Overview

The Leece Museum is dedicated to artefacts, photographs and documents which specifically relate to Peel.

Established in 1984 the museum tells the story of the fishing port including extensive documentation relating to the boats and crew that operated from the city.

You’ll find records of what the fishermen caught and old photographs, models and artefacts including some of the tools belonging to the men who worked in the boat yards.

Located in the Old Courthouse building, the museum has kept many of its original features including the Black Hole prison cell where the town’s criminals used to be incarcerated and the last birching stool to be used in Peel which dates back to the 1880s.

The museum also focuses on the Prisoner of War Camps that were built during the First and Second World Wars.

Around 23,000 people were held behind the fences at Knockaloe Mooar during World War One and many German, Dutch and Italian detainees were held at the Peveril Camp in World War Two.

Some of the internees held tried to escape and there is written documentation from these individuals in the museum as well as artefacts from both camps including hand made items and ration books.

There is also a museum shop on site.

Opening Times and Admission

The Leece Museum is open all year from Tuesday to Saturday between 10am and 4pm. In the summer the museum is also open on Sundays between 12pm and 4pm.

Admission is free.

Guided walks can be arranged which explore the varied history of Peel’s industry, natural history and architecture in the company of noted local historians. Please contact the museum directly to arrange these.

Location and Contact

The Leece Museum, The Old Courthouse, East Quay, Peel, IM5 1AR.

For more information telephone 01624 845366 or visit www.peelonline.net/leece.