Padstow Museum
Volunteer-run charity museum in Padstow telling the maritime, social and family history of the harbour town, with hands-on displays and free entry.
Have only individual sections read aloud
About the museum
Padstow Museum was founded in 1971 by a group of local people, inspired by an idea from a retired shipwright, Bill Lindsey. It is an independent charity that receives no government funding and relies on donations at the door and on supporters. It holds Accreditation status from Arts Council England and is staffed by volunteers.
The museum aims to record and present the social history of the port and to welcome visitors of all ages, especially young people. Its volunteers are known for their detailed knowledge of local families and local history, and they help visitors with questions.
In October 2018 the museum moved into new premises next to the coach park, now at Station House on Station Road. The move was made possible by a bequest and the generosity of a long-standing supporter. The new building has step-free access and a hearing loop, and the displays were redesigned with interactive elements. Short audio clips tell stories of local shipwrecks. The museum also researches objects in its collection, such as finds connected with the Harlyn Bay burial site.
Highlights
- Maritime, cultural and social history of Padstow
- Hands-on interactive displays
- Short audio clips telling shipwreck stories
- Research on local family history
- Free entry, run by volunteers
Permanent exhibition
- History of Padstow – Displays on the maritime, cultural and social history of the town, with interactive exhibits and audio clips about local shipwrecks.
- Founded
- 1971
- Operated by
- Padstow Museum (independent charity, Reg. No 278575)
Admission & discounts
Admission is free.
Entry is free. The museum is a charity without public funding and asks visitors to leave a donation in the collection box.
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible
- Elevator: no information
- Accessible restroom: no information
- Accessible parking: no information
- Service dogs welcome: no information
- Tactile models & exhibits: no information
- Sign language tours: no information
- Easy-to-read materials: no information
- Audio description: no information
The museum describes its premises as having full disability access and a hearing loop for visitors with hearing impairment.
Kids & families
Great for kids & families
- Hands-on stations
The museum calls itself family friendly and has hands-on interactive displays. Volunteers explain the exhibits.
Getting there & parking
The museum is in Station House on Station Road, next to the coach park.
Get directionsAmenities & dining
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Events & venue rental
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Plan your visit
| School programs | yes |
|---|---|
| Good to know | Schools and groups can book by email, giving the preferred date and group size. Groups of more than 20 are split and go round at separate times. There is no designated guide, so visitors with a specific topic of interest should tell the museum in advance. |
