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Best Days Out Cornwall

National Maritime Museum Cornwall

Discovery Quay, Falmouth. TR11 3QY
01326 313388
Parking is a short level walk away. Nearest car parks are the Maritime Car Park and Grove Street Car Park.

About National Maritime Museum Cornwall

Learn about the unbreakable ties between the people of Cornwall and the briny blue. The exhibitions at this independent Falmouth museum unravel fascinating tales of life on the ocean, from plucky Packet Service crews to modern-day national and international explorers.

Celebrate the overwhelming influence of the sea on history and culture, exploring 15 galleries over five floors.

Join us from 31 March 2023 for new major exhibition, Pirates. Dashing, daring and adventurous or bloodthirsty, immoral and greedy – were pirates of the 18th century heroes of the age or no more than callous cut-throats?

For generations, pirates have been portrayed in film, fiction and fashion as symbols of freedom and adventure. But how and why has this image been created? To find out, immerse yourself in the digital world of the Sea of Thieves game, land on Treasure Island, meet the man behind Long John Silver and dance a hornpipe with Horatio Pugwash before discovering the dark world of the real pirates of the Caribbean.

In this latest major exhibition, explore how popular culture has shaped how we think of pirates today and dive beneath the surface to unearth the harsh and terrifying truth.

Opening Dates & Times

Open every day of the year from 10am – 5pm, except Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

Sandcastle Best Days Out Cornwall

Worth Knowing

You can go underwater - without getting wet! - in the museum’s Tidal Zone.

Clay works Best Days Out Cornwall

What Visitors Say

"We spent 3 hours at the museum and were amazed by the whole place. The layout of the various exhibits was excellent. A great learning experience for every member of the family. The gift shop had a great selection of books."
"The National Maritime Museum in Falmouth is by far the best museum we've ever visited! Packed full of history, knowledge, hands on experiences, there's something of interest for all. Our greeting at the ticket desk was warm, friendly and made us feel very welcome! We were enthralled by the Cornish gallery - especially the interpretation about the packets. I would like to thank everyone involved for all the hard work that has gone into creating such an interesting space. The fact that we can come back and carry on our journey of discovery over the next year is a very welcome one!"
"Really enjoyed our afternoon here and would recommend a visit here for all ages. Made the history come alive and was both informative and interesting."

National Maritime Museum Cornwall Events

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