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Family Days Out at Beamish Museum – Travel Back in Time!

Step Back in Time at Beamish Museum – A Must-Visit Attraction in County Durham

Beamish Museum, located in County Durham, is a world-famous open-air museum that showcases the everyday life of North East England across four key time periods: the 1820s, 1900s, 1940s, and 1950s.

Family Days Out at Beamish Museum – Travel Back in Time!
Family Days Out at Beamish Museum – Travel Back in Time!

Spread over 350 acres, this living museum offers a unique experience with authentic buildings, interactive exhibits, and costumed staff.

Beamish allows visitors to see history brought to life as they explore various attractions, including a fully operational tramway, period shops, and a working farm.

What to Expect at Beamish Museum

Visitors to Beamish Museum can enjoy a range of experiences, including:

  • 1900s Town: Explore traditional shops, a pub, and a Co-op, and learn about life in the early 20th century.
  • 1950s Town: Enjoy fish and chips, visit a 1950s café, or explore the homes recreated from this era.
  • 1940s Farm: Experience life on the Home Front during World War II.
  • Beamish Tramway: Hop on a restored tram or bus and travel between different time periods.
  • Seasonal Events: Attend special events, such as Halloween evenings or Christmas celebrations.

Pricing and Opening Times

Beamish offers an unlimited pass, meaning visitors can pay once and return free of charge for the next 12 months. While specific pricing can vary based on age and time of year, it’s always recommended to check their official website for the latest information.

Opening Times:

  • Open daily from 10am to 5pm (hours may vary for special events).
  • Seasonal hours may apply during holidays and winter months.

What Visitors Love About Beamish Museum

  • Interactive Experiences: The ability to walk through authentic historic streets and interact with costumed staff is a highlight.
  • Diverse Exhibits: The contrast between different eras, from the Georgian period to the 1950s, allows for a deeper understanding of life in North East England.
  • Family Friendly: There’s plenty to keep children entertained, from sweet shops and bakeries to funfair rides.
  • Tram and Bus Transport: The vintage transport system around the site makes it easy to explore the large area without too much walking.

User Reviews – What People Are Saying About Beamish Museum?

Beamish Museum has consistently garnered positive reviews for its immersive and interactive experience. Here’s a deeper look at what visitors enjoy most:

  • Authentic Atmosphere: Many visitors praise the museum for its lifelike recreations of historical periods. The 1900s town and pit village are standout features, where you can explore everything from traditional shops to homes. Visitors often highlight the sense of stepping back in time, with real staff dressed in period costumes enhancing the experience.
  • Educational Value: Parents and educators love Beamish for its rich educational offerings. It’s not just about observing the past, but actively engaging with it. From riding restored trams to exploring early 1900s coal mines, there’s something for everyone to learn. The costumed staff are always on hand to answer questions, making it especially valuable for children and families.
  • Family Fun: The museum is perfect for families, offering activities that cater to all ages. Popular highlights include the old-fashioned sweet shop, funfair rides, and the chance to interact with farm animals. Many families appreciate the varied attractions that ensure everyone is entertained throughout the day.
  • Seasonal Events: Beamish also shines during seasonal events such as Halloween evenings and Christmas markets, which draw in even more positive feedback. The Christmas evenings, for instance, are noted for their traditional charm and festive atmosphere.

Useful Information

Feature Details
Location Beamish, County Durham, DH9 0RG
Opening Hours 10am – 5pm (varies seasonally)
Ticketing Pay once for a year’s unlimited visits
Key Attractions 1900s Town, 1950s Farm, Beamish Tramway
On-site Dining Fish and chips, cafés, bakeries

More Information »

Visit the Beamish Museum Website for the latest news, events, and ticket information.


Beamish Museum
County Durham
DH9 0RG
Phone: +44 191 370 4000