Hartlepool Museums and Art Galleries

(Hartlepool, County Durham, England, UK)

The undeniable maritime heritage of Hartlepool has never been so much in vogue before and the town has certainly tried to make the most of this with its museum offerings, most of which are completely free to enter. The Museum of Hartlepool should be your first port of call and suits children and grown-ups alike, with its prehistoric artefacts, sea monster displays, hands-on computer activities, detailed models and information about the area's earliest lighthouse, which was once illuminated by gas.

Standing right next door to the Museum of Hartlepool is the magnificent HMS Trincomalee. Built in the early 19th century in Mumbai, India, due to oak shortages in England, and launched towards the end of 1817, the HMS Trincomalee actually boasts the surprising accolade of being the oldest of all the British Royal Navy warships that are still afloat. Close by, the Paddle Steam Ship Wingfield Castle is another extremely notable restored maritime attraction.

Museum of Hartlepool

Address: Jackson's Dock, Maritime Avenue, Hartlepool, County Durham, TS24 0XZ, England, UK
Tel: +44 01429 860077
The Museum of Hartlepool stands alongside the Historic Quay and clearly documents the story of the town's rich maritime past and its interesting events, characters and buildings. As visitors step inside they are immediately taken back some 5,000 years, to the days of the Bronze Age. From this section, you will then move through the various centuries and learn more about the town's history, right up to 1967, when the original town (the Headland) merged with West Hartlepool and grew in status.
Open hours: daily, April to October - 10:00 to 17:00; November to March - 10:30 to 16:00
Admission: free

HMS Trincomalee

Address: Jackson's Dock, Maritime Avenue, Hartlepool, County Durham, TS24 0XZ, England, UK
Tel: +44 01429 223193
In 1895, the HMS Trincomalee was destined for the scrap heap until it was purchased by George Wheatley Cobb, who completely restored the vessel, renamed it the HMS Foudroyant to commemorate a lost ship, and proudly used it as a training ship, sailing to various ports around England. In 1986 the ship was restored and taken to Hartlepool, where it was once again named the HMS Trincomalee and floated on Jackson's Dock, being opened to the general public as an attraction in its own right. This naval frigate is very easy to locate and can be seen from far away, since its tall masts tower high above the surrounding buildings. Audio tours are available and there is also an enjoyable trail for younger visitors, while private evening tours can also be arranged.
Open hours: daily - 10:30 to 15:30
Admission: charge, discounts for children

Paddle Steam Ship (PSS) Wingfield Castle

Address: Jackson's Dock, Maritime Avenue, Hartlepool, County Durham, TS24 0XZ, England, UK
Tel: +44 01429 860077
Once working as a passenger ferry on the Humber Estuary, the Paddle Steam Ship Wingfield Castle is now moored at Jackson's Dock, where it is open as a floating museum-type attraction. This historic paddle steamer dates from the early 1930s and has received much restoration work in recent years. Visitors to the ship are able to walk freely around the deck and the bridge, and also explore the boiler room. At the rear of the ship is a first-class deck, which can be hired as a function room. Also onboard is a popular cafe, offering hot snacks and appealing waterfront views.
Open hours: daily, April to October - 10:00 to 17:00; November to March - 10:30 to 16:00
Admission: free

Hartlepool Art Gallery

Address: Church Square, Hartlepool, County Durham, TS24 7EQ, England, UK
Tel: +44 01429 869 706
Established during the year of the Visual Arts (1996), the Hartlepool Art Gallery is located on Church Square and housed within a beautiful Victorian Church, previously known as Christ Church. The art gallery is home to a mixture of contemporary pieces, fine art, photographs and local handicrafts, with exhibitions being regularly changed and rotated. A particularly unique and unexpected feature at the gallery is the old clock tower, which is roughly 30 metres / 100 feet high. For just a small charge it is possible to climb the stairs to the top of this tower and enjoy some stunning aerial views of the town and its coastline.
Open hours: Tuesday to Saturday - 10:00 to 17:30, Sunday - 14:00 to 17:00
Admission: free