The Great Yorkshire Day Out

Whitby Museum Printable Guide

Whitby Museum Printable Guide

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Whitby Museum Guide

Introduction

Welcome to Whitby Museum, a fascinating destination located in the picturesque town of Whitby, North Yorkshire, England. Established in 1823, the museum is housed in Pannett Park and is one of the oldest museums in the region. It offers a wide array of exhibits that showcase Whitby’s rich history, geology, maritime heritage, and the story of Captain Cook. This guide will help you explore all that Whitby Museum has to offer.

Museum Highlights

1. The Jet Room

  • Whitby Jet: Discover the story of Whitby Jet, a gemstone that originates from fossilized wood. This room showcases stunning jet jewelry and artifacts from the Victorian era when Whitby Jet was extremely popular.

  • Jewelry Making: Learn about the jet jewelry-making process and see intricate designs that have been crafted over the years.

2. The Fossil Collection

  • Whitby is located on the "Dinosaur Coast," and the museum has an impressive collection of fossils from the Jurassic period.

  • Look out for the Plesiosaur skeleton, a fascinating marine reptile, and other fossils such as ammonites, belemnites, and ichthyosaurs.

3. Captain Cook Exhibition

  • Whitby Museum provides insight into the life and voyages of Captain James Cook, who trained in Whitby. The exhibition includes maps, ship models, and information about his journeys across the world.

4. The Hand of Glory

  • One of the most intriguing and mysterious exhibits in the museum is the "Hand of Glory," a preserved hand said to be a magical artifact used by thieves in the past. It's part of the museum's folklore and superstitions collection.

5. The Natural History Collection

  • The museum's natural history section houses an impressive array of stuffed birds, butterflies, and sea creatures. This collection highlights the biodiversity of the Whitby area and beyond.

6. Whitby's Maritime Heritage

  • Explore the history of Whitby as a bustling port and fishing town. The maritime section showcases ship models, navigational instruments, and tools used by sailors.

  • Don’t miss the models of the Whitby whaling ships, which provide a glimpse into Whitby’s whaling history during the 18th and 19th centuries.

7. The Costume Gallery

  • Step back in time by exploring the beautiful clothing and accessories from different eras. This gallery showcases outfits ranging from Victorian times to the early 20th century.

8. The Archaeology Collection

  • The museum has a fascinating range of archaeological finds from local digs. Discover Roman artifacts, medieval pottery, and remnants from the town's ancient past.

Visitor Information

Location

  • Address: Whitby Museum, Pannett Park, Whitby, North Yorkshire, YO21 1RE, United Kingdom

  • The museum is located within the lovely Pannett Park, which offers beautiful gardens and stunning views of Whitby town.

Opening Hours

  • Monday - Sunday: 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM (Last admission at 4:00 PM)

  • Closed: Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day

Admission Fees

  • Adults: £6

  • Concessions (seniors and students): £5

  • Children under 16: Free when accompanied by a paying adult

  • Group discounts are available for parties of 10 or more.

Facilities

  • Gift Shop: The museum has a gift shop offering a selection of souvenirs, books, and locally made crafts.

  • Toilets: Facilities are available within the museum.

  • Accessibility: The museum is wheelchair accessible, and there is an elevator to access all floors.

Guided Tours

  • Guided tours can be arranged by appointment, offering an in-depth look at the exhibits with knowledgeable guides.

  • Audio guides are also available for visitors who prefer self-guided tours.

How to Get There

  • By Train: The nearest train station is Whitby Station, which is a 10-minute walk from the museum.

  • By Bus: Local bus services operate to and from Whitby. The museum is a short walk from the bus station.

  • By Car: There is parking available nearby, and Pannett Park is signposted from the town center.

Things to Do in Pannett Park

  • After your visit to the museum, take some time to explore Pannett Park. It's a beautiful space with well-maintained gardens, a play area for children, and lovely walking paths.

  • The park is also home to Pannett Art Gallery, which features a collection of local artwork and exhibitions.

Events and Activities

  • Whitby Museum regularly hosts events, workshops, and educational programs for visitors of all ages. Check the museum's website or contact them directly for details about upcoming events.

Tips for Visiting

  • Allow around 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore the museum.

  • Photography is allowed, but flash photography is prohibited to protect the exhibits.

  • Consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid crowds, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Contact Information

  • Phone: +44 (0)1947 602908

  • Email: info@whitbymuseum.org.uk

  • Website: Whitby Museum

Enjoy your visit to Whitby Museum! It’s a hidden gem that provides a fascinating journey through history, geology, and local heritage.