Ever wondered what really happens after the doors close at the Lifestyle Museum of London Docklands? From the quiet whispers of the conservation lab to the bustling planning meetings that shape each exhibit, this guide pulls back the curtain on the museum’s hidden world.
What Makes the Lifestyle Museum of London Docklands Unique?
Lifestyle Museum of London Docklands is a public museum that celebrates the everyday culture, work, and creativity of the Docklands area, blending historic artifacts with contemporary art and community stories. Opened in 2018, it sits on the redeveloped East India Dock site and aims to reflect the dynamic spirit of this once‑industrial neighbourhood.
Understanding the Basics
Origins and History
The Docklands transformed from a bustling port in the 19th century to a financial hub in the 1990s. Recognising a gap in storytelling, the museum was commissioned by the London Docklands Development Corporation to preserve everyday narratives that larger institutions often overlook.
Core Mission and Core Principles
Its core mission is three‑fold: preserve local heritage, inspire community participation, and experiment with immersive exhibition design. The museum follows three guiding principles - authenticity, accessibility, and experimentation - ensuring every display feels genuine and reachable.
How It Differs From the Main Museum of London
| Aspect | Lifestyle Museum of London Docklands | Museum of London |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Everyday Docklands life, contemporary art | Citywide history, classic artifacts |
| Location | East India Dock, Docklands | St James's, Central London |
| Interactivity | Hands‑on workshops, pop‑up labs | Traditional galleries, limited hands‑on |
| Community Role | Co‑curated shows with locals | Curated by museum staff |
Who Benefits?
Students studying urban history, local artists, tourists looking for a fresh perspective, and longtime residents eager to see their neighbourhood’s story told with pride all find value here.
Behind‑the‑Scenes Operations
Curatorial Process
The curatorial team, led by Dr Emma Hughes, begins each project with a community‑talk. Residents pitch ideas, share objects, and vote on themes. These sessions feed a digital asset manager where photographs, oral histories, and 3‑D scans are catalogued.
Exhibition Design and Production
Designers collaborate with local makers to craft modular displays that can be re‑configured for pop‑up events across the Docklands. Sustainable materials-recycled timber, low‑VOC paints-keep the carbon footprint low. A typical timeline runs six months: concept → prototype → testing → installation.
Conservation Lab: The Quiet Heroes
In the basement, conservators treat everything from a 1970s Dockworkers’ badge to a digital video file stored on obsolete tape. Using a microscope and climate‑controlled cabinets, they halt deterioration and digitise fragile items for public access.
Community Engagement Programs
School partnerships let pupils co‑author a ‘Future Docklands’ installation, while senior volunteers help transcribe old dock registers. These programs not only enrich the museum’s collection but also foster a sense of ownership among locals.
What Visitors Can Expect on a Behind‑the‑Scenes Tour
The Setting
Tours start in the visitor centre, where guides hand out a simple “mission packet” - a map, safety checklist, and a few prompt cards encouraging questions.
Key Steps During the Tour
- Enter the conservation lab and watch a conservator clean a rusted metal sculpture.
- Visit the curatorial studio to see raw research files and storyboards.
- Walk through an unfinished exhibition space, hearing designers discuss lighting choices.
- Join a live workshop where community members create a collaborative collage.
Customization Options
Group bookings can focus on specific interests - art‑installations, digital archiving, or heritage‑conservation - and the museum tailors the itinerary accordingly.
Preparation Tips
Wear comfortable shoes, bring a notebook for sketches, and arrive a few minutes early for the safety brief.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit
Setting Up for Success
Before you go, explore the museum’s online collection portal. Pin a few items that intrigue you - this gives the guide a reference point during the tour.
Choosing the Right Resources
If you’re a researcher, request a private viewing of the archives. For families, the “Family Discovery Kit” includes activity sheets and QR‑code links to audio stories.
Step‑by‑Step Visitor Guide
- Book the behind‑the‑scenes tour online (slots fill fast).
