The Rum Story

West Cumbria's Immersive Indoor Attraction

Set over three interactive floors embark on a journey from Whitehaven to West Africa and the Americas and explore how the global demand for sugar and rum changed the lives of millions forever. Travel back in time to the bustling seaport of Whitehaven – home of the Jefferson’s family business. Founded by Robert Jefferson in 1785 the Jeffersons traded in wines from Spain and Portugal and rum, sugar and molasses from the West Indies. Most of the sugar imported into Whitehaven was from the Jefferson-owned estate in Antigua and it was from there they also imported their famous Jefferson’s Rum, with all the imports being carried by their own ships. Journey through our atmospheric attraction and soak up Whitehaven’s fascinating history, from pirates and smugglers to Nelson’s navy and jazz age gangsters. Housed in the original 1785 warehouse and offices of the Jefferson family business you can’t get any closer to real life history – dusty barrels and all! Follow the passage of enslaved people from their west African villages to the sugar plantations of Antigua, learn about our maritime history and discover the role of the rum trade in Whitehaven, Britain and beyond.

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The Rum Story

The Rum Story is committed to preserving the heritage of the Jefferson family business and telling the story of Whitehaven’s role in the rum trade. Located on the West Cumbrian coast, this fascinating exhibition and event space is owned and managed by Whitehaven Harbour Commissioners. The Rum Story offers an authentic depiction of life in 18th century Whitehaven, as the attraction is set in the original 1785 shop, cellars, bonded warehouse and courtyard of the Jefferson family business.

Local Area

The Rum Story is located in the centre of the historic town of Whitehaven. Perfect for anyone looking to take their adventure from he lakes to the sea, the Georgian streets and maritime heritage makes Whitehaven the perfect place to spend a day.

How To Find Us

You can get to us by bus, car or by train on the beautiful Cumbrian Coast Line.

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