Royal Navy Museums: Hartlepool
Hartlepool, County Durham
The quayside and museum galleries provide step-free access, Changing Places and free carer admission, but failed ship lifts currently leave only HMS Trincomalee's gun deck wheelchair accessible.
Jarvis Access status
Red — serious concerns
Independent assessmentSerious current barriers on HMS Trincomalee leave wheelchair users unable to reach most of the historic ship.
The museum provides an accessible quayside, lifts in the galleries, disabled parking, accessible toilets, Changing Places and free carer admission. However, the ship's lifts are out of service with no confirmed replacement date, so wheelchair users can reach only the gun deck while the top deck, mess deck and hold remain inaccessible.
How to read the traffic-light status
- GreenNo significant accessibility concerns identified in the information reviewed.
- AmberSome concerns or limitations need to be considered when planning.
- RedSerious concerns or substantial barriers have been identified.
The status is an independent planning aid based on the evidence available when assessed. It is not a guarantee that every visitor will have the same experience or a legal finding about the venue.
Plan your visit
Access arrangements at a glance
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The paved historic quayside, museum galleries, accessible parking and toilets are wheelchair accessible, and a Changing Places facility is provided in the car park. On HMS Trincomalee, the lifts are out of service with no confirmed replacement date, leaving only the gun deck wheelchair accessible; the top deck, mess deck and hold require steps. Cannon and musket demonstrations are loud and smoky, with ear defenders available.
Shared experience
Visitor reviews
Reviews can help with planning, but they reflect individual visits and do not replace the attraction’s current official guidance.