Peering into the walls of history, the Beamish Museum is an embodiment of time travel through the bygone eras. It’s a place that takes you back in time to experience the rich history of the North East of England. The 300-acre open-air museum is home to various exhibits, including a 1900s pit village, a 1940s farm, and an Edwardian railway station. But the million-dollar question is, is Beamish Museum fully open?
So if you’ve been bitten by nostalgia and can’t wait to take a stroll down history lane, the exciting news is that Beamish Museum is fully open. Whether you’re planning a family day out or looking for an adventure with friends, there are plenty of historic zones to explore. The silver lining is that the outdoor spaces offer enough room to maintain social distancing while enjoying the sights, smells, and sounds of period life.
With the easing of restrictions, the museum has resumed its iconic tram rides, and visitors are free to hop on and explore the unique exhibitions on offer. Moreover, the museum has invested in sophisticated cleaning equipment to ensure a hygienic environment for all visitors. So, pack your bags and buckle up for an adventure of a lifetime – the Beamish Museum is fully open and waiting for you!
Beamish Museum Reopening Plans
After being closed for more than a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Beamish Museum has finally reopened its doors to visitors. Here’s what you need to know about the museum’s reopening plans:
- The museum reopened to the public on April 17, 2021. However, visitors must book their tickets in advance, as the museum is operating at a reduced capacity to ensure social distancing measures are in place.
- All visitors are required to wear face masks while inside the museum, unless they are medically exempt.
- The museum has introduced a one-way system to help visitors maintain a safe distance from one another. Additionally, hand sanitizing stations are available throughout the museum.
While the museum is fully open, some exhibits and facilities may remain closed due to ongoing restrictions. For example, the coffee shops and restaurants are open for takeaway only, and indoor play areas remain closed.
It’s worth noting that the museum’s reopening plans may change in response to the evolving COVID-19 situation in the UK. Visitors are encouraged to check the museum’s website for the latest information before planning their visit.
| Admission Prices | Adults | Concessions |
|---|---|---|
| Peak Season | £19.50 | £14.50 |
| Off-Peak Season | £18.50 | £13.50 |
Overall, Beamish Museum’s reopening is a welcome return to normalcy for many people. While there are still some restrictions in place, visitors can still enjoy the museum’s many exhibits and attractions in a safe and socially-distanced manner.
Changes to Beamish Museum Visitor Experience
Beamish Museum has always been a unique destination for visitors, offering a glimpse into the life and culture of Northern England in the 1800s. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the museum has had to make changes to ensure the safety of visitors while still providing an immersive experience. There are several notable changes that have been made to the Beamish Museum visitor experience.
New Entrance and Exit Points
- The museum now has separate entrance and exit points to control the flow of visitors and reduce congestion.
- Visitors are encouraged to book their tickets in advance online to avoid crowds.
- The entrance area has been modified to allow for social distancing and visitors’ temperatures are checked upon arrival.
Reduced Capacity
Beamish Museum has reduced its daily capacity and implemented a one-way system to ensure social distancing measures are followed throughout the museum. Visitors are now more spread out and can fully enjoy all exhibits without overcrowding.
Changes to Exhibits
The pandemic has affected how visitors interact with exhibits, so Beamish Museum has made several changes to ensure that visitors still experience a complete immersive experience. The 1900s Town exhibit, for example, now resembles a more subdued period, reflecting the effects of the pandemic on the community. At the same time, the Pit Village is now an open-air exhibit that allows visitors to witness coal production operations, emphasizing the importance of coal mining in the area.
| Exhibit | Changes |
|---|---|
| The 1900s Town | More subdued, reflecting the effects of the pandemic on the community |
| Pit Village | Open-air, emphasis on coal mining |
Overall, despite the changes, Beamish Museum still offers a unique and immersive experience for visitors to explore and learn about life in Northern England. While the pandemic has presented challenges, the museum’s dedication to delivering a safe and informative experience shows how museums can adapt in times of crisis while still maintaining their cultural importance.
Beamish Museum’s COVID-19 Safety Protocols
As a response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Beamish Museum has implemented safety protocols to ensure the safety of visitors, staff and volunteers. These protocols include:
- Reduced capacity – Beamish Museum has limited the number of visitors allowed per day to manage crowd control and encourage social distancing.
- Online booking – To manage the number of daily visitors, the museum has introduced an online booking system where visitors can book their entry tickets in advance.
- Mandatory face masks – All visitors, staff and volunteers are required to wear face masks throughout the museum’s grounds unless they are exempted for health reasons.
In addition to these protocols, Beamish Museum also provides hand sanitizing stations throughout the museum’s premises to maintain cleanliness and hygiene. Interactive exhibits and rides have also been temporarily closed to avoid close contact between visitors.
What to Expect as a Visitor
When visiting Beamish Museum during the COVID-19 pandemic, expect the following:
- You may have to queue for entry due to limited capacity.
