National Waterways Museum, Ellesmere Port

The National Waterways Museum is a museum site built around a historic dock in Ellesmere Port, featuring restored canal boats, historic machinery, and Victorian-era warehouse buildings. The grounds contain multiple structures and water basins where working locks and transport systems can still be seen in operation.

The site was built about 200 years ago as a cargo transfer point linking the port of Liverpool with inland canal networks. It became a central hub during industrialization and shaped the region's trading patterns.

The museum maintains an extensive archive documenting Britain's canal heritage through photographs, technical drawings, and personal accounts of waterway workers.

Wear comfortable shoes as the grounds are extensive and involve considerable walking. There are resting areas located throughout the site, allowing you to pace your visit at a leisurely speed.

The museum operates working workshops where traditional crafts like blacksmithing and boat building are demonstrated in real time. These active workshops let visitors witness the skills that earlier workers used daily.

Location: Cheshire West and Chester

Address: South Pier Road, Ellesmere Port, Cheshire, CH65 4FW

Phone: +441513555017

Email: nationalwaterwaysmuseum@canalrivertrust.org.uk

Website: https://canalrivertrust.org.uk/national-waterways-museum

GPS coordinates: 53.28794,-2.89203

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:04