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The charity making life better by water

Group visits

We look forward to helping create the perfect visit for your group. Whether you are a coach group, local organisation or family!

Your visit

As standard with your entry ticket to the museum we can offer one or two of the following experiences:

  • Access to our collection store - This area of the museum is not generally open to the public and allows you to look at some of our smaller collection items - the highlights of which are a range of Roses and Castles pieces
  • Tour of our boats - on the Quayside we have numerous historic boats that you can learn more about and step on board
  • Introductory talk - A quick volunteer led introduction to the museum and the history of the local waterways
  • Museum Tour - Please see below for more information on our list of specific tours that pick out thematic highlights within the museum. If there is a specific topic of interest to you that is not listed please get in contact and we may be able to tailor a tour to your interests

Tours

The rise, fall and rebirth of UK canals

A history of canals in the UK brought to life using a selection of items in the museum.

Canals and engineering

A look at some the engineers and engineering behind building, maintaining and restoring canals

Canal people

Covers canal engineers, canal builders, boatpeople, canal restorers and Gongoozlers.

16 miles, 16 bridges: How Gloucester came to be the furthest inland port in the UK

Covers the history of Gloucester as a port from the romans, through the opening of the Sharpness Canal to the current day.

Refreshments

Take a break in the Llanthony tea room for a fantastic afternoon tea (£19 per person. Must be pre-booked). Alternatively enjoy some cake and a hot drink at your leisure.

Key information

  • Our group rate is applicable to groups of 10 or more and is £9 per person
  • Coach drivers receive a complimentary ticket for entry
  • A visit to the National Waterways Museum pairs perfectly with a visit to a number of other local attractions in Gloucester city centre. The closet destinations to us are the Soldiers of Gloucester Museum, Llanthony Secunda Priory, Gloucester Cathedral and the Museum of Gloucester.

If you would like to book a group visit or you have any questions please contact [email protected]

We look forward to welcoming your group.

Last Edited: 6 August 2026

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