From the home of Britain’s greatest explorer Captain Cook, to the home of Locomotion No.1, the first steam locomotive to carry passengers. There are so many stories to be told in each corner of the Tees Valley.
Explore the history and lives of people living in the Tees Valley, as well as their impact on the world we know today, through objects, exhibitions, activities and events. There’s something for everyone in the museums and galleries that make up Tees Valley Museums.
Celebrating Middlesbrough, the Dorman Museum houses natural and social history as well as an extensive exhibition dedicated to Linthorpe Art Pottery, locally produced in the late 1800s, and Dr Christopher Dresser, the pre-eminent Victorian designer.
The Captain Cook Birthplace Museum marks the site of Cook's birthplace in Marton on the outskirts of Middlesbrough and is situated in the beautiful landscaped grounds of Stewart Park. Outside a traditionally carved Nootka totem pole from Canada guards the entrance.
Kirkleatham Museum is home to a treasure trove of artefacts, all housed in a magnificent 1709 Queen Anne building that began life as Free School for Boys. It features a wide range of exhibitions and displays covering local industrial, maritime and social history.
Discover the Hall and its treasures. Experience what life was like in 1895 as you take a stroll down our replica Victorian Street. Plus for little and big kids alike there’s a chance to let off some steam in the adventure play area and skate park.
Visit where the modern passenger railway was born! Walk around a preserved 1840s railway station which is now a museum celebrating the Stockton & Darlington Railway, visit the world’s oldest railway bridge still in operation, marvel at the UKs newest steam locomotive under construction and jump on Experiment! the North East’s only permanent immersive experience ride.
Walk through history at the Museum of Hartlepool and discover Hartlepool’s maritime heritage. Don’t miss Hartlepool’s oldest known man, say hello to Herman the Merman, and uncover the story of the UK’s only WWI battlefield site
Hartlepool Art Gallery is located in a stunning and beautifully restored Victorian church, formely known as Christ Church.
