The Beacon Museum in Whitehaven is getting ready for Christmas with a packed programme of festive activities, family experiences, workshops and exhibitions throughout November and December.
Alongside seasonal events, visitors can explore two major exhibitions, including the world-renowned Wildlife Photographer of the Year and Pillar 200, a celebration of 200 years of climbing history.
Wildlife Photographer of the Year, on loan from the Natural History Museum in London, runs until 31 January 2027 and showcases 100 outstanding nature photographs from around the world.
Now in its 62nd year, the competition attracted more than 65,000 entries from 121 countries and territories, with the final images selected by an international panel of experts for their creativity, originality and technical excellence.
Visitors can also discover Pillar 200, which runs until February 2027 and explores the people, places and innovations that have shaped rock climbing in England and Wales over the past two centuries.
The Beacon Book Club returns on 26 November, taking inspiration from the Pillar 200 exhibition with a selection of mountain-themed books, from The Ascent of Rum Doodle to stories of the Trapp Family Singers and Hillary and Tenzing's conquest of Everest.
A series of Christmas-themed workshops are taking place as part of the museum’s festive programme. Some sessions have already sold out, but there are still opportunities to get involved, including the Festive Gold Leaf Gilding Workshop on Sunday 22 November.
During the workshop, participants will discover the art of contemporary gilding and how the craft has developed over time, before trying the techniques themselves to decorate a tealight, Victorian walnut and Christmas decoration.
Families can enjoy an extra helping of Christmas magic when Santa's North Pole Adventure arrives on 5, 6, 19 and 20 December.
Children will step inside the elves' magical workshop, take part in festive activities and help with some very important Christmas preparations. Their North Pole mission will then lead them somewhere very special, Santa's private office, where they will have the chance to meet Santa himself and find out if they have made the Nice List.
There will be another opportunity to meet Santa on 12 and 13 December, with families able to share their Christmas wishes, take a festive photograph and enjoy some special time with Father Christmas.
Also returning on 12 and 13 December are the popular Pet Encounters, giving visitors the chance to meet and interact with a range of animals and learn more about different species.
Councillor Anne Quilter, Cumberland Council’s Executive Member for Vibrant and Healthy Places, said:
“Christmas is a wonderful time to visit The Beacon Museum, with plenty for families to see and enjoy. From meeting Santa and taking part in festive activities to discovering the Wildlife Photographer of the Year and Pillar 200 exhibitions, there really is something for everyone.
“We hope the programme gives families another reason to visit Whitehaven and make some special memories together this festive season.”
Heather Holmes, Customer and Visitor Experience Manager added:
"Christmas is a special time at The Beacon Museum, and were delighted to offer something for everyone. We look forward to welcoming families and visitors to enjoy our festive programme and create lasting memories together."
With festive experiences alongside two major exhibitions, there is plenty for families and visitors of all ages to discover at The Beacon Museum in the run-up to Christmas.
Find the full programme here: https://thebeacon-whitehaven.co.uk/whats-on/