Attraction in Whitby
Tel: +44 (0)1947 601 900
Fax: +44 (0)1947 601 900
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Captain Cook Memorial Museum
Grape Lane
Whitby
North Yorkshire
YO22 4BA
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This handsome 17th century harbourside house, is where the great explorer, James Cook, came to serve his apprenticeship in Whitby in the year 1746. It belonged to Cook's master, the Quaker shipowner, Captain John Walker. When the young Cook was not at sea, he lodged here in the attic with Walkers's 'other family' of apprentices.
The house is now a museum celebrating Cook's Whitby years and his later achievements. The rich collection includes period rooms - furnished as Cook knew them - models, maps and manuscripts, ships plans, artefacts from the voyages, and many fine original paintings, drawings and prints.
A 'must' for Cook fans. Of significant interest to visitors from Canada and the States - Cook charted the St Lawrence estuary and explored the NW coast of America. Of exceptional interest to Australians and New Zealanders - 'this is where it all began!'
Special Exhibition 2010 ‘Northward Ho! A Voyage towards the North Pole 1773
Cook’s were not the only voyages of exploration at this time. While he was away searching for the Great Southern Continent, the Navy sent another Yorkshireman, Captain Constantine Phipps, an associate and keen supporter of Cook, towards the North Pole. This was to test the
belief that the sea itself did not freeze and that ice only formed near to land, with implications for that elusive northern passage to the East.
Though Cook himself was not involved in this expedition, it emphasises again the interest Cook’s Navy took in exploration, science and commerce. The exhibition tells the story of this voyage, its work and achievements, and, not to be omitted, midshipman Horatio Nelson's surprising and possibly apocryphal encounter with a polar bear!
The exhibition features clothing worn by Whitby seamen in the 18th century in northern waters. The articles come from Poland where they were recovered from the wreck of the Whitby ship, General Carleton, and are being exhibited in this country for the first time.
Details
Nearest Train Station: York or Darlington
Click here to plan and book your train journey
Tourist Info Number: +44 (0)1947 602 674
Months Open: Half term weekends in February, beginning of March to end October, daily. For detailed Visitor Information visit our website
Discount for Groups: Yes
Admission Price: Adults: £4.50
Children: £3
Family: £10.50
60+ £4
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