Barrow: video shows new look for Dock Museum after renovation

The museum hosted two days of events on Saturday, September 28 and Sunday, September 29 after the gallery underwent its first major refurbishment in more than 20 years. 

The video, produced by John Rennie, shows the new space with interactive exhibits and a clean look.  

One of the speakers at the event said: "Welcome to the Dock Museum for the official opening of this fantastic gallery. This project is called Shipyard Town, and has delivered many things by so many people to make this multi-award winning museum even better." 

The champagne being smashed to declare the official opening of the gallery (Image: John Rennie)

In keeping with naval traditions, the Shipyard Town gallery was opened with a bottle of champagne being smashed against one of the walls. 

The speaker said the main gallery had been 'totally refurbished.' He said the museum presents Barrow's 'proud' industrial heritage and what has made it a world-leader in the shipping industry for over 153 years. 

One of the guests said the work had 'completely revitalised the museum.' 

"It's great to see there's a lot of interactive stuff, which I think is needed for the younger generation coming in," another said. 

The entrance to the gallery being guarded (Image: John Rennie) Barrow and Furness MP Michelle Scrogham and councillor Bill McEwan can be spotted enjoying the new exhibits. 

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The project was funded by National Lottery players with a grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, with additional funding from Westmorland and Furness Council, BAE Systems Maritime, Furness Maritime Trust, and the Sir John Fisher Foundation.

The exhibits showcase the town's naval history (Image: John Rennie)

Councillor Virginia Taylor, Westmorland and Furness Council cabinet member for sustainable communities and localities, said: "Barrow-in-Furness is rightly proud of the shipbuilding heritage which has shaped our past and will play an important role in our future.

"Now the Shipyard Town project is complete, we have more exciting exhibits to showcase and share our long and important history with visitors, both local and from further afield.

"The Dock Museum is already a much-loved attraction, so whether you’ve never visited before or visited many times, I encourage everyone to come along and see what’s new."