Step back in time at our family-friendly Living Museum event and experience what it was like to live and work in the docks when Ellesmere Port was a canal town. Explore the authentic sights and sounds of the era as you walk through our recreated historical space, complete with period buildings and artefacts. Watch as costumed actors go about their daily tasks, including loading and unloading cargo, repairing boats, and interacting with each other and visitors.
With something for all ages, our Living Museum event is a unique and immersive experience that is not to be missed.
Early Bird Tours (45 mins)
This guided tour takes the visitor on a walk around the outside of the museum to highlight some of the features in the locality which have historic links to the development of the waterway transhipment docks built in the 1800s on the site where the museum now stands. Numbers are limited so booking in advance at the Reception Desk is advisable.
10.15am
Costumed Guided Tours (50 mins)
Learn about Ellesmere Port’s fascinating history as a bustling dock and enjoy enchanting stories about the people who lived and worked on some of the historic boats still moored here today.
11am, 12.30pm, 1.30pm, 3pm
Lock Demos (45 mins)
Watch our historic narrowboats Shad and Gifford travel through the museum’s tiered locks using both modern and traditional methods including towing and rope techniques.
11.30am, 1.00pm
Engine Demos (30 mins)
See the glory of steam in action when our volunteers fire up some of the magnificent Power Hall engines once used to pump water, swing bridges and power boats.
15 & 45 mins past each hour
“We are all living history, and it's hard to say now what will be important in the future. One thing's certain, though: if we throw it away, it's gone.” (M Johnson)
Life in the 1900s
Ask the costumed interpreters residing in our period Porters Row cottages about the traditional work they’re showcasing; from rag-rugging and lace making to washing, cooking and cleaning.
11, 12, 1, 2, 3pm
Tours are FREE (included in your annual pass)
Sorry, this event has passed
For adult groups of 10 or more, there are a range of options available for groups for an…
Unlock the wonders of our waterways at National Waterways Museum, Ellesmere Port.
Boulder Hut is an indoor climbing centre that opened its doors in July 2018 in Ellesmere…
FREEDOME believes in chasing thrills, not taking chances. Fun starts and ends with safety.
Trendsetters, foodies, label lovers, it’s time to make some noise for the infamous…
Cheshire Oaks was the first and remains the UK’s largest Designer Outlet. With over…
Get up close to Awesome Sharks at Blue Planet Aquarium and see real scuba divers in our…
This historic site was once the home of many aircraft during its civilian and operational…
A welcoming Anglican church with a diverse congregation from the local community and…
Relax and rejuvenate your body and mind with a visit to the brand new Vital Health &…
A visit to Cheshire isn’t complete without a visit to the UK’s favourite zoo. Home to…
A visit to Cheshire isn’t complete without a trip to the UK’s number one zoo. Chester Zoo…
Golf course and driving range with 18 covered bays, floodlighting, putting green, 3 open…
Spring is a special time at Rivacre Valley Local Nature Reserve, when the woodlands are…
Stanney Woods is an ancient woodland of oak and silver birch, with some hazel and holly.…