Heading to the Lake District this summer? We recommend you head over to Windermere Jetty to experience a brand new boating museum.
Windermere Jetty, the Museum of Boats, Steam and Stories opened by Prince Charles in April, is already capturing the hearts of its audiences. Located in the heart of the Lake District National Park, the exhibitions capture to magic of the industry and engineering against the backdrop of one of England’s most picturesque locations.
The establishment is a working destination, meaning you can immerse yourself in the experience of their collections of boats. Learn how they were built and the crafts and traditions involved in the process, you can even have a go! The site is committed to conserving, saving and sharing it’s stories, making it a great venue to learn even more about your boating passions.
This new museum has been created in collaboration with Lakeland Arts, an influential arts and heritage organisation in the North East. They hold an international reputation for upholding excellent quality in it’s collection of historic buildings, museums and galleries.This partnership is guaranteed to help Windermere Jetty to grow and prosper, providing a brilliant experience for all.
The boats
Windermere Jetty are displaying an extremely unique collection, encompassing everything that encapsulates the location’s history. The selection was originally formed by George Pattinson, a private steam collector. He went on to open Windermere Steamboat Museum in 1977 to display his finds. This collection has now grown to 40 boats that link together to form a tapestry of history that presents automotive stories from 1780 to the present day.
On display in the museum, you can see one of the oldest mechanically powered boats in existence, the SL Dolly, alongside the UK’s oldest sailing yacht, Margeret. These are displayed alongside world record achieving speed boats, vessels that have starred in films and even a rowing boat that belonged to Beatrix Potter.
The experience
While simply looking at crafts may float your boat, there is also more hands on experiences you can take part in. Alongside the interactive galleries, there is plenty more on offer. Visit the ‘Wall of Wonder’ where you can inspect a huge collection of boating paraphernalia, equipment and curiosities.
Your day won’t be limited to the galleries, why not book a heritage boat trip? Visit the boat house and book onto a ride to experience life onboard Osprey, a fully-restored Edwardian steam launch. Next, visit the boating pond and old Fire Station, for even more incredible views. This area is home to the Pavilion and 1980 fire station and offers a delve into Windermere history in the most beautiful surroundings.
Take part in a conservation workshop to learn alongside expert boatbuilders and learn even more about the craft. The dedicated workshop allows you to watch live conservation in the workshop and discover the 6 step process for renovating their display vessels.
Plan your visit
The museum is open from 10am to 5pm from March to October and 10.30am to 4pm from November to February. Adult tickets are £9 with a £10 addition if you choose to take a Heritage Boat Trip and parking is free.
