Explore Captain Cook's early life and 18th-century education in this charming village museum showcasing his journey from schoolboy to legendary explorer.

The Captain Cook Schoolroom Museum, located in the heart of Great Ayton in North Yorkshire, tells the fascinating story of Captain Cook's early life and education at the Charity School. Visitors discover how teaching methods worked in the 18th century and learn about the foundation of Charity Schools through authentic exhibits and artefacts. The museum traces Cook's journey from his childhood on the farm through his remarkable voyages across the high seas to his untimely death. Interactive displays and period exhibits bring this adventurer's story to life, making it engaging for families and history enthusiasts alike. Located at 101 High Street in one of North Yorkshire's prettiest villages, this is a wonderful destination for families seeking educational entertainment. The museum operates seasonally from April through October, primarily opening Wednesday to Sunday and on Bank Holidays. Admission is completely free, making it an accessible cultural experience for all ages. Group visits and school trips can be arranged by prior appointment.

Venue Details

What this place offers

Toilets

Public transport nearby

Accessible toilets

Free WiFi

Baby changing facilities

Food available

On-site parking

🐕Dog-friendly

Parking nearby

Pushchair friendly

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Wayne Thomas

10 months ago

Tells a different aspect to Captain Cook's life and what it was like for teachers at that time. Worth a visit.

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Lesley Macintyre

11 months ago

As my family have ancestral links to Captain Cook I was interested to visit this museum as I was in the area. However at 3pm on a Friday during school holidays it wasn’t open. Nothing on the door to say why. Disappointed. I’m sure it would have been very interesting 🤨

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Tamás Pecze

a year ago

Nice small museum with a giftshop. There is a great audio-video presentation upstairs showing Captain Cooks voyages. Definetly worth to visit. The admission is free. The owner is a very kind person.

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Dave Sillence

6 years ago

Excellent tourist attraction celebrating one of Cleveland's most famous sons, Captain James Cook, explorer, extraordinaire. Well worth a visit :)

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Nicola Brooks

6 years ago

Wonderful mini museum. Three generations of our family visited together aged from 74 to 7 years. We spent a good hour filling in the free quizzes provided by the lovely friendly and helpful volunteers in the shop downstairs. Upstairs (lift available) museum packed full of interesting and interactive history and information about Captain Cook and the local area. Free entry but donations well deserved.

Reviews last updated: 29 September 2026