- You are required to wear a face mask during your visit.
- You can still enjoy the museum’s open-air exhibits and outdoor activities.
- Some indoor exhibits, interactive displays and rides may be temporarily closed.
Don’t worry, as the safety protocols implemented by the museum comply with government guidelines and advice from health experts.
How to Make the Most of Your Beamish Museum Visit
Despite the changes brought by the pandemic, there are still enjoyable experiences to be had at Beamish Museum. You can still explore the different exhibits and activities that showcase the lives of people in the North East of England during different periods in history. You can also take an outdoor tram ride or enjoy traditional food at the museum’s restaurants and cafes.
| Important Information: | Contact Details: |
|---|---|
| Entrance fees are still the same, and the museum is open from 10 am to 4 pm. | For more information, please visit the museum’s website at www.beamish.org.uk or email at museum@beamish.org.uk |
By following the museum’s COVID-19 safety protocols, we can still enjoy and learn from the rich history of the North East region while maintaining the safety and well-being of everyone involved. Go ahead and plan your visit today!
New Exhibits at Beamish Museum
Beamish Museum, located in County Durham, is a world-renowned open-air museum offering visitors a unique experience of life in the northeast of England during the 1820s, 1900s, and 1940s. The museum explores how people lived, worked, and socialized in the past, immersing visitors in the region’s rich history.
The museum has recently added some great new exhibits to its already impressive collection. The new exhibits aim to bring the experience closer to the present day, exploring how the region has changed and developed over the years.
- The 1950s Town Center: The 1950s Town Centre is a perfect recreation of the streets of a northern town in the 1950s, complete with shops, a cafe, and even a police station. Visitors can step back in time and explore the sounds, sights, and smells of post-war Britain in this atmospheric exhibit.
- The 1950s Farm: The 1950s Farm Exhibit takes visitors back to a time when self-sufficiency was a way of life. The exhibit features a working farm with livestock and crops, and visitors can witness traditional farming practices that have been passed down through generations.
- The 1950s Pit Village: The new 1950s Pit Village at Beamish Museum offers an insight into the history of coal-mining in the northeast of England. The exhibit features a typical pit village, complete with a school, a church, a pub, and miners’ cottages. Visitors can experience what life was like during the heyday of coal mining in the region.
Along with these great new exhibits, the museum has also recently opened a new Remaking Beamish project, which aims to redesign and upgrade the exhibits already present at the museum. The project will feature restoration of historical buildings and replication of the experiences from various periods.
| Exhibit Name | Description |
|---|---|
| The 1950s Town Center | A recreation of a northern town center in the 1950s featuring shops, a cafe, and a police station. |
| The 1950s Farm | A working farm with livestock and crops, featuring traditional farming practices from the 1950s era. |
| The 1950s Pit Village | A typical pit village in the northeast of England, featuring a school, church, pub, and miners’ cottages. Gives a glimpse of life in the heyday of coal mining in the area. |
With these new exhibits and Remaking Beamish project, the Beamish Museum offers visitors a fascinating time-travel experience, uncovering the rich history of the northeast of England.
Beamish Museum Events Calendar
Beamish Museum is a popular open-air museum situated in County Durham, England. The museum showcases the life and times of North East England during the 1820s, 1900s, and 1940s. The museum has been welcoming visitors since 1972 and has established itself as one of the top tourist attractions in Durham.
If you’re planning to visit the Beamish Museum, it’s important to be aware of the events calendar that is offered throughout the year. Below are some of the events that you can expect to enjoy at the Beamish Museum:
- The Great North Festival of Transport – This event is held during April and May and showcases vintage cars, motorcycles, and buses. Visitors can also witness the re-enactment of bus stops from the 1900s, as well as a parade of vintage vehicles.
- The Great North Festival of Agriculture – Held during July and August, this event showcases the importance of agriculture during the 1900s. Visitors can witness animals in action, vintage tractors and machinery, and enjoy the delicious food and drinks produced locally.
- Beamish by Night – This event takes place during November and December and allows visitors to experience the festive season in the style of the 1900s. The museum is illuminated with festive lights, and visitors can enjoy carol singers, fairground rides, and an outdoor ice rink.
These are just a few of the events that you can enjoy at the Beamish Museum. The museum also hosts other events such as Halloween and Christmas celebrations. The events calendar is updated regularly, so it’s always best to check the official website to stay up-to-date with the latest events.
If you’re planning to visit the Beamish Museum, make sure to check the events calendar beforehand to ensure that you don’t miss out on any of the fun activities and events that the museum has to offer.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| The Great North Festival of Transport | April and May |
| The Great North Festival of Agriculture | July and August |
| Beamish by Night | November and December |
Don’t forget to book your tickets in advance for the events to avoid disappointment and ensure that you get your preferred date and time. Visit the official website for more information and to purchase tickets.
