Harwich Maritime Museum

Harwich Maritime Museum is a small, volunteer-run museum in Harwich, Essex, housed in the Low Lighthouse, a whitewashed tower from 1818 that once guided ships into the harbour. It is run by the Harwich Society and gives you the town's seafaring story and a protected piece of navigation history under one roof.

What is the building?

The museum occupies the former Low Lighthouse, one half of a matched pair. Harwich had two lights that worked together: the High Light stood behind, while the Low Light had its lamp set lower, so a ship lining up the two lamps one above the other could stay in the safe channel. The Low Lighthouse stands roughly 200 metres south-east of the High Lighthouse.

Historic England records the tower as a Grade II listed building, first listed in 1964, and it also has separate protection as a scheduled monument. The listing dates it to 1818, credits the engineer John Rennie the Elder with the design, and says it was built for General Rebow. The walls are yellow stock brick with stone dressings, now painted white.

What will you see inside?

The museum tells the story of Harwich as a port: a naval and packet-ship town at the mouth of the Stour and Orwell, with centuries of shipping, defence and trade behind it. The exhibition sits inside a lighthouse, so the setting is part of the visit. Allow around 30 to 45 minutes; it is a compact museum rather than a full-day attraction.

Is it worth combining with other sights?

Yes. The Harwich Society also looks after a Maritime Heritage Trail through the old town, and the High Lighthouse is only a short walk away. The Low Lighthouse is a good first stop before following the trail.

When is it open?

Opening is seasonal and depends on volunteers, so hours change from year to year. For Easter 2026 the Harwich Society listed daily opening from Friday to Monday, 10:00 to 16:00, with admission of £2. Earlier notices mention weekend opening, and the society has also described daily summer opening from May to mid-September. Check the Harwich Society website before you travel.

Frequently asked questions

Is Harwich Maritime Museum free?

No. For Easter 2026 the Harwich Society listed a £2 admission charge.

Is the building really a lighthouse?

Yes. It is the former Low Lighthouse of 1818, now converted into the museum.

Is the Low Lighthouse listed?

Yes. It is Grade II listed and is also a scheduled monument.

How long does a visit take?

Plan on about 30 to 45 minutes, longer if you walk the nearby heritage trail.