The Beacon Museum, Whitehaven
The Beacon Museum, set on Whitehaven’s Georgian harbour, stands as a cultural cornerstone chronicling West Cumbria’s rich and diverse history. With interactive exhibits, panoramic views, and modern visitor facilities, The Beacon provides an engaging experience for history enthusiasts, families, and tourists alike.
A Journey Through Time
The Beacon Museum offers a comprehensive overview of the region’s history, beginning with prehistoric artefacts and continuing through to the industrial era and beyond. One highlight is the museum’s focus on Whitehaven’s maritime heritage, a topic underscored by its location on one of England’s earliest planned harbours. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing the town’s role as a significant trading port during the 18th century, particularly in the transatlantic trade.
Moreover, the museum dedicates space to Copeland’s industrial history, including its coal mining roots and the subsequent shift to nuclear energy. The Sellafield Story exhibition provides an insightful look into the local nuclear industry, which has played a pivotal role in the region’s development since the mid-20th century. Through multimedia displays and artefacts, this exhibit connects global technological advancements with the lives of those in the community.
Transitioning from history to the present, The Beacon Museum also celebrates local creativity through regularly changing exhibitions. These displays, which range from fine art to photography, highlight the talents of regional and international artists.
The Wildlife Photographer of the Year at The Beacon Museum
A standout feature on the museum’s calendar is its hosting of the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition. Scheduled from 26 October 2024 to 26 January 2025, this internationally renowned exhibit, on loan from London’s Natural History Museum, offers an inspiring look at the world’s most captivating wildlife imagery. This event underscores the Beacon Museum’s commitment to bringing globally significant cultural offerings to Whitehaven.
Such exhibitions not only attract a wide audience but also emphasize the Beacon’s adaptability and relevance in a rapidly changing cultural landscape. They provide visitors with the opportunity to engage with world-class art and photography without traveling far from home.
Beacon Museum Visitor Facilities
In addition to its exhibits, The Beacon Museum caters to visitors with a range of facilities designed to enhance their experience. The Howling Wolf Artisan Bakery and Café, located on-site, offers a selection of freshly baked bread, pastries, and coffee. With its welcoming ambiance, the café has become a popular spot for visitors to relax during their visit. The operating hours, Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm and Sunday from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm, ensure it is accessible for most schedules.
A gift shop, located near the entrance, provides an opportunity for visitors to take home locally crafted gifts and souvenirs that reflect the region’s heritage. For those driving to the Beacon, limited pay-and-display parking is available on-site, with additional spaces nearby at Quay Street Car Park.
Notes: (i) Images on this page courtesy of Jan Fialkowski (ii) The gallery of Beacon Museum archive pictures has moved to below the map at the foot of the page
2025 Opening Times:
Tuesday – Saturday | 10am – 4.30pm
Sunday | 11am – 4.00pm
Last admission is 45 minutes prior to closing
Closed Mondays
2025 Admission prices:
Adult – £7.00
Concession – £5.50
Child – £3.50
West Strand, Whitehaven, Cumbria. CA28 7LY. Tel: 01946 592302
Email: thebeacon@copelandbc.gov.uk
Other pages on Visit Cumbria related to the Beacon Museum
External links related to The Beacon Museum, Whitehaven
Grid Ref : NX 969183
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Page updated 21/02/2025
Archive images from The Beacon Museum
