The Beacon Museum in Whitehaven is preparing for a busy July, with a programme of exhibitions, talks and hands-on activities bringing history, science and creativity to life.
A major highlight of the summer season is the new Carboniferous Monsters exhibition, opening on 18 July. The exhibition takes visitors back to a period 100 million years before the dinosaurs, exploring a world of tropical forests and swamps filled with unusual creatures. Visitors can encounter some of the earliest reptiles, giant prehistoric insects and animals rarely seen outside scientific study.
A number of talks and guided sessions will run throughout the month. On 7 July, Talking Tuesdays returns with a talk on Mildred Warner Washington Gale, examining the early history of the Warner and Washington families and their unexpected connection to Whitehaven.
The Beacon’s Walk and Talk series will also return on 14 and 28 July, exploring Whitehaven’s social history through the theme of people, pubs and politics.
From 19 July to 2 August, the museum will take part in the national Festival of Archaeology, starting with a launch event in the Beacon portal. Visitors can enjoy hands-on activities, learn how artefacts were made using natural materials, and discover how archaeologists interpret evidence to understand the past. A series of themed workshops will run alongside the festival.
Creative activities continue with children’s glass fusing workshops on 22 July, led by local artist Roxanne Denny, alongside the return of popular Pet Encounters sessions. These include a small creatures experience on 23 July and a reptile-themed session on 30 July.
Meanwhile, Beakid sessions return on 28 July with It’s Not Rocket Science, where young visitors can take part in practical activities inspired by space exploration and learn how astronauts live and work in space.
Councillor Anne Quilter, Cumberland Council’s Executive Member for Vibrant and Healthy Places, said:
We’re delighted to see such a varied and engaging programme at The Beacon this July, with something to appeal to visitors of all ages. From interesting exhibitions to hands-on activities and talks, it’s a great opportunity for people to explore and enjoy time together over the summer.”
Heather Holmes, Customer and Visitor Experience Manager added:
“This programme reflects our ambition to make the Beacon Museum a place where people can discover, learn and be inspired, whether they are visiting for an exhibition, a workshop or a family day out.”
Together, the programme offers a wide range of activities for families, history enthusiasts and curious minds, encouraging visitors to explore new ideas, learn about the past and enjoy interactive experiences in a welcoming setting.