Beamish Museum Ticket Prices and Discounts
Beamish Museum, also known as the Living Museum of the North, is a popular tourist attraction that showcases the region’s local heritage and culture. If you’re planning to visit, you might be wondering about ticket prices and discounts. In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about Beamish Museum ticket prices and discounts, including the different admission options and how to save money.
- General admission prices: As of 2021, the standard admission prices for Beamish Museum are as follows:
– Adult (aged 16+): £21
– Child (aged 5-16): £11
– Toddler (aged 2-4): £4
– Under 2s: Free
It’s worth noting that these prices are subject to change and may vary during special events or exhibitions. - Special admission options: In addition to the standard admission prices, Beamish Museum offers several other admission options for visitors to choose from. These include:
– Unlimited Pass: £38 for adults, £20 for children
– Friends of Beamish membership: from £38 per year
– Beamish Unlimited Friends Pass: £144 per year
– Classic Car Pass: £50 for one driver and one passenger
– Beamish & Durham Cathedral Joint Ticket: £26 for adults, £18 for children
– Beamish Unlimited Pass + Festival of Steam: £50 for adults, £27.50 for children
These options provide access to different areas of the museum and may include additional perks such as free parking or discounts on food and gift shop purchases. - Discounts and promotions: Beamish Museum offers several discounts and promotions throughout the year to help visitors save money on admission. Some of the most common discounts include:
– Online pre-booking discount: save 10% on tickets when you book online in advance
– Groups discount: groups of 15 or more can save up to 25% on admission prices
– Blue Light Card discount: emergency service and NHS workers can receive 25% off admission prices
– Student discount: students can save 10% on admission prices with a valid student ID
It’s a good idea to check the museum’s website or social media pages regularly to stay up-to-date on any new promotions or discounts that may be available.
In summary, Beamish Museum offers a range of ticket prices and discounts to suit different budgets and preferences. Whether you’re a local resident, a student, or a tourist, there’s a ticket option that can help you save money and make the most of your visit to this unique and fascinating attraction.
| Ticket Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Adult (aged 16+) | £21 |
| Child (aged 5-16) | £11 |
| Toddler (aged 2-4) | £4 |
| Under 2s | Free |
Note: Prices are subject to change and may vary during special events or exhibitions.
Accessibility at Beamish Museum
If you’re planning a visit to Beamish Museum, you’ll be pleased to know that the museum is fully accessible to visitors with disabilities and those with limited mobility. Here are some of the accessibility features you’ll find at Beamish:
- Free on-site disabled parking close to the entrance
- Wheelchair-accessible entrances and exits
- Manual and powered wheelchairs available for loan free of charge
- Accessible toilets and baby changing facilities
- Level access to all exhibit areas and attractions
- Assistance animals are welcome
- Audio guides available for the visually impaired
Beamish Museum aims to make the site accessible to as many visitors as possible, and staff are always on hand to assist where needed. If you have any specific accessibility requirements, it’s recommended that you contact the museum in advance of your visit to ensure any necessary arrangements can be made.
Beamish Museum has also developed a Disability Access Guide that can be downloaded from their website. This guide provides detailed information on accessibility features across the site, including the type of flooring, the width of doorways, and the layout of exhibits. The guide also includes information on the suitability of different exhibits for visitors with certain disabilities.
Overall, the accessibility features at Beamish Museum are excellent, making it an enjoyable and inclusive experience for visitors with disabilities or limited mobility.
Is Beamish Museum fully open?
1. Is it safe to visit Beamish Museum amid COVID-19 concerns?
Yes, the museum has put in place several safety measures, including the requirement of face masks, increased sanitation, and one-way systems to ensure social distancing.
2. Are all the exhibits and activities available?
Most of the exhibits and activities are open and accessible to visitors. However, some experiences like tram rides and horse-drawn carriage rides may be temporarily unavailable.
3. Can I purchase tickets on arrival?
No, you are required to book your tickets in advance online. This is to manage the number of visitors and ensure social distancing.
4. What are the opening hours?
The museum is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm. However, the last admission is at 3 pm, so plan your visit accordingly.
5. Are there any restrictions on group visits?
Yes, due to COVID-19 restrictions, group visits are limited to a maximum of 6 people. Also, ensure you maintain social distancing during the entire visit.
6. Are facilities like restaurants and gift shops open?
Yes, the museum’s restaurants and gift shops are open, but with limited seating arrangements and occupancy to ensure social distancing. Visitors can also make use of the museum’s picnic areas.
7. Can I take photos or videos at the museum?
Yes, visitors are allowed to take photos and videos for personal use. However, commercial photography or filming is prohibited without prior approval.
Closing Thoughts
Thanks for reading up to this point. We hope that we have answered all of your questions regarding Beamish Museum’s reopening. It is fantastic to see such a place of historical significance and cultural relevance returning to full swing. So, if you’re up for a unique experience or simply want to take a step back in time, be sure to visit Beamish Museum soon. Stay safe, and we hope to see you again soon!