Beamish, The Living Museum of the North, is a unique heritage attraction located in County Durham, North East England. It is a living museum that takes visitors back in time to the industrial revolution of the 19th century, as well as the Edwardian and Victorian eras. Spread over 300 acres, Beamish is a historic village that allows visitors to explore the lives of the people of North East England during the period. With interactive exhibits, activities, and events, Beamish is an ideal family day out to learn about the region’s history and culture.
History
Beamish was founded in 1970 by Dr. Frank Atkinson, an educationalist and historian. He wanted to create a living museum that would give people an opportunity to experience the life of their ancestors in the region. The museum was opened to the public in 1972 and has since become a popular tourist destination in North East England.
Attractions
Beamish offers visitors a chance to explore the past through its many attractions. These include:
- The Town – a recreation of a typical North East town in the early 1900s, complete with a bank, post office, shops, terraced houses, and a pub.
- The Colliery – a recreation of a coal mine, with underground tours, a winding engine, and a miners’ cottages.
- The Farm – a working farm with animals, a dairy, and a kitchen garden.
- The Railway – a recreation of a railway station from the Edwardian era, with a steam train and a signal box.
- The Pit Village – a recreation of a typical mining village, with a chapel, a school, and a miners’ institute.
What to Expect
Beamish is a living museum that allows visitors to experience the past as if they were actually living in it. There are many interactive exhibits and activities to explore, such as a Victorian fairground, a working forge, and traditional craft demonstrations. Visitors can also take part in events such as a Victorian music hall show, a 1940s tea dance, and a 1950s rock ‘n’ roll night.
Tours
Beamish offers a range of guided tours for visitors. These include a walking tour of the museum, a tour of the colliery, and a tour of the pit village. There are also special tours for families and school groups.
Admission
Admission to Beamish is free, but visitors must purchase tickets for certain activities and events. Tickets are available online or at the museum.
Tips for Tourists
- Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking involved.
- Bring a packed lunch, as there are no restaurants or cafes on site.
- Allow plenty of time to explore, as there is much to see and do.
- Check the museum’s website for special events and activities.
Practical Information
Beamish is open from 10am to 5pm, seven days a week. The museum is closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Parking is available on site and there is a shuttle bus service from Newcastle and Durham.
Beamish, The Living Museum of the North, is a unique heritage attraction that offers visitors a chance to explore the history and culture of North East England. With interactive exhibits, activities, and events, it is an ideal family day out to learn about the region’s past. Whether you’re interested in the industrial revolution, the Edwardian era, or the Victorian era, Beamish has something for everyone.
