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Cumbria’s rich history is ever-present in every village and town, on every fell and deep in every valley, but if you need a little interpretation, then head for one of the county’s many museums. From literature to arts and craft, from the story of the Romans to the tales of those beloved characters created by Beatrix Potter, Cumbria’s fine collection of museums will help put all those stories in order – and provide some entertainment along the way. We’ve got museums dedicated to every conceivable subject – from Laurel and Hardy to John Ruskin, from the history of motor cars to a new museum entirely devoted to the boats that have plied the waters of the lakes. We’ve got art galleries and museums with zones specifically aimed at younger visitors – we’ve even got a museum that’s all about pencils!
The Cumbrian story is told in brilliant detail in our museums

Number of results: 35
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Windermere
Family Day Out – Walk the lakeshore, hop on a boat cruise, or enjoy a picnic by the water while the kids keep watch for the creature. It’s a magical way to make a family walk or boat trip even more exciting. A Lake District Character – Bownessie…
Hawkshead, Ambleside
Situated in the quaint Lake District Village of Hawkshead, the boys Grammar School gives insight into school life ever since it opened in 1585. William Wordsworth also attended the school from age 9 to 17 with his brothers.
Whitehaven
Imagine leaving the heart of Whitehaven's historic port and being taken back in time to an exotic tropical island's rainforest in the Caribbean, that is just the start of your great adventure in The Rum Story.
Grasmere
Enjoy your perfect Lake District day out at Wordsworth Grasmere. Discover the home of William Wordsworth, one of England’s most famous poets. Step back 200 years and experience the sights, sounds and smells of family life at Dove Cottage.
Coniston
Brantwood, the former home of eminent Victorian John Ruskin and a treasure house of art and memorabilia. The 250-acre estate comprises 8 unique gardens, ancient woodland, high moors and meadows.
Nr Bowness-on-Windermere
The Lakeland Model Village showcases dozens of miniature buildings crafted from locally sourced Coniston slate. Over the past 25 years, local builder Edward Robinson carefully created each one by hand, faithfully recreating some of Cumbria’s most…
Kendal
Kendal Museum is one of the oldest museums in the UK, founded in 1796 by William Todhunter. The Museum has a long history in Kendal Town and has occupied various sites but has been at its current location (previously a wool warehouse) since 1913.
Newby Bridge
A unique combination of interrelated stories and a fascinating visitor experience.
Over 100 years of motoring history, the Campbell Bluebird exhibition, IOM TT tribute display and the Leven Valley heritage centre. Gift shop and Cafe Ambio.
Barrow-in-Furness
Built in a historic nineteenth century dock, the museum is home to a wealth of objects on the social and industrial history of the Furness area. The museum is a great day out for all with a popular playground, attractive Channelside walks, cafe…
Nenthead
The Hive is a fully licensed events venue in a restored Wesleyan Chapel in Nenthead, offering pop up cafes, food events, live gigs, workshops and private functions, including weddings
Penrith
The EVAN Gallery and Studios is a genuinely artist led creative hub. EVAN was established in 2017 to create a local network to support and encourage local artists. The Gallery showcases 40 local artists work and acts as a doorway to meet members,…
Keswick
Mirehouse is a beautiful family home in a breathtaking setting, welcoming visitors of all ages. Stroll lakeside paths, explore woodland playgrounds, and enjoy the Poetry Walk or the serene walled Bee Garden. Inside, discover fascinating literary…
Windermere
A free Exhibition at the first floor of Windermere Library which tells the heritage of pioneering aviation at Windermere from 1911 up to the present, including features for involvement by children. Disabled access.
Alston
Nenthead Mines is a historic place at Nenthead, near Alston. This remote valley is covered by remains from the lead and zinc mining industry of the North Pennines, including mine entrances, watercourses, dressing-floors and buildings. The site is…
Middlegate, Penrith
Penrith and Eden Museum is an Accredited Museum, which aims to collect, preserve and display material reflecting the history and culture of the Penrith and Eden district.
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