FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What are the 2026 Opening Times?

Our 2026 Open Season starts on Easter Saturday, 4th April, opening every Saturday and Sunday through to Sunday 25th October.

We aim to open on Saturdays and Sundays between Easter Weekend and the last Sunday in October from 1pm to 4pm. Last Entry is 3:30pm. We are closed on Bank Holidays.

We do still take bookings for private PRE ARRANGED visits for Groups, Families and Individuals on Wednesday Mornings year round. Please contact our Secretary to book. 

Since we rely solely on Volunteers to open we sometimes have last minute changes which we post on our Facebook Page. 

Are there Parking Facilities?

Shotley Marina is now a CONTROLLED PARKING ZONE with 24 HOURS ANPR IN OPERATION. 

There are several parking bays in front of the museum and along the sea wall.

YOU MUST PAY FOR PARKING UPON ENTERING THE CAR PARK!  

Parking machines are located along the side of the building and payment can be accessed online. See Signs for details.

When you make a make a valid (minimum £2.00) purchase from The Shipwreck Pub/Restaurant you will be able to validate your Parking for 3 Hours Free Parking. 

Parking is free for those staying at the Shipwreck Lofts accommodation once you have registered.

Parking is controlled entirely by Shotley Marina which is a separate entity from HMS Ganges Museum.

Is there an Entry Fee?

The museum is free to enter, but we appreciate any donations to support our work and preserve our heritage.

We rely entirely on Donations, Grants and our Volunteers to keep the museum running.

You do not need to book in advance to attend on the recognised Weekend open days but do check for last minute changes to opening times. 

Is there Disabled Access to the Museum?

Parking spaces are available outside the museum which is located in a single story/ ground floor building with no steps. There is a small kerb outside and we have a short ramp into the building itself.

We also have a wheelchair and walking frame available. If you require assistance our Volunteers are always ready to help.  

Is the Museum Child Friendly?

We welcome well behaved children of all ages as long as accompanied by a responsible adult. 

We have a Children's Corner with Picture Colouring and a Knot Display with a knot tying activity.

Are Dog's Allowed in the Museum?

Well behaved dogs are welcome as long as kept on a lead and under control. 

Is Overnight Accommodation available nearby?

The adjacent Shipwreck Loft within Shotley Marina provides comfortable B&B style accommodation with balcony views over the Marina and River Orwell.

Is there Food and Drink nearby?

The Shipwreck Bar and Restaurant within the Marina and The Rose and Bristol Arms in Shotley. See our Links Page for details.

Does the Museum take Financial Donations?

Donations are most welcome as we reply on them to cover our running costs. We can accept donations in Cash, Cheque or via Debit and Credit Card within the Museum. You can donate at the reception or via the donation boxes within the museum.  

You are now able to easily Donate Online via our HMS Ganges Museum Sumup Online Payment Portal. 

Direct Bank Deposits are also welcome. Please ask for details.

Does the Museum have a Souvenir Shop?

Mementos of your visit are available to buy at our Reception Counter. We stock a varied range of competitively priced items including branded clothing and engraved goods. 

We take Cash, Cheques and Debit/Credit cards in payment.

Some selected items are also available from our online store here: 
https://hmsgangesmusuem.sumupstore.com

May I Donate an Artefact to the Museum?

The Museum is always happy to receive donated artefacts that pertain to HMS Ganges, the boys and both naval and civilian staff.

Artefacts  can be brought to the reception desk at the museum during open hours. 

Small items may be posted to the Museum as long as they will fit through the letter box. 

Please Do Not Post Large Items to the museum because when we are closed there's no way to accept parcels. Please first contact our Secretary via phone or email for postal/shipping instructions. 

Please always provide your contact details as we will provide a numbered receipt to accept your items into our Collection. This receipt will help us to locate the position of your item/s within the museum.  

Please note that not every item can be on permanent display due to space restrictions but will be held in storage for future rotation of displays.

Are you looking for Volunteers?

YES! We are always pleased to welcome those interested in helping the Museum continue on its mission to maintain our heritage.

Suitable Volunteers aged 18+ can become public facing Attendants or behind the scenes helpers. Full training and ongoing support is given. 

Please Contact our Secretary or Chairman for more information. 

See mire information here: 

https://hmsgangesmuseum.com/volunteer/

researchING your family history

RESEARCH: Does HMS Ganges Museum Hold Official Naval Records of Trainees and Staff at HMS Ganges?

HMS Ganges Museum does not hold official records of trainees or staff. However, we do have memorabilia and personal stories that capture the essence of their experiences. These are free to view at the museum.

You can also search and view many photographs within our online archives at:  

https://hmsgangesmuseum.com/collection

RESEARCH: How Can I Find a War Grave?

To find a Commonwealth War Grave visit the Commonwealth War Graves Commission: 

http://www.cwgc.org/

Shotley Church also has many Commonwealth War Graves including those who served at HMS Ganges.

A visit to the churchyard and the Commonwealth War Graves can easily be added to your trip when in the area.

WHAT INTERESTS YOU?

CLICK BELOW on the sections that interesT you.