The Old Guildhall, Higher Market Street,
East Looe, PL13 1BP
Tel: (01503) 263709
Email: info@eastlooetowntrust.co.uk
Web: www.looemuseum.co.uk
History of a Town
This 15th century listed Ancient Museum is in the main street down to East Looe Sea Front. It has a fascinating display of Looe's history, especially fishing, boat building and, of course, smuggling.
With exhibits from many eras, there’s no shortage of things to look at. Our building, built in 1450 is our greatest artefact, and as you enter look up at the pillories at the top of our entrance and the beams as you enter the building. Look out for our immersive smuggling cabinet, the Court and Gaol with the stories of Court cases from the past which you can act out at the Magistrates Court, Regalia, stories of WWI and WWII, a display of the Canal and Railway in Looe, RNLI artefacts and Raddy photos and cameras, as well as the stories of the Edwardians in Looe and much more besides, including a large archive of old photographs.
The building itself is a marvellous exhibit as it retains much of its 550 years old original features with ancient cells (complete with prisoners) and the very old raised magistrates benches. As you walk into the upper floor of the building, you are entering the room which, from 1587 to 1878, was the East Looe Town Hall and Magistrates Court. Beneath the magnificent timber-framed roof, laws were made and enforced, and the town was administered by the Mayor and Corporation, known as Burgesses.
Downstairs, you will find the two cells used to hold the criminals of Looe in the past. This really was a case of 'send them down' from the court above. Go into the one that is open and see what a small space it was for the prisoners. There was no exercise yard for them so it was not a pleasant experience!
All sorts of toys, domestic equipment, porcelain, regalia, model boats and much more besides provide interest for all the family.
In the main street heading towards the beach from the town centre.
Opening TimesEaster and from May Bank Holiday to the end of Special rates for school parties Run by the East Looe Town Trust for All to enjoy Admission Charged |
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