A waterside museum on two floors telling the story of London's canals from the early days as important trade routes. Learn about the cargoes, the people who strove to make a living on the canals, and the horses and tractors that pulled the boats. There is more to discover than you may think about the world of canals. Step into a narrowboat cabin and prepare to be amazed by the small space in which a whole family lived. The building was once an ice warehouse built in the 1860s for Carlo Gatti, the famous ice cream maker. Blocks of natural ice were imported from Norway to the Regent’s Canal Dock. They were then brought by boat to be stored in the two vast ice wells beneath the building, until they were delivered to customers by horse and cart. Visitors can look down into one of these partly excavated wells. Exhibitions include canal engineering, horse power, the history of the London canals, and the tradition of decorating boats with flowers and castles in bright colours. We have a rare example of a diesel canal towpath tractor that once replaced the horse. Outside, our tug Bantam IV is normally on floating display and you can enjoy the tranquillity of Battlebridge Basin, an urban beauty spot in the heart of London. Download a free audio tour to your phone! On several days per week you can combine your museum visit with a boat trip on The Regent’s Canal. Most trips pass through London’s longest canal tunnel and include a commentary from a guide and a hot drink. Some include a cream tea! There are short and long trips, all bookable online in advance to make a fascinating day out.

Look out for special events such as Family Fun days, and more.

The museum building is fully accessible, with an audio tour available for the visually impaired.