about us
We are shipshape. We are Maryport.
Maryport Maritime Museum has found safe harbour in Christ Church, this landmark building on the town’s waterfront. The building’s restoration, and the reinvention of the Museum as a visitor destination, were part of £12 million of regeneration projects taking place here.
OUR HISTORY
Maryport Maritime Museum opened in 2026 in the former Christ Church – a landmark which has guided seafarers safely home for generations. Built in 1872, this Grade II-listed Gothic-style building, which has caught the eye of artists such as LS Lowry and Sheila Fell, had sat empty for many years before being bought by Cumberland Council ahead of its transformation.
Thomas Ismay, founder of the White Star Line which went on to launch the Titanic, funded Christ Church’s clock in 1879. That timepiece has been carefully restored to ensure it remains a welcoming beacon for sailors, locals and visitors alike.
The original Maryport Maritime Museum opened in 1975 and was located just across the road in the former Queen’s Head Inn, now Shipping Brow Gallery. You can still see the mosaic above its door which depicts Queen Victoria. Its prominent location on the harbourside, close to the River Ellen, meant it too was a hub for the seafaring community.
Maryport Maritime Museum’s move to its Christ Church home has been made possible by funding from central government, Cumberland Council and Maryport Town Council, and the dedication of its ‘Marras’, the volunteers from the Maryport Maritime Heritage Trust.
MARRAS
“Marra” means mate, friend, or companion and that’s exactly what our Marras are. They’re the volunteers and supporters who keep the museum shipshape, sharing stories and welcoming visitors with a smile.
Being a Marra means helping to keep Maryport’s story alive.
If you’d like to find out more about volunteering, donating, or becoming a supporter, get in touch with our team at @maryportmaritimemuseum.org.uk
GIVE A LITTLE
Your support, whether time, skills or a donation helps us care for the collection and share it with new generations.
Together, we’re keeping Maryport’s story alive.
NEEDS EMAIL
SHARE YOUR STORY
Maryport’s story is still being written. If you have photographs, documents, or objects that help tell that story, we would love to hear from you.
Please complete our online form before getting in touch. This helps our team review your offer carefully.
Every object offered is considered in line with our collecting priorities, to make sure it supports our mission to share and protect Maryport’s heritage for generations to come.
Once your form has been submitted, a member of our team will get in touch if we would like to learn more or arrange a time to view your item.
MARYPORT'S REGENERATION
For more information about the £12 million of investment in Maryport in recent years, visit www.cumberland.gov.uk/maryport