Visitors to The Beacon Museum this May can look forward to a packed programme of exhibitions, talks and family activities that span centuries of history, from Roman Britain to the pop culture of the 1990s.
Two popular exhibitions continue to run throughout the month. In the Light and Dark Gallery, the J.D. Kenworthy exhibition celebrates the life and work of local artist and civic leader John Dalzell Kenworthy (1858–1954). Through striking portraits of men, women and families from the Edwardian period, the exhibition brings the people of West Cumbria vividly to life.
Meanwhile, the Harbour Gallery hosts the colourful and nostalgic I Grew Up 90s exhibition, which explores life in Britain during the decade through the lens of youth culture. From much-loved toys and video games to fashion, food, film and, of course, the iconic music of the era, the exhibition invites visitors to reconnect with the sights and sounds that defined the 1990s.
The Beacon’s popular programme of talks and events also continues in May. The next Talking Tuesday takes place on 12 May and focuses on Uncovering Our Ancient Past: the Soutergate Skull. In 2021, a human skull was discovered on the banks of the Furness peninsula. Following police recovery, radiocarbon dating revealed the remains to date from the middle of the Roman period, between 130 and 340 AD. Acquired for The Beacon Museum’s collection, the skull became the focus of an in-depth research project, shedding new light on who this individual may have been and the life they once led.
Book lovers can also look forward to the return of The Beacon Book Club on Thursday 28 May. This month’s theme, Portraits in Words, draws inspiration from the J.D. Kenworthy exhibition. The session will explore literary portraits by notable writers including James Joyce’s A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man, Dylan Thomas’s A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Dog and Henry James’ The Portrait of a Lady, among others.
Families visiting during the May half term will find plenty to enjoy. Three Beakid days will take place on Monday 25, Wednesday 27 and Friday 29 May, with sessions at 11am and 1pm. These fun, hands-on workshops encourage children to explore the impact of plastic pollution and learn how we can all help to protect our seas through creative activities.
Rounding off the half-term programme, the ever-popular Pet Encounters return on Saturday 30 and Sunday 31 May. With sessions at 11am, 1pm and 3pm, visitors will have the chance to meet, greet and interact with a range of adorable and fascinating animals, making for an unforgettable experience for all ages.
Councillor Anne Quilter, Executive Member for Vibrant and Healthy Places at Cumberland Council said:
“The Beacon’s programme this May reflects what The Beacon does best, combining local heritage with engaging exhibitions and learning opportunities. Alongside the continuing exhibitions, events like Talking Tuesday and our half-term activities offer visitors new ways to connect with history, culture and the world around them.”
Heather Holmes, Customer and Visitor Experience Manager added:
“This May’s programme at The Beacon Museum is about giving people a reason to spend time together - whether that’s discovering something new, revisiting familiar memories, or simply enjoying the museum. From exhibitions and talks to half term activities, we’ve focused on creating experiences that feel engaging and relevant to our communities in West Cumbria and beyond.”
With exhibitions, events and activities for every generation, The Beacon Museum promises a vibrant and engaging month that brings together art, history and hands-on learning in the heart of West Cumbria.
Full details, booking information and ticket prices can be found at the museum’s website: https://thebeacon-whitehaven.co.uk/