I recently had cause to be in Lowestoft and visited the above museum. This is in fact the same museum which was based at Exeter for 27 years. Even now this is only its temporary home as it will eventually be housed at the new Maritime Heritage Centre being built in Lowestoft. I am not normally much impressed by such museums but this one is a gem. Boats from all round the world are on display from gondolas to coracles, virtually all of which can be described as ‘sail and oar’. International 14s rub gunwales with priest boats from Indonesia, racing punts (pole propelled) from Norfolk, junks and sampans, coxless fours and sailing cruisers. There is a vast collection of sculls, oars and sweeps as well as a reference library accessible to visitors by prior appointment.

If you find yourself near Oulton Broad it is well worth a visit. Admission adults £3.50, OAPs £2.50, children, students £2.00. Free parking, drinks machines and toilets.

The ISCA Maritime Museum, Caldecott Road, Oulton Broad, Lowestoft NR32 3PH. www.btinternet.com/~isca.maritimemuseum/