THIRTEEN, often deemed an unlucky number, holds a different meaning for Portland Basin Museum.
The Ashton-under-Lyne landmark has just achieved the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award for an impressive 13th consecutive year.
To qualify, a site must maintain an average rating of 4.5 stars out of five, consistently achieved by Portland Basin since 2012.
This accomplishment places the museum among the top 10% of attractions worldwide, not just regionally or nationally.
Located in a historic canal warehouse over 200 years old, Portland Basin Museum offers a rich tapestry of exhibits chronicling the history of Tameside’s towns and villages.
Its upper floor features a recreated 100-year-old street complete with a schoolroom, doctor’s surgery, chapel, shops, and a pub.
The lower gallery focuses on traditional industries such as mining, hatting, cotton, and engineering in Tameside.
The museum is a haven for families with activities to engage children of all ages, complemented by ever-changing exhibitions in the foyer and regular special events featuring trails, demonstrations, and historical reenactments.
Situated alongside the canals, Portland Basin also serves as a hub for walking and cycling routes across the borough, ideal for picnics and leisurely outings.
Reflecting on the award, Cllr Sangita Patel from Tameside Council attributed the museum’s success not to luck but to its exceptional visitor experience and the dedication of its staff.
For more information, visit Portland Basin Museum at Portland Place, Ashton-under-Lyne, OL7 0QA.
The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 4pm with free admission.
Explore reviews on Tripadvisor at www.tripadvisor.co.uk and learn more about the museum at www.tameside.gov.uk/portlandbasin.