Waterways lives uncovered

The large, first floor gallery contains extensive displays divided into two sections.

'Trade and the Docks' captures the atmosphere of a working warehouse and shows the role played by docks and canals in the British Empire and the Industrial Revolution. There’s a wonderful archive film shot in the 1960s of tugs and barges on the Gloucester & Sharpness Canal and hands-on displays include the popular pulley and sack.

'The story of canals' gives a fascinating overview of the people who created, worked and lived on the canals. Through tools of the trade, clothing, documents and silverware a picture is built of the boat families, navvies, engineers and business men who made canals their lives. Look out for the gleaming classic motor launch and beautifully painted canalware.