East Durham Heritage & Lifeboat Centre - Seaham

East Durham Heritage & Lifeboat Centre: A Remarkable Blend of History and Tourism

The East Durham Heritage & Lifeboat Centre, located at Seaham Harbour Marina, Seaham SR7 7EE, United Kingdom, is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in local history, maritime tales, and engaging tourist attractions. With a phone number of 1915818904, this center offers a unique experience that resonates with locals and visitors alike.

Specialties and Unique Offerings

The center specializes in offering a heritage museum, serving as a prominent tourist attraction, and providing comprehensive tourist information. Visitors can delve into the rich history of the area through an array of exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays. One of the main attractions is the lifeboat and its restoration story, which showcases the bravery and dedication of local heroes.

Points of Interest and Accessibility

For added convenience, the East Durham Heritage & Lifeboat Centre offers onsite services, including a wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking lot, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the experience without barriers. Additionally, visitors can savor a meal at the in-house restaurant, making it a perfect spot for families with children. The center is highly recommended for individuals seeking a blend of history, leisure, and accessibility.

Customer Reviews and Opinions

With 25 reviews on Google My Business, the East Durham Heritage & Lifeboat Centre boasts an impressive average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars. Visitors often praise the enthusiastic staff, the depth of local history shared, and the fascinating exhibits. One common sentiment expressed in reviews is the appreciation for the center's ability to preserve and showcase the remarkable story of the lifeboat and its restoration. The center's dedication to providing an immersive and educational experience has left a lasting impression on many visitors. Moreover, the inclusion of interesting old photos and memorabilia adds a personal touch, making the journey through local history even more captivating.

Conclusion

👍 Reviews of East Durham Heritage & Lifeboat Centre

Jamie P.

5/5

Excellent place to look around, run by sine bet enthusiastic people - we got the full story of the amazing lifeboat and it's restoration, a great little bit of local history. Some interesting old photos and memorabilia from the local area too.

trevor H.

5/5

In 1949 the RNLI commissioned the Lifeboat, official number ON 873. The boat was funded by Miss Elizabeth Elmy of London. She had requested it was named 'George Elmy' In remembrance of her late brother George.
The newly built lifeboat arrived at Seaham Harbour in January 1950.
Rescuing 20 persons in 12 years.
On the night of 17th November 1962 while returning to the safety of the harbour after going to the aid of the fishing coble 'The Economy', a freak wave overwhelmed the lifeboat and all but one of those on board perished.
After repairs, the boat was returned to service for another 10yrs before being sold for £600 to begin a new life as a fishing vessel.
In May 2009 it was sold on eBay.
The East Durham Heritage Group bought it with the aid of a loan from local fisherman Tommy Smith.
The George Elmy arrived back in Seaham 15th May 2009 for restoration.
June 2013 the boat was fully restored.

Tim B.

5/5

Great little place to visit. It's not big but you get a real sense of the history of the boat they have restored.

Avalon

5/5

The East Durham Heritage & Lifeboat Centre is located within the Seaham Harbour Marina, SR7 7EE the Centre, which is managed by the East Durham Heritage Group aims to collect, record and display information and artifacts related to Mining, Industrial and Social heritage of Seaham and the East Durham area. The Centre also houses the restored Liverpool class lifeboat George Elmy which served on station at Seaham between January 1950 and 17th of November 1962 when it answered a distress signal from the fishing Coble Economy only to be overwhelmed as it  returned to port with the loss of its five crew and four of the rescued fishermen, there was only one survivor. The Centre  is open to the public between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Freddy C.

5/5

Highly recommend a visit to the RNLI shop . Especially enjoyed viewing the George Elmy lifeboat and hearing about its history from a staff member who gave a very informative and moving talk . 🚤🚤🚤🚤🚤

Lesley L.

5/5

A great little centre on the Marina and staffed by very friendly and helpful volunteers. Open Thursday to Sunday, but check opening times as these may vary.

Dawn D.

5/5

Wonderful heritage centre with beautiful old photos and memorabilia from Seaham and it's lifeboat which has been beautifully restored. Set in a marina with craft shops and cafes and stunning sea views.

Callum M.

5/5

Brilliant little museum with plenty to see consodering the size, also a little gift shop. Staff are friendly and also great to see the lifeboat and read about the history of it