National Waterways Museum

National Waterways Museum, Ellesmere Port

Stunning canal boats at National Waterways Museum

Book Tickets Online

Unlock the wonders of our waterways at National Waterways Museum, Ellesmere Port.

With its delightful waterside setting, historic canal boats and fascinating displays housed in Victorian buildings of the former transhipment dock, the museum is a great day out whatever the weather.

Friendly dogs are welcome, and we ask that they be kept on a lead at all times.

Book Tickets

Guide Prices

Adult (16 & over) £11.50. Child (6-15) £8.50 Child (5 and under) Free. Family (2 adults + 2 children) £28.50. Concession £10.50. Your ticket allows you to return as often as you like for one year.

Opening Times

2025 1 Jan 2025 - 31 Dec 2025
Day	Times
Tuesday - Sunday	10:00	- 16:00

* Please visit https://canalrivertrust.org.uk/things-to-do/museums-and-attractions/national-waterways-museum-ellesmere-port for opening times before you visit.

Awards

Regional and Miscellaneous Marketing Cheshire Dog Friendly Business of the Year - 2018 2018

Directions

Road Directions

Leave M53, jct 9 and follow signs.

Public Transport Directions

By rail – Merseyrail half-hourly service from central Liverpool and stations on the Wirral. 10-minute walk from Ellesmere Port station

By bike - the towpath alongside the Shropshire Union Canal runs right up to the museum.

By bus – 20-minute walk from Ellesmere Port bus station. Wide range of services including from Caernarfon, Chester, Liverpool, Neston, Runcorn and Wirral.

TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor Traveller Rating:

598 reviews

Excellent
311
Very Good
203
Average
52
Poor
18
Terrible
14

Recent Reviews:

Sam N
Derby, United Kingdom
History and life on the canals
Wednesday, 19th February 2025
The museum is on the Shropshire Union Canal and is about a 15 minute walk from the Ellesmere Port Merseyrail station, there is also a good sized car park. There is a good cafe which is free entry and... Read full review
Steven W
First of many visits
Monday, 24th February 2025
First visit to this amazing museum with my youngest daughter who I thought might not like it but in fact she loved it ! Spent the day exploring the beautiful canal side basins and stunning buildings... Read full review
HorsecalledDennis
Ribchester, United Kingdom
Fantastic day out. So much to see.
Monday, 3rd March 2025
Geat day out and so much history. Lots to see and do and also dog friendly throughout. Lovely staff and very helpful. Food was great in the cafe too. Read full review