Picture shows the front aspect of Brightlingsea Museum on a lovely sunny day!
  • Picture shows the front aspect of Brightlingsea Museum on a lovely sunny day!
  • Picture shows welcome greeting with shipbuilding scene.
  • Part of the interior of the museum showing the Naval Base display and artefacts.
  • Picture shows interactive "knotty problem" exhibit, try your hand at tying knots.
  • Picture shows a penny farthing bicycle and rider outside the museum.

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About

Brightlingsea Museum re-opened in new purpose built premises in 2020 and the imaginative layout takes visitors on a journey of exploration, with a surprise round every corner and lots to discover and do. Learn about the town’s unique claim to fame with its Cinque Port connections, follow the construction of a ship from drawing board to launch then find some fascinating facts about sprats and oysters.  All of this before you go on to escape to the heydays of the luxury steam yachts and the graceful ocean-going racing yachts and then finally take command of HMS Nemo and discover the role of the town in times of war and danger. Younger visitors can follow the Bricklesey Mouse Trail whilst there is a programme of temporary exhibitions and special events throughout the year.

“… a gem of a museum” “a treat for the senses” “loved the sound effects” 

“A beautifully presented history of Brightlingsea that had us completely absorbed”

“A compelling haven of exploration for maritime enthusiasts and general visitors alike” (Museums Journal Nov/Dec 2020).

 

 

 

Book Tickets

Guide Prices

FREE!
Donations always welcome.

Facilities

Accessibility

  • Disabled access

Booking & Payment Details

  • Free Entry

Suitability

  • School Trips

Target Markets

  • Coach parties accepted

Map & Directions

Road Directions

Brightlingsea can be found on the Essex coast (between Colchester and Clacton) at the end of the B1029. From Junction 29 of the A12 (north or south) exit on to the A120, leaving at the nexy junction on to the A133. Turn right at the toundabout, then left at the crossroads in Frating and follow the B1029 into the town, going straight down the hill towards the seafront!

There is plenty of on-street parking nearby, and car parks at Victoria Place and Promenade Way. We have limited accessible parking, please contact us to book a space.

Public Transport Directions

The number 87 bus, operated by FIRST, runs regularly from Colchester and stops right outside the museum.

Brightlingsea Museum

Type:Museum

Dove House, Station Road, Brightlingsea, Essex, CO7 0DT

TripAdvisor Traveller Rating

TripAdvisor Traveller Rating - 12 reviews12 reviews
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Tel01206 307121

Opening Times

Brightlingsea Museum (30 Mar 2024 - 22 Dec 2024)
DayTimes
Monday - FridayClosed
Saturday11:00 - 17:00
Sunday14:00 - 17:00
Bank Holiday11:00 - 17:00

* Brightlingsea Museum is open every weekend from Easter Saturday to Christmas and spring/summer bank holidays - Saturdays and Bank Hols 11.00 to 17.00, Sundays 14.00-17.00
During Easter and half-term holidays and all of JUNE, JULY AND AUGUST open additionally on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays - 14.00 to 17.00
Please check our website for details.

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