Whitby Museum is unusual and quite wonderful! Revealing the life of our historic coastal town from the Jurassic era to the present day, our collections are fascinating – even quirky. Come and see our fossils, costumes, model ships and curiosities for yourself. Whatever your age, whatever your interests, Whitby Museum is a precious treasure trove.
History & Anthropology Nature & Natural History Historic house Ethnology Archaeology Ancient art Animals Geology Industrial heritage Local Maritime Miscellaneous Photography
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Monday | Closed |
Tuesday | 10:00 – 16:30 |
Wednesday | 10:00 – 16:30 |
Thursday | 10:00 – 16:30 |
Friday | 10:00 – 16:30 |
Saturday | 10:00 – 16:30 |
Sunday | 10:00 – 16:30 |
The museum closes in December and January, please check whitbymuseum.org.uk for closure dates.
0 – 17 | Free |
National Art Pass | Valid |
Adults | £8.50 |
Groups of 10+ | £5.00 |
Students | £5.00 |
Pannett Park, Whitby
Whitby Museum has 1 rating.
The Whitby Museum, located in the coastal town of Whitby, England, offers visitors an eclectic collection of local history and curiosities. Housed in a Victorian building, the museum showcases a diverse range of exhibits that reflect the town's rich maritime heritage and geological significance.
Many visitors appreciate the museum's extensive collection of fossils, particularly the impressive array of Jurassic-era specimens found in the local area. The fossil displays provide an informative look into the region's prehistoric past and are often cited as a highlight of the museum.
The maritime section of the museum is well-regarded, featuring exhibits on Whitby's whaling history, shipbuilding, and seafaring traditions. Visitors often comment positively on the model ships and nautical artifacts that offer insights into the town's naval past.
One of the more unusual and popular attractions is the "Hand of Glory," a mummified human hand with an intriguing folklore background. This peculiar exhibit tends to capture the imagination of many visitors and is frequently mentioned in reviews.
The museum also houses a collection of items related to Captain James Cook, who had strong connections to Whitby. While some visitors find this section interesting, others note that it could be more comprehensive given Cook's significance to the area.
Some reviewers mention that the museum has a somewhat cluttered and old-fashioned feel, which can be seen as either charming or overwhelming depending on personal preference. The density of exhibits means there's a lot to see, but it can also make navigation and information absorption challenging for some visitors.
The staff and volunteers at the museum are generally praised for their knowledge and friendliness, often enhancing the visitor experience with their insights and stories.
While many visitors find the museum informative and interesting, some note that the presentation could be modernized to appeal to a broader audience, particularly younger visitors. The lack of interactive displays or updated information panels is occasionally mentioned as an area for improvement.
Overall, the Whitby Museum offers a comprehensive, if somewhat traditional, look at the local history and natural wonders of the Whitby area. It provides good value for those interested in paleontology, maritime history, and local lore, but may not cater as well to those seeking a more modern museum experience.
This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.
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