The Rum Story

The Rum Story Exhibition in Whitehaven, Cumbria

Type:Museum - Industrial

The Rum Story & Jefferson's Shop, 27 Lowther St, Whitehaven, Cumbria, CA28 7DN

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Tel01946 592933

About

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.

The journey traces the origins of Whitehaven's dark trade to villages in Africa and the vile transportation of slaves to the Antiguan sugar plantations. There are stories of Blackbeard and piracy on the high seas, smugglers and Nelson's navy. See the infamous punch houses, gangsters' illicit stills, the Jazz Age and hear the tales of Whitehaven's maritime past and the renowned Jefferson family.

Our courtyard cafe provides a menu that is full of home-made items and enticing goodies, in the courtyard you will also find our themed gift shop, where you can purchase souvenirs, unusual gifts and of course the famous 1785 Jefferson's rum.

Wonderful glassed over courtyard, licenced cafe serving fresh made local specialities. Excellent exhibition. Please contact booking office to check if amenities meet your requirements.

View Access Guide

Book Tickets

Opening Times

Season (2 Jan 2026 - 24 Dec 2026)

* Last admission 15:00.
No need to pre book just arrive on the day.
Meeting rooms available to book. Catering can be provided on request.

Guide Prices

Adult £9.95, Child £4.95 – Includes a voucher for £5 off a bottle of Jeffersons Extra Fine Dark Rum.
Group rates 15 or more for free guide Adult £6, Child £4.50

Facilities

Booking & Payment Details

Credit cards accepted (no fee)

Catering

On-site catering
On-site light refreshments

Children

Baby changing facilities
Children welcome

Groups

Education/study area
Facilities for educational visits
Facilities for groups
Guided tours for groups

Meeting, Conference & Wedding Facilities

Facilities for conferencing
Facilities for corporate hospitality
Wedding receptions

Parking

Accessible Parking
Parking with charge

Property Facilities

Gift shop
Guided tours for individuals
Public toilets
Smoking not allowed

Site Features

Regional Tourist Board Member
Welcome Host

Target Markets

Accepts groups
Coach parties accepted

Access Information

PARKING

Designated accessible parking: Designated accessible parking is available within 50 metres of the main entrance or an alternative step-free entrance if applicable.

Step-free route with firm surface from car park to entrance: There is a step-free route with a firm surface from the parking to the main entrance or an alternative step-free entrance.

BUILDING ENTRANCE

Step-free entrance: There is step-free access at the main entrance or an alternative entrance. This may be via a ramp or lift.

ACCESS TO KEY AREAS

Lift: There are lift(s) available. An evacuation chair should also be available in case of emergency.

RESTAURANT / DINING ROOM / BAR

Dietary requirements catered for: A selection of food is offered for a range of dietary requirements.

Table service as standard or on request: Table service is available as standard or on request.

Wheelchair-accessible food and beverage outlet: There is at least one wheelchair-accessible food and beverage outlet on site.

GENERAL

Map / floorplan showing accessibility facilities: A map or floorplan showing accessibility facilities is available.

Seating at regular intervals: Seating is available at regular intervals.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Additional detailed accessibility information:https://www.rumstory.co.uk/visit/accessibility/ We tell challenging histories about enslavement and oppression and as such provide content warning and alternative route options for visitors. We have also provided a Reflection Room at the end where people can go to reflect on their visit. Visitors can also ask if they wish to sit quietly in the Education Suite after their visit.

This information is self-assessed; therefore we accept no liability for its accuracy. Please contact the venue for further information.

TripAdvisor

Awards

Cumbria Awards Member of Cumbria Tourism 2016

Map & Directions

Map Link

Click here to view map

Road Directions

Access to Whitehaven is from the A595. Just follow the town centre signs.

Public Transport Directions

Accessible by Public Transport: Whitehaven station is 1 mile away.

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