- Confirm any accessibility needs when you reserve.
- Arrive, collect your mission packet, and meet your guide.
- Engage, ask questions, and note any surprising details.
- After the tour, visit the gift shop for a copy of the exhibition catalog.
Tips for First‑Timers
Don’t be shy about asking “Why was this material chosen?” or “How long does a conservation process take?” The staff love sharing the nitty‑gritty.
Safety and Ethical Considerations
Choosing Qualified Guides
All guides are vetted by the museum’s education department and hold a Level 2 Safeguarding Certificate. Look for name badges with the “Qualified Guide” label.
Safety Practices
| Practice | Purpose | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Wear non‑slip shoes | Prevent falls | Lab floors can be wet |
| Follow guide instructions | Protect artifacts | No touching delicate objects |
| Maintain distance in conservation area | Safety from chemicals | Stay behind the barrier |
Setting Boundaries
If a part of the tour feels uncomfortable - for example, a tightly‑packed storage room - let the guide know. They’ll adjust the route without fuss.
Contraindications or Risks
Visitors with severe asthma should avoid the lab during certain cleaning processes; the museum provides a ventilation‑friendly schedule upon request.
Enhancing Your Experience
Complementary Practices
Pair the tour with the museum’s evening “Storytelling Sessions,” where local historians recount Docklands myths over tea.
Solo vs. Group Engagement
Solo visitors often receive a more personalized Q&A, while groups benefit from collaborative activities like the community collage.
Using Props and Tools
Guides hand out ‘archaeology gloves’ and simple magnifiers, letting you examine a reclaimed brick up close.
Regular Engagement for Ongoing Benefits
Signing up for the museum’s quarterly newsletter unlocks invitations to future behind‑the‑scenes events and early‑bird tickets.
Finding More Resources
Researching Experts
Look for staff profiles on the museum’s website - each includes a short bio, research interests, and contact details for deeper inquiries.
Online Guides and Communities
The museum hosts a public forum called “Docklands Dialogues,” where members share photos, suggest exhibit ideas, and ask heritage‑related questions.
Legal and Cultural Considerations
All objects are covered by UK’s Museums and Galleries Act 1956, which governs acquisition, preservation, and public access. The museum also respects community protocols concerning culturally sensitive materials.
Further Learning
Recommended reads: “Docklands: From River to Skyline” (2022) and the documentary series “London’s Hidden Heritage” (BBC, 2023).
Conclusion: Why a Behind‑the‑Scenes Visit Is Worth It
Peeking behind the curtain reveals the painstaking work, community collaboration, and creative risk‑taking that turn a collection of objects into a living story of the Docklands. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or just curious about how museums run, the Lifestyle Museum of London Docklands offers an authentic, hands‑on glimpse into London’s evolving cultural fabric.
Ready to explore? Book your tour, bring your curiosity, and share what you discover with friends - the Docklands story grows each time it’s told.
What can I see during a behind‑the‑scenes tour?
You’ll visit the conservation lab, curatorial studio, an unfinished exhibition space, and a live community workshop. Each stop includes explanations of processes, hands‑on interaction where allowed, and stories about the objects on display.
How do I book a behind‑the‑scenes tour?
Visit the museum’s website, navigate to the ‘Tours & Events’ page, select ‘Behind‑the‑Scenes’, choose a date, and complete the online reservation. Book at least one week in advance for larger groups.
Is the tour suitable for families with children?
Yes. The museum offers a family‑friendly version that includes activity sheets, a kids‑only discovery kit, and shorter explanations tailored to younger audiences.
How does the museum involve the local community?
Community members co‑curate exhibitions, contribute oral histories, volunteer in the conservation lab, and participate in workshops that feed directly into new displays.
Are there any accessibility provisions?
The museum provides wheelchair‑accessible routes, audio descriptions, and tactile models for visually impaired visitors. Inform the booking team of any specific needs when reserving.