The Stoke Bruerne Canal Museum is located in the picturesque village of Stoke Bruerne, England. This museum is dedicated to preserving the history of canal waterways and the narrowboats that travelled them. The museum is housed in two historic buildings, the former boatyard of the Grand Union Canal Company and the old warehouse of the Inland Waterways Association. The museum is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a unique insight into the history and heritage of the English canals.
History
The Stoke Bruerne Canal Museum was opened in 1984 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the Grand Union Canal. The museum is part of the Inland Waterways Association, which was founded in 1946 to preserve and protect the English canal network. The museum is home to a variety of exhibits, including canal models, photographs, and artifacts from the industrial revolution. The museum also offers guided tours of the canal and its surrounding area, as well as educational programs for children.
Attractions
The museum offers a variety of exhibits and activities to visitors. The museum’s main attraction is its collection of canal models, which feature the different types of narrowboats used in the past. There are also interactive displays that allow visitors to explore the history of the canal network and its importance during the industrial revolution. Other exhibits include photographs, artifacts, and a variety of canal-related items.
What to Expect
Visitors to the museum can expect to learn about the history of the English canals, the narrowboats that travelled them, and the industrial revolution. The museum also offers a variety of educational opportunities for children, such as canal-related activities and crafts. There are also regular events and activities, such as canal walks and boat trips.
Tours
The museum offers guided tours of the canal and its surrounding area. These tours provide visitors with a unique opportunity to explore the history and heritage of the canal network. The tours usually take around an hour and are led by knowledgeable guides.
Admission
The museum does not charge an admission fee, but donations are welcome. The museum is open from April to October.
Tips for Tourists
- Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the canal and its surrounding area.
- Bring a camera to take pictures of the canal and its surrounding area.
- Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy in the museum’s outdoor seating area.
- Take part in the museum’s educational activities and events.
Practical Information
The museum is located at the junction of the Grand Union Canal and the River Great Ouse in Stoke Bruerne, England. The museum is open from April to October, Monday to Sunday, 10am to 5pm. For more information, please visit the museum’s website or call +44 (0) 1788 860 965.
