What’s on

2023 is a big year for National Maritime Museum Cornwall. It’s our 20th birthday and so we’re creating a brand new exhibition that takes a look at the highs and lows of our 20 year history.

Dashing, daring and adventurous or bloodthirsty, immoral and greedy – were pirates of the 18th century heroes of the age or no more than callous cutthroats?

Do you dare step foot on Skull Island? Become a pirate for the day and hoist the Jolly Roger to stake your claim. Climb the island fort and captain the crew from the quarterdeck whilst keeping watch for mischievous intruders.

Friday 15 March – Sunday 3 November

The RNLI is the focus of this exhibition by internationally renowned contemporary artist Kurt Jackson, celebrating the important role of the RNLI in Cornwall.

Saturday 25 May – Sunday 2 June.

This May half term, dive with us into The Rock Pool Project’s mobile rock pool and discover the curious creatures found on our Cornish coast.

Friday 28 June 2024 – Sunday 4 May 2025

An intimate exhibition celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Sunbeam one-design keelboat boat racing in Falmouth.

Monday 22 July – Sunday 1 September.

Jump aboard National Maritime Museum Cornwall for a wild adventure this Summer. Join our crew of heroes as they race to solve the clues, find the treasure, defeat the baddies and save the day. Phew!

Thursday 19 September, 7.30pm.

Dr Elaine Murphy, University of Plymouth, explores some of the ways in which women engaged with the navy in the 17th and 18th centuries.

Thursday 10 October, 7.30pm.

Dr Charlotte MacKenzie tells Mary Broad’s remarkable story, from Cornish convict in Australia to escapee.