Captain Cook Memorial Museum and its collection

Captain Cook Memorial Museum
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The Captain Cook Memorial Museum is a historical museum located in Whitby, North Yorkshire, England. It is situated in Grape Lane, a charming location on the harbour side. The museum is housed in a building known as Walker's House, which was once the home of Captain John Walker, to whom James Cook was apprenticed. This location offers a unique insight into the life and times of the famous explorer, Captain James Cook.

Walker's House and Captain Cook's Apprenticeship

The museum is housed in Walker's House, a building that belonged to Captain John Walker. James Cook, the famous explorer, was apprenticed to Walker in 1746. This house is not only a museum but also a historical site, as it provides a glimpse into the early life and career of Captain Cook.

Museum's Collections

The museum's collections include a variety of items related to Cook's voyages. These include original letters and correspondence from Cook and his contemporaries, such as Lord Sandwich, Sir Joseph Banks, and the Forsters. Additionally, the museum houses paintings and drawings by artists who accompanied Cook on his voyages to the Pacific, including Sydney Parkinson, William Hodges, and John Webber. Artefacts from the Pacific islands and New Zealand, original maps and charts, and ship models are also part of the museum's collection.

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Specialized & Alternative Specialized & Alternative History & Anthropology History & Anthropology Historic house Person & Artist Maritime

Captain Cook Memorial Museum
Grape Lane
YO22 4BA Whitby

Visitor information Captain Cook Memorial Museum

Opening hours

Opening times 2025- Daily
Sat 8 Feb - Fri 28 March 10.30am - 3.00pm
Sat 29 March- Sun 2 Nov 9.45am - 5.00pm
Last admission: 30mins before closing time

Admission

0 – 16Free
17+£11.00

Facilities

Wheelchair accessible
Museum shop

Location & Map

Grape Lane, Whitby

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Exhibitions

No exhibitions in Captain Cook Memorial Museum have been found.

Captain Cook Memorial Museum Reviews

Captain Cook Memorial Museum has 1 rating.

  • Apollo's Insights AI-Generated

    The Captain Cook Memorial Museum in Whitby, England offers visitors an informative experience about the life and voyages of Captain James Cook. Located in a 17th-century house where Cook once lived as an apprentice, the museum provides a genuine connection to the explorer's early years.

    The exhibits showcase a variety of artifacts, maps, and models related to Cook's expeditions, giving visitors a comprehensive overview of his significant contributions to navigation and exploration. Many visitors appreciate the well-presented information and the historical context provided throughout the museum.

    The staff are often praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm, enhancing the overall experience with their insights. The museum's size is relatively compact, which some find allows for a focused and manageable visit, while others might wish for more extensive displays.

    One of the highlights frequently mentioned is the opportunity to see original letters written by Cook himself, offering a personal glimpse into the explorer's thoughts and experiences. The museum also does a good job of presenting information about the indigenous peoples Cook encountered during his voyages, providing a more balanced historical perspective.

    Some visitors note that the museum can feel a bit dated in terms of presentation style, and others mention that the narrow staircases might pose accessibility issues for some. However, these aspects are often overlooked due to the rich historical content and the museum's authentic setting.

    While the admission price is considered reasonable by most, a few visitors suggest that the experience might be brief for the cost, especially for those not deeply interested in maritime history or Cook's life.

    Overall, the Captain Cook Memorial Museum offers a solid educational experience for those interested in maritime history, exploration, and the life of Captain James Cook. Its intimate setting and wealth of information make it a worthwhile stop for history enthusiasts visiting Whitby.

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