Our Collections

 Turbinia takes pride of place in Discovery Museum

Discovery Museum houses the finest collections of scientific and technical material outside London and keeps important collections of maritime history, social history, regimental militaria and costume.

For more than two centuries developments in science, technology and industry which were pioneered or became established in Tyne & Wear had a powerful influence worldwide.

Such influence is, arguably, unsurpassed by that of any other region of comparable size and population.

Examples of world 'firsts' include Charles Parsons' 'Turbinia', the first vessel to be powered by steam turbine, and Joseph Swan's historic lightbulbs.

Turbinia takes pride of place in the Museum. She was was designed by the Tyneside engineer Sir Charles Parsons in 1894 and was the world's first ship to be powered by steam turbines. Until 1899, Turbinia was also the fastest ship in the world, reaching speeds of up to 34.5 knots.

Discovery also displays a replica of North East inventor Joseph Swan's first light bulb.