester Docks
  • Discover 200 years of waterways history through interactive exhibits
  • See historic boats, including Queen Boadicea II, a Dunkirk ‘Little Ship’ and steam-powered dredger
  • Enjoy scenic walks along the Gloucester & Sharpness Canal
  • Relax at the waterside café and browse the museum shop for gifts

Discover the National Waterways Museum in Gloucester

  • Free entry for Under 5's!
  • Duration: Spend as little or as long onsite as you like
  • Age Restrictions: Suitable for all ages!
  • Location: Llanthony Warehouse, The Docks, Gloucester, GL1 2EH
  • Tickets include: Access to museum galleries & exhibitions, historic boats, canal-side areas, café and gift shop

What's On at the National Waterways Museum in Gloucester?

Located in the heart of Gloucester Docks, the National Waterways Museum tells the story of Britain’s inland waterways and their role in shaping communities and industry. Housed in the old Llanthony Warehouse in the heart of what once was the bustling Gloucester Docks, the museum will take you on a whole new journey, charting the 200-year history of the docks and the Gloucester & Sharpness Canal.

  • Explore historic boats: Step aboard narrowboats, river barges, canal tugs, and even Queen Boadicea II, the Dunkirk ‘Little Ship.’
  • Visit Victorian dock buildings: Discover the architectural beauty of Llanthony Warehouse and its industrial heritage.
  • Interactive exhibits: Learn how canals were built and maintained through hands-on displays and digital installations.
  • Heritage Boatyard: See traditional boat repair equipment, steam cranes, and engines in action!
  • Wildlife trail: Spot birds and explore unique habitats around the docks on a fun, family-friendly wildlife trail
  • Family-friendly activities: Enjoy crafts, trails, and seasonal events designed for all ages.
  • Waterways Café: Relax with hot drinks, snacks, and light meals overlooking the docks.
  • Gift Shop: Pick up books, maps, toys, and canal-themed souvenirs to remember your day out

Ready to explore the rich heritage of Britain’s waterways? Book National Waterways Museum Gloucester tickets today and enjoy an unforgettable day by the water!

Location

Llanthony Warehouse

The Docks,
Gloucester,
GL1 2EH
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How to find us

Parking:

  • There are pay and display car parks close to the museum with blue badge parking spaces.
  • It is a very short walk on a paved surface to the museum.
  • There is also limited blue badge parking located at the top of Orchard Square.
  • There is a wide access, double fronted entrance.
  • The team recommend you allow at least two hours to enjoy your visit.
  • Please ask a member of the team if you need any help at any time.
Facilities
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Public transport accessible
  • Accessible parking
  • Toilets
  • Baby-changing
More Info
Is National Waterways Museum wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the National Waterways Museum in Gloucester is wheelchair accessible, though with a few caveats:

  • Accessible parking: There are designated accessible bays in the visitor car park with level access to the main entrance.
  • Facilities: The museum has accessible toilets and baby changing facilities inside the main entrance atrium.
  • Parking: Pay and display car parks are located close to the museum with blue badge parking spaces available. 
  • Limited Mobility & Wheelchair Users: The main museum warehouse is fully accessible for wheelchair users. There are a limited amount of wheelchairs to borrow. 'Queen Boadicea II's gangplank (yes, the team still have those) is too narrow for most electric wheelchairs, so she's only accessible for manual wheelchairs.
  • Deaf and HOH Visitors: Hearing dogs are welcome. Companions and assistants get free entry to the museum when accompanying a paying visitor.
  • Blind/Partially-Sighted Visitors: Guide and assistance dogs are welcome. The team also recommend a sighted assistant join you when you visit. Companions and assistants get free entry to the museum when accompanying a paying visitor.
  • Lift Access: Despite being an original 18th century building, Llanthony Warehouse does have lifts to all
  • Disabled Toilets & Baby-Changing: You'll find fully accessible toilet and baby changing facilities on the ground floor.
Is there food and drink available at National Waterways Museum?

Yes, National Waterways Museum in Gloucester is home to the Museum Cafe!

Enjoy plenty of seating with options to eat indoors or outdoors and choose from a menu that offers tasty sandwiches, snacks and light meals.

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