A Visitor's Introduction to The National Maritime Museum

Why is The National Maritime Museum Worth a Visit?

The National Maritime Museum is a destination that appeals to a broad range of interests, making it an essential stop for history enthusiasts, families, and those curious about Britain’s maritime heritage. With its diverse and interactive exhibits, the museum not only delves into the grand narratives of naval battles and exploration but also brings to life the personal stories of sailors and explorers who navigated uncharted waters. Whether you want to see the coat Admiral Nelson wore at Trafalgar, explore the cultural impact of the transatlantic slave trade, or simply enjoy hands-on activities with children, the museum offers a dynamic and engaging experience. Its setting within Greenwich’s picturesque surroundings and proximity to other top attractions like the Cutty Sark and the Royal Observatory also make it ideal for a full day of discovery and learning.

National Maritime Museum Highlights

The museum’s extensive collection includes over two million items, many of which are on permanent display. Here are some of the key highlights visitors can expect to see:

1. Nelson’s Trafalgar Coat: One of the museum’s most famous exhibits, this artifact is the coat worn by Admiral Lord Nelson during the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. It bears the bullet hole from the shot that fatally wounded him, making it an evocative symbol of naval heroism and sacrifice.

2. The Great Map: Located in the museum's central atrium, the Great Map is an interactive world map that encourages visitors, especially children, to engage with geography, trade routes, and the history of exploration. The digital displays and activities around the map make learning both fun and educational.

3. Maritime Art and Paintings: The museum’s art collection includes works by well-known maritime artists such as J.M.W. Turner and Willem van de Velde. These paintings capture dramatic seascapes, naval battles, and life at sea, offering a visual history of Britain’s relationship with the ocean.

4. Polar Exploration Gallery: This section delves into the history of Arctic and Antarctic exploration, including expeditions led by figures such as Captain James Cook and Sir Ernest Shackleton. The gallery includes artifacts from these perilous journeys, along with personal items that provide insight into the explorers' lives.

5. Atlantic Worlds Gallery: This exhibit examines the history of transatlantic trade and its complex legacy, focusing on themes such as commerce, cultural exchange, and the human cost of the transatlantic slave trade. The gallery includes interactive displays, original documents, and artifacts that explore this critical aspect of maritime history.

6. Ships and Ship Models: The museum boasts an impressive collection of ship models, ranging from intricate 17th-century warships to modern vessels. These models are displayed alongside navigational instruments, ship logs, and charts, illustrating the evolution of ship design and navigation over the centuries.

7. The Caird Library and Archive: Named after Sir James Caird, the museum’s most significant benefactor, the Caird Library holds one of the world’s largest collections of maritime reference materials, including rare books, manuscripts, and charts. Researchers and history enthusiasts can access these resources by appointment, making it an invaluable repository for maritime scholarship.

8. Tudor and Stuart Seafarers Gallery: This gallery takes visitors back to the age of discovery and the early years of British naval power. It features exhibits on the voyages of Sir Francis Drake and Sir Walter Raleigh, showcasing how England’s seafaring activities laid the foundations for its later empire.

9. Sea Things Gallery: A family-friendly exhibit that displays a wide variety of maritime artifacts, from figureheads and navigational tools to personal items of sailors. This gallery focuses on the daily lives of those who worked at sea, offering a more personal perspective on maritime history.

Visitor Experience and Facilities

The museum is designed to cater to a wide range of visitors, including families, school groups, and history enthusiasts. It offers several interactive exhibits and multimedia displays that bring maritime history to life, as well as guided tours and temporary exhibitions that delve deeper into specific themes.

Family Activities: The museum provides a range of activities for children, including interactive workshops, storytelling sessions, and the Ahoy! Children’s Gallery, where young visitors can learn through play. There’s also a family trail that leads through the museum, encouraging exploration.

Cafés and Shops: The museum has an on-site café, the Parkside Café and Terrace, which offers views over Greenwich Park. Visitors can enjoy a variety of refreshments, from light snacks to more substantial meals. The museum shop sells a range of maritime-themed books, gifts, and souvenirs.

Accessibility: The National Maritime Museum is fully accessible, with step-free access to all floors, accessible toilets, and hearing induction loops. There are also touch tours and other services available to enhance the experience for visitors with disabilities.

Educational Programmes: The museum runs a series of educational programs aimed at school groups, university students, and adult learners. These include workshops, seminars, and special tours that align with the UK curriculum and promote a deeper understanding of maritime history.

Nearby Attractions

The National Maritime Museum is part of the Royal Museums Greenwich, making it easy to explore other nearby attractions. Some notable sites include:

Royal Observatory Greenwich: Just a short walk up the hill in Greenwich Park, the Royal Observatory is home to the Prime Meridian and the Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). Visitors can stand astride the meridian line, explore the history of astronomy and timekeeping, and enjoy panoramic views of London.

The Queen’s House: An architectural masterpiece designed by Inigo Jones, the Queen’s House is known for its striking art collection, including the iconic Armada Portrait of Elizabeth I. It provides a fascinating glimpse into royal life in the 17th century.

Cutty Sark: A preserved 19th-century tea clipper that was one of the fastest ships of its time, the Cutty Sark offers an immersive experience that tells the story of its voyages and the global trade networks it helped connect.

Greenwich Park: Adjacent to the museum, Greenwich Park is one of London’s largest green spaces and offers beautiful views of the Thames River and the city skyline. It’s an ideal spot for a picnic or a leisurely walk after visiting the museum.

Practical Information

Opening Hours: The museum is open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Admission is free for most of the permanent exhibitions, though some special exhibitions and events may have an entry fee.

How to Get There: The museum is easily accessible by public transport. The closest train stations are Greenwich (served by National Rail and the Docklands Light Railway) and Cutty Sark (DLR). Visitors can also reach the museum by boat from central London via the Thames Clippers service, which stops at Greenwich Pier.

Tips for Visitors: It’s recommended to set aside at least two hours to explore the museum fully, and even more time if you wish to visit the surrounding attractions. Check the museum’s website for information on special exhibitions and events that may enhance your visit.