National Museum of the Royal Navy, Hartlepool facts for kids

The National Museum of the Royal Navy (often called NMRN) is a cool place to visit in Hartlepool, Northern England. It's all about ships and the sea! This museum is set up to look like an old seaport from the 1700s, like the time of famous Admiral Lord Nelson and the Battle of Trafalgar.

Hartlepool Historical Quay.

The main attraction is HMS Trincomalee. She's a real Royal Navy warship called a frigate, and she's the oldest British warship still floating! She was built way back in 1817 in India. At the museum, you can explore old shops and houses, see a 'Fighting Ships' exhibit, and even play on a children's playship. You can also visit PS Wingfield Castle and the Museum of Hartlepool.

History of the Museum

The museum first opened its doors to visitors in July 1994. It was originally known as Hartlepool Historic Quay until April 2005. This special place was built to help bring new life and jobs to old industrial areas in Cleveland. These areas used to be busy with shipbuilding and timber yards.

New Names and Management

From 2005 to 2016, the museum was called Hartlepool's Maritime Experience. Then, in June 2016, the National Museum of the Royal Navy took over running the site from the local council. That's when it got its current name, NMRN Hartlepool.

What You Can See

The PS Wingfield Castle is a preserved ship at the museum. You can go inside her, and she even has a cafe! The Museum of Hartlepool has hundreds of other cool things to see. They show the town's history from ancient times right up to today.

One very popular story is about the Hartlepool monkey legend. Other exhibits include a full-size fishing boat called a coble, a lighthouse, and a shell from the Bombardment of Hartlepool. There are also many models of ships and displays about old engines.

HMS Trincomalee.

Recent Improvements

The museum has had some great upgrades over the years. In 2006 and 2007, the 'Fighting Ships' exhibit was improved. It's now an exciting audio and visual tour of a warship. A new character, Jim Henshaw, a young 'powder monkey' (who helped with cannons), was added to the experience.

Other improvements included a special exhibition about HMS Trincomalee. A viewing balcony was also added, giving great views of the ship. The Children's Maritime Adventure Centre was updated and redesigned. Plus, the PS Wingfield Castle was carefully restored.