The British Consulate at Takow

The museum itself consists of 1 small room of old photographs, a fascinating but modern book, and 3 modern models of old ships, one of them incomplete as missing its cannons. However, as the building retains its old world charm, has amazing sea views in 2 directions front and back, and friendly staff, it makes this place a pleasure to visit for an hour or more, especially if you stop for coffee. Worth seeing.

There are hardly any places in the city more beautiful to enjoy tea and small delicacies served on a tiered stand in the evening sun. The sunset is spectacular, and the building itself is steeped in history. Guests are welcomed with a small sip of iced tea, a charming gesture. The gift shop recalls the Cotswolds in England, though with motifs ranging from The Little Prince to Chinese-inspired designs. The terrace facing west features five arcades, each with a table for three guests. When our group of five arrived, we were warmly received. However, we were told that two tables could not be moved together for reasons of monument preservation—even though the furniture was neither historic nor original. The more plausible explanation was economic: if two tables are taken by a group of five, another party cannot be seated. This reasoning, though understandable, still left a sense of arbitrariness. Things took a slightly absurd turn with the drinks: one of our group asked for the very iced tea that had been served at the entrance. We were told that this particular iced tea was only for outside sale and not available at the table—but we could order a different iced tea. When milk was requested for Darjeeling, the answer was that milk could only be ordered with beverages that already included it, but not separately for tea. At payment, the issue continued. The vouchers tied to our admission tickets could not be used in full—only three of them were valid, due to house policy. The running gag of the evening became our remark that everything “not possible” was simply prohibited by monument protection. The contrast between the friendliness of the staff and the rigid bureaucratic mindset denying the most ordinary requests was, after a while, a source of laughter, though also an annoyance.

Visit here twice but this time is different as most of the areas are closed or converted to dining area. Exhibition area is reduced to about 100 sq m. Even so, admission charge is required. Recommended if nowhere else to go.

This place absolutely deserves to be part of any visit plan to Kaohsiung. It was not crowded at all even on a holiday Sunday. The view from the hilltop of the old embassy complex is fantastic. One can see 270 degrees spanning from the main business downtown on the east, Cijin and its lighthouse to the south, and the National Sun Yet Sen University and Shoushan to the west. The second floor cafe serves very reasonable English teas, afternoon tea set and other food. Make sure to get a table in the balcony.

Came here on a weekday and there was very little crowd. Entry fees cost NT99 per adult. The building is located on the small hill, expect a short hike up. The sea view on the hill top is nice, managed to take some photos.

A must see in Kaohsiung. Its coffee shop was very popular and busy and hard to get a table without long waiting. Half price for seniors.

Visited this place mainly to check out the view from the top, which is nice. Didn't feel that there was much to see in terms of the exhibits. So it felt that the entrance fee was mainly for the view.

There is so much history of the British in Kaohsiung. The site is well maintained, and the entrance ticket is very affordable. The views for the harbor, the NSYSU, and the city are astonishing. Around 2 pounds. It's definitely worth visiting. There are souvenirs stores and tea shops and restaurants for refreshment.