Events

Find out what events are taking place at the National Waterways Museum.

New exhibiton: Making our Museum

50 Years of the National Waterways Museum (1976-2026)

Discover the story behind the museum – from the derelict docks and early volunteer working parties to the boats, buildings and people who helped shape the site you see today. Opens 13 June, first floor, Island Warehouse.

Vintage photo of adults and children digging in the mud

50th Anniversary celebrations

The National Waterways Museum will be celebrating it's 50th year in style with live entertainment, traditional craft demos and a brand new exhibition.

13 June 2026, 10am to 14 June 2026, 4pm

Exhibition Gallery, First Floor, Island Warehouse National Waterways Museum South Pier Road Ellesmere Port Cheshire CH65 4FW

Old red vintage car on a cobbled street and red phone box behind

Vintage Vehicle Weekend

The National Waterways Museum will be welcoming vintage cars and motorcycles to the site.

27 June 2026, 10am to 28 June 2026, 4pm

National Waterways Museum South Pier Road Ellesmere Port Cheshire CH65 4FW

Old black and white photo of a canal boat

World Chocolate Day (Mendip)

On this day, in recognition of National Chocolate Day we'll be celebrating all things chocolate and Mendip; the traditional narrowboat that Charlie ‘Chocolate’ Atkins used to transport chocolate crumb.

5 July 2026, 10am-4pm

National Waterways Museum Ellesmere Port South Pier Road Ellesmere Port Cheshire CH65 4FW

3 volunteers in traditional canal town costume at Ellesmere Port

Canal Town Summer Sundays

Step back in time at our family friendly ‘Living Museum’ events and experience what it was like to live and work in the docks when Ellesmere Port was a canal town.

19 July 2026, 10am-4pm

National Waterways Museum South Pier Road Ellesmere Port Cheshire CH65 4FW

Adult and child pushing a lock gate on a sunny day

Canal Town Summer Sundays

Step back in time at our family friendly ‘Living Museum’ events and experience what it was like to live and work in the docks when Ellesmere Port was a canal town.

26 July 2026, 10am-4pm

National Waterways Museum South Pier Road Ellesmere Port Cheshire CH65 4FW

Man in victorian costume standing infront of fireplace

Canal Town Summer Sundays

Step back in time at our family friendly ‘Living Museum’ events and experience what it was like to live and work in the docks when Ellesmere Port was a canal town.

2 August 2026, 10am-4pm

National Waterways Museum South Pier Road Ellesmere Port Cheshire CH65 4FW