Explore the Beacon Museum: A Harbourside Journey Into Whitehaven’s Past

The Beacon Museum, situated right on Whitehaven’s historic harbour, allows visitors to uncover everything from local Viking raids and industrial mining roots to the fascinating Sellafield nuclear story. Boasting interactive science galleries, nostalgic pop-culture exhibits, and a top-floor viewing platform with panoramic views over the Solway Coast, it is a fantastic place to visit as a family. It also makes for the perfect rainy-day activity in Western Cumbria.

It was during a rainy Sunday that we decided to use our “My Cumbria” card to visit the Beacon museum in Whitehaven. This museum located on the harbour of Whitehaven traces the history of this city and its surroundings. The tour begins by the top floor which offers a magnificent view of the Isle of Man. The third floor explains the history of the region from prehistoric times to the present day. While the second floor is a description of the Sellafield nuclear plant, its origin, its different plants on site and its current situation. There is also a very clear explanation on how nuclear energy works. The ground floor is a kind of art gallery while the basement contains a cafe.

Find more about My Cumbria card here

We found the museum interesting because we moved to Whitehaven just a year ago and we did not know much about its history. Even though the museum is small, explanations are very detailed and allow to imagine the life of the people who lived in this area at different times. The nuclear part is very well done and perfect for explaining to children what nuclear is and how a nuclear power plant works. The art gallery exhibits different collections of paintings that change regularly.

In short, it is a small museum that will interest history lovers or those who wishes to learn more about nuclear power.

If you have some time, I recommend walking around the harbour and go to the Whitehaven lighthouse. It is a nice place to watch the sunset.

The Beacon

Useful Information to visit the Beacon museum:

Website: https://thebeacon-whitehaven.co.uk/
Prices: £7/ adult, £3.50/child
Car park: Near the museum, fees apply
Dog friendly: No

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