Business Details
Explore Captain James Cook's Legacy at Whitby's Historic Museum
Established in a 17th-century house where Captain James Cook lodged during his apprenticeship, our museum preserves the extraordinary legacy of one of history's most renowned explorers. Through extensive collections of original voyage artwork, historical artifacts, and interactive exhibits, we illuminate Cook's groundbreaking journeys across the Pacific, South Atlantic, and Arctic oceans. As an Accredited Museum (RD 1339) and registered charitable trust (No. 517546), we combine rigorous scholarship with engaging educational programs to serve schools, researchers, and global visitors.Our Grade I listed building in Whitby's historic harbor district offers a unique setting for exploring maritime history, featuring curated exhibitions like 'Uncharted Dangers: Health at Sea and in Space' and immersive learning experiences including virtual escape rooms. With operating hours spanning most of the year and special events celebrating Cook's enduring influence, we provide accessible, authoritative insights into the navigational achievements that reshaped global understanding.
Services
Historical Exhibitions
School Educational Tours
Virtual Escape Rooms
Research Access
Outreach Programs
Highlights and features
- We offer access to original 18th-century voyage artwork and navigational instruments
- Our educational programs include virtual escape rooms based on Cook's expeditions
- Charitable trust status ensures proceeds directly support historical preservation
- Located in Cook's actual 17th-century apprenticeship building in Whitby harbor
- Accredited museum with specialist collections spanning Pacific, Arctic exploration
Associations and certifications
- Accredited Museum (RD 1339)
Services
Historical Exhibitions
Our exhibitions showcase original 18th-century voyage artwork, navigational instruments, and maritime artifacts. Visitors explore Cook's Pacific expeditions through curated collections including watercolours, pencil drawings, and the Florilegium archive. The 2025 'Uncharted Dangers' exhibition examines health challenges in sea and space exploration.
Educational Tours
Tailored educational experiences for schools include guided tours, STEM activities, and curriculum-linked lessons. SEND specialists deliver focused sessions while virtual escape rooms engage pupils with Cook's Endeavour voyage. University groups access specialist maritime history resources and research materials.
Virtual Learning
Interactive digital programs feature live online lessons from education experts and virtual escape rooms based on Cook's adventures. The Florilegium virtual tour provides remote access to 2021 exhibition archives, complementing outreach sessions for local schools with confirmed bookings.
Research Access
Researchers access primary sources including voyage records, historical maps, and material culture collections. The museum welcomes interdisciplinary studies in maritime history, colonial exploration, and scientific documentation methods from Cook's era.
Event Hire
Our Grade I listed 1688 building offers unique event spaces with harbor views. Corporate sponsors and private groups can arrange venue hire for functions, with customizable packages supporting museum preservation efforts through philanthropic partnerships.
Questions
What are the museum's opening hours?
Open daily from 8 February to 2 November 2025. November openings are Tuesdays, Saturdays & Sundays 11:00-15:00. Last admission 30 minutes before closing.
Is the museum accessible for visitors with disabilities?
We provide accessibility information including parking options and facility details. Contact us for specific access requirements or to arrange visits for mobility-restricted guests.
Can I book school group visits?
Yes, we offer tailored educational programs for schools including guided tours, STEM activities, and virtual escape rooms. Outreach sessions available for confirmed bookings.
How do I access research collections?
Researchers should contact us in advance to arrange access to specialist archives including voyage records, historical maps, and material culture collections from Cook's era.
Are there corporate sponsorship opportunities?
Yes, we offer customized corporate sponsorship packages that align with business objectives while supporting museum preservation and educational programs.
Reviews (7)
Mel Terrell
Dec 23, 2021
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A great friendy Yorkshire welcome upon entry.Fantastic items on show and all questions answered professionally by the elderly gentleman volunteer. Being ex RN I found it very interesting and amazed at the amount and variety of items once belonging to Captain Cook and beautifully displayed.Upon leaving I purchased an item from the shop and was pleasantly thanked for the purchase as it helped the Museum. I would liked to thank all those volunteers who proudly work there and live in Staithes because without them I would never have had such a splendid experience of visiting another beautiful place
Piotr Az
Nov 22, 2021
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James Cook was exploring Pacific ocean and some islands got his name. That what I knew till this morning. So whilst walking in Grape Lane just over the swing bridge when I noticed museum of James Cook decision could be only one. Visit and explore James Cook memorial museum. With no hesitation I went inside to learn more. I wasn't disappointed. On several floors of this 17th century building I found many details of Cooks life and his expeditions. Pictures, letters, memorabilia and models of his ship. Endeavour. The same name had the command module of Appolo 15 on mission to the moon. So Cook's exploring
Martin Lyons
Nov 12, 2021
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A really old place dedicated to Captain Cook and the history there of. Well laid out over three floors, lots of different things to see and read, will appeal to the young and old a like, but duck your head when entering the attic.
Inna Starostina
Nov 06, 2021
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Very nice museum with interesting information and friendly staff. Also we liked an activity for kids with finding faces :)
Richard Tricky Carder
Sep 27, 2021
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This building played a big part of Captain James Cook's early seafaring adventures. You can discover how he started his journey to the discovery of New Zealand and Australia. As it is a very old building some visitors may find the low ceilings and steep stairs a challenge. However the history contained within each room is helped by the careful restoration of the decor. Examples of original flooring and fireplaces, with original wood panelled walls and doors. The staff were very helpful.
Debbie Lawrance
Sep 21, 2021
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Really interesting museum, well laid-out displays, in the house where Captain Cook lodged during his time as apprentice in Whitby.
Informative and interesting, documenting his travels and discoveries, and some of his companions.
Stunning views over Whitby.
Informative and interesting, documenting his travels and discoveries, and some of his companions.
Stunning views over Whitby.
Matthew Fletcher
Sep 11, 2021
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A severely underrated character in history. Why people don't know more about him is beyond me quite frankly.
